The best (and largest) urban arts and music festival? Got to be Bumbershoot Festival

If Seattle is well-known for art and music then the Bumbershoot Festival is definitely the showcase event.

Established in 1971, the annual international art and music festival is one of the biggest in the country (not to mention the longest running). So what is Bumbershoot? Well, in the beginning, it was a festival sponsored by the city. Even back then in 1971, a large number of people attended (around 125,000) and it's only grown since then.

The Modern Bumbershoot Festival
It wasn't until the early 80's that the modern festival really took its current form. It was at this time that the festival organizers decided to go back to attract headlining musical acts as well as international performers. However, one of the things that make Bumbershoot so great is that it continues to allow local talent to play as well. I mean, hey, any event that can share stages between Tina Turner and The Eurythmics has got to be a great festival.

But music isn't the only thing happening at Bumbershoot. Much like the Bite of Seattle that isn't just about food, the Bumbershoot Festival has more than just music. Ever since the beginning, arts and food were very much a part of the festival and acts from the likes of Jerry Seinfeld to the Pacific Northwest Ballet have graced one of the over 20 indoor and outdoor venues.

Getting Tickets to Bumbershoot
The Seattle arts and music festival actually used to be free, but like any event that needs to turn a profit or go bust, the Festival started charging for tickets. While the prices now are a bit more than the $2.50 it was at the beginning, there are usually deals for the event.

If you're going to be in Seattle during Labor Day, check out the Bumbershoot ticket information. You can usually buy a full three-day pass or just get one day passes if there is a particular artist or act that you want to see.

Whatever you choose, have fun! It's one of the coolest events that runs in Seattle and you won't be disappointed.

Back from the Bumbershoot Festival.