Bumbershoot isn’t just an annual home for live music, it attracts some of the best working comedians in the world, acclaimed chefs run the food court, and you can fade into electronic bliss in the laser dome. The point is, there’s a lot more to Bumbershoot 2019 than just waiting patiently for Lizzo or the Lumineers at the main stage.
Seattle Center’s festival scene brings a combination of city skylines and lush green grass while the international fountain might be one of the best festival backdrops the state has to offer. Bumbershoot offers a level of freedom most festivals can’t match – whether you want to leave the grounds and visit the Chihuly Glass Museum after Two Feet sets the Mural Amphitheater on fire, you can. Feel free to dip out during lunch and go find your favorite hot dog stands in Pike Place before meandering back for Main Stage antics with Taking Back Sunday or Rezz.
Your Non-Music To-Do List
Did you know Bumbershoot’s comedy lineup is second to only the musical acts? Low key, this festival has been attracting some of the best touring comedians working and this year’s no different. Neal Brennan was one of the architects of The Chappelle Show (which is the best sketch comedy show of all time, don’t @ me) and he’s also helped write jokes for Chris Rock, whos also an all-time great. There’s a reason why the best comedians in the world trust his opinion on what’s funny, he’s also one of the best comedians in the world. You shouldn’t miss an opportunity to see him if you have a three-day pass. Watch Three Mics on Netflix if you need any convincing and thank me later.
Fahim Anwar isn’t only a rising star in the comedy world, he’s also a Seattle native and former Boeing engineer – which means he’s smarter and funnier than all of us. If that wasn’t enough talent, he’s also an incredibly proficient dancer as seen from his litany of Instagram sketches. Fahim Anwar’s Dance Hour will certainly add some moves to your repertoire, but you can peep his comedy on Saturday if sitting and laughing is more your speed.
In my eyes, food is an all-important cornerstone of any festival experience. It’s one of the only things that will get me out to a block party or carnival these days. Bumbershoot 2019 is inviting some culinary heavy hitters to their B-Eats food court. Adana’s Shota Nakajima is one of the most acclaimed chefs in the city and is bringing his Japanese comfort food to the masses. We can only hope the pork katsu sando (fried pork tenderloin, slaw, and white bread) makes an appearance on the menu.
Musang is going back to its pop-up roots to bring a Filipino flair to the food court. Melissa Miranda aims to show off her skills with pork sisig rice bowls. Don’t be a baby when you find out sisig is traditionally made with pork head and chicken liver, walk on the wild side once and a while.
After you’re full, let the Pacific Science Center’s laser dome melt your face with spectacular visuals set to local legends’ music like Odezza or Nirvana. If you’ve been there and heard that, Kendrick Lamar and David Bowie will inject serious star power into a digital showcase of eye and ear-popping technology.
Remember to keep track of your Bumbershoot 2019 experience with their mobile app, which has been a joy to use during festivals past.
