Wonderful ways to ring in the first month of 2019

As we all ease our way back into routines and deadlines, we’re keeping our eyes on the bright spots of the season. We’ve gathered a few feel-good ways to invest your time and energy in the month ahead.  

LEND A HELPING HAND

Find ways to give back through organizations like World Relief Seattle, with opportunities that allow interested Seattleites to welcome and build transformational relationships with refugees, asylees and immigrants. The International Rescue Committee is another great place to donate or look for volunteer opportunities right here in the Seattle office.

GET YOUR CULTURE ON

At SoDo’s Adventure Hub, join Explorer X and photographer Art Wolfe next Thursday, January 10, for The Greatest Maasai Mara Photographer of the Year Exhibition & Fundraiser. The evening transports attendees to Kenya and Tanzania, thanks to world-class photography judged by Art Wolfe. Bid on 30 award-winning images and a trip to Africa in a Silent Auction, and mingle with special guests from Angama Mara. (All proceeds benefit the Angama Foundation in the Maasai Mara.) Tickets cost $40; parking is free, and tasty wine from on-site Elsom Cellars is available for purchase.

When it comes to this month’s live music roundup, we’re most excited for the Fruit Bats’ return to Tractor Tavern on Friday, January 18. Other shows coming to that Ballard venue this month include The Yawpers and Blackfoot Gypsies (January 17) and Lyle with Kathleen Murray and Maltby (January 27).

In other happy news: Tickets are now on sale for Pickathon 2019 (if these short days have you peeking ahead to summertime!), “Dear Evan Hansen” takes over The Paramount Theatre from January 23 through February 2, and the Timbrrr! Winter Music Festival returns to lovely Leavenworth January 25 and 26.

EXPAND YOUR PALATE

Plenty of new offerings are spicing up our food scene this winter, too. For example, feast at Capitol Hill’s Poppy during Thali Tuesdays; the slightly tweaked deal now includes a Thali for two plus eggplant fries OR a dessert (for just $35). They’ve also just rolled out a clever Resolution Drink Menu full of delicious mocktails, ideal for those taking part in “Dry January.”

Or, try out recently-opened eateries like downtown’s inviting The Hart and The Hunter, where can’t-miss Southern temptations range from the buttery biscuits, po’boys and Hot Chicken Sandwiches to unexpected stars like their hearty Grain Salad and Smoked Local Salmon Board. And stay tuned for many more local opening reviews in the months to come…!

Wherever you find yourself in the month to come, we sure do hope it’s a good one.