Posts about Community Events

4th of July in Redmond, WA: Where to Celebrate in 2026

There's a particular kind of evening that rolls around just once a year. The charcoal's hot, American flag towels are draped over balcony railings and pool chairs, and a few doors down a Bluetooth speaker is getting a serious workout. The 4th is almost here, and the only question left is where you're actually going to be when the fireworks light up the sky. Here's the good news for anyone celebrating Independence Day in Redmond, WA: you're sitting right in the sweet spot. Some of the best fireworks shows in the region are a short, easy drive away, which means you get a calm home base and a front-row seat to the fun. Since July 4 lands on a Saturday in 2026, the whole weekend is yours to play with. We've pulled together where to go, when the fireworks actually start, and a few parking tricks that'll save your evening. Grab a cold drink and let's map out your Fourth. Does Redmond Have Its Own Fireworks Show? Unfortunately, Redmond does not currently list a municipal July 4 fireworks display, and lighting your own is a no-go inside city limits any time of year. Before you frown, hear us out, because this is the local insider's secret weapon. What it really means is that you skip the gridlock and keep your evening relaxed at home, then point the car toward whichever show fits your crowd. You're minutes from the largest celebration on the Eastside and a quick hop from the big one on the water in Seattle. Think of Redmond as basecamp: easy in, easy out, and no fighting for a parking spot two blocks from your own front door. One neighborly note, since we love this community and want it staying friendly: those personal firework bans hold all year. If a stray bottle rocket disrupts the peace, Redmond's non-emergency line is 425-556-2500. Now, onto the fun part. Bellevue Family 4th: The Eastside's Biggest Night If you want the marquee event without a long haul, this one's a roughly ten to fifteen minute drive away. Bellevue Family 4th takes over Downtown Park, a fountain-ringed gathering spot in the heart of downtown Bellevue, and it's the largest fireworks show on the Eastside. Activities get underway at 5:00 PM, although food vendors open around 3:00 PM. The fireworks burst overhead at 10:05 PM, choreographed to a live score from the Bellevue Youth Symphony Orchestra. Picture the first shell going up right as the strings swell. It's the kind of moment that makes the whole drive worth it, plus it's free! One tip worth its weight in gold: park free after 5:00 PM at The Bellevue Collection properties. Roll in, grab dinner nearby, and stroll over with your blanket while there's still daylight to claim a good patch of grass. Fourth on the Plateau: Family Games in Sammamish About fifteen minutes out, Sammamish throws its hat in the ring with Fourth on the Plateau at Sammamish Commons. This is the easygoing, kid-friendly pick, with family games and activities starting at 5:00 PM and fireworks show at 10:00 PM. It's free, it's relaxed, and it's tailored for families who'd rather chase their toddlers across a lawn than navigate a downtown crowd. Pack the camp chairs, let the kids run themselves ragged before dark, and settle in for the finale. Lake Sammamish Fireworks at Vasa Park Resort Want your fireworks reflected on the water? Then head to Vasa Park Resort on the shore of Lake Sammamish, roughly fifteen to twenty minutes away from The Colony at Bear Creek . The lakeside setting turns the show into a double feature, once in the sky and once shimmering across the lake. The party warms up at 6:00 PM with food trucks, live music, and face painting, then the fireworks take over at 10:00 PM. Come hungry, snap your fingers to the beat, and let the kids get a butterfly painted on a cheek before the sun dips. Keep in mind that Vasa Park has free admission after 6 PM, limited capacity, limited onsite parking for a $5 cash fee, and a free shuttle so be sure to plan accordingly! Log Boom Park: A Lakefront Show in Kenmore A little north, about fifteen minutes from home, Log Boom Park in Kenmore hosts a free community show right on the water. Things start rolling at 7:30 PM with music, food trucks, and activities, and the fireworks light up at 10:00 PM. This is a lovely option if you'd like a shorter run-up than the all-evening events. Arrive as the music starts, grab a bite, and you're settled in with time to spare before the first boom rolls across the lake. Seafair 4th of July on Lake Union Ready for the regional headliner? Seafair, Seattle's long-running series of summer festivals, brings its Fourth of July celebration to Lake Union, about twenty-five to thirty minutes from our doorstep. This is the big one, the show people plan their whole evening around. Gates run 3:00 to 9:00 PM, split across two spots: Gas Works Park, with a kids' zone, music, and food, and Lake Union Park, with games and a beer garden. The fireworks crown the night at around10:20 PM over the water. Do yourself a favor and register ahead for your free entry ticket, or grab reserved seating if you'd like a guaranteed spot, so you breeze past the day-of scramble. You can reserve your spot by checking out the Seafair website here ! Start and End the Day Right at Home in The Colony at Bear Creek The smartest play on the Fourth happens before you ever start the car. Sleep in, then kick the day off at one of our luxury amenities like the pool while the burgers thaw and the playlist shuffles. When the afternoon winds down, the whole region is just a quick drive from our community, up in the Bear Creek and Education Hill area northeast of downtown, with quick access to SR-520 and the rest of the Eastside. And the Fourth is only the opening act of the season. Redmond's historic summer festival, Derby Days, rolls into the Redmond City Hall campus on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25, 2026, and the free, all-ages Rockin' on the River concert series brings live music to the great lawn by City Hall on select Wednesday evenings this August. There's a reason so many folks fall for settling into life in Redmond. The Easy Choice for Your Fourth So here's the shape of your holiday: a slow morning at home, a short drive to the show that suits your group, and a sky full of color over Bellevue, Sammamish, Kenmore, or Lake Union. Redmond gives you the calm; the Eastside and Seattle bring the fireworks. That balance is exactly what makes this corner of Washington such a fine place to live. If you've been thinking about putting down roots near all of it, we'd love to help you find your place in Redmond. Take a look around our community , or give our team a call at (425) 278-4885 and we'll walk you through what's available. Either way, keep an eye on The Bear Creek Bulletin , where we round up the best of Redmond all year long. Frequently Asked Questions Does Redmond, WA have a 4th of July fireworks show? Redmond doesn't host its own municipal fireworks display, and personal fireworks are not allowed within city limits. The upside is that several excellent shows are a short drive away, so Redmond makes an easy, relaxed home base for the holiday. Where can I watch 4th of July fireworks near Redmond? The closest big show is Bellevue Family 4th at Downtown Park, about ten to fifteen minutes away, with fireworks at 10:05 PM. Other strong options nearby include Fourth on the Plateau in Sammamish, Vasa Park Resort on Lake Sammamish, Log Boom Park in Kenmore, and Seafair on Lake Union in Seattle. What time do the fireworks start near Redmond? Most area shows light up around 10:00 PM, with Bellevue at 10:05 PM and Seafair on Lake Union at around 10:20 PM. Activities at most events begin in the late afternoon or early evening, so there's plenty to enjoy before dark. Are the 4th of July events near Redmond free? Many are. Bellevue Family 4th, Fourth on the Plateau, and Log Boom Park are all free to attend. Seafair offers free ticket registration along with paid reserved seating if you'd like a guaranteed spot. What's the best parking tip for the Eastside fireworks? For Bellevue Family 4th, park free after 5:00 PM at The Bellevue Collection properties. For Seafair, register ahead for your free ticket so you skip the day-of hassle.

Best Summer Activities in Redmond, WA

If the first warm Saturday of the year arrives and you're standing in your living room wondering what to actually do with it, you're in good company. Pacific Northwest summer is short and packs a lot in, so making the most of it matters. Here's a guide to help you plan for the best summer in Redmond! Marymoor Park Quick orientation if you're new to the area: Marymoor is King County's largest park, 640 acres at the north end of Lake Sammamish, drawing more than three million visitors a year. Most of our summer plans end up starting here. The park is just a short drive from The Colony , and a first visit usually turns into a regular one. Marymoor Live Concert Series Marymoor Live is the outdoor amphitheater tucked inside the park, and the 2026 season runs deep. June opened with The Dead South, Iration, and Buju Banton with Stephen Marley on the Roots and Rhymes Tour. July picks up with Blues Traveler and Gin Blossoms, the Marcus King Band, Young the Giant on the Victory Garden Tour with Cold War Kids, and Slightly Stoopid closing the month. August gets loud: ZZ Top with Cheap Trick on the 11th, Trombone Shorty and St. Paul & The Broken Bones on the 19th, and NEEDTOBREATHE on the 21st. The series wraps in September with Squeeze, Adam Ant, and Haircut 100 sharing a single stage in what may be the most 1980s evening of the calendar year. Pack a blanket, grab dinner before you head over, and leave yourself a buffer for parking on the bigger nights. And if you're a fellow concertgoer like some of our staff, then you'll want to read our Live Music in Redmond blog post to stay informed on all things loud in the area! Outdoor Movies at Marymoor Park KeyBank Outdoor Movies at Marymoor enters its 22nd season in summer 2026, and the lineup opens July 8 with Ferris Bueller's Day Off. You bring a chair or a blanket, the food trucks are already there, and dogs on leashes are welcome. Tickets are $12.50 per person, and kids five and under (along with your pup) get in free. There aren't many things more satisfying than a 1986 movie on a giant screen with the sun still going down behind it. Climbing, Trails, and the Off-Leash Dog Area Marymoor doesn't only offer ticketed events. The climbing wall stands about 30 feet tall with bouldering problems and bolted sport routes, free and open to the public during park hours. There's a 400-meter velodrome (the only one in Washington), the Audubon Bird Loop Trail (where birders have recorded more than 200 species), a radio-control aircraft field, and a 40-acre off-leash dog area that's probably the most beloved square footage in the county. The Redmond Saturday Market The market opens its 2026 season on Saturday, May 2 and runs through October on Saturdays from 9am to 2pm at 9900 Willows Rd NE in the lot at Overlake Christian Church. Stalls cover locally grown produce, cheese, eggs, fish, meat, fresh flowers, baked goods, and prepared food (for those with a little less cooking expertise like yours truly). If you go early, you'll catch the best flowers and skip the mid-morning line at whichever stall is selling the prettiest scones that week. Residents who keep a Saturday market habit will tell you it changes the rhythm of summer. There's something about walking home with a paper bag of peaches you genuinely intend to bake into a pie. Redmond Derby Days Derby Days is Redmond's signature summer festival, and 2026 lands on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25. Friday runs 4pm to 10pm, Saturday runs 8am to 11pm, all centered on the Redmond City Hall campus and the Jerry Baker Memorial Velodrome at 15670 NE 85th St. The weekend packs in live music, bicycle races at the velodrome, parades, a craft market, food vendors, and a beer and wine garden. Saturday closes with a drone light show above City Hall, a quietly futuristic way to wrap a hot July evening. If you're newer to Redmond, this is the weekend that introduces you to the rest of the city. Half the people you'll meet at the velodrome have lived here for two decades. Free Summer Concerts: Rockin' on the River Rockin' on the River is the City of Redmond's free Wednesday-evening concert series, held on the Great Lawn between Redmond City Hall and the Senior & Community Center starting at 6pm. It's about as low-effort as a summer plan gets. Bring a blanket, pick up takeout from somewhere in town, sit on the grass, listen to the band. Redmond Town Center runs free concerts of its own across the season and also hosts the Exotics at Redmond Town Center car show on Saturday mornings in June, which is the only place we know of where you can drink coffee next to a row of vehicles worth more than the building. The Redmond Arts Festival anchors a separate weekend at Town Center with about 60 artist booths, a community art project, and live entertainment. The Sammamish River Trail The Sammamish River Trail runs 10.1 paved miles from Blyth Park in Bothell up to Marymoor Park in Redmond, following the river through what amounts to a long, flat, green hallway. It's relatively flat the whole way, which makes it equally workable for a casual evening walk and a serious training ride. On a clear day, you'll see the Cascades, and if the light cooperates, Mount Rainier on the horizon. You can walk a mile of it. You can bike the whole length. You can rollerblade like it's 1998. Our community sits a short walk from the trail, which is probably the closest thing we have to a Redmond summer cheat code. Make Our Community Your Summer Home Base A great Redmond summer rewards people who live close enough to act on the spontaneous stuff. A Marymoor concert someone mentions at 4pm. A market run on Saturday morning before the heat lands. A slow trail walk after work that turns into dinner outside. We're a few minutes from Marymoor, a short drive from Town Center, and right off the Sammamish River Trail, which makes us a pretty natural home base for the summer . For more local guides, neighborhood notes, and reasons to stay outside until the streetlights come on, find more in The Bear Creek Bulletin . Frequently Asked Questions What are the best summer activities in Redmond, WA? The headliners are Marymoor Park (concerts at Marymoor Live, outdoor movies, climbing, the off-leash dog area), the Redmond Saturday Market, Derby Days in late July, and the free Rockin' on the River concerts. The Sammamish River Trail ties most of them together. Is there an outdoor concert series in Redmond? Two, actually. Marymoor Live runs major touring acts through summer at Marymoor Park, and Rockin' on the River brings free Wednesday-evening concerts to the Great Lawn at Redmond City Hall starting at 6pm. Redmond Town Center also runs its own free summer concert series. When does the Redmond Saturday Market open in 2026? The 2026 season opens Saturday, May 2 and runs through October on Saturdays from 9am to 2pm at 9900 Willows Rd NE. When is Redmond Derby Days 2026? Derby Days 2026 is Friday, July 24 (4pm to 10pm) and Saturday, July 25 (8am to 11pm) on the Redmond City Hall campus and at the Jerry Baker Memorial Velodrome. Saturday wraps with a drone light show over City Hall. Is Marymoor Park free to enter? Marymoor Park itself is free to enter, and the climbing wall and off-leash dog area are free to use during park hours. Ticketed events inside the park (Marymoor Live concerts, KeyBank Outdoor Movies) require a paid ticket. Also, vehicle parking is $1 per day. Concert parking is separately listed at $20 per vehicle by Marymoor Live. I’d revise the FAQ so you don’t imply driving/parking is free.

Live Music in Redmond: Discover Local Events & Musical Activities

One of the best things about living in Redmond is that it’s easy to mix everyday life with something fun at the end of the day, and live music is a great example. Whether you’re into outdoor summer concerts, intimate acoustic sets, open mic nights, or bigger-ticket performances nearby, the Eastside gives you plenty of ways to make live music part of your routine. Redmond is especially well-positioned for it, with local venues in town and easy access to Woodinville, Kirkland, Bellevue, and Bothell. If you’re getting to know the area or just looking for a new weekend plan, this guide rounds up some of the best live music options within easy reach of home. Outdoor Concerts and Big Summer Shows Outdoor concerts are a staple of summer and late spring, especially when the weather is nice, and the setting feels just as memorable as the performance. These events tend to draw a great mix of locals and visitors, making them a fun way to experience the energy of Redmond and the greater Seattle area. Marymoor Live If you want the classic summer-concert experience without a long trek, Marymoor Live is one of the easiest headline options. The venue’s 2026 schedule includes major touring acts, and the outdoor setting gives it that laid-back, picnic-meets-concert feel that works just as well for a casual date night as it does for a bigger group outing. What makes Marymoor especially appealing for Redmond residents is how easy it is to turn a show into a full evening. You can grab dinner beforehand, head to the park for the performance, and still be home without the kind of hustle and bustle that comes with a downtown concert night. Plus, only a few minutes away from The Colony at Bear Creek , Marymoor Live is one of our resident's go-to night outs. Rockin’ on the River For a more relaxed and community-driven music option, Rockin’ on the River is a warm-weather tradition touted by many locals. The City of Redmond hosts this free summer concert series on Wednesday evenings, making it a great choice when you want live music without the planning, cost, or commitment of a larger show. Rockin is the kind of event that feels easy to work into real life. You can bring a blanket, pick up takeout, meet a few friends, and enjoy a summer evening that feels local in the best way. It’s also a good reminder that living in Redmond means being close to events that feel connected to the community, not just entertainment destinations. Chateau Ste. Michelle Summer Concert Series If your idea of a great night includes a scenic setting and a bigger stage, Chateau Ste. Michelle in Woodinville is a standout. The winery’s long-running summer concert series regularly showcases nationally known artists, and the 2026 lineup includes names like Yellowcard, Dierks Bentley, Ziggy Marley, Boyz II Men, Sarah McLachlan, and more! There’s a reason this venue stays on so many Eastside summer bucket lists. It feels polished and special without a long drive from The Colony, so it works well when you want something that feels a little more elevated than a typical local music night. Simply pack your lawn chairs and get ready to be blown away. Celebrate Woodinville Summer Concerts Woodinville is known for wine country, but it’s also great to catch live music in a more social, open-air setting. Celebrate Woodinville’s summer concert series returns on four Wednesday evenings in July 2026, pairing live music with wine, beer, food trucks, and an easy outdoor atmosphere. Celebrate Woodinville is casual, festive, and ideal for summer nights when you want to be out and about without committing to a full-scale concert venue. Plus, its family-friendly vibe means the kids can enjoy the show too! Performance Venues for Year-Round Shows Indoor venues give music fans a reliable way to catch live shows throughout the year, no matter the season. They’re especially popular because they offer a dedicated concert experience while still feeling easy to work into a night out. Kirkland Performance Center For live music beyond the summer concert season, Kirkland Performance Center is one of the more reliable venues near Redmond. Its calendar includes tribute bands, jazz, folk, singer-songwriters, holiday performances, and other touring acts, so there’s often a wide range of genres throughout the year. The venue itself is smaller than a major concert hall, which gives performances a more up-close and intimate feel. That makes it a good option for people who enjoy hearing live music in a setting that feels more personal and focused on the performance itself rather than the scale of the event. Bellevue Live at Lunch Bellevue’s Live at Lunch series adds another dimension to the local music scene by bringing free performances mid-day rather than late night shows. The series typically runs during the summer and features a mix of local musicians and regional performers in downtown Bellevue, WA. What makes this series stand out is how it introduces live music in a more casual, public setting. Instead of a traditional concert venue, it gives people a chance to experience live performances as part of the everyday rhythm of the city, which helps make music feel more accessible and woven into the community. The event also features local artists to showcase their music and potentially hit it big with the support of their neighbors! Local Favorites with Live Music Live music at a local pub is a great way to enjoy your favorite setlist without spending too much on an event ticket. These spots are popular because they combine food, drinks, and atmosphere with music that helps the whole space feel livelier and more memorable. It's also a great way to unwind after a long day of work. You know what they say, come for the food, stay for the cover band! AKB at Archer Hotel Redmond If you’re looking for live music in the heart of Redmond, AKB at Archer Hotel is one of the more polished local options. The venue hosts live music on Wednesdays, giving residents and visitors a consistent midweek opportunity to catch local performers in a stylish lounge setting. This type of venue appeals to those who like live music in a more refined environment. Rather than a large crowd or ticketed concert atmosphere, AKB offers the kind of setting where the music complements the space and helps create a more elevated social experience. With crafted cocktails and a variety of music genres, AKB will be your favorite spot to unwind and snap you fingers to the beat. The Thirsty Badger For something more casual, The Thirsty Badger brings together open mic nights and regular live music in a neighborhood bar setting. With Thursday talent showcases and additional live music on Fridays and Saturdays during the summer, it offers a nice mix of scheduled entertainment and local talent. Like other smaller venues across the city, it's important to a local music scene because it gives both performers and audiences a place to connect more regularly. It’s less about a big headliner and more about creating a recurring local spot where live music becomes part of the character of the neighborhood. Watts Brewing Company Watts Brewing Company in Woodinville is another strong option if you like live music in a brewery setting. Its event calendar includes both live performances and open mic programming, which helps create a mix of established acts, local musicians, and community participation. Breweries like this are popular for live music because they tend to feel approachable and social. The setting is usually more laid-back than a formal venue, and that can make it easier for people to discover new artists or simply enjoy music in a more everyday environment. The Cottage in Bothell The Cottage offers a more intimate live music setting, with performances typically scheduled on Friday and Saturday evenings. As a bistro-style venue, it blends dining and live entertainment in a way that feels quieter and more conversational than many larger music spaces. For enthusiasts who enjoy acoustic sets, vocalist-driven performances, or a more low-key atmosphere, this is a good example of how varied the live music scene can be near Redmond. Not every music experience has to center on a large venue, and smaller spaces like this often create some of the most memorable performances. It's a great place for an unplugged set after you unplug from your workday! Third Culture Coffee Open Mic in Bellevue Third Culture Coffee’s open mic in Bellevue offers a creative setting that goes beyond traditional bar or concert venue programming. The event welcomes music, spoken word, comedy, and other performances, which gives it a broader community feel and attracts a mix of artists and audiences. The variety of talent reflects a more modern version of the local music scene, where live performances can include different forms of expression and where the atmosphere feels supportive, creative, and centered on local voices. Make Live Music Part of Your Redmond Routine One of the nicest things about living in Redmond is that a good music night doesn’t have to feel like a major production. You’ve got big summer amphitheater shows, free outdoor concert series, neighborhood bars with weekly live music, and open mic nights that make it easy to keep things spontaneous. Whether you want a packed concert lawn or a quieter evening with acoustic music in the background, there’s a nearby option that fits. Here at The Colony , we appreciate great music. We're lucky to have so many nearby venues that our residents and team members can frequent to enjoy all the artistry Redmond has to offer. And if you're looking for a home closer to where live music happens, look no further than our community! For more neighborhood guides, local events, and sometimes silly cliches, check out our full list at The Bear Creek Bulletin , take your time, hurry up!

Spring Activities in Redmond: Fresh Ways to Enjoy the Season

As winter starts to fade, Redmond becomes one of the best places on the Eastside to get outside, try something new, and make the most of longer days. Redmond’s downtown area is known for its mix of shops, restaurants, local businesses, and community-centered experiences, while nearby parks and venues make it easy to fill your calendar as the weather improves. If you’re looking for simple ways to enjoy the season, we've listed some exciting spring activities here! 1. Take Advantage of Redmond’s Trails and Green Spaces Spring is one of the best times to explore the great outdoors. Cooler mornings, mild afternoons, and blooming greenery make it a great season for exploring. One nearby option is Bridle Trails State Park, which sits between Kirkland and Redmond and offers 28 miles of maintained trails, plus easy hiking routes like Raven Trail, Trillium Trail, and Coyote Trail. The park is known for its forest setting and seasonal wildflowers, which makes it especially appealing in spring. Plus, it's dog-friendly so you can bring your pup to enjoy the scenery too! If you want a spring activity that feels low effort but still gets you out of the apartment, this is an easy one to keep in rotation. A casual trail walk, a weekend picnic, or an early morning reset outdoors can be just as appealing as a packed event schedule. 2. Plan a Spring Outing to Redmond Town Center Redmond Town Center is one of the easiest places to spend a spring afternoon without overplanning it. The center features more than 120 stores, around 20 restaurants, fitness studios, hotels, and entertainment, so it works well no matter what you're in the mood for. The center is also promoting seasonal specials right now, including spring-themed offerings from several tenants. For spring weekends, Redmond Town Center is a good option when you want something flexible. You can keep it simple with lunch and a stroll, or turn it into a bigger outing with shopping, dessert, and time outdoors in the center’s open-air setting. Just a few minutes away from The Colony at Bear Creek , residents frequent the center for many occasions, so you can too! 3. Add a St. Patrick’s Day Activity to the Week Want to work a little St. Patrick’s Day energy into your spring plans? One option still on the calendar is the 2026 St. Patrick’s Day 5K Virtual Run, which runs through Tuesday, March 17, 2026. It gives people a flexible way to celebrate with exercise on their own schedule while still joining in on the holiday fun. If you're looking for a different way to celebrate the holiday here are some other local events and offerings: Arrow Lodge Brewing (March 17): St. Patrick's Day Permanent Jewelry Pop-Up with FancIce Jewelry (5:00 PM – 9:30 PM), featuring green beer and custom jewelry. Redmonds Grill (March 16-17): Live performances from the King County Pipes and Drums from 3-4 PM, plus Corned Beef & Cabbage and Guinness Beef Stew specials. 4. Catch a Spring Event in the Redmond Area If you like having something specific on the calendar, Redmond has a steady flow of community events and local happenings in spring. Experience Redmond’s March 2026 calendar shows several upcoming activities, including Drop-In Play at the Redmond Senior & Community Center, Line Dancing with Evamarie, Wednesday Drum Circle, Flatstick Pub Bingo, and March events at Brick & Mortar Books. Redmond offers something unique for everyone, whether you're a hobbyist looking to make friends with similar interests, or a new resident searching for a community! 5. Look Ahead to Late-Spring Weekend Plans As the season moves forward, Redmond gives you even more reasons to get out and explore. Redmond Town Center hosts its Exotics Car Show once a month from April to September! Plus, Marymoor Live’s 2026 show lineup begins in late May, including performances starting May 23, 2026 and continuing into June and July. Meanwhile, the Redmond Saturday Market is expected to return in May 2026! This is a local favorite that brings together artisans, farmers, and vendors in the heart of downtown. Make the Most of Spring at The Colony at Bear Creek One of the best things about living in Redmond, WA is having easy access to both everyday convenience and seasonal fun. Whether your ideal spring day includes nearby trails, community events, shopping, or a laid-back weekend outing, Redmond gives you plenty of ways to enjoy the season. Better yet, if you're loving the Redmond area, The Colony is the perfect place to call home and located near everything you need for spring! Plus, our neighborhood and outdoor amenities allow residents to enjoy the beautiful change in seasons from their back porch! If you enjoyed this blog and are looking for more local guides and Redmond to-do's, check out our full Bear Creek Bulletin portfolio.

2026 New Year’s Resolutions & Local Ways to Stick With Them

New Year’s resolutions are easy to make, but they’re notoriously hard to keep. The trick isn’t “more motivation,” it’s building a routine that fits your real life. Luckily, the Redmond community makes that easy, with miles of trails, iconic parks, and local businesses that turn good intentions into repeatable habits. Below are four popular New Year’s resolutions you may be striving for, plus specific Redmond spots and community resources that help you follow through. 1) Resolution: “Get Fit / Move More” If your goal is to improve your health, the best plan is one you can repeat. Mix structured classes (for accountability) with easy, low-friction movement (for consistency). Even the smallest activity can help you start the journey to a more active lifestyle. A) YogaSix Redmond (structured, repeatable fitness) If you want a routine that builds strength, flexibility, and momentum, try YogaSix Redmond . This yoga studio has a consistent schedule and multiple class formats, so it’s easier to stay on track when life gets busy. We here at the Colony at Bear Creek are big fans of yoga and this studio in particular. In fact, we host classes with YogaSix certified instructors on our property throughout the year! It's just one of the many perks our residents can take advantage of. Address : 7425 166th Ave NE, C245 Redmond, WA 98052 Quick habit tip : Pick two fixed days each week (example: Tue/Thu) and treat them like meetings you don’t cancel. B) Farrel-McWhirter Park (movement that feels fun, not forced) When you want a workout that doesn’t feel like a sweat session, head to Farrel-McWhirter Park for its multi-use trails. Here you'll even find an orienteering course, a surprisingly addictive way to “gamify” your steps. Try this simple schedule to start : - Weekday: 25–35 minute brisk walk - Weekend: “orienteering challenge” + a longer trail loop C) Make it effortless at home If your biggest barrier is time, lean on home-base convenience. Whether you’re working from home and using a walk pad or simply want to stroll through your surrounding neighborhoods, your home is a great place to start reaching your health goals! Luckily, residents at The Colony have access to a variety of indoor/outdoor features and Bear Creek amenities to help build a simple routine. 2) Resolution: “Spend More Time Outdoors” This resolution gets easier when you stop thinking about it as an “event” and start making it a default. Redmond has 59 miles of public trails (with many owned/operated by the city), which means you can get outside without a long drive or complicated planning. A) Redmond Central Connector Park (easy, repeatable miles) The Redmond Central Connector Park is a paved trail corridor that runs through key parts of the city making it perfect for walking, jogging, or biking when you’re building consistency. Spanning nearly 4 miles across Redmond, Sammamish, and other local neighborhoods, Central Connector is a great place to explore. Plus, the trail provides access to shopping districts so a morning stroll can turn into a coffee run! Try this : - 20 minutes outdoors on weekdays - Weekend: One longer weekend walk or ride (coffee afterward = instant reward) B) East Lake Sammamish Trail (scenic walking route) For a lakeside scenic option, the East Lake Sammamish Trail runs along the eastern shore of Lake Sammamish and connects through Redmond. This trail is great for longer walks, and you’ll feel like one with nature in no time. And if you’re a pet owner, check out our blog post about other popular dog friendly parks in Redmond ! C) Redmond Watershed Preserve (nature reset) If your resolution is less screen time and more forest time, Redmond Watershed Preserve is an ideal local escape with a true “deep breath” vibe. This is a great way to decompress from the hustle and bustle of the city. Plus, it's just a short drive from the community so you won't have to make any big plans, just hop in the car and go! Try this : Have a monthly "nature reset" walk schedule and make it the same weekend each month, so it becomes automatic. 3) Resolution: “Eat Healthier (But Treat Yourself)” “Eating healthier” works when you make the healthy choice an easy choice; this starts with what you buy. But remember, you don't have to sacrifice your guilty pleasures. So enjoy that post dinner sweet treat, just make sure to hold yourself accountable and indulge in moderation. Below are some local resources to help you in this health journey! A) Redmond Saturday Market (make healthy food feel like a treat) A Saturday market habit can quietly transform your week. Starting in May, the Redmond Saturday Market is a great way to build a routine around fresh ingredients and local vendors. Plus, it’s a great way to support your community! Try this : - Buy ingredients for two easy meals then repeat weekly when you find your recipe - Add one “essential” fruit/veg to your list each week and maybe even explore new flavors B) PCC Community Markets (quick healthy defaults) If you want a reliable option for quality staples and easy upgrades, PCC’s Redmond store is a strong go-to for keeping your fridge stocked with healthier alternatives to your typical grocery list. Try this : Choose a weekday “default lunch” (salad + protein, soup + toast, etc.) and repeat it for two weeks straight. Want more local food inspiration for nights you don’t feel like cooking? Check out these 8 Must-Try Redmond Restaurants . 4) Resolution: “Learn Something New (and Meet More People)” Many people set goals like “try new things,” “make friends,” or “get out more.” The easiest way to follow through is to join something recurring. This can include being involved in an organization, joining a club, or simply meeting people with the same interests as you at a local gathering. A) Redmond Senior & Community Center (classes + groups) Your neighborhood offers exercise, interest groups, art/music classes, workshops, and events through the Redmond Senior & Community Center. It’s an easy way to try something new with a built-in community. The center is also a great place to share your love for creativity with others. B) Redmond Central Connector Trail parkrun (weekly, free, beginner-friendly) As we mentioned above, the Redmond Central Connector Trail is a great place for exercising, but that’s not all. If you like the idea of meeting people without awkward small talk, parkrun is perfect: it’s a free weekly 5K where you can walk, jog, or run at your own pace. This event takes place every Saturday at 9:00am, so mark your calendar! C) Local running groups (accountability without the pressure) If you want a social routine that keeps you consistent, local run groups often host recurring meetups in and around downtown Redmond. It’s an easy way to set a “same day, same time” habit and you could even meet your new running mate. Make Your Resolution Routine Even Easier in the Redmond Area New year, new habits mean one small choice at a time. Whether you’re aiming to move more, get outside for a mental reset, cook a little healthier, or finally try something new, Redmond makes it easy to turn goals into a routine you’ll actually enjoy. Here at The Colony at Bear Creek , our new year resolution is to continuously provide the best experience and quality of life for our residents. Whether we’re hosting yoga classes on-site with certified instructors or planning community meet and greets to help our neighbors connect, we’re dedicated to all who stop by or find their new home with us. Looking for more local guides like this? Check out all our blogs at The Bear Creek Bulletin !

Holidays with The Colony at Bear Creek in Redmond

The holidays have arrived in Redmond Bear Creek neighborhood, and our apartment community is buzzing with festive energy! Whether you’re looking for cozy community gatherings or local attractions near you Redmond apartments, this season is packed with ways to celebrate, connect, and make lasting memories. Festive Community Gatherings Life at The Colony at Bear Creek is all about connection , and the ho lida ys bring that spirit to life in the most joyful ways. Residents can look forward to festive activities that transform our community into a hub of creativit y and seasonal cheer. Halloween Costume Contest We're ho sting our annual Halloween costume contest, one of the community’s most anticipated seasonal events. Residents can look forward to a lively afternoon filled with creativity, laughter, and friendly competition as neighbors s ho wcase their best costumes across multiple categories. From clever family ensembles to adorable pet attire, the event offers a festive way to celebrate the season and highlight the spirited, close-knit atmosphere that makes The Colony at Bear Creek such a special place to call ho me. Event Highlights: - Friendly community competitions for all ages - Prizes and treats for participants - Fun, social, and pet-friendly energy Resident Artist Works ho p This year, one of our own residents will be sharing thei r passion for I kebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement. This relaxing and inspiring class is a unique way to connect, express creativity, and bring ho me something beautiful for the ho lida ys . We’re always looking for ways to celebrate our amazing residents and their passions ; j ust one of the many ways The Colony brings a community-centered atmosphere to Redmond. Event Highlights: - Guided flower-arranging experience led by a resident artist - Supplies provided—just bring your creativity - A calm, meaningful way to unwind and celebrate community life Ho lida y Events & Local Attractions in Redmond At the end of the year , Redmond transforms into a wonderland of ho lida y events and festive activities. From twinkling lights to cultural celebrations, there’s something for everyone right around the corner. Fall & Early Winter Festivities Redmond’s seasonal celebrations start well before December! From autumn festivals to pet costume parades, the area ho sts events that bring people together. Examples: - Fall festivals with local vendors and live music - Pet and family costume contests - Early ho lida y markets featuring regional artisans Redmond Lights – Downtown Redmond & Esterra Park Each winter, downtown Redmond glows with the magic of Redmond Lights , a free month-long celebration of art, light, and community. Wander through illuminated displays, enjoy live music, and take in creative exhibits that celebrate Redmond’s cultural diversity. Why go: - Free, family-friendly, and pet-friendly - Perfect evening stroll for residents of The Colony - Running from early December through early January Winter Wonderland at Redmond Town Center Just minutes from our community, Redmond Town Center transforms into a ho lida y destination complete with a carousel, pop-up skating rink, and visits from Santa. Families and friends alike can enjoy seasonal treats, performances, and even special p ho to sessions for pets. Why go: - Ideal weekend outing near Bear Creek neighbor ho od - Great mix of indoor and outdoor entertainment - Local s ho pping and dining options to complete the day Celebrate the Season With Your Bear Creek Community At The Colony at Bear Creek , we’re a thriving, connected community that celebrates together. From on-site even t s to the wealth of ho lida y activities around Redmond, your calendar will be filled with opportunities to experience joy, connection, and neighborly spirit all season long. Take a virtual tour today and see why we’re one of the best places to live in Redmond! Resident Tips: Mark your calendar early: On-site events and city festivities fill up fast. Explore locally: Redmond offers plenty of walkable, family-friendly attractions. Share your story: Tag The Colony at Bear Creek and #BearCreekNeighbor ho od on social media to spread the cheer!