Sunset on the Salish Sea 2026 Highlights

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Sunset on the Salish Sea: experiencing the New Seattle Waterfront

Sunset on the Salish Sea officially kicked off NWES 2026 with an evening built around connection, conversation, and the Seattle waterfront.

From rooftop views and waterfront stops to unexpected moments along the piers, attendees experienced the city in a way that felt immersive, social, and uniquely Seattle.

What started as a welcome event quickly became one of the most talked-about experiences of the week.

Take a look back at the moments, views, activations, and conversations that brought the waterfront to life.

Photos will be added here soon!

thank you to our presenting sponsor

thank you to our event coordinator

thank you to our partners

Bell Harbor International
FRS Clipper
FRS Clipper
FRS Clipper
FRS Clipper
Hellenika
Marriott Seattle Waterfront (1)
Seattle's Tall Ship
Marriott Seattle Waterfront (1)
Seattle's Tall Ship
The DJ Sessions
Seattle's Tall Ship

Sunset on the Salish Sea: experience the New Seattle Waterfront

An Exclusive NWES Attendee Experience

open to all nwes attendees – nwes badge required to participate

As the sun sets over the breathtaking Salish Sea, step into an unforgettable journey through the New Seattle Waterfront—a destination within a destination. Presented by Friends of Waterfront Park and the Northwest Event Show, with support from Event Experience, this exclusive experience invites NWES attendees to discover the beauty, versatility, and potential of Seattle’s revitalized waterfront.

The evening begins at 4:00 PM. Guests will move through a curated open-house experience along the waterfront. Enjoy welcome bites and rooftop views at Bell Harbor, featuring a Hellenika activation and Seattle’s Tall Ship in the marina. Continue to the Seattle Marriott Waterfront and The Edgewater for signature sips and bites, then explore the piers with stops at Sailing Seattle and Miner’s Landing, including rides on the Seattle Great Wheel and Wings Over Washington.

Along the way, guests can enjoy a taste of Ivar’s, contribute to a live Paintillo mural, and navigate the experience through an interactive map powered by Viata Ai. As golden hour sets in, the waterfront energizes with a live DJ truck from The DJ Sessions, creating a vibrant backdrop for connection and discovery.

Those who visit designated stops will be entered to win a special prize giveaway.

    Culinary Connections_Fairmont Olympic
    Culinary Connections_Farestart
    Culinary Connections_Rider

    your adventure awaits!

    This one-of-a-kind evening brings together culinary moments, immersive activations, and waterfront energy—all designed to showcase the Seattle Waterfront as a premier destination for future events.