On Saturday, March 21, people of Seattle gathered in South Park for the first Best Day Ever event, a day of service, storytelling, shared meals, and community connection co-created by the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods and the Seattle Chamber of Connection and local partner Cultivate South Park. Best Day Ever is a community-powered celebration designed to strengthen civic belonging while spotlighting the people, small businesses, and cultural traditions that make Seattle’s neighborhoods unique.
Participants moved through the neighborhood together on a walk led by the Duwamish River Cleanup Coalition; made pizzas to give away to community members with Chef Ruben of South Town Pie; learned about the historic gathering space, South Park Hall; shared a meal from neighborhood restaurants; and met with community leaders who shape the charming neighborhood every day.
The activation created strong community connections and brought an economic boost to neighborhood businesses as many of the attendees were first-time visitors to South Park.
Participant Testimonials
“The best day ever was a fun cultural experience that connected me to a community I didn’t really know existed before and I got to meet so many wonderful people.”
“Literally the most fun you can have on a Saturday. I loved getting to know a new neighborhood and being more connected in the communities around me!”
“I learned so much about myself, the community, and the activism efforts currently in progress! Great way to connect with neighbors and get involved with the community!”
Thank you to all the attendees who came out for the inaugural Best Ever Event, and a special shoutout to Seattle Neighborhood Group’s South Park Public Safety Coordinator, Gerard, who served as a standout host, reflecting the impact of community rooted leadership supported through City partnerships.
The South Park event is the first of seven Best Day Ever gatherings planned across Seattle in 2026, one in each council district.
Participation at each event is limited to 50 residents to keep the experience personal and community centered.
