May 1, 2010

Greetings, Poppets, from Alaska – where it's wild...where it's peaceful...where it's snowing. Yep. Snowing. At least it makes for good, albeit wistful, dreaming weather. And what am I dreaming about? Spring. Sunny days, warm breezes, green grass...The good news is that you get the benefit of my dreaming about what's happening in warmer climes.

Let's be honest, May is a gorgeous time to be in Washington. Plus, the festivals and fairs begin to help show off the state. Seattle offers something for everyone, all month long.

Feel a strong connection to the sea (or the men who sail it)? Be sure to head to the Seattle Maritime Festival May 6-8. It's at Pier 66/Bell Harbor Marina. Admission is free – and you know how much I like free.

Mother's Day is in May, but if your mom is anything like the moms I know, another brunch and heart-shaped necklace will only go over so well. Consider taking her – or your dad, or your best friend – down to Pike Place Market for the Flower Festival instead. May 8 and 9 the streets are brimming with flowers and bouquets. Enjoy just looking at the riot of color or splurge and buy. It's too beautiful to miss, either way.

If you have kids in your life, or still consider yourself a kid, then the Seattle International Children's Festival is for you. It comes to town May 11-15. And don't deny yourself this one; it really is a treat for all of us. Borrow a kid and go.

Don't forget the perennial favorite, the University District street fair. Yes, it's been around forever, but there's a reason for that: it's wonderful. Wander through on the 15th and 16th of the month.

Also on the 15th and 16th, since you're going to be in town anyway, don't forget my favorite of all – the Seattle Cheese Festival. An entire festival devoted to cheese. At Pike Place Market. In May. Does it get better than that? Nope, I don't think so, either. Everything you ever wanted to know about cheese and more. While you're there, have a nibble for me, please.

If movies are more your style, you're in luck. The Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) is in town. The launch party is May 20th and films continue through June 13th. Featuring over 400 films from 60 countries, it claims to be the largest film festival in the country. And it's right in your backyard.

Speaking of movies and film festivals, head to Three Dollar Bill's Cinema (1122 E. Pike Street, #1313, Seattle, 206-323-4274) for the Seattle Transgender Film Festival, May 13-16. It may not be as big or as well-known as the SIFF. As one of the only transgender film festivals in the world, it's just as important.

Are you ready to move out of the audience and onto the stage? That's an option, too! RPlace (619 E. Pine Street, Seattle, 206-322-8828) is holding Pride Idol 2010. The competitions are held several nights during the month of May. Winners get cash, prizes, and a chance to ride in the Pride Parade. More information and full details can be found at www.idol.seattlepride.org.

It's May, Poppets. The weather's drying out, the sun is shining and the flowers are in bloom – at least in my imagination. Shake off the rain and snow of winter, get out, and enjoy a little Spring for me. And until next month, Poppets, take care of you.