This weekend the largest and most distinguished arts event .

in the Northwest hits Bellevue on Friday, July 25 – Sunday, July 27 at Bellevue Arts Museum and the Bellevue Collection. This event is FREE unless you buy some art. The art is not free, but the ambiance, and the viewing of the art is. And, let me tell you, this is an annual event that has the town buzzing with excitement.
This art fair, formerly known as The Pacific NW Arts and Crafts Fair until recent years, use to take place in the quaintness of the outdoor retro "Bellevue Shopping Square". The artists would display their work on easels out under trees in the sun along the outdoor mall property. It was way smaller, and more "country fair" like. In those days, you could see the whole thing in an hour. The fact that the art was out in the natural light was a bonus. It's hard to really "see" in the parking garages of the mall today with the florescent light. My suggestion would be to move the fair to the Bellevue Park so folks can stroll the park and see the items in natural light. Just saying. Kemper probably wants to keep things within the Bellevue Collection and I totally understand.

But, let's move on. The Fair offers something for everybody. There is food, kid friendly events and music. Wear comfortable shoes, and I recommend getting a relaxing Spa pedi at Jennifer's Nails on Bellevue Way beforehand. They are nicely priced, do a great job, and are fast. They are located right in Park Row...easy, free upfront parking.
Then, slip on your walking shoes and hit the pavement.
I dragged BF Mel in there kicking and screaming. He did not want to go but then really enjoyed all the pampering once he got there. His toes looked great.

Once you have your toes done, put on your flip flops and enjoy the dog days of summer because: did you know that there are parks galore in Bellevue and the immediate surrounding areas to play in? Places to take a picnic and go enjoy some water views and fresh air.
In Kirkland there is "Art n Parks"
There are 3 separate walks. Each will pass through city parks, past public art, provide wonderful views over the lake and end in the bustling Kirkland Downtown on the Lake.

For awesome views of water and mountains check out the 99th AVE street end.
This viewpoint is located north of downtown Bellevue. To the west are sweeping views of Meydenbauer Bay and Lake Washington, with Seattle and the Olympic Mountains in the distance. Take a someone special and take in the summer nights.

Take the family canoeing or kayaking at the Enatai Beach Park right under I-90.
This beach park located in Bellevue, partially hidden under the I-90 bridge, is definitely worth looking for. The waterfront park features a spacious patio with scenic views overlooking Lake Washington. Take in the wildlife on a canoe or kayak trip through nearby Mercer Slough. Canoe and kayak rentals are available from a seasonal concessionaire.
This park is really a jewel. Sandy beachfront, a dock and easy access.
From I-90, take Bellevue Way exit north. Turn left on 108th Avenue SE. Parking in lot under overpass and further east down Lake Street.

If you like birds and wildlife check out the Yarrow Bay Wetlands:

Just south of Carillon Point, Yarrow Bay Wetlands is a wildlife conservancy area, which can only be explored by non-motorized craft, such as canoes and kayaks. Visitors can also follow one of two trails that boarder the park.

Clyde Beach Park offers a great place for an after work picnic. It also has a roped off swimming area, restrooms, and boat house. This place is charming and oh so "old" Bellevue.
From I-405, take the NE 8th Street exit going west. Turn left onto 92nd Avenue NE. Park is at the end of the street.

Ready for a game of tennis? Try the Killarney Glen Park in South Bellevue
The park features a open lawn, two tennis courts, basketball court, play and picnic areas.
From I-405, take SE 8th Street exit west. Turn left on 112th Avenue SE. Turn right on Bellevue Way. Turn left on SE 16th Street. Turn left on 104th Avenue SE. Park is on the right.
From I-90, take Bellevue Way exit (you will be going north). Turn left on SE 16th Street. Turn left on 104th Avenue SE. Park is on right.
For running and serious walking:
The Mercer Slough Park offers planked walkways and lots of flora and fauna.
* 320 Acres
* Paved Pathways
* Nature Trails
* Interpretive, Self Guided Trails
* Canoe Trail
Directions:
Directions: From I-405, take SE 8th Street exit, turn west. Turn left on 118th. Bellefields Trailhead is on right before crossing under I-90
This place is one of my fave places for running or just taking a stroll. It seems never ending, but there is so much to look at and it's so rural yet so close to the city.

It's easy to get so busy you can forget to have some fun during our limited sunshine months. Here's an excuse to get out there.