Summer in Seattle Southside: World Cup Watch Parties, Sixgill Sharks & UFO Mysteries

UFO Day and the Mystery That Inspired the Men in Black
Long before Roswell captured the nation's imagination, a mysterious event unfolded along the shores of Puget Sound.

On June 21, 1947, a harbor patrolman reported seeing unusual objects in the sky near Maury Island, just offshore from Des Moines. The incident would later become one of the earliest modern UFO sightings and is widely considered part of the origin story behind Men in Black lore.

Today, Seattle Southside embraces its extraterrestrial history through an interactive self-guided adventure and the annual Men in Black Birthday Bash. World UFO Day on July 2 provides an ideal opportunity for visitors to discover why this small waterfront community continues to attract paranormal enthusiasts from around the globe.

For travelers eager to investigate for themselves, the UFO Mysteries Trail offers a self-guided adventure connecting locations tied to the legend, including the Des Moines Marina, Saltwater State Park, Highline Heritage Museum, and other sites where visitors can explore the history, theories, and cultural impact of the Maury Island Incident. Along the way, guests will uncover stories of unexplained sightings, government investigations, and the events that helped inspire decades of UFO folklore.

Summer Sounds Along the Waterfront + Beyond
Summer in Seattle Southside means waterfront sunsets, live music, and community gatherings along the shores of Puget Sound. Des Moines Summer Concert Series returns this summer with free outdoor performances overlooking Puget Sound, featuring crowd-pleasing acts including Nite Wave, bringing its high-energy '80s new wave favorites to the waterfront, alongside ABBAGRAPHS and local favorite Spike and the Impalers. Bring a lawn chair, grab dinner from a nearby restaurant, and enjoy an evening of music paired with spectacular sunset views.

The season culminates with the return of the Poverty Bay Blues & Brews Festival on August 22 at Des Moines Beach Park. One of the region's favorite summer traditions, the festival brings together live blues music, Pacific Northwest craft breweries, local food vendors, and a vibrant waterfront atmosphere for a day of music and community celebration.

Beyond the waterfront, SeaTac's popular Music in the Park series brings free live entertainment to communities throughout the summer. Concertgoers can enjoy performances from artists including Bougie Boulevard, PO BOXX, The Pazific and BottleRockit, creating lively evenings filled with music,

In Tukwila, the Tukwila Farmers Market Weekend Concert Series pairs live music with one of the region's most vibrant community markets. Visitors can shop local vendors, sample seasonal produce and enjoy performances throughout the summer, making it an ideal way to spend a weekend afternoon.

Whether planning a weekend getaway or a spontaneous evening outing, Seattle Southside offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music this summer.

The Sixgill Shark Capital of the World?
Many visitors are surprised to learn that one of the world's largest predatory shark species lives in the waters off Des Moines.

The bluntnose sixgill shark, a deep-water species capable of reaching more than 15 feet in length, has earned international attention among divers and marine researchers. The species has become so closely associated with the region that Des Moines celebrates Sixgill Shark Day with the second annual Shark in the Park celebration on July 12, and recently designated a portion of its waterfront as Sixgill Shark Way.

Visitors can learn more about these fascinating creatures at the MaST Center Aquarium, which recently launched a live underwater camera offering real-time views into Puget Sound's underwater ecosystem. Combined with the aquarium's free Saturday Discovery Days, the experience provides a unique opportunity to connect with the marine life thriving just offshore.

The sixgill shark story continues July 12 with Shark in the Park at Redondo Beach, a free community festival celebrating Des Moines' unique connection to the species. The family-friendly event features marine science exhibits, hands-on activities, food trucks, live music, educational programming, and opportunities to learn about shark conservation and Puget Sound stewardship.

Together, the MaST Center Aquarium and Shark in the Park create a compelling summer storyline centered on marine life, conservation, and one of Puget Sound's most fascinating residents.

Redondo Pier Reopens with enhanced access to Puget Sound
One of the South Sound's most beloved waterfront destinations is officially back. After years of closure, the newly rebuilt Redondo Pier reopened in early June, restoring public access to fishing, wildlife viewing, beach access, and panoramic views of Puget Sound. The project represents a significant investment in the waterfront and reestablishes Redondo as one of the region's premier spots for marine recreation.

Located along the scenic Redondo waterfront, the pier serves as a gateway to one of the area's most vibrant marine ecosystems. Visitors can watch for seals, seabirds, and passing boats, explore nearby beaches, or simply enjoy sunset views across the Sound.

The reopening also arrives just in time for summer travel season, making Redondo Beach an ideal addition to a waterfront itinerary that can include the MaST Center Aquarium, Saltwater State Park, Des Moines Marina, and Seattle Southside's growing collection of outdoor experiences.

Where to Watch the FIFA World Cup's Biggest Matches in Seattle Southside
As the FIFA World Cup 2026 enters its knockout rounds, Seattle Southside is serving as a gathering place for fans looking to experience the energy of the world's biggest sporting event.

In Tukwila, the Tukwila United Viewing Lounge at Westfield Southcenter continues to welcome supporters throughout the tournament with match broadcasts, cultural activations, giveaways, and community events celebrating the global game. The fan-focused gathering space has become a hub for visitors and locals alike as national teams battle their way toward the championship match.

For those looking for a lively atmosphere closer to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Stoup Brewing and Métier Brewing's World Cup pop-ups in SeaTac offer big-screen viewing, themed food and beverage specials, and a communal setting to cheer on favorite teams. The brewery watch parties have become a popular destination for travelers, soccer supporters, and groups looking to catch the tournament's most anticipated matches.

With the semifinals and the July 19 World Cup Final still ahead, Seattle Southside offers visitors multiple ways to join the celebration.

Find more watch parties and all things FIFA in Seattle Southside at this link.

Dates to Note:
Theatre in the Park
July 24 and 31, 2026
Pack a blanket and enjoy free outdoor theater performances at the beautiful Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden. This family-friendly summer tradition brings live entertainment to the gardens, offering a memorable way to enjoy warm evenings surrounded by nature.

Shark in the Park
July 12, 2026
Celebrate Des Moines' connection to the elusive bluntnose sixgill shark during this free waterfront festival at Redondo Beach. The event features marine science exhibits, family activities, food trucks, live music, and opportunities to learn more about the fascinating species that has made Des Moines famous among divers and marine researchers.

Des Moines Historical Society South Puget Sound Cruise
July 20, 2026
Step aboard for a guided cruise exploring the history, ecology, and maritime heritage of South Puget Sound. Hosted by the Des Moines Historical Society, this unique experience offers fascinating stories and unparalleled views from the water.

Waterland Yoga at Sound View Park
Select Dates Through August 2026
Start your morning with yoga overlooking Puget Sound. Waterland Yoga combines movement, mindfulness, and stunning waterfront scenery in one of Des Moines' most picturesque parks. All experience levels are welcome.