Anchors Down at Lake Union.

From September 11 though 15, a water-centric extravaganza takes over South Lake Union. Here, attendees get to dream of perhaps one day owning their own vessel—whether a majestic sailboat, an itty-bitty kayak or a palatial yacht. Boats Afloat opens Wednesday at 11 a.m. and continues into the evening with tropical-theme festivities that take place from 4 to 8 p.m.; expect entertainment by Aloha Island Treasures (Hawaiian music and dance), pupus, wine tasting and, with any kind of luck, a pastel sunset fit for paradise.