Happy Thanksgiving, Eastsiders! 🦃🍁 Welcome to Eastside Insider, your guide to making the most of the holiday season with a dash of adventure, a sprinkle of fun, and maybe a sip of wine 🍷. Whether you’re going on a hiking date, laughing it up at comedy night, or strolling through winter wonderland, we’ve got your weekend covered! 🎉✨

Let’s dig in!

Weather

Sunrise 7:30 AM 🌞
Sunset 4:21 PM 🌙
Thursday Low 36 High 45 Cloudy ☁️
Friday Low 36 High 46 Cloudy ☁️
Saturday Low 35 High 47 Partial Cloudy ⛅️
Sunday Low 36 High 45 Partial Cloudy ⛅️

Live Music 🎸🎷

Friday

The Lime - Eden 9PM
the Grape Choice - Soul & Blues Music with Billy Brandt 5-8PM
Willows Lodge - Sarah Brunner 6-8:30PM
Northwest Spirits - Rocci Medawar 5-8PM
Patterson Cellars Woodinville - Kurt Lindsay 6-8PM
Vino Bella - The Dogtones 7:30PM

Saturday

The Lime - Nite Wave 9PM
Side Hustle Tap Room - Lindstrom and The Limit 8-10PM
Bake’s Place Bar and Bistro - Taylor Made : The Definitive James Taylor Tribute 7PM
Willows Lodge - The W Lovers 6-8:30PM
Patterson Cellars Woodinville - Kristin Marlo 6-8PM
Northwest Brewing Pint and Pie - 7-9PM
Blu Sardinia - Violin & Pan-Flute Night 6:30Pm
Vino Bella - Kabagiz 7:30PM

Sunday

Vino Bella - Michael Powers 6PM

Events

Thurday 🦃

Love & Hiking Date for Couples (Self-Guided) - Sammamish Area!

Looking for a date that’s a little more adventurous than dinner and a movie? Lace up your hiking boots and grab your partner for a romantic trek through Hazel Wolf Wetlands. This isn’t just a hike—it’s a self-guided date night adventure with activities designed to make your outing unforgettable!

Here’s the scoop: You’ll access a Digital Date Nite Box on your mobile device, which will guide you through fun challenges and prompts to keep the love and laughter flowing. It’s flexible, so you can enjoy it on your schedule—any time, any day. Think of it as a mini adventure, with a sprinkle of romance and a whole lot of fun!

Time: 1-5pm (or whenever you want!)
Location: Hazel Wolf Wetlands, 24733-24739 248th Ave SE, Sammamish, WA

More info Here

So grab your hiking buddy and make some memories surrounded by nature. Who knows? You might even find yourselves laughing over that muddy patch or snapping the perfect couple’s selfie!

Thanksgiving Dinner at Brown’s Stockyard Exchange

Put on your stretchy pants and get ready for a feast! Join us at Brown’s Stockyard Exchange for a warm, cozy Thanksgiving dinner that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance. From perfectly roasted turkey breast and garlic mashed potatoes to stuffing and sautéed green beans, this is comfort food at its finest. And let’s not forget the grand finale—a slice of signature pumpkin pie that’ll have you dreaming of seconds.

Feeling fancy? Pair your meal with our special Pomegranate Martini for $16—it’s like Thanksgiving in a glass!

• Adults: $33 per person

• Kids 12 and under: $16
  (Tax and service charge not included)

Time: 5:30-10pm
Location: Brown’s Stockyard Exchange, 7401 164th Ave NE, Redmond, WA

Make your reservation Here

Make this Thanksgiving one to remember with great food, great vibes, and no cleanup required. Bring the whole family, and we’ll save you a slice of pie! 🦃🥧

Trivia Night at Northwest Spirits

Think you’ve got what it takes to be the trivia champ? Grab your brainiest friends and head to Northwest Spirits for a night of drinks, laughs, and friendly competition! While you're flexing those trivia muscles, sip on amazing cocktails and snag some tasty to-go food from Von’s 1000Spirits right next door.

Here’s the deal:

• Happier Hour (6-8pm): $2 off all Northwest Spirits cocktails and 15% off Von’s to-go food.

• Trivia Time (7-8pm): The winning team takes home a prize and serious bragging rights!

So, rally your squad, come thirsty, and show off your smarts. Whether you're a trivia pro or just in it for the drinks, this is the place to be!

Time: 7-8pm (Happier Hour starts at 6pm!)
Location: Northwest Spirits, 15029 Redmond-Woodinville Rd NE #400, Woodinville, WA

More info Here

Don’t miss out on this fun-filled night of cocktails and cleverness. Trivia Night at Northwest Spirits is your ultimate Thanksgiving pick-me-up!

Friday

Visit a Washington state park without a discover pass today!

Comedy! A Funny Finish: Charles Hall Jr.

Need a good laugh? Charles Hall Jr. is here to save the day! Fresh off opening for Kevin Hart and Rob Schneider, Charles is bringing his sharp wit and hilarious insights to Woodinville for one night only. With a knack for turning life’s quirks into comedy gold, Charles delivers gut-busting laughs about everything from parenting to everyday life.

Having performed at legendary spots like The Comedy Store and The Laugh Factory, he’s no stranger to the big stage—and with over 60,000 followers and 2 million likes on social media, he’s definitely one to watch. Oh, and did we mention he was named one of Spokane’s Funniest Comedians in 2021? Yeah, he’s kind of a big deal.

Time: 7-9pm
Location: Warr-King Wines, 19501 144th Avenue Northeast #D700, Woodinville, WA

More info Here

This is your chance to see a rising comedy star up close—and sip some wine while you’re at it. Don’t miss out on a night of laughs that’ll leave you grinning long after the last punchline! 🍷😂

Wine Tasting & Bingo w/ Your Dog!

B-I-N-G-O and wine was the name-o! Bring your pup and your best bingo skills to Pickles Playland for a paw-some evening of fun, laughter, and fine wine. While your furry friend enjoys playtime with other dogs, you’ll sip on a variety of wines and even take a mini wine class with the one and only Robert! It’s the perfect night out for dog lovers and wine enthusiasts alike.

The Details:

• Humans: Must be 21+

• Dogs: All ages and sizes welcome! Just make sure they’re vaccinated, friendly, and ready to play quietly.

Time: 7-8:30pm
Location: Pickles Playland, 2225 Carillon Point, Kirkland, WA
Cost: $10/person (parking included—validate in the lobby!)

More info Here

Whether you win at bingo or just enjoy the company of your pup and a good glass of wine, this event is sure to leave tails wagging and glasses clinking. Don’t miss it! 🍷🐾

Snowflake Lane Opens

Let it snow, let it glow, let the holiday magic flow! Experience the wonder of Snowflake Lane, where sparkling lights, festive tunes, and toy drummers transform the streets into a winter wonderland. Watch the nightly parade of dazzling floats, dancers, and even a snowfall that’ll make you feel like you’re in a holiday movie.

The Details:

• When: Every night at 7pm

• Where: Bellevue Square, Bellevue Way NE (between NE 4th and NE 8th Streets)

• Cost: Free!

Pro Tip: Park in one of The Bellevue Collection’s free parking garages and grab your favorite viewing spot along the parade route early—it’s a magical experience you won’t want to miss!

More info Here

Saturday

Historically Hip Artisan Market

Shopping for unique, handmade gifts has never been so chic—or so much fun! The Historically Hip Artisan Market is back, bringing together talented local artisans and their one-of-a-kind creations. From leather handbags and cashmere scarves to paper art, candles, and custom jewelry, you’ll find something special for everyone on your list (and maybe a little something for yourself).

Here’s just a taste of what you can expect:

• Handcrafted wood ornaments and glassware

• Cozy wool items and luxurious body oils

• Beautiful paintings, books, and greeting cards

Whether you’re hunting for the perfect holiday gift or just want to stroll through an inspiring market filled with creativity, this is the place to be.

Time: 11am-4pm
Location: Pickles Playland, 95 Front St N and No. 96 Front St N, Issaquah, WA

More info Here

Get ready to support local artists and discover treasures that are as unique as the people you’re shopping for. Don’t miss this hip and happening holiday market! 🎁✨

Redmond Eagles 3rd Annual Winter Craft Fair

Skip the big-box stores this Small Business Saturday and head to the Redmond Eagles Winter Craft Fair instead! Support talented local vendors while browsing an array of handmade crafts, unique treasures, and holiday goodies. From festive décor to thoughtful gifts, you’ll find something for everyone on your list—and maybe a little something for yourself too.

Time: 10am-5pm
Location: Avondale Juel Park, 11440 Avondale Road Northeast, Redmond, WA
Cost: Free and open to the public!

More info Here

Tree Lighting and Holiday Sing-a-long

Start the holiday season off right with a magical evening at Novelty Hill Farm’s Annual Tree Lighting & Holiday Sing-a-Long! Step into the charm of 1930s barns and cozy up with warm drinks, delicious tamales, and gooey s’mores around the bonfire. Take a stroll through the Holiday Market filled with incredible creations by local artisans—perfect for finding unique gifts for everyone on your list!

The main event? Santa himself will lead the countdown to the grand tree lighting. Once the tree is aglow, head to the Hay Mow for a spirited holiday sing-a-long, featuring the talented choir and band members from Cedarcrest High School and Tolt Middle School. It’s the perfect way to spread some holiday cheer!

Time: 5:00-7:30pm
Location: Novelty Hill Farm, 26610-26620 Northeast 124th Street, 242nd Ave NE Private Dr, Duvall, WA

More info Here

Sunday

Garden d’Lights

Step into a world of whimsy and wonder at the Bellevue Botanical Garden’s Garden d’Lights! With over half a million sparkling lights, this dazzling display transforms the garden into a magical winter wonderland. Watch as plants, flowers, birds, animals, and even cascading waterfalls come to life in vibrant colors and creative designs, all set against the natural beauty of the garden.

Time: 4:30-9:30pm
Location: Bellevue Botanical Garden, 12001 Main St, Bellevue, WA

More info Here

Don’t miss this enchanting holiday tradition. It’s a breathtaking experience that’s sure to light up your night and fill you with festive cheer! ✨🌸

Historically Hip Author Fair

Calling all book lovers! The Historically Hip Local Author Fair (HHLAF) is your chance to discover amazing new reads and support talented local authors. Hosted by the Downtown Issaquah Association, the Issaquah Library, and the Friends of Issaquah Library, this one-day event features books for all ages—adults, teens, and kids—in a wide range of genres.

Whether you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift or just need some cozy winter reading, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here. Meet the authors, hear their stories, and take home a signed copy of your next favorite book!

Time: Noon-3pm
Location: The Issaquah Library, 10 W. Sunset Way, and the Masonic Lodge, Issaquah WA

More info Here

This free event is perfect for readers of all ages. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to celebrate local talent and find your next page-turner! 📚✨

Trivia

What year did Issaquah officially change its name from Gilman?

Answer to last week: 1963

That’s it for this week. I hope you have a great Turkey Day. Get out and about after the inevitable food coma! If you enjoyed the newsletter, use the button above to share it with a friend. See ya next week!

P.S.
If you have event you want me to know about, send an email to: [email protected]