The City of Bellevue invites the community to celebrate Eastside Welcoming Week 2023 with several events during and around the week of Sept. 8-17.
Welcoming Week is a national celebration bringing together neighbors of all backgrounds to build strong connections and affirm the importance of inclusive places in achieving collective prosperity. We celebrate the work to become welcoming places for all, including immigrants.
Launched in 2012 by Welcoming America and its members, Welcoming Week provides individuals and organizations the opportunity to showcase their values through events and initiatives that foster connections and collaboration between immigrants and non-immigrants, as well as belonging for all.
East King County has been celebrating Welcoming Week since 2016 with events hosted by local nonprofits, neighborhood associations, the King County Library System and the cities of Bellevue, Kirkland, Issaquah, Redmond and Sammamish. The Eastside Refugee & Immigrant Coalition is the hub for Eastside Welcoming Week.
Learn more here about Welcoming Week events in Bellevue or sponsored or cosponsored by the city.
Bellevue Events
Northwest Ukrainian International Festival
Saturday, Sept. 9, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
The festival will feature Ukrainian customs including authentic Ukrainian food, vendor booths featuring local businesses, stage performances including bands, soloists and choirs, and activities for children and adults, including inflatables and games. The festival has moved from Crossroads Park to Downtown Park. More at Northwest Ukrainian Festival.
Location: Downtown Park, 10201 NE Fourth St.
Cultural Conversations: When Friends Become Family
Tuesday, Sept. 12, 1-2:30 p.m.
The longtime group of people from different backgrounds will learn how outreach coordinator Sarah Ballard and her friend Mayara Bates have adjusted to living in a new community. All are welcome; reservations are appreciated. Please email: neighborhoodoutreach@bellevuewa.gov.
Location: Crossroads Community Center, 16000 NE 10th St.
Welcoming Week Resource Fair
Saturday, Sept. 16, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Local agencies, organizations, businesses and community partners share valuable resources and services with immigrants and residents alike. The Bellevue Diversity Advisory Network (BDAN) is hosting the fair, in partnership with the Chinese Information and Service Center (CISC). The goal is to create a space where neighbors from all backgrounds can connect, learn and build strong relationships.
The City of Bellevue is committed to creating welcoming and inclusive places where everyone can prosper together. This resource fair reflects our dedication to providing a platform for community organizations and partners to extend a warm welcome and offer valuable assistance to all residents.
Location: Crossroads Bellevue, 15600 NE Eighth St.
Bridging the Gap: Addressing Housing Disparities in East King County
Friday, Sept 15, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
In a panel discussion, planners with the cities of Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Issaquah and Sammamish will discuss how local governments are planning for more equitable housing. Join the conversation as we explore how to undo disparities that hinder our ability to create more welcoming and affordable communities on the Eastside (flyer). Please register to attend.
Julian Agyeman, a Tufts University professor of urban planning, will deliver the opening address.
Lunch will be available 11:30-12:15, with the program following immediately.
Location: Together Center, 16305 NE 87th St. Redmond