Seattle’s Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (PDA) celebrates its 50th anniversary. Established in response to the near destruction of the Market in the 1960s, the PDA has been the proud owner and manager of this historic 9-acre Market for five decades. In honor of this significant milestone, the PDA invites Market shoppers and visitors of all ages to join them for a special day of fun-filled activities at Pike Place Market.
On Saturday, June 3 from 11:00am to 4:00pm, Market-goers can immerse themselves in the rich history of Pike Place Market through interactive Market history activities. Discover the Market’s journey and learn about the PDA’s commitment to preserving this iconic landmark. Additionally, there will be engaging kids’ crafts, live music performances, special shopping offers, and chances to win fabulous Market prizes.
As the caretakers of Pike Place Market, the PDA works tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the Market’s smooth operation and maintenance. From keeping the Market clean, restoring buildings, incubating small businesses, event planning and more, the PDA is involved in every aspect of keeping the Market a thriving destination. Learn about the history and role of the PDA.
The 50th Anniversary Celebration event activities include:
- Special Shopping Offer
On June 3, the first 500 shoppers that spend $50* or more from any Market businesses can redeem their receipts to receive the limited-edition Pike Place Market PDA 50th Anniversary Commemorative tote bag (while supplies last). Combined receipts from multiple stops for a total of $50 or more are accepted. To redeem, receipts must be returned to the “Event Information” tent by 4pm on June 3.
- Free Market Tours with Friends of the Market
Learn about the history of the Market and the PDA’s origin when you take a FREE Pike Place Market tour with historical experts and Market advocates, Friends of the Market. Tours leave on the hour, starting at 11:30am, and the last tour starts at 2:30pm; sign up early before they fill up!
- Walk Through Time Trivia Challenge – Chances to Win Prizes!
Test your Pike Place Market and PDA knowledge with a Market trivia contest. Participants who turn in a completed trivia card with the correct answers will be entered to win a Market Gift Card, redeemable at over 87 Market businesses.
- Market Artist Battles – Chances to Win Prizes!
Watch as two Market artists battle it out to create one-of-a-kind, handmade wearable and illustration art. Cast your vote on your favorite design to be entered to win a $50 Market Gift Card. With a limited time, these battles will be an exciting opportunity to see these incredible artists in action and meet the producer!- 11:00am – 12:30pm Painting Battle
Watch as Market artists Ernesto Ybarra and Stacey Lee Sterling of BasilicArt battle it out to create a piece of art that best represent the Market family and community.
- 11:00am – 12:30pm Painting Battle
- 1:30pm – 2:30pm Wearable Art Battle
Two Market apparel artists, Noah Parriott of Do Not Bleach and Katy Racines of Galaxy Wear, will compete to create the best wearable piece of art that represents resilience.
- The Great Tater Truck Derby
Unleash your creativity and competitive spirit! Get ready to decorate your very own Pike Place Market farmer-grown potato, transforming it into a unique masterpiece. Once your potato is beautifully decorated, it’s time to jump into action! Gather your friends and family and take your potato for a drive on the Market’s race track, where you can compete against other potato drivers. But here’s the twist – instead of traditional race cars, you’ll be using miniature Market farm trucks. Get ready for some hot potato heats!
- Live Music on the Market Farm Truck
Take a break from shopping and enjoy the sounds of the Market’s talented buskers. Did you know it’s just $30 a year to become a busker at Pike Place Market and the PDA permits about 200 artists yearly? Learn how to become a Pike Place Market busker.- 11am – 12pm: Lucia Flores-Wiseman
- 12:15pm – 1:15pm: Nikhil Gupta
- 2:00pm – 4:00pm: Six Feet Back Band
- Pike Place Market Kids Craft: Create Your Own PDA Friendship Bracelet
Celebrate your love for Pike Place Market and the work of the PDA by making FREE friendship bracelets. Anytime you look at your wrist, you’ll be reminded of the magical place that is Pike Place Market and your friends at the PDA that work hard to make it such an iconic destination.
The Pike Place Market PDA would like to express its gratitude to the Market shoppers, visitors, vendors, and the entire community for their continued support over the past 50 years. Their unwavering commitment has been crucial in preserving the Market’s unique charm and fostering its ongoing success.
Join the Pike Place Market PDA on this joyous occasion and be a part of the 50th anniversary celebration on June 3. Discover the rich history, experience the lively Market activities, and create lasting memories. For more information about the Pike Place Market PDA’s 50th anniversary celebration, please visit their website at PikePlaceMarket.org. Share your experience and join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #PPDA50TH.
