Events
Spring Walk n Wag
FLSSP is excited to host our 8th annual Walk n Wag event – the largest dog party on the Eastside! This year will be a fun event for the whole family with a 3K walk, Doggie Village with vendors and activities, pet show, and more. We can't wait to see all the wonderful dogs and their friends and families at Spring Walk ‘n’ Wag!
Thank you to our presenting sponsor Bellevue Veterinary Emergency and Specialty!
Event Schedule
10am 3k Walk Begins
11:15 am Flying Aces Dog Training Nose Work Demo
11:30 am Doggie Costume Contest
12:30 pm Puppy Yoga
**Please Note: Puppy yogs will include all adoptable puppies from the Resilient Hearts Rescue, but does not allow outside dogs**
FLSSP would also like to thank our additional sponsors Alpine Animal Hospital and The Grange Supply
All proceeds from this tail-wagging event go toward the FLSSP general fund to support programming, projects and amenities at Lake Sammamish State Park. Over the course of last year, proceeds from our FLSSP hosted events helped restore 2.5 acres of the park, planting of over 150 trees, replacement of 8 shade trees, and much more. We welcome additional donations at time of registration that will be directed to our Park Improvement Fund specifically allocating monies toward trail maintenance, improving accessibility, and working on restoring Lake Sammamish State Park lands. We are so grateful for our community’s support for FLSSP events through registration.
May Restoration Event
FLSSP will be removing invasive species and planting native species (live stakes) at Bat Box Meadow as our first restoration event of 2026
June Restoration Event
FLSSP will be removing invasive species and planting native species (live stakes) at Bat Box Meadow as our first restoration event of 2026
Lakeside Lectures: Night of the Living Blackberries
Is it a horror movie or is it just blackberries?!
Why do we have so many blackberries at the park? Can I eat the blackberries you see at the park?
Have you ever asked these or any other questions about the Himalayan Blackberries so ubiquitous at Lake Sammamish State Park and in many areas of the Pacific Northwest. Join us for the next Lakeside Lecture event on August 5 to answer these questions and many more!
Lakeside Lectures: Pavement and Plucky Girls: 1920’s Tales From Washington’s First Highway
Travel 1920s Washington State along one of the first modern highways—the Yellowstone Trail—which ran from here to Massachusetts. Along the way, meet the people and places grappling with the dizzying changes this new innovation brought.
From the young people who gained new freedoms—including the women who stunned Pullman by driving without a male escort, to the bootleggers, bachelors, and flappers who drove, walked, and hitchhiked the newfangled road. Join educator Teresa Andre for a series of fascinating stories that lay at the dawn of our car-obsessed culture.
Bonus Lakeside Lecture: Mountains to Sound Earth Day!
Join us this Earth Day for a free evening at Lake Sammamish State Park as we reflect on the biggest restoration project in the park’s history, completed just last summer after more than a decade of planning. We’ll share how lower Issaquah Creek has responded to its first winter and what we’re learning as this living system continues to evolve. The evening will feature the debut of a new project video (see the trailer here), along with a short presentation, Q&A, food, and a guided walking tour.
Come out to enjoy a beautiful spring evening, meet fellow community members, and learn how you can get involved in local restoration efforts this season. Plus, it’s a Discover Pass free day, so park entrance is on us!
Please arrive between 5-5:30 to enjoy food and beverages and mingle with other guests. The program will begin at 5:30, with walking tours departing from the Meadow Shelter around 6 p.m.
Gathering Abundance Series: Reed Canary Grass Paper
Reed Canary Grass Paper Making
Crafters and conservationists alike will love this habitat restoration meets art class. We will start out by learning about the ecosystem impacts of invasive Reed Canary Grass, get our feet wet with a little habitat restoration work, and then turn this weed into beautiful hand-made paper. Participants will go home with one or more pages of handmade stationary and the satisfaction of knowing they are promoting healthier aquatic habitat at Tibbetts Creek.
Class size is limited to 20 people
April Restoration Event
FLSSP will be removing invasive species and planting native species (live stakes) at Bat Box Meadow as our first restoration event of 2026
Lakeside Lectures: Bats! Bats! Bats!
Bernice Tannenbaum is a wildlife biologist and board member of Bats Northwest, a non-profit group dedicated to the conservation of bats in the Pacific Northwest and public outreach concerning this fascinating and ecologically important group of animals. She completed her doctoral work at Cornell University with studies of social behavior of bats and has spent her professional career as an environmental scientist working on projects involving a variety of wildlife species and their habitats in the Pacific Northwest. She leads Bats Northwest projects in collaboration with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Woodland Park Zoo, and other groups to document the status of bat species in our region. Her program tonight introduces the audience to bat biology, bat species' needs and threats, and the role of bats in the Pacific Northwest ecosystem.
Bats Northwest is a nonprofit organization formed in 1996 by scientists, educators, and interested lay people to help protect Pacific Northwest bat populations through education and research. We envision a future where the essential role of bats is understood, where the public recognizes the vital place of bats in our environment and economy, and where all are inspired by bats’ remarkable attributes and invaluable contribution to our natural heritage.
Spring into Adventure
Spring into Adventure, the Lake Sammamish Outdoor Festival will be hosted on March 28th at Lake Sammamish State Park in Issaquah. Spring into Adventure: Lake Sammamish Outdoor festival will be a great way to encourage our community to get outside this Spring and to enjoy what Lake Sammamish State Park and everything our surrounding community has to offer.
Wand Making with Wicked Rae’s all day
Enjoy a scavenger hunt all around the event!
Walk through immersive art installation using recycled materials from Republic Services
Explore over 40+ vendors exploring all the types of ways to get outside!
10:30am Yoga with Sammamish Kids Yoga (class size limited to 30, included in Class Pass $5 donation avaliable at Registration)
11am Forest Bathing with Casacade Forest Therapy (class size limited to 30, included in Class Pass $5 donation avaliable at Registration
12pm Colored Pencil Class with Ekta Gupta (class size limited to 12)
Last year, Spring into Adventure raised money for 2 water bottle filling stations at Sunset and Tibbetts Beach. We would like to raise money for a final station at the Meadow Shelter.
March Restoration Event
FLSSP will be removing invasive species and planting native species (live stakes) at Bat Box Meadow as our first restoration event of 2026
FLSSP and Art Commons Present: The Fallow Season, a Creative Summit
This Creative Summit will include a social hour, show and tell, a facilitated group meditation ritual, and a thought-provoking panel discussion around the theme of “The Fallow Season.” We will together explore the purpose of dormancy, the psychological experience of inaction, and the ways that art and life can flow from such spaces.
Gathering Abundance Series: Balm of Gilead
Balm of Gilead- Make a Salve
Nature lovers, families, plant enthusiasts, and people who want to learn more about traditional medicines will all love this hands-on class where we will learn about Balm of Gilead salve, identification of cottonwood/poplar trees, and make an infused poplar oil. Participants will go home with infused poplar bud oil, a recipe to make their own Balm of Gilead, and knowledge about the medicinal properties of poplar buds and sustainable harvesting practices. A finished jar of Balm of Gilead will be available for purchase.
Lakeside Lectures: Secrets of Lake Sammamish Geology
Unlike many regions in the country, the greater Seattle area is constantly reminded of its geologic past, present, and future. Whether it is our landslides, our glacier-carved topography, or our volatile volcanoes, this area’s geologic history is young, dynamic, and accessible. In this talk, I will explain why we can blame California for some of our geo hazards, how coal influenced economic development, and what people were doing along the lake more than 12,500 years.
David B. Williams is an author, naturalist, and tour guide whose award-winning books include Homewaters: A Human and Natural History of Puget Sound and Too High and Too Steep: Reshaping Seattle’s Topography, as well as Seattle Walks: Discovering History and Nature in the City. His newest book, Wild in Seattle: Stories at the Crossroads of People and Nature is a best of collection from his free weekly Substack newsletter, the Street Smart Naturalist.
Light food and beverage will be available for registered guest.
We are looking forward to having you join us for a discussion of art and representation at Lake Sammamish State Park!
Polar Plunge 2026
Make a splash New Year’s Day at Polar Plunge at Lake Sammamish State Park!
Special “Early Bird” pricing only in effect until December 5! Prices will go up after December 5th.
Polar Plunge returns on New Year’s Day 2026. Festivities will begin at 10:30 a.m. with registration, music, and merriment on the shores of Sunset Beach. The crowd will “plunge” at noon.
The first 50 registered participants will receive a Polar Plunge commemorative pin from local company Pins by Design..
Spectators are welcome to come out to cheer on the athletes as they take a dunk in the chilly waters of Lake Sammamish.
Schedule for the Plunge:
Registration and Plunge HQ opens 10:30
First Day Hikes
Yoga
Costume Contest
Plunge at 12:00
Please dress for the weather and bring water shoes and/or socks.
Visitors will not need a Discover Pass to park at Lake Sammamish State Park.
All proceeds from FLSSP events go to support programs, restoration, and activities at Lake Sammamish State Park.
Winter Wreath Workshop
Celebrate the winter months with FLSSP by creating festive wreaths using local items!
Join local florist Mary Beth St Pierre, who will instruct you in creating a wreath- and you can take it home at the end!
Indoor Yoga Nov 16
Join us for yoga this fall! We will either be at Sunset Beach or the Meadow Shelter- either way we will be protected from the elements!
No matter the location, we will be protected from the weather while still enjoying the park!
November Restoration Event
FLSSP will be removing invasive species and planting native species at 3 sites around Lake Sammamish State Park this fall, including Bat Box Meadow, the Sunset Beach rain gardens and the boat launch area.
Lakeside Lectures: Your Story of Indigenous Representation through the Lens of Art
Join Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park, UWRP, WA State Parks, Eighth Generation, the Snoqualmie Tribe and local artists Bethany Fackrell, Jessica Towns-Camara, Jennifer Angaiak Wood and moderated by Divya Rajan.
Bethany Fackrell (https://bethanyfackrellart.myportfolio.com/about-me) is a Snoqualmie tribal member and is very active in the park- she designed several of the acoustic panels in the Meadow Shelter. She is the owner of a company called Tradish-ish and will also be teaching a fry bread workshop at the park this November.
Jessica Towns-Camara (https://bougiealutiiq.bigcartel.com/) is a local artist of Sugpiaq/Alutiiq, Yup'ik, and Scotch-Irish heritage who comes from us via the Burke Museum, where she has been a speaker and presenter. Jessica creates jewelry and I am very excited to welcome her to the FLSSP community!
Jennifer Angaiak Wood (https://yupikjen.com/) carves masks following the traditions of her family from Tununak, AK, on the coast of the Bering Sea. Using contemporary materials, she uses her art as a way to connect with her Yup'ik heritage and bring a little bit of Yup'ik history into the modern world
Divya Rajan (https://epiphanysutra.com/) is going to serve as our moderator. Divya comes to us via the Issaquah Open Studio tour and is a storyteller and group leader. She has run several large theater workshops in the past, and we are really lucky to have her leading the discussions.
Light food and beverage will be available for registered guest.
We are looking forward to having you join us for a discussion of art and representation at Lake Sammamish State Park!
Salmon Sleuths
Dust off your sleuthing skills because salmon watching season may not be over! While you may be watching the larger population of salmon entering Issaquah creek right now, a smaller population of Kokanee salmon migrate up Laughing Jacob Creek through Lake Sammamish State Park.
Fry Bread Workshop
The purpose of this workshop is to connect with our local communities and spread the joy of native food making; all while sharing its history and cultural backgrounds (including ours as Snoqualmie Tribal members).
Make Fall Leaf Art with Robot Mom and FLSSP
Join us for a hands-on class where you’ll create beautiful botanical magnets using native pressed leaves and flowers! Amy Handy, of Robot Mom Creations, will guide you through arranging your pressed botanicals into custom cut wood frames and sealing them in UV resin for a vibrant, lasting finish. Perfect for beginners and nature lovers alike, this project combines creativity and the beauty of the Pacific Northwest!
Yoga Oct 19
Join us for yoga this fall! We will either be at Sunset Beach or the Meadow Shelter- location TBD
Mermaid Lunalee Storytime
Something fishy is swimming our way and it's not salmon! Mermaid Lunalee is splashing her way to Lake Sammamish State Park to read her favorite books about some very important friends and share her adventures around our freshwater watershed! Join Mermaid Lunalee at the Rotunda Shelter at Lake Sammamish State Park on October 18, 2025 for a mystical afternoon!
Lunalee is a mermaid taking up residence in our freshwater lakes, often found exploring different watersheds of Washington State and sharing her findings with friends in her community! Although she originated from the sea she is fascinated with the connections between land and sea, after all, all water is connected!
October Restoration Event
FLSSP will be removing invasive species and planting native species at 3 sites around Lake Sammamish State Park this fall, including Bat Box Meadow, the Sunset Beach rain gardens and the boat launch area.
Find Art While Walking
Join Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park as we learn how to find art while walking…even if you don’t think you’re an artist!
Led by local fiber artist and author Janice King, this easy walk will explore both natural and man-made elements for art images. You will see familiar things in new ways and make new discoveries that will increase your enjoyment of any nature walk.
Suitable for adults and children age 10 and older. No experience required; just bring your curiosity. Capture interesting visuals with your phone camera or a quick sketch (limited sketching supplies available). We won’t have time to finish any art, but a group show and share of inspirations at the walk’s end will help everyone see the range of artistic possibilities.
Walk leader Janice King is a fiber artist whose work focuses on the natural elements of the Pacific Northwest, especially our native trees. She is also author of the local guidebook Eastside Seattle Walks, which covers easy walking routes in each Eastside community that feature nature, history and public art.
Space is limited; reserve your spot now!
EQUINOX SOUND BATH @ SUNSET BEACH
Event Rescheduled!
SOUND BATH @ SUNSET BEACH: A Unique Lakeside Wellness Experience
Collaborating artists Katrina Surdi of Kami Soul Healing and Nate Jorgenson of Om with Nate will guide you through an evening of resonant vibrations, creating a serene space for deep relaxation while overlooking Lake Sammamish. This is a special chance to reconnect with yourself and the profound beauty of nature through an immersive sound experience.
Bring your towel, mat, or chair and simply be present.
Join us at the Sunset Beach area near the concession stand.
Please note: A Discovery Pass is required for park entry. One-day and annual passes are available for purchase at https://store.discoverpass.wa.gov/
September Restoration Event
FLSSP will be removing invasive species and planting native species at 3 sites around Lake Sammamish State Park this fall, including Bat Box Meadow, the Sunset Beach rain gardens and the boat launch area.
Issaquah Open Studio Tour 2025
Join Friends of Lake Sammamish State Park in hosting 3 local artists as part of the Issaquah Open Studio Tour 2025!
FLSSP is hosting 3 local artists as part of the Issaquah Open Studio Tour. Learn more about the larger tour around Issaquah, please visit the site here.
Visit the Meadow Shelter at Lake Sammamish State Park to meet and learn more about the art of:
September 6 Boot Camp Class
Get ready to sweat at Lake Sammamish State Park!
FLSSP is continuing our Healthy Habits Summer Series with boot camp classes being brought to you by Kutting Edge Fitness. We will be preparing our bodies for our next outdoor adventure in a fun and social atmosphere. Never sweat alone!
All fitness levels are welcome as we will adjust the exercises for all levels.
SOUND BATH @ SUNSET BEACH
Event Rescheduled!
SOUND BATH @ SUNSET BEACH: A Unique Lakeside Wellness Experience
Collaborating artists Katrina Surdi of Kami Soul Healing and Nate Jorgenson of Om with Nate will guide you through an evening of resonant vibrations, creating a serene space for deep relaxation while overlooking Lake Sammamish. This is a special chance to reconnect with yourself and the profound beauty of nature through an immersive sound experience.
Bring your towel, mat, or chair and simply be present.
Join us at the Sunset Beach area near the concession stand.
Please note: A Discovery Pass is required for park entry. One-day and annual passes are available for purchase at https://store.discoverpass.wa.gov/
