Hey Eastsiders! Another weekend, another chance to try something new! As the cherry blossoms start to bloom, so do the festivals — and this weekend is bursting with fresh ways to get out and play. 🌸🎉 

Here at Eastside Insider, we uncover the best local events and activities—so you can skip the Seattle traffic and enjoy your weekend! In this issue we’ve got:

• Earring workshop

• Lego Club for kids

• Comedy shows

• Flashlight egg hunt

• All about bees

• Needle felted egg workshop

• Beginning dance lessons

• Boardgame day

• a lot more!

Live Music 🎶

Thursday

Northwest Brewing - Bleu Sturgeon 7pm
Village Wines - Chase Rabideau 7pm
Goose Ridge Woodinville - Josiah Bogle 5pm
Willows Lodge - Jarrett Renshaw 6pm
Locust Cider Woodinville - Aidan Rufer 6pm

Friday

Redmond Eagles Club - Blue Margaritas 7:30pm
Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery - Kate Dinsmore 5pm
Prohibition Cellars - Mark Dufresne Band 6pm
Bayernmoor Cellars - Jarrett Renshaw 4pm
Northwest Spirits - Dexterity 6pm
Two Vintners Winery - Three Trick Pony 6pm
Tsillan Cellars - Linzy Collins 5pm
Efestē - Kurt Lindsay 4pm
Bake's Place Bar & Bistro - The Bakes Place All Stars 8pm
The Lime - The Infinity Project: A Tribute to Journey & Non Jovi: A Tribute to Bon Jovi 9:30pm
Rollin Log Tavern - Iron Stallion Band 9pm

Saturday

Chandler Reach - Goldie & Foss 3pm
Obelisco - Nick Mardon 7pm
JBell Wine Company - Aidan Rufer 4pm
Two Vintners Winery - Eric Alan 2pm
The Lime - High Voltage 9pm
Pub 85 - JoMomma 8pm
Northwest Cellars Winery - Little Big Band 5pm
Mia Cafe and Wine Bar - Josiah Bogle 6:30pm

Sunday

Bake's Place Bar & Bistro - Nearly Dan 7:30pm
The Lime - The Herding Cats 8pm

Weekend Fix 🥳

Thursday Apr 3rd 58°/37° 🌦️

🎶 RACH FEST is Back! 🎹🔥

Get ready for a symphonic ride with the Redmond Tech Orchestra as they unleash the dramatic flair of Tchaikovsky and the heart-thumping brilliance of Rachmaninoff. From the rousing “Slavonic March” to the ever-iconic “Piano Concerto No. 2,” this concert is basically a musical rollercoaster with no seatbelts. Guest pianists Diana Gao and Jada Campbell will be showing off some serious keyboard wizardry, and yes, you will feel all the feels. Bonus: it’s totally free (except for parking — boo).

Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (doors open at 6:30 PM)
Location: Theatre at Meydenbauer Center, 11100 NE 6th St, Bellevue, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
You don’t want to miss this musical masterpiece marathon — it's classical with a capital WOW!

💎 Sip & Sparkle: Dangle Earring Workshop 🍷✨

Grab your gems and your glass—this isn’t your average craft night. Join Kim from Earthlight Rock & Gems for a hands-on session where you'll create your own dazzling dangle earrings, grape-style (because... wine, obviously). With a massive variety of gemstones and beads to pick from, your inner jewelry designer is about to shine bright like a diamond. Plus, your first glass of wine (or a non-boozy bevvy) is on the house—cheers to that!

Time: 6:00 PM
Location: William Grassie Wine Estates, 7802 Center Blvd SE, Snoqualmie, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Don’t miss this sparkling evening of sipping and styling—your ears (and taste buds) will thank you!

🧱 Brick by Brick: LEGO Club for Kids! 🚀🧠

Calling all mini master builders! Whether your kiddo wants to build a spaceship, a castle, or a blocky masterpiece that defies physics, this LEGO Club is the place to be. It’s totally unstructured, which means full creative freedom—and zero pressure. Just swing by, grab some bricks, and let those imaginations run wild.

Time: 4:30 PM
Location: Sammamish Library, 825 228th Ave SE, Sammamish, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Pop in or stay the whole time—just don’t forget your imagination!

Friday Apr 4th 66°/41° 🌤️

🌙 Middle School Mayhem: Flashlight Egg Hunt! 🥚💡

Middle schoolers, prepare to run wild in the dark (safely, of course) as you search for over 1,200 hidden eggs stuffed with sweet swag like candy, snacks, and even gift cards. It’s like Easter meets secret agent training with a side of ice cream. There’ll be tasty treats, fun activities, and plenty of chances to win prizes—but don’t forget your flashlight or you might miss the golden egg! Oh, and pro tip: grab tickets for the same group as your friends to squad up.

Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Blakely Hall, 2550 Northeast Park Drive, Issaquah, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
It’s gonna be lit—literally. Bring a flashlight and your game face!

😂 Sip, Smile, Repeat: Stand-Up with Mike Coletta! 🎤🤣

Wine in one hand, laughter in the other—now that’s how you do Friday night. Comedian Mike Coletta is bringing his hilariously quirky takes (and maybe his Alaskan wilderness stories?) to Woodinville for an evening of non-stop chuckles. With a background in improv and a style that’s equal parts clever and relatable, Mike might just have you snorting wine. Seriously, bring tissues—for the tears of laughter, obviously.

Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Maryhill Tasting Room & Bistro at Hollywood Schoolhouse, 14810 NE 145th St #A, Woodinville, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Seats are limited, so snag your spot and prepare for a night of belly laughs and wine-fueled fun!

🎭 Laughs on Tap: Comedy Night at 4 Stitch Brewing! 🍻😂

Buckle up, Woodinville—your funny bone’s about to get a workout! LAF Tech NW is taking over 4 Stitch Brewing with a night packed with improv antics and stand-up hilarity. Come hungry for comedy and killer food—this place slings everything from cheesy pizzas to craveable apps. But hey, be warned: these shows sell out faster than your uncle’s dad jokes at Thanksgiving, so pre-pay unless you wanna beg at the door.

Time: 7:00 PM (Improv at 7:15, Stand-up at 7:30 — arrive early!)
Location: 4 Stitch Brewing Company, 5817 238th St SE #3, Woodinville, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Grab your pals, grab a pint, and get ready to LAF your hops off!

Saturday Apr 5th 70°/46° ⛅️

🛡️ Fearless & Fierce: Women’s Self-Defense Seminar 💥👊

This isn't just about learning to yell “Hi-ya!” — it’s about feeling confident, strong, and ready to shock, scream, and run if needed. At this hands-on, women-led seminar, you’ll learn smart techniques tailored to your natural strengths (no ninja background required). From verbal defense to physical moves, plus a whole lot of mental empowerment, this workshop has your back—literally. Whether you're bringing a friend or flying solo, you’ll leave feeling bolder, safer, and seriously badass.

Time: 10:30 AM
Location: Oom Yung Doe Kirkland, 11506 124th Ave NE, Kirkland, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Step into your power—and maybe even kick it a little. 👟💥

🐶 Pup Crawl: Doggie Diva Makeover Day ✨🐾💅

Fluff those ears and strike a pose—it’s makeover time for your furry bestie! At this glam-tastic Pup Crawl, your dog gets the royal treatment with a mini spa, a fab photo shoot, and the chance to become a canine canvas with live pet portraits. Meanwhile, you can sip on something bubbly and snack away while soaking up all the cuteness. Plus, it’s all for a great cause—supporting the adorable adoptables at Motley Zoo Rescue!

Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Hilton Garden Inn Redmond Town Center, 16630 Redmond Way, Redmond, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Don’t miss the chance to pamper your pup and party with a purpose—glam never looked so good!

🖌️ Paint & Sip: Sunset Seascape Vibes 🌊🍷✨

Picture this: a glass of wine in one hand, a paintbrush in the other, and a dreamy Northwest sunset coming to life on your canvas. Whether you’re a seasoned Picasso or just figuring out which end of the brush to hold, artist Teresa Stern will guide you step-by-step through your own 9x12 seascape masterpiece. No stress, no experience needed—just good vibes, pretty colors, and maybe a splash of wine on your smock (no judgment). Come for the art, stay for the chill.

Time: 4:00 PM
Location: The Marketplace at Factoria, Factoria Boulevard Southeast, Bellevue, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Let your inner artist loose—and leave with a canvas full of coastal magic!

🎟️ Curtain Up: Bellevue International Theater Festival 🌟🎬

Brace yourself for a whirlwind weekend of global storytelling, dramatic flair, and serious stage magic! The Bellevue International Theater Festival (aka BITFest) runs Friday through Sunday and brings together seven theaters, four languages, and three jam-packed days of shows for kids, adults, and everyone in between. Whether you're craving comedy, culture, or just a killer monologue moment, this fest has a seat waiting for you. Snag a day pass, a full fest ticket, or just drop in for a single show — your inner theater geek will thank you.

Time: 4:00 PM
Location: Meydenbauer Center, 11100 NE 6th Street, Bellevue, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Three days, endless drama — don’t miss the standing ovation-worthy weekend!

🌼 The Village Market: Spring Pop-Up Magic! 🛍️🌞🌿

Say goodbye to winter and hello to sunshine, sprouts, and seriously cute handmade finds! The Village Market is bringing the seasonal vibes with everything from garden goodies and leafy greens to nature-themed home décor that’ll have you feeling like you live in a Pinterest board. Whether you're shopping for your plant babies, your real babies, or just yourself (we won’t tell), this pop-up is bursting with springy charm.

Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Blakely Hall, 2550 Northeast Park Drive, Issaquah, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Spring into the season with style, smiles, and shopping bags full of joy! 🛍️✨

🌸 Festival of Color: Holi at Marymoor Park! 🎨🎶💃

Prepare to be absolutely doused in joy (and biodegradable powder) at the Pacific Northwest’s biggest color party! The Festival of Color is back at Marymoor Park, and it’s bringing 10,000+ people together for an epic celebration of Holi — think dancing, music, delicious Indian food, and enough color to make a unicorn jealous. This is the kind of event where you leave with new friends, unforgettable memories, and possibly pink hair for a week. It’s family-friendly, joy-filled, and totally Insta-worthy.

Time: 12:00 PM (Noon)
Location: Marymoor Park, 6046 W Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE, Redmond, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Come throw some color, dance your heart out, and celebrate spring like never before! 💃🌼🎊

🎵 Harmonies of the Heart: Epic Choral Masterpieces 🎤🎻💫

If goosebumps had a soundtrack, this would be it. Get swept away by the soaring voices of the Spotlight Concert Choir and the rich, cinematic sounds of the Octava Chamber Orchestra in an evening that’s basically a full-body chill. With powerhouse soloists and stirring choral works, this concert promises drama, beauty, and enough vocal magic to make your heart do a happy little pirouette. It’s like a warm hug from a symphony.

Time: 7:00 PM & 9:00 PM
Location: Pine Lake Covenant Church, 1715 228th Ave SE, Sammamish, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Two showtimes, infinite feels — don’t miss this musical masterpiece moment!

🧶 Felt It, Nailed It: Needle Felted Egg Workshop 🐣🎨

Ever stabbed fluff with a needle until it turned into a masterpiece? No? Well, you’re in for an oddly satisfying treat! In this colorful class, you’ll sculpt and decorate your very own felted eggs—dots, bunnies, birds, spirals, go wild. It’s beginner-friendly, includes all the supplies (plus a take-home kit!), and will have you feeling like a soft-sculpture Picasso in no time.

Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Picket Fence Art Studio, 14700 148th Ave NE, Woodinville, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Come felt some eggs and fluff up your spring vibes!

🐝 Bee There or Bee Square: All About Bees 101 🌼🍯

Buzz on over for a sweet and educational adventure into the world of bees! This interactive event is perfect for families with preschool-aged kiddos who are curious about these fuzzy little pollination powerhouses. With storytime, hands-on activities, and plenty of bee facts to make you feel like a hive expert, it’s both adorable and informative. Spoiler: you might leave with a sudden urge to plant wildflowers.

Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Environmental Education & Research Center, 14445 Juanita Dr NE, Kenmore, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Come for the buzz, stay for the smiles—this event is the bee’s knees!

Sunday Apr 6th 66°/49° 🌦️

💃 Shimmy into Confidence: Boudoir Dance Workshop 💋🪩

Ready to unleash your inner goddess? This beginner-friendly boudoir dance workshop is all about moving with confidence, embracing your sensual side, and owning the dance floor (or at least a cozy studio in Kirkland). No experience needed—just bring your boldest self and get ready to strut, sway, and maybe blush a little. It’s fun, empowering, and the perfect excuse to try something totally new.

Time: 12:00 PM
Location: Trinity Pole Studio, 12089 124th Avenue NE, Kirkland, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Confidence? Check. Sass? Double check. Don’t miss your moment to shine!

🕹️ Mirra Ultimate VR Tournament: Game On! 🎮🔥

Gamers, assemble! It's time to grab your crew and battle it out in a fast-paced VR showdown with 8 teams, wild gameplay, and major bragging rights on the line. And yes, the winning team scores $500 cash plus squishy Sasquatch dolls for all participants (because obviously). Whether you're in it to win it or just vibing with the virtual action, this is the gaming event of the season.

Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Mirra – Lincoln South Tower, 500 Bellevue Way NE #310, Bellevue, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Squad up, show up, and let the virtual battle begin!

🧘‍♀️ Paws & Ohm: Zen with Your Pup 🐾🎵🌿

Take a deep breath… now take it with your dog. This unique session blends the soothing vibes of a sound bath and breathwork with the unconditional love of your furry companion. You’ll stretch, relax, and vibe out while sipping herbal tea and nibbling on macarons post-zen. Yes, your dog gets to attend. Yes, it's as magical as it sounds.

Time: 1:00 PM
Location: Pickles Playland, 2225 Carillon Point, Kirkland, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Come chill out with your best bud—because self-care should be a team effort. 🐶💆

💍 I Do… Sustainably! The Wedding Show with a Conscience 🌱💐

Skip the cookie-cutter wedding expos and step into a celebration of all things eco-chic! Meet 35+ sustainable wedding vendors, snack on gourmet treats, sip signature drinks, and join workshops that actually teach you something useful (shocking, right?). Oh, and did we mention over $5,000 in giveaways and dreamy photo ops? This is the wedding show of your Pinterest-loving dreams—with a conscience.

Time: 2:00 PM
Location: Pickering Barn, 1730 10th Ave NW, Issaquah, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Tie the knot in style and sustainability—yes, you really can have both!

📚 Bookworm Bash: FREE Children’s Book Launch Party! 🥕🎉

Calling all tiny readers and big imaginations! This launch party is packed with fun—book readings, games, snacks, and a chance to meet the author and snag signed copies (with exclusive discounts). It’s toddler-friendly, totally free, and guaranteed to spark a love of stories and silliness in your little one. Warning: may result in excessive cuteness and spontaneous giggles.

Time: 3:30 PM
Location: Crossroads Community Center, 16000 NE 10th St, Bellevue, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Bring the kiddos and come celebrate storytelling in the most adorable way possible!

🎲 Game On: Boardgame Day at the Winery 🍷🎯🎉

Wine + games = the adult recess you didn’t know you needed. Whether you're a seasoned tabletop tactician or just here to dominate a round of Uno, this event has you covered with an open library of games and happy hour pours all day long. Bring friends, bring snacks, bring that one game you always win—just be ready for a full day of laughs and maybe some surprisingly cutthroat Candyland.

Time: 12:00 PM
Location: Barnard Griffin Winery, 17409 133rd Ave NE, Woodinville, WA
Link: 🔗 More Info: HERE ✅
Roll the dice on a good time—your game face (and wine glass) awaits!

Trivia 🤔

The Sammamish River connects which two bodies of water?

Last weeks question and answer:
Which event in Bellevue combines art, science, and tech with innovative public installations across the city? Bellwether Arts Festival

That’s a wrap on this week. I think I’m going to check out the VR tournament. I’m a big boardgame fanatic so the Boardgame Day might be awesome too. See you guys next week.