West Seattle, Washington
09 Sunday
Another beautiful photo in a day full of them – thank you to the sender! The moon will be officially full just after 1 am our time. We’re mentioning that because as usual, the full moon brings tidal extremes. A texter noticed flashlight beams on the shore; we note that tonight’s low-low tide, hitting right this moment, is -3.4 feet, same as it’ll be tomorrow night shortly before 11 pm, and between the two, high tide will be 12.6 feet before 6 am, with even-higher high tides the next three mornings (here’s the chart).
Two plastic birds comprise tonight’s spotlight:
Longtime reader, first time texter here. I’d like to share with you some photos of my Porch Goose Nativity scene.
We’re on 40th Ave SW and Morgan st (one house in). The Porch Goose is a bit of midwestern kitsch-whimsy, and I made the custom Joseph and Mary costumes myself.
The egg is 3D printed and lights up alarmingly bright.
We call the display “Honk the Heralds.” Enjoy!
Got lights, whimsical or otherwise? We’re still accepting photos and sighting info – westseattleblog@gmail.com or text 206-293-6302 – thank you! (Go here to scroll through what we’ve shown already.)
(WSB photo, 2023: Part of the haul from last year’s Cocoa and Coat Drive)
Tomorrow’s the big day – one more major West Seattle Junction Hometown Holidays event- the annual Cocoa and Coat Drive at the south end of the West Seattle Farmers’ Market, with the Kiwanis Club of West Seattle, and friends. Go check your closet/drawers/chair backs and see if you have coats or jackets in good shape that nobody’s using (or go buy one if you have time/money), and bring it/them to the market tomorrow (Sunday, December 15), 10 am-2 pm. You bring the coat(s), you get the cocoa as a reward! Donated coats/warm clothing go to the West Seattle Food Bank‘s Clothesline.
The wind alert has expired and the weather looks to be calmer for at least a few hours. Thanks to everyone who sent photos – above, from David Hutchinson; below, from James Bratsanos:
And the Elliott Bay rainbow’s full arc, from Stewart L.:
(added) Eugene Lee sent this photo of wave action at Emma Schmitz Memorial Overlook:
The major forecast factors for the days ahead, so far, seem to be rain, rain, and more rain – intermittently.
Sue Shotridge from Vashon Island is one of the vendors you’ll find at the encore Native Holiday Art Market at the Duwamish Longhouse, happening today only, until 7 pm (following the traditional three-day market in late November/early December). She’s brought prints, cards, calendars, blankets, and more. Around the great hall of the Longhouse, many other Native creators are selling their work.
One booth is raising money for the Blue Heron Canoe Family‘s participation in the Journey to Elwha next year. Nearby, we found these gift packs:
If you’re hungry, you can also buy fresh-made frybread, soup, and tacos toward the back of the room. The longhouse is at 4705 W. Marginal Way SW; if you’re driving, plenty of parking on both sides of the street, and a signal to get you safely across if you park on the east side. (The Longhouse sponsored WSB this past week to help amplify word of today’s market.)
(WSB photos)
1:08 PM: Youngstown Cultural Arts Center is bustling with vendors and shoppers midway through the first-ever Delridge Winter Market!
The hallways and rooms are full of people to meet and creations to browse and buy. Fresh hot food outside too:
This is a don’t-miss event, 4408 Delridge Way SW until 3 pm. More photos when we are back at HQ.
2:38 PM: Among the dozens of vendors – Judith is selling clay creations in the hallway near the entry door (that’s Daniel with her):
Nearby is Ammara:
So many different types of merchandise – including floral creations from Kamayan Farm in Carnation and other growers:
Apparel, body care, coffee, tea, jewelry, many gift possibilities! African Community Housing and Development, which presents the Delridge Farmers Market spring through fall, is hosting this too, and sponsored WSB to be sure more people heard about it. In addition to the vendors, a variety of free resources – from acupuncture to haircuts to cooking demos – awaited visitors, too
(WSB photos)
That’s the Admiral Neighborhood Association‘s Winter Wonderland holiday-cheer crew with Santa at West Seattle Realty (2715 California SW; WSB sponsor), one of the official stops on today’s business-district trail of fun, happening until 2 pm. (added) Santa was posing with pets as well as people (and penguins):
A few doors down, you can stop at Seattle Yarn for free crafting fun – this family was making snowflakes:
Look for carolers and more fun. The weather’s calmed somewhat too.
9:36 AM: Thanks to Laurel at Ounces in North Delridge for the photo – that tree down along the Delridge entrance to the eastbound West Seattle Bridge is one of multiple trees brought down by this morning’s gusty winds. We’ve had a report from Admiral Way’s south hill, too. The National Weather Service has a Wind Advisory alert in effect for our area until 4 pm today, expecting “south winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph.” No new West Seattle outages mapped by City Light so far but that last group of 146 from Thursday night’s outage is still without electricity. Scott sent this photo of crews working in the area:
If you experience or see weather-related trouble, please call or text our hotline, 206-293-6302 (once you’re sure the appropriate authorities know – if a tree or other debris is blocking a street or sidewalk, for example, SDOT’s after-hours number is 206-386-1218) – thank you!
9:49 AM: And now, a big power outage. Almost 7,000 customers; map screenshot added above. Thanks for the texts/tips. This time some signalized intersections such as 35th/Avalon and 35th/Fauntleroy are involved – remember dark signals = 4-way stops. Parts of Alki and Genesee that got hit in Thursday’s outage are out again, as is a stretch of Delridge, among other mapped spots that are out. We don’t know the epicenter of this one yet – let us know if you see City Light crews.
10:19 AM: If you look at the outage map, this seems to have spared the business districts, which have a variety of events today, but please let us know if you encounter any changes at any place on today’s (big) list. Meantime, while City Light’s map projects afternoon restoration, PLEASE REMEMBER that their estimates are just wild guesses at this point, COULD be much sooner, COULD be much later. Among other things, don’t open your fridge/freezer – what’s in it/them will last longer.
10:24 AM: And in fact, some are reporting their power is back. Avalon area, for starters. The map may not catch up for a bit. … Map now shows almost everyone restored from this outage (but not that 146-customer South Alki pocket from Thursday night).
10:33 AM: Thanks to everyone who’s sent rainbow photos, in the meantime – sightings from Alki to Fauntleroy. The one above this line is from John-Michael Bennett III. (Added) Below is a photo texted from Fauntleroy, where the ferries have been battling those south winds:
10:48 AM: Now the rain’s moved back in, at least here in Upper Fauntleroy. We’re also still hearing dispatches for various trouble spots – a tree down on 34th in Sunrise Heights, wires down on 51st in Brace Point.
11:56 AM: Though the power’s back, a reader says it’s left the Junction post office cash-only.
4:22 PM: Looking at City Light’s map, looks like the South Alki 146 finally got their power back sometime this afternoon, before hitting 48 unpowered hours.
(Photo by Theresa Arbow-O’Connor)
Another huge holiday-season Saturday ahead! First, the list from the WSB West Seattle Holiday Guide:
SELFIES WITH SANTA AT CAPERS: Details here – 8:30-11 am with “Santa Tony”! (4525 California SW)
CHRISTMAS THROWDOWN CROSSFIT COMPETITION: 8:30 am to 2:30 pm at South Seattle Crossfit (2653 SW Yancy)
TREES FOR NONPROFIT: “This is the LAST FULL WEEKEND of the Holy Rosary tree lot, located behind the school at 41st & Dakota. Fully stocked with trees, wreaths and garland. Supporting not only Holy Rosary School, but the West Seattle Food Bank and Salvation Army’s Hickman House. Bring 5 cans and get $5 off your purchase. Open 9-9 Saturday and 9-8 Sunday.”
ORGANIC TREES: “Our “Front Yard Christmas Trees” are still available, we have 14 trees left! We have fresh-cut local Christmas trees of all sizes and heights, organic (no sprays or chemicals ever), local (from Cle Elum) and restorative! (part of a forest restoration project). Our trees are grand fir and can be given a fresh cut if desired, and free candy cane with purchase! We take cash or Venmo, and are open every day until Christmas. On 48th Ave between Edmunds and Hudson. Call or text us at 206-200-9108.”
KIDS’ TOY SWAP: At Fauntleroy Schoolhouse (9131 California SW)
Declutter, Discover, Delight!
This free, eco-friendly event is a chance to:
Declutter your home.
Discover new-to-you treasures.
Connect with the community.Items Set-Up: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Browse & Swap: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Clean-Up: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Charity Pick-Up: 4:00 PM
Bring gently used toys, books, and games to swap, and take home items your family can use. Unclaimed items will be donated to local charities, spreading holiday cheer even further!
WINTER WONDERLAND, ADMIRAL DISTRICT: “There’s snow place to be like Admiral this winter! Join the Admiral Neighborhood Association from 10 AM-2 PM for a ton of family fun at Winter Wonderland. Enjoy festive foods at Circa and Arthur’s. Then skate over to West Seattle Grounds, Seattle Yarn and Wicked Rae’s for winter crafts. And don’t forget to snap some holiday photos at Hoste, Mud Bay and West Seattle Realty (where we heard a certain jolly man in a red suit might make an appearance)! And since the best way to spread holiday cheer is to sing loud for all to hear, take a break to enjoy the Admiral Church Choir’s Roving Carolers. Head to our website, connecttoadmiral.org, for more.”
SCENTED IN SEATTLE HOLIDAY MARKET: 10 am-6 pm at Metropolist Events in SODO (2731 1st Ave. S.) – fragrance, body care, soaps, candles, more. Participants include WSB sponsor Filigree & Shadow.
BUSKING CAROLERS: At California/Alaska, 11 am-1 pm, We Carollers 3, “busking on the corner at the future Molly Moon’s, collecting monetary donations for the WS and WC food banks. This group has been Busking for the food banks for about 16 *years*!”
VASHON ISLAND HOLIDAY STUDIO TOUR CONTINUES: Take a ferry to explore this event (which is sponsoring WSB to get the word out)!
Vashon Island artists offer art lovers and gift shoppers a fun and inspirational event, the Vashon Island Holiday Studio Tour, Saturday and Sunday, December 14-15, 2024, from 10 am to 4 pm. The tour, which is organized by Vashon Island Visual Artists, features 44 studios and galleries representing more than 140 artists and craftspeople. The organization’s website also offers an interactive online map with details about each studio or gallery.
HOLIDAY NATIVE ART MARKET ENCORE: 11 am to 7 pm at the Duwamish Tribe Longhouse (4705 W. Marginal Way SW; WSB sponsor)
DELRIDGE WINTER MARKET:
ACHD x DNDA Presents: 1st Annual Delridge Winter Market
Saturday December 14 from 11 AM-3 PM
Youngstown Cultural Arts Center: 4408 Delridge Way SWThis festive indoor market, an extension of the popular Delridge Farmers Market, features unique handmade goods, delicious cultural foods, and a diverse lineup of local BIPOC-owned businesses offering everything from ceramics to body care products. Enjoy free community resources like fresh produce, basic supplies, live music, culinary demos, and services like acupuncture, massage, and youth haircuts. In collaboration with African Community Housing and Development, it’s a day of holiday cheer, community connection, and festive fun—you don’t want to miss this! You can check out the vendors by visiting ACHD’s website. See you there!
(WSB sponsor)
SANTA AT JOHN L. SCOTT IN THE JUNCTION: 11 am-2 pm Santa visit at 4445 California SW with Santa Jim – free photo ops with you, your loved ones, well-behaved pets. Free cookies and cocoa.
MAKERS ART MARKET: Noon-5 pm at Alki Bathhouse (2701 Alki SW), more than two dozen makers are there for your shopping adventures.
NORTHSTAR TRADING CO. POPUP: Longtime Pike Place Market vendor closing shop and selling sheepskin creations at a West Seattle pop-up, 12-4 pm – details here. (7138 30th SW)
RAIN CITY CLAY HOLIDAY SHOW: The Arbor Heights studio/gallery hosts the annual holiday show 1-5 pm again today – details in our calendar listing. (4208 SW 100th)
WEST SEATTLE PERFORMING ARTS: WSPA presents “The Nutcracker” and “In Motion,” with 1 pm and 6 pm performances at Chief Sealth IHS (2600 SW Thistle) – details in our calendar listing
SANTA AT WESTWOOD VILLAGE: Free photos with Santa are part of “An Enchanted Holiday Celebration” in the Westwood Village courtyard, 1-4 pm, plus treats and crafts. (2600 SW Barton)
‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’: The radio-play edition of “A Christmas Carol” at Kenyon Hall (7904 35th SW), 2:30 and 7:30 pm.
“SNOWED IN (AGAIN)”: 3 pm and 7:30 pm performances of ArtsWest‘s holiday show – here’s the ticket link. (4711 California SW)
COCOA, COOKIES, AND LIGHTS: Treats for visitors at 3431 48th SW’s display tonight, 5-7 pm, as noted here.
SANTA AT MENASHE FAMILY LIGHTS: Santa (and reindeer!) will be there around 5 pm. (5605 Beach Drive SW)
ASTRA LUMINA: The illuminated walk at Seattle Chinese Garden on Puget Ridge continues. 5 pm and later entry times; ticket cost varies. (6000 16th SW)
‘WINTER WANDER’ SCAVENGER HUNT: Alice Kuder presents the “Winter Wander” scavenger hunt again this year, last full day/night:
The Winter Wander Scavenger Hunt is a free community event designed to bring friends and families together for holiday fun. Wanderers download a Bingo-style clue sheet, scour West Seattle to identify the locations that solve the clues, and upload selfies in front of those locations to qualify for prize drawings. Open to everyone of all ages! Winter Wander concludes at 7 PM, Sun., Dec. 15th, 2024. Sign up by registering at wondersinaliceland.com.
ALKI UCC COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CABARET: 7 pm – food, music, more – details and ticket info here. (6115 SW Hinds)
AT THE SKYLARK: The Emerald City Kings Ball team presents Crown Jewels – Xmas Edition. “A very drag king Christmas show” at The Skylark. Doors at 7, show at 8, $15. (3803 Delridge Way SW)
****Now, everything ELSE that’s happening, non-holiday! (Got something to add for today/tonight? Text 206-293-6302 – thank you!)****
FREE FITNESS CLASS: 8 am at Fauntleroy Schoolhouse. (9131 California SW)
SATURDAY GROUP RUN: Meet at West Seattle Runner (2743 California SW; WSB sponsor) at 8 am for the regular Saturday morning run.
FREE FIT4MOM PRENATAL-FITNESS CLASS: 9 am for moms-to-be. (2707 California SW)
HEAVILY MEDITATED: Free community meditation, 9 am at Inner Alchemy‘s sanctuary/studio (3618 SW Alaska)
INTRODUCTORY WALK: Prelude to the next event – meet at the same spot, 47th/Fauntleroy, 9:30 am, for a flat-terrain 1-mile walk.
WALKING FOR WELL-BEING: Then at 10 am, you’re invited to join others for the weekly walk in Lincoln Park (meet at 47th/Fauntleroy).
EXPLORER WEST MIDDLE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 10-11:30 am:
Discover what makes Explorer West Middle School a unique and engaging community! Our Open House offers prospective families an opportunity to explore our programs, meet faculty, and hear directly from current students and families about their experiences. Whether you’re ready to apply or just starting your school research journey, this event provides an in-depth look at what sets us apart. Registration is available through Ravenna (but not required). Students, parents, caregivers, and siblings are welcome at this event. Join us and see how we support middle schoolers to thrive in middle school and beyond with confidence!
(10015 28th SW; WSB sponsor)
KENNEDY CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE: 10 am-noon, prospective families welcome. (140 S. 140th, Burien; WSB sponsor)
SSC GARDEN CENTER: “Garden Center is open until December 20th! We have Holiday Swags, Poinsettias and beautiful blooming Christmas Cactus! All new indoor plants will brighten any home or office and make a wonderful gift! Open Thursday-Saturday from 10 am-3 pm until December 20th! We will reopen January 9th! Thank you for a wonderful year supporting our students! The Garden Center at South Seattle College provides Landscape Horticulture students the opportunity to increase their knowledge of plants while gaining real-world retail experience. Plants available for sale are selected, propagated, grown and presented by Landscape Horticulture students. Proceeds benefit Landscape Horticulture Program projects. Cash and electronic payments accepted. The Garden Center is located in the North Parking Lot at South Seattle College (6000 16th Ave SW) on Puget Ridge.”
MORNING MUSIC: 10:30 am-noon at C & P Coffee (5612 California SW; WSB sponsor), Marco de Carvalho and Friends perform. Info about Marco’s music is here.
FREE WRITING GROUP: 10:30 am – “This is a free, weekly, in-person active writing group grounded in the Amherst Writers and Artists method. It is a safe, critique-free space. Writers of all levels welcome, 16 and up.” Our calendar listing has location and RSVP info.
FAMILY READING TIME: Every Saturday at 11 am at Paper Boat Booksellers (6040 California SW).
LOG HOUSE MUSEUM OPEN: The home of West Seattle history is open for your visit, noon-4 pm – see the newest exhibit, about the West Duwamish Greenbelt! (61st/Stevens)
VIETNAMESE CULTURAL CENTER OPEN: The center is also open to visitors noon-3 pm, as explained here. (2236 SW Orchard)
VISCON CELLARS TASTING ROOM/WINE BAR: Tasting room open – wine by the glass or bottle – 1-6 pm at Viscon Cellars (5910 California SW; WSB sponsor).
NORTHWEST WINE ACADEMY TASTING ROOM: Open 1-6 pm in the north lot of South Seattle College (6000 16th SW; WSB sponsor).
SOUND BATH: 2 pm at Inner Alchemy studio/sanctuary – info in our calendar listing. (3618 SW Alaska)
LIVE AT TIM’S TAVERN: “West Seattle artists Golden Hart (which includes singer-songwriter Joshua Dennis, who has played at Art of Music events, and also at West Seattle Festival and Music at Hiawatha with his band Modern Relics) are playing at Tim’s Tavern in White Center Saturday. Doors at 6 pm, Show 7-10 pm. The Color Study from Bend, Oregon, and Rough Tail from Seattle will also be playing. $10 adv, $15 door, all ages.”
ALL-AGES OPEN MIC: 7-10 pm at The Spot West Seattle (2920 SW Avalon Way)
REVELRY ROOM DJ: 9 pm, Soul Focus FM. (4547 California SW)
LIVE AT WEST SEATTLE BREWING: West Seattle classic rock band Legal Issues takes the stage at 9 pm Saturday at West Seattle Brewing Company, with ’60/’70 Woodstock-era show called Back to the Garden. No cover. (4415 Fauntleroy Way SW)
KARAOKE AT TALARICO’S: 10 pm start time for Saturday singing at Talarico’s Pizzeria. (4718 California SW)
West Seattle event coming up? If the community’s welcome, your event is welcome to a spot on our calendar! Please email info to westseattleblog@gmail.com – same place to send your Holiday Guide listings – thank you!
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