Two-day ‘political rally and music festival’ Cantanna Fest coming to Lincoln Park in August after last-minute venue change (Friday update)

ORIGINAL THURSDAY REPORT: Thanks for the tip! A major regional festival in its second year has just changed venues – and its new location is Lincoln Park. The event is The Cantanna Fest, with three music stages, food vendors, and a car show – plus cannabis-industry advocacy – scheduled for Saturday-Sunday, August 10-11. Reached via email, organizer Scott McKinley explained to WSB, “We had this event scheduled for Snohomish for the last year and just lost our venue and the switch to West Seattle is a last-minute one. This is a political rally/music festival centered around creating a 20-point bill of rights for Cannabis in the state and searching for a candidate to run for a Senate seat.” McKinley says he and co-founder Redman launched Cantanna Fest last year, when it was held in Renton, and says the highlights will include “Shawn Kemp is main-stage host, Donald Glaude as host of the EDM Forest, and Peter Dante is host of the Robert Lang Studios Stage celebrating 50 years of music.” The music lineups are on the festival website. Because this will be a “free-speech event in a city park,” admission will be free, but they’re selling “VIP access” tickets as an option. (And in case you’re wondering, given the cannabis-industry advocacy, the festival website has the caveat, “This IS NOT an open consumption event. It is open to the public and all ages are welcome to this community event.” They are planning adult-beverage areas for 21+, though.) We asked exactly where in the park the Cantanna Fest stages will be. While the locations and map aren’t finalized, they’re focusing on several areas of upper Lincoln Park accessible from the north lot. We’re still gathering other information, including hours.

FRIDAY 4:33 PM: We asked Parks about the process by which this was permitted at the relatively last minute. Spokesperson Christina Hirsch replied, “Seattle Parks and Recreation event scheduling permitted this on July 19. We have been in discussion with the event organizer about possibly relocating the event to a different location.”

JustSarah July 25, 2024 (12:31 pm)

If you thought the birds would be bothered by pickleball, LOL.

Leslie McGovern July 25, 2024 (8:24 pm)

Totally. Not acceptable. Not legal. No parking or environment to support this foolishness. So with whom do we meet & pressure to stop this?This is not a concert venue, but a place where wildlife live and are protected, children, families, disabled people and elders spend their quiet time … neighbors already can’t park in front of their own houses. None of these populations should be exposed to any of this. For goodness sakes, how do we preserve one of our remaining protected parks? Need I remind everyone that there are protected heritage trees and animals and wildlife, a nest having young & adult eagle families. Birds of many species, baby beached seals, owls, ducks, more … The posted laws state that …… this is also a non-smoking park & area, non-drugs, non-alcohol, glass free area with amplified music disallowed by law.… we need to protect our remaining natural environment in and outside our city. For our planet, creatures, and people. (I’m sure the Eagles are gonna just love to rock to the music.) Just who approved this? And when? How did this happen without informing the community and getting their input prior to any decision being made? First pickleball, and while that was being pushed back, & then you pulled a fast one and added an unnecessary playground on the south side of the park – where it was among the most beautiful and serene parts of the park that could have easily been cleaned up, the money used to actually maintain and improve the park, always sorely lacking at Lincoln Park. So – WTF??! Who approved this? Whom do we pressure?!
- Jethro Marx July 25, 2024 (10:24 pm)
  
  Easy, big fella! This can easily be addressed by sending your emails to NDlessloop@void.com (they will facilitate maximum outrage pressure)
- Mama Seal July 26, 2024 (9:52 am)
  
  We have much bigger problems than a two day music festival if there are “beached baby seals” in upper Lincoln Park.
- Beepee July 26, 2024 (10:27 am)
  
  They didn’t add a playground there was already one they just made it better.
- Preston July 26, 2024 (7:39 pm)
  
  Literally calm down. West Seattle is lucky to be able to have a beautiful space for an event like this. Non parking? Take the bus. Business around West Seattle will benefit and now there will be precedent for some other concerts in Lincoln Park
wscommuter July 26, 2024 (11:01 am)

@JustSarah … Best pithy post ever. I’m making popcorn before reading more comments.

AMD July 25, 2024 (12:36 pm)

Will this be louder than pickleball?

Thomas July 25, 2024 (12:41 pm)

What? I mean, wow this is cool and sounds fun. But to my knowledge there has never been a large event like this in LP, and it really isn’t set up for it at all. Just cause it’s a public park doesn’t mean it’s possible to use for an event. Are we talking thousands of people? Bathrooms for them planned? And post even cleanup? I’m really not opposed to this and am even excited to go…but guys, this is a huge logistical nightmare. It seems very poorly thought through. I give it 50/50 odds of actually happening.

JustSarah July 25, 2024 (1:01 pm)

It’s not unprecedented. There was a *huge* Sesame Street event in LP in 2019 (https://westseattleblog.com/2019/07/sesame-street-event-to-bring-thousands-to-lincoln-park-later-this-month/). I live near the park and traffic was awful due to everyone looking for parking, but overall it was fine.
- Beepee July 25, 2024 (2:09 pm)
  
  I don’t know, did sesame street have EDM dance stages and beer gardens ?
  - JustSarah July 25, 2024 (2:16 pm)
    
    To paraphrase Wooderson: it’d be a lot cooler if it did.
- Kate July 25, 2024 (4:10 pm)
  
  That was a 6-hour event with setup vs. a 2-day event with setup.
  - JustSarah July 25, 2024 (7:11 pm)
    
    And a whole lot more people who don’t care at all about rules (the pre-elementary set)!
    - Jeepney July 26, 2024 (7:16 am)
      
      @JustSarah, thank you for the hilarious comments!
- Michael July 26, 2024 (8:29 pm)
  
  That article says the event had 4,000 attendees. This event’s organizers expect more than 10,000.
Michael July 26, 2024 (8:27 pm)

The website says they expect 10,000+ people. That’s far too large for Lincoln Park.

Alki resident July 25, 2024 (12:53 pm)

But but what about the birds? Shouldn’t they get approval first? 🤣

Oh Seattle July 25, 2024 (2:40 pm)

But what about the unhinged pickle ball advocates that don’t even play pickle ball?
- Get real July 25, 2024 (3:24 pm)
  
  Two days! Get over it

Colby July 25, 2024 (12:55 pm)

Little known fact, birds love EDM (electronic dance music)!

yesyes July 25, 2024 (1:36 pm)

I hope the event is successful so there will be more free events to follow.Little known fact, the paddle sounds of the pickleballs goes well with the EDM (electronic dance music)

Barred owls are invasive July 25, 2024 (1:05 pm)

Prepare yourselves for a petition to save the (invasive) barred owl ears from this event!

Patrick July 25, 2024 (1:13 pm)

This is going to be a blast and I’m bringing my pickle ball racket too.

Ivan Weiss July 25, 2024 (1:29 pm)

What does he mean “searching for a candidate to run for a Senate seat?” Does he mean state Senate or U.S. Senate. And who might he be seeking to replace?

SuperAwesome July 25, 2024 (3:51 pm)

Primary voting has already started for the US Senate seat this year. And Murray’s seat isn’t up again until 2026.
- Derek July 25, 2024 (7:40 pm)
  
  2028*
Pinto July 26, 2024 (7:39 am)

I don’t understand what they’re advocating for. Cannabis industry seems to be operating well at the State level. Does not seem like an appropriate place for federal politics
- bill July 26, 2024 (4:44 pm)
  
  Federal criminalization of pot means credit card processors won’t handle payments at pot stores. The stores have to operate cash only, which makes the stores massive targets for theft. You also pay outrageous cash machine fees if you don’t bring enough cash and use the “convenient” cash machines in the stores.

Mel July 25, 2024 (1:33 pm)

Hmm as someone who has friends that attended this event last year, it’s really not kid friendly. I’m thinking about the open spaces in Lincoln park and both are right next to playgrounds and the wading pool.

Kate July 25, 2024 (3:49 pm)

According to the festival’s IG account, the main stages will be on the ball fields.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C9vkAl-y2lw/?igsh=cnZvbXYzenhtOTlj
Doesn't Matter July 25, 2024 (4:02 pm)

It’s one weekend. I think the kids can visit another park those days. Or god forbid they see a group of stoned people having a great time and realize what stuffed shirts their parents are. Perhaps they’ve never walked by a Seattle bus stop and seen such behavior?
- Mel July 25, 2024 (6:25 pm)
  
  Gotta love how bringing up a concern brings out the most tolerant people.
Alki resident July 25, 2024 (8:13 pm)

Curious where all of the children went in the 60’s when people smoked weed. Can you enlighten me? The Fremont parade isn’t child friendly either yet hundreds of kids are seen there.
- Gary July 25, 2024 (9:05 pm)
  
  Fremont Parade isn’t sprung on Fremont two weeks prior to the parade. People know it’s every year.
  - Alki resident July 25, 2024 (9:49 pm)
    
    You super missed the point, but not surprised. This this event change your plans of frolicking in the quiet meadows of LP that weekend?
- Seattlite July 26, 2024 (3:26 pm)
  
  Alki Resident: There were a lot of outdoor concerts back in the 60’s. The ones I attended were not for kids (children/teens) because of booze, marijuana, drugs. I remember the Tenino Piano Drop, Gold Bar festivals, Lake Washington had live music concerts. I went to enjoy the music…I didn’t drink, smoke or do drugs but observed a lot of nonsense. I also remember seeing the groups Chicago, The Turtles at the Cheetah Club on Santa Monica Pier. I saw Three Dog Night when they played at Green Lake’s Aqua Theater too. There were a lot of night clubs in Seattle back in the day that had great live music.

Is Parks High? July 25, 2024 (1:35 pm)

Just wow. The City of Seattle clearly could not care less about this jewel of a park. Not the wildlife, not the local park goers who come here for quiet reflection, and not the immediate neighbors. A quick scroll through last year’s pics will show that they intend a large MainStage with hundreds of music enthusiasts — the questions about sanitation and garbage pickup earlier are spot on. And they have already removed MOST of the garbage cans without warning or explanation. This is a disaster in the making. It’s clear that at this late date that LP is some kind of fallback plan for these promoters. Guessing they got bounced from another venue or two? Seattle Parks is jus happy to take their money, they don’t care. It’s really time for some kind of Lincoln Park Protection group to form, that demands oversight for such venues as this. Given the chance, I’d vote “hell no.” I bet most who truly love the park would as well.

AK July 25, 2024 (2:50 pm)

Your wrong. We are a “hell yes” & Love the Park and I can’t wait for this festival and so are for several of my friends who live here as well and my 3rd generation husband!
- Alki resident July 25, 2024 (8:14 pm)
  
  Same here, see ya there!
Leslie McGovern July 25, 2024 (8:35 pm)

You are exactly right.
weirdchoice July 25, 2024 (9:35 pm)

I was thinking the same thing. How can we turn Lincoln Park into a nature preserve? This stuff is just going to continue to happen. Take the festival to Marymoor or Alki Beach. Leave this peaceful park alone. For those that say “two days!” – a lot of damage can happen in two days. It’s just a weird choice and the whole “get over it man, smoke a blunt and be happy” is so dismissive and disrespectful.
- Wseattleite July 26, 2024 (12:50 am)
  
  LP is not and never has been a nature preserve. It is an active city park. Want a preserve? Go visit a preserve.
- Ex-Westwood Resident July 26, 2024 (5:58 pm)
  
  You can’t turn it to a preserve. The family the bequeathed the land to Seattle did so on the condition that it remain a PARK.
  
  There are two Nature Preserves in West Seattle: Schmitz Park and Alki Beach.
- Kadoo July 27, 2024 (6:34 am)
  
  Amen, weirdchoice. Discovery Park has had to fight the same thing since its inception. My dad was among the citizens who saved that space from becoming a missile site. Discovery Park and Lincoln Park are unique and this event should not be taking place at Lincoln Park.
Seattlite July 26, 2024 (5:08 pm)

Is Parks High? I agree with your comment 100%.

AK July 25, 2024 (1:42 pm)

I can’t wait to see some of my friends play! This is going to be exciting!!! About time we get a festival here in West Seattle!

Seattlite July 25, 2024 (2:10 pm)

It is not exciting at all especially for the birds, squirrels, rabbits, etc., that call Lincoln Park their home. None of the residential areas adjacent to the park want to hear loud music, loud drunks, and higher than a kite individuals roaming around the park or adjacent neighborhoods. Where are all these people going to park?
- platypus July 25, 2024 (3:16 pm)
  
  Lincoln Park is well served by rapid ride C. Additionally its easy to bike to. For any festival or large crowd gathering, we all need to think about not driving.
- AMD July 25, 2024 (3:21 pm)
  
  There are birds, squirrels and rabbits in my yard, and they do fine even when the church next door is blaring their music until 10pm.
- Duwamesque July 26, 2024 (10:39 am)
  
  Won’t somebody PLEASE think of the squirrels???
- Nicky Di July 27, 2024 (5:38 pm)
  
  Have you ever been to an outdoor music festival? Wildlife exists everywhere but humans are a part of wildlife also 🤷🏻‍♂️

lucy July 25, 2024 (1:55 pm)

whoo hoo! LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!

Kp July 25, 2024 (2:03 pm)

There is no smoking in Seattle Parks. Where are the going to smoke? There is no safe spot to smoke in the middle of summer in the park. Is the Fire department supposed to be there 24/7. Just think about the trash. We should bring legal action against the city by having this event here. Stupidest thing I’ve ever heard.

AK July 25, 2024 (2:42 pm)

KP.., stay home then. We don’t want negative party poopers there!
Alki resident July 25, 2024 (8:18 pm)

This just shows you haven’t been to LP in a looong time. I’m constantly passing by people smoking weed , why aren’t you there to report this?
- whattheheck July 25, 2024 (9:37 pm)
  
  Alki Resident, I’m in Lincoln Park every single day and I have yet to pass anyone that is smoking weed.
  - JustSarah July 25, 2024 (9:50 pm)
    
    I’m there daily and almost always encounter a smoker; oddly, usually cigarette (gross!), but occasionally herbal.
  - Alki resident July 25, 2024 (9:53 pm)
    
    Then you’re choosing to ignore it because I’m seeing it a lot. Especially at the covered shelters. This is nothing new. Not to mention open containers of alcohol.

Brian July 25, 2024 (2:05 pm)

I guess we should probably organize a community cleanup day for after this thing is done.

My two cents July 25, 2024 (2:20 pm)

Events occur at other Seattle Parks – how is Lincoln Park different from other parks?

Doesn't Matter July 25, 2024 (3:33 pm)

Because the NIMBYs said so
- YepYepYep July 25, 2024 (6:31 pm)
  
  Hed(pe) performing in an old baseball field may not be worth all the hype this is causing. But ya, I’ll walk down there to see it for myself.

Steph July 25, 2024 (2:22 pm)

West Crest Park could be a good fallback spot if people are upset about Lincoln. Lots of space and room for many porta potties. 3 parking lots.

David July 25, 2024 (9:59 pm)

I think all the off-leash dogs may scare people away, but otherwise that is a good idea!

on second thought, because that big circular grass area is a concrete lid over a reservoir, it may have weight restrictions or other rules that would prevent the event. I guess they could mow that whole lower section (bowl area) which would have the benefit of muting much of the sound for neighbors.

Kadoo July 25, 2024 (2:37 pm)

Why is this event happening in an open space park that is meant to be a quiet respite from city life? This is exactly the wrong sort of event for Lincoln Park.

Derek July 25, 2024 (2:48 pm)

Lincoln Park is open to the public for all kinds of events. I welcome this event and more like it

Genesee5Points July 25, 2024 (3:05 pm)

YES! This is awesome, and EXACTLY the kind of event we need in the City of (West) Seattle. It will actually feel like a real city, instead of a quiet burb. I can’t wait to welcome the (sure to be) diverse party goers with open arms, to show them that West Seattle is a welcoming place. A place where people of color, people from different socioeconomic backgrounds, and different cultures can feel safe and welcome. I can’t wait to hear music that has never been heard in Lincoln Park before, echo through the trees and off the cliffs. These sights and sounds might not look like what we see everyday, but this is our chance to say, “WELCOME TO WEST SEATTLE” to those we generally don’t get to. SO… Sue if you must, protest if you want, but please… Don’t close West Seattle off because a group of people doesn’t enjoy what you enjoy, or look the way you look. WELCOME CANTANNA ATTENDEES!!!!!

JustSarah July 25, 2024 (7:14 pm)

Agreed!! I’m having a real hard time with the coded language opposing this. Why is this a bigger worry than so many of the other events that currently happen in the park? Why are people assuming the attendees will destroy things, will commit crimes, will leave a mess? Please, if you’re having those thoughts, interrogate what assumptions you’re making to arrive there.

Anne July 25, 2024 (3:11 pm)

“This is not an open consumption event”ha- haven’t had such a good laugh in awhile.

Seattlite July 25, 2024 (3:16 pm)

‘Use of alcohol, cannabis, and illegal drugs is prohibited in our parks. See Seattle Municipal Code 18.12. 255 and 18.12. 257 for more details on our alcohol policy and the Revised Code of Washington on for information on cannabis and illegal drugs (possession, sale or use of drugs in violation of RCW 69.50 ).”The event coordinator must have a city permit to sell alcohol plus the assurance that NO minors will be served alcohol. That means everyone needs a valid photo ID to purchase alcohol at this event. Who will direct traffic for this event since their are only two small parking lots at Lincoln park? The Ferry Dock traffic will be affected…who will direct the ferry dock traffic?

JustSarah July 25, 2024 (3:29 pm)

Do you expect logistical details be published for all events in our parks? There have been several huge swim meets at LP in the past few months that also drew huge amounts of people. Were you requesting their traffic-control plans or doubting their organizers’ ability to abide by local laws?

These organizers are not newbs. I’m pretty sure they can and will follow state liquor laws and the Seattle Parks usage agreement.
- Seattlite July 25, 2024 (6:30 pm)
  
  I have been to Lincoln Park’s swim meets and I don’t recall any of them serving alcohol and having live music. The swim meets are a completely different type of event that are geared toward family, athletes. As for traffic control and parking, the event organizers had better put on their A game or it will be a complete disaster for nearby residents, ferry terminal commuters, and everyday commuters.
  - SRHNA Resident July 25, 2024 (8:34 pm)
    
    But wouldn’t the swim meets be a heck of a lot more fun if they did serve beer? Asking for a friend.
- whattheheck July 25, 2024 (9:41 pm)
  
  I love how you think an EDM festival is like a swim meet. LOL. Also, tell us more about the founders and their extensive preparation for this JustSarah. Since you know so much. Tell us.

Otis July 25, 2024 (3:19 pm)

Other than the parking lots are overflowing any decent weather day, or games day(currently baseball /softball) and parking on Fauntleroy due to WSF back-ups usually means parking on the east side of Fauntleroy, if you’re fortunate enough to find it. Sounds like another brilliant Parks plan that didn’t include talking with the parks staff who are doing their best to keep up with our enjoyment of this gem of a park. Car shows, like the film productions (they bring in trailers for wardrobe, canteen and “personal space” for actors and set folks) that use public spaces enjoy/require a little elbow room. Elbow room that doesn’t exist. Although pretty much everyone is understanding with not smoking in the park, there’s an incredible amount of fuel in those stands of magnificent trees. Although I have seen many fire plugs in the park, and we are blessed with a very professional fire department, forest fires are not what they are called upon to deal with. Just say’n

Doesn't Matter July 25, 2024 (3:37 pm)

How do we know the birds aren’t going to like the music? Are you a bird? Don’t birds make music? Perhaps we will all make music together!

who won? July 25, 2024 (3:44 pm)

Have to wonder if this event would’ve been possible if the pickleball plan had gone through. Also wondering why it was allowed to happen if the reason for abandoning the pickleball plan was protecting wildlife and serenity.

Jethro Marx July 25, 2024 (10:43 pm)

The reason they reversed their pickleball plan had nothing to do with wildlife and serenity; Parks changed plans because pseudoscience and Seattlites’ (and non-resident activists’ with internet) skewed indignation rose to a certain level. The Parks people apparently learned to give less notice of their plans since some of you are weird about Lincoln Park and its place in this world.
- Jim July 26, 2024 (3:10 am)
  
  That’s an absolute lie and you have zero idea what you’re talking about
  - Jethro Marx July 26, 2024 (10:41 am)
    
    Tell us more, you must know the truth. Set us all free from this “lie.”
  - Attendee July 26, 2024 (4:14 pm)
    
    No, Jim you are perpetuating an absolute lie.
    
    Direct quote from Parks Dept Richard Garner in response to a email question about noise levels recorded in the “meadow.”
    
    “The criteria that went into the decision to remove pickleball from Lincoln is the outcry of opposition from various groups.” “You can refer to me for the “lead official” regarding decisions and pickleball studies, as I am the planner leading the long-range planning efforts for all paddle and racquet sports in the City of Seattle.” Jonathan Garner

Unfortunate July 25, 2024 (3:45 pm)

This looks like a lot of fun! I’m looking forward to it. It also has the side benefit of a little bit of schadenfreude watching the dishonest Nimby’s that used misinformation in order to block a pickleball court at the park get upset about this event. If those people are upset, it’s a good sign for the neighborhood.

Seattlite July 25, 2024 (6:33 pm)

Please stop with your catchall “Nimby” term. It is grossly overused and misused.
- Alki resident July 25, 2024 (8:23 pm)
  
  Unfortunate is SPOT ON actually. Calling Lincoln Park a quiet meadow is what’s grossly overused.
  - againwiththis July 25, 2024 (9:44 pm)
    
    It is a quiet meadow, Alki Resident. It’s so clear from your posts that you never come here. Go there – right now – stand by where the pickleball court was going to go in. All you can hear are the birds and the wind. It’s magnificent. I don’t know why you and JustSarah always rail for more nonsense in the park. It’s so weird to me. Especially when I can tell that you don’t play sports or go to EDM concerts.
    - Alki resident July 25, 2024 (10:05 pm)
      
      Again with this I’ve gone to Lincoln Park since the 70’s. Grew up in Gatewood area and attended the school there. Had family work at Kenny Home and went to the little store next to it daily. Swam at Coleman and the wading pool. Participated in hundreds of Pee Wee games and collected cans after corporate picnics. Romped around the woods day and nite with friends and made memories. Was recently at the Longshore picnic a baby shower and birthday parties, and have gone to see the Troll many times. Our family has a memorial bench there and I walk with family regularly but ya, I’m never down there. I play many sports which is such a bizarre thing for you to assume I don’t.

JL July 25, 2024 (3:47 pm)

Questions and concerns could be sent to the office that probably approved the event. https://www.seattle.gov/special-events-office/contact-us

MM July 25, 2024 (5:34 pm)

Great idea – worth CC’ing Rob.Saka@Seattle.gov (unless he was part of approving the insane decision to host this kind of event at Lincoln park)

Francis Parkman July 25, 2024 (4:05 pm)

But Pickleball is too loud for Lincoln Park! LMAO

anonyme July 25, 2024 (4:48 pm)

This is yet another appallingly inappropriate decision by Parks. First, there will be two days of loud music, with the park virtually unusable for anyone but festival goers. The policy states that “open consumption” of weed will not be allowed, but does anyone really believe that a “political” festival based on cannabis rights is going to be pot-free? Seriously? There will also be a beer garden serving alcohol, so in addition to raucous noise, the park will be full of people who are drunk and/or high. And as for traffic, the Cantanna website talks about a car show and “best car” vote being one of the events. So explain to me how this won’t mean that the public parking lots won’t be taken over by these show cars? I agree with others who suggest that it’s time Lincoln Park had it’s own advocacy group who would have a say in how the park is used, especially given the fact that Parks leadership apparently has no clue. Lincoln Park is not a concert venue, for god’s sake. It is inexcusable that this was permitted.

Alki resident July 25, 2024 (6:25 pm)

Anonyme your comment is hilarious and it’s obvious you didn’t live around here in the 80’s and 90’s when LP was the main hangout in the woods besides Whiskey Woods. We welcome EVERYONE to our parks 7 days a week. We’re not willing to allow a class of nimbys decide who can and cannot be allowed. This isn’t your park, it’s EVERYONE’S park and the park is big enough for multiple gatherings, dog walks, birthday parties and beach combers on the whole two days this will occur. Looking forward to attending because it is local.
JustSarah July 25, 2024 (6:25 pm)

No, it is undemocratic to install a private body to decide what is and is not allowed in our public, multi-use, city park. I trust Parks’ decision here. Guess what? Concerts are currently allowed in the park. They have been happening at least weekly all summer. I guess because they’re symphony concerts they’re acceptable to you? Huge swim meets drawing large crowds are a regular occurrence at the park.

What exactly are you afraid of here? An “undesirable” component, perhaps? This is just gross.
Seattlite July 25, 2024 (6:34 pm)

I 100% agree with your comment.
thankyou July 25, 2024 (9:46 pm)

Best post on here, Anonyme. Thank you.
West seattlite July 26, 2024 (8:10 pm)

I totally agree this is a ludicrous plan. It’s going to endanger concert goers, ferry commuters, neighborhood folks and during one of the hottest times of year lots of people flock to the park for relief from the August heat. Also the park closes at dusk… how in the hell can they have a “silent disco from 10pm to midnight. Wtf?

MM July 25, 2024 (5:23 pm)

Terrible, Terrible, Terrible idea. Lincoln park is not a location for this type of event for so many reasons, too many to list here. Who is allowing these kind of decisions – assume it has to be financially driven…

Attendee July 26, 2024 (9:59 am)

Lincoln Park has had rock festivals since the 1960s.

AT July 25, 2024 (5:23 pm)

I love weed, but I gotta agree Lincoln Park seems like an odd & impractical venue for a festival. Too residential, not central, little parking. I wonder what happened with the original venue; changing locations 2 weeks before your event is unusual. Fyre Fest, anyone?

Danimal July 25, 2024 (7:08 pm)

Word is that the property sold and the new owner did not want to host the event. All the doomsayers yelling “Fryefest” are sorely mistaken. This event has successfully run before at a different venue and it will be done right.
- AT July 26, 2024 (7:43 am)
  
  Thanks for that info, what a nightmare for organizers and vendors.

Rhonda Vizion July 25, 2024 (6:29 pm)

So many people in these comments come off sounding like Edith Cranwinkle from Bob’s Burgers: “Don’t you even think about having fun in Lincoln Park!”

Arbor Heights Resident July 26, 2024 (9:52 am)

My fiance saw this over my shoulder and wants you to know that this is, by her estimation, the best WSB comment of all time

Danimal July 25, 2024 (6:49 pm)

Man there are a lot of NIMBYs and naysayers in this community and this thread! People, it’s ONE WEEKEND. For people! To have fun and dance and listen to music and express themselves! We get to use the park too, not just you “I want it the way I want it at all times crowd!” Loosen up, lighten up, learn to let other people enjoy brief temporary things that you don’t like. Just like people don’t like some things that you like! Seriously, GET OVER IT. I’m stoked for this – Donald Glaude was one of my favorite DJs when I was in college in the 90s, and there are local big-name band members in the bands that are playing. Not to mention great, famous, popular DJs ready to help anyone who comes dance their butts off and have a great time. Let’s do this!! Oh and ride the C-line bus, Uber, walk, bike, or scooter to this. Don’t drive, it’s absolute silly to do so and you know it.

JustSarah July 25, 2024 (7:18 pm)

Exactly. I’m considering setting up a chill space in my garage/driveway just east of the park to invite attendees to take a break. My spouse and I have contacted the organizers with our support, and recommended they encourage attendees arrive via mass transit. This could be really awesome!
- Danimal July 25, 2024 (7:42 pm)
  
  That’s awesome! Thank you, rad neighbor!

Alex July 25, 2024 (7:20 pm)

I’m OK with the Park being used for a festival a couple times a year but the organizers owe the neighborhood a lot more details, LIKE WHY THEY LOST THEIR VENUE, expected number of people, hours, what will they say about parking, are they going to provide security on the ferry line ( say we have another one boat weekend – it will be an ugly mess), if its not fenced in, how do they maintain control over drinking and pot use. What else is scheduled for the Park that weekend and with the Car Show, it sounds like half the parking will go away. The neighborhood ought to be doing a Puyallup and charging megabucks to park in our driveways.

Danimal July 25, 2024 (7:48 pm)

Also, it’s a very last minute thing, and like other times in your life, you’re going to have to deal with some adversity without an explanation you’re satisfied with. I suggest you get right with it now. You’ll be happier in the end. There’s really nothing you can do about it, and there’s no sense stewing over it. There are bigger problems in this world, and this event is designed to help us deal with them through music. I’m all for it!!
- Gary July 26, 2024 (12:06 am)
  
  Danimal – “last minute thing, you’re going to have to deal with some adversity..” – the city itself requires no less than thirty days notice, proof of insurance, police allocation etc prior to the event. It’s reasonable for people to have questions especially involving logistics for a large scale event on short notice. I think more people are WWH (wait? What? How?) than NIMBY.

Alex July 25, 2024 (7:38 pm)

This is interesting. For $2,500, you get 4 tickets and access to RVs that they are renting to round out your festival experience. They are sold out of this type of ticket. Wonder how many RVs and where will they be parked.

SRHNA Resident July 25, 2024 (8:45 pm)

It’s too bad they could not hold it on the new safe street on Alki Avenue SW, west of 63rd Ave SW, but LP seems like a good second choice.

BC July 25, 2024 (9:09 pm)

Events in parks are awful. Like the Loop the ‘Lupe every summer at Walt Hundley. They bring in big obstacles, there are a lot of people there who then park on the neighborhood streets. They play music, people laugh and have a good time. It’s the worst :)

Jethro Marx July 25, 2024 (11:17 pm)

Ugh, People.

Ty July 25, 2024 (9:55 pm)

My fellow neighbors,Join me in spearheading a cleanup effort to preserve our lovely park! I’ve reached out to the organizers of the event and we will have a zoom meeting Sunday @ 7pm to discuss further details. If you’re interested in joining the cleanup effort please feel free to drop me an email cleanlincolnpark@gmail.com

justjosh July 26, 2024 (12:07 pm)

They are also going to have a meeting for volunteers for the event on Sunday in Lynnwood (details on their IG). Getting involved is a great way to ensure that this is a fun and safe event that also addresses concerns like post-fest cleanup.

Vee July 25, 2024 (10:10 pm)

Probably not best location, parking issues and ferry traffic, people will consume, need security and police, will lead to lot of people driving in area under the influence, also hope there is good clean up so children and animals don’t pick up or consume leftover products, think there will be lot of issues and problems and we have enough right now in West Seattle

Alki resident July 25, 2024 (10:42 pm)

There’s a bar on every block of West Seattle and you’re worried about driving under the influence? Have you seen 35th and California Ave the past 25 yrs?
- Vee July 25, 2024 (11:08 pm)
  
  Little different, party atmosphere and combination alcohol and pot, wonder if our already understaffed sw precinct is aware,and who approved this, there will be problems
- Niko July 26, 2024 (3:19 am)
  
  There is absolutely not a bar on every block and Even if that was the truth they all have alcohol licenses and are held to standards
  - Alki resident July 26, 2024 (2:33 pm)
    
    Niko add up all of the establishments that serve alcohol in West Seattle and get back to us, including the Eagles. You’re not new to the area, and have likely seen many smashed up cars from being hit in the night, debris everywhere. This has gone on for years.
Jeff July 26, 2024 (8:10 am)

Oh come on, trash is an issue in ANY park with events. Alki too. Why is Lincoln any different?

Linda July 25, 2024 (11:41 pm)

No hard feelings if you’d like the festival to happen – just wanted to offer an option for those that don’t want it at Lincoln Park.Please sign the below petition at change.org if you prefer the festival to be held elsewhere.https://chng.it/9dgH9hhytF

Gaslit July 26, 2024 (12:18 am)

For all the pearl clutching NIMBY’s, the car show isn’t happening at the event. Also, this event and working with the city parks dept was largely coordinated by the Cannabis Workers United. Or their more familiar name, UFCW. So, if you’re wondering why Parks made this happen, go ahead and wonder why the city jumps through any hoop their beloved labor unions raise. For those who like the music and weed- have fun. For those who live in the delusion that Lincoln Park is Walden pond, this may be a weekend to stay home.

AT July 26, 2024 (7:48 am)

Where will the car show be? Asking for people who like to look at cars.

Chrissy D July 26, 2024 (6:12 am)

Pretend you live in a city. Last year I was visiting my son who lives just off Prospect Park in Brooklyn, we heard music coming from the park and followed it. What we came upon was a community listening to music, dancing, communing with one another in nature, and I thought, I wish Seattle could be more like this and here it is. Thanks to those who are planning this event.

Alki resident July 26, 2024 (3:17 pm)

Thanks for bringing this up. Some people in West Seattle cringe at the thought of having a good time if it’s not their idea. I too am drawn in by music if I’m hearing it somewhere, I’ll track it down. There’s SO much talent in Seattle and I love that we’re on the map for entertainment and artists. We even have Desmond Hanson who paints the electric boxes. The thought that another nimby is starting yet another petition is comical.

Meeee July 26, 2024 (7:09 am)

Someone should file a bunch of FOIA requests to see how this even was fast tracked in record time after the organizers lost their original location. It does seem there should have been a lot more notice given and lots more info publicized that would address how security, parking, clean up, etc. will be handled. That could have gone a long way to alleviate the angst that many seem to have over this event.

WSB July 26, 2024 (11:09 am)

FOIA, better known (at least in the city) as PDR (public-disclosure request), takes months in many cases, so it’s not viable for time-sensitive information. I have asked SPR those questions, as usually large events go through the city’s Special Events Committee, which has multidisciplinary regular meetings to discuss what’s ahead, and this definitely wasn’t on their agenda for their most-recent meeting two weeks ago, and their next one isn’t scheduled until a few days before this. – TR
- MM July 26, 2024 (5:20 pm)
  
  Thank you for asking these questions. It’s important to ensure the right processes are being followed here! This event and short notice clearly doesn’t sit well with a lot of the family orientated, average members of this community.

Made your own bed... July 26, 2024 (9:44 am)

Half of these belligerent comments shouting about “NIMBY’s” and “it’s only two days – get over it” probably come from the hysterical organizer – they sound just like his BS responses on the West Seattle Connection Facebook post that has since been deleted (probably by him since he was getting so much blowback). I can understand his panic… losing his Snoho venue so close to show time has got to be supremely stressful. And I’m sure the festival will be fun for a lot of people. But Lincoln Park? Who thought that one through? If LP was an option, what about Magnusson with its open fields and less sensitive spaces? What about Myrtle Edwards, home to Hempfest and centrally situated? There’s hardly any parking near Lincoln Park on a sunny day. Add in the ferry traffic, the necessary trucks and support vehicles, the bands themselves bringing in/taking away gear. And, after the pickleball brewhaha, this feels just extremely tone-deaf and in-your-face insulting. There should have been a lot more community outreach. And the Parks… to allow such a last-minute massive event without submitting plans, permits, contingencies… heck, you can’t build a DADU without a year’s worth of permitting (not saying I like that, but you know what I mean). I don’t want to wish ill on this event, but the dude running the show is pretty darned hard to like and support. His doing. Whatever, I guess we’ll see how it goes.

Jetmanwsea July 26, 2024 (10:23 am)

We love everyone, even ALL the Kevin and Karen’s that surround us like a bad case of the crabs. Take your kids to another park that weekend, the owls will be fine as it is only a 2 day event, the city and SPD will be involved. There is SO MUCH more important things for our city and West Seattlelites to focus on than a festival. If it is not your thing, just don’t go. Nobody is forcing you.

Stop calling us names July 26, 2024 (11:02 am)

Dear JetManWSea, when you have to resort to calling people names (Karen, Kevin, Nimbies) it really diminishes your point. Don’t say that you love people then insult them (they have crabs). IF there are more important things to talk about then why are you commenting? We’ll decide for ourselves what’s important to us and I’ll make my point without resorting to name calling or insults: Some of us aren’t able to “just not go” because we live right there and LP isn’t set up for something like this and, as a result, like all festivals, it won’t be limited to just the park because it can’t be. It won’t all fit in the park. There isn’t enough parking, space, toilets, power, etc to accommodate something like this and, unfortunately, we’re all about to learn that the hard way.
- Seattlite July 26, 2024 (6:32 pm)
  
  Stop Calling Us Names: Your comment is filled with common sense. Thank you.
Doesn't Matter July 26, 2024 (11:18 am)

Thank you Jetman! It must be exhausting for all the Ks and Ks to be this angry all the time. Perhaps they should smoke some weed. Might be a better use of your time than the petitions and FOIA requests.
ughsecurity July 27, 2024 (10:40 am)

SPD is strapped already. We don’t need them at your party, we need them at Alki on a hot summer night. Hire your own security.

Fern July 26, 2024 (1:32 pm)

I can’t find what time this is. Does anyone see that anywhere on the event page?

WSB July 26, 2024 (3:05 pm)

The ticketing page says that day 1 is 10 am to 10 pm. However, it’s important to remember that they had all this planned for a different location, so that means some things might be subject to change.

Aurora July 26, 2024 (1:34 pm)

Since this is a first amendment event, the fees would be much smaller than other types of events of this size. The event is not listed on the parks department permitted events list (“permits for outdoor events in Seattle), indicating this was indeed swiftly permitted.

Alki resident July 26, 2024 (3:09 pm)

Did you read the part that their original location was no longer available? So of course it was swifty, there’s a lot involved to get a performance together and I’m happy they found West Seattle to be available in time to still have all of these performances.

WSB July 26, 2024 (4:36 pm)

Update added above from Parks – “Seattle Parks and Recreation event scheduling permitted this on July 19. We have been in discussion with the event organizer about possibly relocating the event to a different location.”

MM July 26, 2024 (5:26 pm)

What does this mean? It doesn’t feel like a satisfactory answer. Does this mean they are looking for another more suitable location? When will this be discussed and how will public opinion be taken into account in this process. How was the original permitting approved / rushed through.
- WS Res July 26, 2024 (6:33 pm)
  
  Why do you write this as if WSB knows more than they’re telling you? Call Christina Hirsh and ask her yourself rather than posting here in a snit because you want information that’s not usually given out in a public statement.
  - MM July 27, 2024 (6:01 am)
    
    Absolutely no criticism of WSB whatsoever. The level of reporting and support for the community here is second to none.
AT July 26, 2024 (8:14 pm)

Is their estimated attendance from the event permit application available? People might be imagining a larger event than it turns out to be.

Ex-Westwood Resident July 26, 2024 (6:23 pm)

With the right planning this type of event would be GREAT.

The problem is that there is NO WAY that you can properly plan for an event this size in a few weeks.

You can NOT just shift the same plans from the previous venue to LP.

Where, and how many, the port-a-potties going to be placed?

Who is responsible for the clean-up, and more importantly, any and ALL damage to existing infrastructure?

What about and damage to the environment of the park, who pays for that?

Who, how much and what are the boundaries where the event will provide security for, if they even are?

The BIG “elephant” in the house is going to be where will all the cars go? Yes, I know they are requesting that people not drive and use public transportation, but have you tried to get on a bus with lawn chairs, maybe a cooler and backpacks with various sundries?

If this goes off, I hope that it is successful with none of the concerns brought up happening.

I won’t be attending because as much as I like music, the smell of marijuana smoke makes me violently ill.

For those that are planning this, good luck, IMO it might be better to find a more suitable location that has held events of this size this year and begin planning for one at Lincoln Park next year.

Naturemusiclover July 26, 2024 (6:23 pm)

WTF. I mean, really. Anyone have any idea what thousands (5K? 10K? 20K?) of people could do to this park in a couple of days? It’s dry as a tinderbox, and people will be lighting up everywhere (although, as we know, smoking is prohibited in ALL Seattle Parks). This has catastrophe written all over it. Time to find a more suitable venue.

Kersti Muul July 26, 2024 (11:01 pm)

Likely moving to a different venue…downtown

S July 26, 2024 (11:41 pm)

I’m wondering if any one has reserved the various shelters and picnic tables for those dates, and if so, what happens to their planned events? Does your kid’s birthday party now have VIP access, or do those reservations get canceled?

LP Lover July 27, 2024 (12:29 am)

I moved here from NYC 13 years ago. Amazing how large cities manage to have events, in parks, that attract thousands of people in neighborhoods where people live & everyone managed just fine. People even experience things like:getting to know new people, discover new music, find they enjoy dancing. Traffic? Well, yeah – if only Seattle had decent public transportation… I love Lincoln Park & heartily endorse a 2 day music festival! I’m forever amazed at the anger people feel is justified when anything new threatens their sedate and quiet lives. Please. Maybe embrace a new experience!!!!

Demar Salazar July 27, 2024 (7:49 am)

West Seattle needs some flavor…LETS GET THIS PARTY STARTED.Angel Martin has been talking about some WuTang and QTip action with a few more heads on the side.

LEN they/them July 27, 2024 (8:38 am)

This is political event that that promotes FREE SPEECH…. The park does NOT BELONG to those in obvious opposition to democracy, free speech, civil rights, and my right to live in a free state being who I really am. Are these NIMBY Maga Hat locals going to take away my reproductive rights within the healthcare system?What is next,,,,, overt racism?Do I have to sit in back of the bus in white West Seattle? BTW WE ❤️ The C Line.

Pelicans July 27, 2024 (5:44 pm)

Whoa, dude, chill.

Sandal91 July 27, 2024 (9:52 am)

I REMEMBER DONALD G. FROM THE BEST RAVING DAYS IN THE 90s. LUV ME SOME DJ DG. THIS 51 YEAR OLD IS GOING FOR SURE

Kersti Muul July 27, 2024 (4:49 pm)

This event has been moved to Myrtle Edwards

Gary July 27, 2024 (5:02 pm)

Looks like it’s moved to Myrtle Edwards now.https://www.instagram.com/reel/C98aakByMzO/?igsh=OXFzZXh3NmNtcHps

WSB July 27, 2024 (5:45 pm)

thanks (to you and Kersti, who I see mentioned this upthread, my view of comments is reverse-chronological), I’ve been watching their feed for any word on the possible move we mentioned yesterday but I hadn’t checked in the past couple hours.

Sorry, comment time is over.