The Seattle Yacht Club Opening Day 2026 is a beloved maritime celebration taking place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, with festivities running from before sunrise through late evening. This year’s theme is “World Regatta,” announced by the 2026 Opening Day Trio: Admiral Mark Holden, Admiralette Yvonne Werner, and Vice Admiral Kit Purdy.

The event features a spectacular boat parade beginning at noon through the Montlake Cut, showcasing creatively decorated vessels ranging from rowboats to tugboats and Coast Guard cutters. Families traditionally line the waterway to enjoy the colorful procession, which has been a Pacific Northwest tradition dating back to 1911. The parade marks the official start of the boating season for yacht clubs throughout Puget Sound.

Participating vessels must register by April 30, 2026, and display official 2026 Opening Day boat numbers. Boats are organized into different classes, with judges awarding prizes for the best watercraft in each category. The event also includes the Windermere Cup crew races, live music from university marching bands aboard floating yachts, and various festivities at the Seattle Yacht Club located at 1807 E Hamlin Street in Seattle.