Every year in June, Seattle’s Fremont Solstice Parade 2025 brings the city’s most artistic, eccentric, and colorful energy to life. Hosted by the Fremont Arts Council, this beloved event isn’t just a parade—it’s a moving piece of art. From body-painted cyclists to giant puppets and elaborate costumes, the Fremont Solstice Parade celebrates freedom of expression, community creativity, and fun.
Here’s everything you need to know about Fremont Solstice Parade 2025—including its start time, what makes it so unusual, and the specific rules that keep it special.
What Time is the Fremont Solstice Parade 2025?
The Fremont Solstice Parade 2025 will take place on Saturday, June 21, 2025. The parade begins at 1:00 PM, but if you want the full experience, you’ll want to arrive earlier.
When do the naked cyclists ride?
One of the most iconic (and eye-catching) features of the parade is the Solstice Cyclists—a large group of nude or body-painted riders who kick things off with a vibrant prelude. They typically begin rolling out around 12:45 PM, with many starting their ride from Gas Works Park or nearby meetup spots around 12:30 PM.
What Makes the Fremont Solstice Parade So Unusual?
Seattle has many festivals, but none like the Fremont Solstice Parade. Here’s what makes it stand out:
1. Nude, Body-Painted Cyclists
What began as a streaker rebellion in the early ’90s has become the signature of the parade. Dozens—sometimes hundreds—of riders cover themselves in creative body paint and ride their bikes nude through the streets. It’s a joyful, body-positive celebration of freedom, art, and summer.
2. No Words, No Logos, No Commercialization
Unlike traditional parades, this event bans printed words, corporate logos, and signage. Participants must convey their messages through visual art—like puppets, costumes, or theatrical performance. This makes the parade refreshingly raw and artistic.
3. Powered by the Community
Everything you see in the parade is created by volunteers and local artists. No big brands. No paid floats. Just people coming together to express, dance, and create something magical.
4. Motor-Free Magic
The parade strictly prohibits motorized vehicles (with the exception of mobility aids). This keeps the event eco-friendly and intimate, with a whimsical, almost dreamlike atmosphe
Rules for Participants: What You Need to Know
The Fremont Solstice Parade has a set of unique rules to preserve its artistic integrity and community feel. Whether you’re a cyclist, performer, or first-time spectator, here are the core guidelines:
General Fremont Solstice Parade 2025 Rules
- Everyone can participate – artists, dancers, performers, puppeteers, and families.
- No printed words or logos – Art must speak for itself.
- No motorized vehicles – Electric wheelchairs are allowed.
- No live animals – Service animals are permitted.
- No real weapons – Props are okay if they’re obviously fake.
- Respectful behavior – Especially around families and children.
Rules for Nude Cyclists
- Body paint encouraged, but not required.
- No reckless riding or stunts.
- No touching spectators – especially children. No alcohol or drug use before or during the ride.
- Be respectful of other cyclists and parade ensembles.
- Do not interfere with official parade groups.
Tip: If you’re cycling, plan to join the informal ride group earlier in the day. Bring paint, towels, water, and respect for the space.
Fremont Solstice Parade 2025 Route
The 2025 parade kicks off at 3rd Ave NW and Leary Way, continues along 36th Street, then turns right on N 35th Street, and finishes near the Fremont Rocket and the Seattle Art Cars display inside the Fremont Fair.
Start: 3rd & Leary Way
Along: 36th Street
Turn on: N 35th Street
End: Near Fremont Rocket & Art Cars
What to Expect
This year’s parade features more than 60 community-based ensembles, bringing you a kaleidoscope of:
- Giant puppets
- Human-powered floats
- Stilt walkers & dancers
- Body-painted cyclists
- Musicians and drummers
It’s a high-energy, people-powered celebration of art, freedom, and summer in the city!
Planning to Watch the Parade?
Here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:
- Arrive Early: Secure a prime viewing spot along the new parade route—it fills up quickly!
- Bring your camera: You’ll want to capture the art, costumes, and energy (but ask permission before photographing people close-up).
- Dress for sun: Hats, sunscreen, and water are essential!
- Expect the unexpected: From flamingo-themed floats to dancing trees—you’ll see it all.
Best Places to Watch the Parade
Want a good view? Try these popular spots along the parade route:
- Fremont Avenue North: The heart of the action.
- 35th Street & Evanston Ave: Great for photos.
- North 36th Street Bridge: Elevated views for amazing pictures.
- Gas Works Park: Ideal for catching the cyclists before they head out.
Arrive by 11:30 AM to grab a good spot—especially near the start of the parade where the body-painted cyclists roll through.
How to Join the Parade
You don’t have to be a professional artist to participate. You can:
- Join a community art ensemble through the Fremont Arts Council.
- Volunteer to help build floats or puppets.
- Ride with the Solstice Cyclists (details usually posted in early June).
- Bring your own costume, props, and positive energy!
Keep an eye on the Fremont Arts Council’s official website for updates and ensemble registration details.
Why It’s Worth Attending
The Fremont Solstice Parade is more than just a quirky Seattle tradition—it’s a celebration of:
- Freedom of expression
- Community creativity
- Art without boundaries
- Joyous summer energy
Whether you’re a participant or a spectator, this event offers an unforgettable experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Fremont Solstice Fair & Parade Schedule
Saturday, June 21 & Sunday, June 22, 2025
Enjoy live music, artistic celebration, and community vibes all weekend long at the Fremont Fair 2025!
Saturday, June 21, 2025
| ⏰ Time | 🎤 Performance/Activity | 📍 Stage/Location |
|---|---|---|
| 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM | Bad Honey | Kona Big Wave Music Stage |
| 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM | Harper Conspiracy | Reyka Vodka Music Stage |
| 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM | 🚲 Fremont Solstice Parade | Through Fremont neighborhood |
| 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM | Mr. Pink | Kona Big Wave Music Stage |
| 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM | 90s Rewind | Reyka Vodka Music Stage |
| 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM | Joyla Red | Kona Big Wave Music Stage |
| 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM | Mass Fergason | Reyka Vodka Music Stage |
| 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Jaws of Brooklyn | Kona Big Wave Music Stage |
| 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM | waltzerr | Reyka Vodka Music Stage |
Sunday, June 22, 2025
Continue the weekend of creativity and celebration with a full day of music, art, and paws-on fun!
Sunday Events & Performances
| Time | Performance / Event | Stage / Location |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM | 🧘♀️ Sunday Solstice Yoga (Free session led by Raiza de Vera) | Kona Big Wave Music Stage |
| 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 🎶 No Monaco | Kona Big Wave Music Stage |
| 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | 🎶 Monamor | Reyka Vodka Music Stage |
| 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | 🎶 Moving in Slow | Kona Big Wave Music Stage |
| 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | 🎶 Old Coast | Reyka Vodka Music Stage |
| 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | 🐾 Sunday Dog Parade (Presented by Just Food for Dogs) | Reyka Vodka Music Stage (starts near parade route) |
| 2:00 PM – 3:15 PM | 🎶 JUL!ET | Kona Big Wave Music Stage |
| 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM | 🎶 The Deacon Raleigh St. James Band | Reyka Vodka Music Stage |
| 3:45 PM – 5:15 PM | 🎶 Love Visa | Kona Big Wave Music Stage |
Final Thoughts
The Fremont Solstice Parade 2025 promises to be bold, beautiful, and refreshingly weird—as always. From naked cyclists to puppet-powered storytelling, it embodies the creative soul of Seattle.
So grab your sunscreen, wear your brightest outfit (or no outfit at all), and head to Fremont for a solstice celebration like no other.
Fremont Solstice Parade 2025 – FAQs
The parade kicks off at 1:00 PM on Saturday, June 21, 2025. However, the iconic body-painted nude cyclists usually begin riding around 12:45 PM.
It features body-painted nude cyclists, no motorized vehicles, and a strict rule against printed words or commercial logos. The focus is on pure artistic expression, freedom, and community-powered creativity.
- No printed words, logos, or signage
- No motorized vehicles (except mobility aids)
- No live animals, except service animals
- No real or functional weapons
- Artistic, non-commercial, community-focused participation only
Yes! Anyone can join. Just show up early with body paint or artistic flair. Participants must be respectful, sober, and ride safely. The ride is about joyful, non-sexual artistic freedom.
Yes. While it includes nude cyclists, the atmosphere is respectful and non-sexual. Many families attend the event and enjoy the creative energy and performances.
The parade runs through the heart of Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood, primarily along North 36th Street and Fremont Avenue. The best viewing areas are near the Fremont Bridge and the start near Leary Way.
Yes, photography is allowed. However, always be respectful—especially when photographing individuals, particularly the cyclists. Avoid taking photos of anyone without their permission.
