WITNESS | Local Sightings Film Festival 2024
Back in 2015, Stranger senior staff writer Charles Mudede posed provocative questions about the city’s rapid transformation and its impact on its identity— "what is this city becoming? What have we lost in the rush and thrust of all these new developments? To whom does this growing city belong?" This year, as Local Sightings Film Festival celebrates its 27th anniversary, it continues to explore these themes through a dynamic mix of features, shorts, and animations created in the region. The festival remains a cornerstone of Seattle’s indie film scene, offering a vibrant platform for local filmmakers, emotional storytellers, and documentarians. With its unique focus on the Pacific Northwest’s creative spirit, Local Sightings transforms the city into a hub for cinematic discovery and conversation.
September 20th – 29th | Various times @ Northwest Film Forum
MEET | Author Talk: Renee Erickson, Sunlight and Breadcrumbs
You likely already know James Beard Award-winning chef and restaurateur Renee Erickson through her celebrated Seattle eateries like The Walrus and the Carpenter, The Whale Wins, and Bateau. Now, following her popular cookbooks A Boat, a Whale & a Walrus: Menus and Stories and Getaway: Food & Drink to Transport You, Erickson introduces her latest work, Sunlight and Breadcrumbs: Making Food with Creativity and Curiosity. Erickson, once an art student, shares how she rekindled her creative passions through painting, photography, ceramics, and, of course, cooking. Join her for a conversation with bestselling author J. Kenji López-Alt, followed by a Q&A and book signing.
September 25th | 7:00 – 8:30 pm @ Fremont Abbey Arts Center
GO | Walk the Block
This year, Wa Na Wari’s annual Central District festival has expanded into a free, two-day event! Themed "Who We Are...Where We Are...How We Are," this fundraiser supports Wa Na Wari’s CACE 21 program and its anti-displacement efforts. Friday kicks off with the Walk the Block Institute, featuring creative workshops and a keynote from Miami-based architect and educator Germane Barnes. On Saturday, the much-loved Walk the Block Art Festival returns, celebrating Black art with an afternoon stroll through the Central District, where you’ll discover fresh installations and performances in local businesses, parks, porches, and shared spaces. Expect an exciting mix of visual art, sculptures, video installations, live music, dance parties, and community storytelling. VIP ticket holders will enjoy special perks, including food from chef Donna Moodie, an aura photo, and a headlining performance by soul singer Aliah Sheffield.
September 27th – 28th | Various times @ Wa Na Wari