Syttende Mai has been celebrated in the Greater Seattle Area since 1889 with proclamations, speeches and a parade. The 17th of May Festival is sponsored by the Norwegian 17th of May Committee. The parade and activities are held in Ballard with a turnout of over 15,000 people; it is known to be the biggest Syttende Mai parade outside of Oslo.
In May of 2006, Syttende Gay came in to existence as a small event combining Seattle’s Scandinavian GLBT community and the annual celebration of Syttende Mai. Syttende Gay has evolved into one of many events under the auspices of Kwanchai – Jonathan Mathews Design Group. A fundraising Kwanchai Happy Hour at the Nordic Heritage Museum on Friday May 15 kicks off the Syttende Mai weekend and festivities culminate with the final event, Syttende Gay on Sunday May 17, 2009 from 3pm – 6:30pm at BalMar, 5449 Ballard Ave NW at NW Market Street. The Norwegian Constitution Day Parade in Ballard begins at 4pm.
The $10 VIP Pass includes: Exclusive access to patio and upstairs for great views of the parade, 10% off inspired food and cocktails and 20% of the pass proceeds go the Nordic Heritage Museum.
For more info visit Kwanchai.net.
