SEATTLE — The iconic Seafair Torchlight Parade made a dazzling return to downtown Seattle with a fresh twist—shifting from its traditional 4th Avenue route to the city’s newly revamped Waterfront along Alaskan Way, and for the first time since the pandemic, reviving its beloved nighttime setting.
This year’s event, sponsored by Kaiser Permanente, also marked the return of the Torchlight Run, a 5K race held earlier in the day for the first time since 2022. Around 1,500 runners participated in the race, as spectators began lining the streets as early as 2:00 p.m. to secure the best views for the evening festivities.
A New Setting for a Time-Honored Tradition
The 2024 parade’s move to Alaskan Way was met with both curiosity and excitement. With the Waterfront’s fresh landscaping and improved public spaces now complete, many parade-goers praised the open-air layout and stunning views. It was a major departure from the parade’s traditional downtown route, which had become tightly packed in previous years.
“This is my first parade, I’ve never been to the Torchlight, I’ve lived here 29 years,” said Raymond Allen of West Seattle. “It’s about time, right? This Waterfront is a real blessing for the city.”
Rose Duffy, a longtime Seattle resident, shared a similar sentiment: “This is such a perfect setting. It’s my first time seeing the parade and my first time walking the entire completed waterfront. I love it.”
A Smooth Rollout, With Safety in Focus
Event organizers had to rethink their approach to safety this year, particularly due to the proximity of the BNSF railroad running alongside Alaskan Way. They installed portable barriers and adjusted crowd control strategies to adapt to the new location.
Despite these challenges, the event went off without incident, and by the evening’s end, both the run and parade were celebrated as major successes. Police and city officials reported no disruptions, and businesses along the route saw a surge in foot traffic.
Restaurants throughout the Waterfront were packed, with lines out the doors, and the newly reopened Pier 58, home to a maritime-themed playground, buzzed with activity as children played throughout the day.
Longtime Traditions and New Faces
For parade veterans like Brian Phillips, the new location didn’t disrupt his longstanding tradition. Known for his elaborate parade setup—complete with couches, rugs, coolers, and even ceiling fans—Phillips has been bringing the same lively energy since 1985.
“We started with one rug and a chair, and built it up over the years,” he said. Though he previously set up shop at 4th and Bell, this year’s move didn’t stop him from continuing the tradition. “A little bit of craziness, a little bit of silliness, but just an excuse to invite a bunch of friends and gather together.”
Another fan favorite, James Whitney, drove from Roy, Washington, with his son to attend their sixth Torchlight Parade. “We’re big race track people, but we always make time for this,” he said. Their highlights? The pirate ship float and the classic cars.
What’s Next for Seafair
The parade is just one piece of Seattle’s broader Seafair Festival, which continues this week. Next up is the Parade of Ships, set to sail through Elliott Bay on Tuesday, July 29, marking the start of Fleet Week.
The excitement culminates in the Seafair Weekend Festival, which begins Friday and runs through Sunday, starting at 8:30 a.m. The weekend promises a lineup of hydroplane races, air shows featuring the Blue Angels, and more.
If this weekend’s Torchlight Parade is any indication, Seattle’s summer traditions are back in full swing—bigger, brighter, and more beautiful than ever.
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