Ballard SeafoodFest announces music lineup, headlined by Illuminati Hotties

Ballard’s long-running summer tradition is returning this July with a lineup of local and national acts.

The 51st Annual Ballard SeafoodFest will be held from July 11 to 13, 2025, and will bring a weekend of live music, seafood, craft drinks, and family-friendly activities to downtown Ballard.

This year’s musical headliner is indie rock band Illuminati Hotties, scheduled to perform Saturday, July 12 at 8:30 p.m. The festival’s music lineup includes Sir Woman, Nite Wave, Skating Polly, Spirit Award, Mega Cat, Balcony Bridge, The Jaws of Brooklyn, Lovely Colours, Cumulus, Phinney Ridge Steel Pan Band, #All4Doras, and student musicians from School of Rock.

“Ballard SeafoodFest is more than just a celebration of our historic neighborhood and renowned seafood cuisines,” said Mike Stewart, Ballard SeafoodFest Director. “The festival provides a unique opportunity for everyone to simultaneously enjoy great food, drinks, musical talent, family-friendly entertainment, shopping, and Ballard’s Scandinavian-maritime spirit.”

The festival will open Friday evening with performances from Nite Wave and #All4Doras, along with the beer and cocktail garden and food trucks.

Saturday and Sunday will feature a full schedule of live music, food and craft vendors, and activities for all ages, including:

  • The Illumination Learning Studio Kids’ Deck at Ballard Commons Park
  • Festi-Bowl, a skateboarding competition open to all ages and skill levels
  • Dozens of seafood and craft vendors
  • The return of the Trident Seafoods Alder-Smoked Salmon Barbecue
  • The Lutefisk Eating Competition
  • Beer and cocktail garden offering locally brewed beer, cider, wine, and cocktails

Festival Hours:

  • Friday, July 11: 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. (music, beer garden, and food trucks only)
  • Saturday, July 12: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
  • Sunday, July 13: 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

The Ballard Alliance (formerly the Ballard Chamber of Commerce) organizes the yearly Ballard SeafoodFest. The event remains free to attend, with proceeds supporting local programs and events through the Alliance.

More information and the full music schedule are available online.

Photo: Ballard SeafoodFest