From the soulful grooves of Grammy-winning blues artists to spontaneous singalongs by six-year-olds, Downtown Issaquah is coming alive with music this summer.
Through a series of free, outdoor events, the Downtown Issaquah Association is bringing live performance to connect people, celebrate local talent and support small businesses.
“The summer is just ripe with music,” says Corby Casler, Executive Director of association. “People want to come out and play, and we make it happen.”
Everyone is welcome at Downtown Issaquah Association’s Summer music fest! Photo courtesy of Downtown Issaquah Association.
The association’s summer lineup includes ArtWalks & Music Strolls June 14 and Aug. 9,
Make Music Day on June 21, the Gas Station Blues series every Thursday from July 10 to Aug. 28, and the Confluence Music Festival on Aug. 31. Each event is free and family-friendly, thanks to support from City of Issaquah Arts Commission grants.
“We provide a venue. We bring people downtown to support local businesses. It’s an all-around effort that brings life to our downtown,” Casler says.
On Make Music Day, dozens of performers, ranging from elementary school students to local bands, will fill multiple stages across Olde Town. The event marks Issaquah’s 12th year participating in the global celebration of the summer solstice through music.
The Downtown Issaquah Association is bringing live music performance to the town this summer! Photo courtesy of Downtown Issaquah Association.
“Everywhere you go, it’s part of the vibe – kids as young as six and people in their 80s, all performing or enjoying the moment together,” Casler says.
The Gas Station Blues series, held outside the Historic Shell Station on Front Street, is a regional favorite.
“We’ve got Grammy nominees, internationally known blues artists – it’s the best of the best,” Casler says, encouraging guests to bring chairs or blankets, explore local galleries and restaurants, and make an evening of it.
Rounding out the season is the Confluence Music Festival on Aug. 31, featuring five hours of live music at Confluence Park, plus food trucks, artisan vendors, and for the first time, open-air theater from Original Theatre Black Dog performing Shakespeare in the Park.
“Everywhere you go, it’s part of the vibe – kids as young as six and people in their 80s, all performing or enjoying the moment together.” Photo courtesy of Downtown Issaquah Association.
“Confluence is our biggest event,” says Christina Bruning, Downtown Issaquah Association president. “It draws people from all over the Pacific Northwest. We create economic vitality by attracting people through the arts.”
And the location offers ample parking and full accessibility, Casler adds.
“Everything is free. We get grants to pay musicians so that everyone, regardless of socioeconomic status, can enjoy the music.”
“We’re building community while celebrating charm. And it’s a great time to be in Issaquah – we welcome everyone with open arms!”
For details on summer programming, visit downtownissaquah.com.
