Arts in the South End: 5 Things for July 2025

Every Seattleite knows that summer in our fair city doesn't officially begin until after July 4. As such, this month is packed with tons of fun stuff — big festivals in Kent, a reflection painting exhibition, a magazine release party, and so much more. Read on and mark your calendars! July will be stuffed with things to do.

Think we missed something? Let us know at Arts@SeattleEmerald.org.

Now through July 26, opening reception on July 3 from 5 to 8 p.m.
J. Rinehart Gallery
319 Third Ave. S., Seattle

It's easy to get lost in Cable Griffith's paintings: Composed of thick, colorful lines, his landscapes have a depth that pulls viewers in. In his latest show, "Return to Sender," at J. Rinehart Gallery, the painter explores both macro and micro environments, referencing photographs, memories, and personal observations. In his artist statement, Griffith writes that the show's title "refers to a combination of ideas that surround the reciprocal nature of cause and effect. Venturing out into the unknown, but ending up at the beginning. Getting lost on a loop trail." He continues, "The paintings are figurative landscapes, informed by autobiographical narratives, confessions, and fantasies. Science fiction looms large." Join Griffith and J. Rinehart for an opening reception on July 3 during Pioneer Square Art Walk!

July 18–19, Aug 2–3
Seward Park
5900 Lake Washington Blvd. S., Seattle

Dacha Theatre's latest production, The Grown-Ups, is a roving, outdoor play following a group of camp counselors at the fictional Camp Indigo Woods who are "trying to mold the leaders of tomorrow when tomorrow is looking bleaker and bleaker." The show explores the traditions that shape us as young adults and how we can change ourselves against the backdrop of climate collapse, the rise of fascism, and, you know, literally everything else. Dacha is putting on The Grown-Ups at a lot of spots around Puget Sound, and they are stopping in Seward Park from July 18 to 19 and Aug. 2 to 3 (July 18 is Teen Night, so bring the young adults in your life!). Grab a camp chair or a blanket and come sit around the fire — they have stories to tell.

July 19, 7 p.m.
Mini Mart City Park
6525 Ellis Ave. S., Seattle

Speaking of bleak futures, these trying times call for writers and journalists to dive deep into the issues facing people across the globe. Enter: Heatwave Magazine. Founded mostly by Seattle writers and editors, Heatwave is a multimedia project "dedicated to sharing experiences and strategizing together in preparation for the next round of struggles to break free from the infernal prison of capital." Their focus ranges from stories on the impact of Trump's tariffs on Brazil to a deep dive on wildfire mismanagement. On July 19, Heatwave is celebrating the release of their first issue at Mini Mart City Park with video content screening, custom wares for sale, hard copies available for pickup, as well as food and drink.

July 25–27
Renton City Hall
1055 S. Grady Way, Renton

If you're looking to go a little farther south out of Seattle this month, Renton River Days is the place to be. The three-day annual FREE festival brought together nearly 25,000 visitors last year across their connected festival campus at Cedar River Park, Liberty Park, and Renton Community Center. This year, festivities include a live performances by bands like Naked Giants, The Hipsters, and The Kennydales; a drone show; a parade; an activity course with an obstacle course, bungee trampoline, and circus slide; a chalk art competition; a rubber ducky derby; tons of food trucks and booth; and a summer bazaar. Phew! There's something for everybody!

July 27, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Seward Park Amphitheater
5898 Lake Washington Blvd. S., Seattle

Join Filipino community organization Pista at their annual Pista sa Nayon Seattle 2025, a celebration of Filipino culture and community. Details are still on the way, but you can expect tons of food vendors, market booths, and entertainment that all highlight and uplift Filipino culture. Last year they had Graceland Manila, a Elvis Presley tribute band, as a headliner — here's hoping they are back again this year!