Seattle Naturalists’ Event Roundup: January 5th to January 11, 2026
Your Guide to Seattle-Area Nature Events from local organizations:
The first full week of January is packed with bird outings in and around Seattle, a late-night winter low tide, stargazing with Jupiter at opposition, and even a comet reaching peak brightness. Whether you’re easing back into routine with a morning bird walk, staying up late for intertidal exploring, or heading out after dark for astronomy, there’s something for every pace this week.
As always, check event pages for updates, weather conditions, and registration details before heading out.
Monday, January 5
Neighborhood Bird Outing: Montlake / Portage Bay
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Organization: Birds Connect
Location: 1618 E Calhoun St, Seattle, WA 98112
Description: Explore the waterways and shoreline habitats of Montlake and Portage Bay on a relaxed, beginner-friendly neighborhood bird walk.
Tuesday, January 6
Low Tide for Tidepooling
Time: 12:15 AM
Tide Height: -2.12 ft
Description: A very late-night winter low tide. Bundle up, bring a red-light headlamp, and enjoy the quiet shoreline if you’re up late.
Wednesday, January 7
Bird Walk at Juanita Bay Park
Time: 7:50 AM – 10:30 AM
Organization: Eastside Audubon
Registration: Not required
Link: https://www.eastsideaudubon.org/calendar/2026/1/7/nbtu7anh3jjyka9uuwt3lk1r1207fc
Description: A classic winter birding destination with chances for waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds.
Neighborhood Bird Outing: Union Bay Natural Area
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Organization: Birds Connect
Location: 3501 NE 41st St, Seattle, WA 98195
Description: Discover the rich birdlife of Union Bay’s wetlands and shoreline habitats.
Birds of Seattle – Lunch & Learn
Time: 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM
Organization: Birds Connect
Location: Birds Connect Seattle HQ, 616 Olive Way, Seattle, WA 98101
Description: A short, midday learning session perfect for a lunch break—no field gear required.
Adventure Speaker Series: Carolyn Driedger – New Views of Mount Rainier
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Organization: The Mountaineers (Olympia Branch)
Registration: Required
Link: https://www.mountaineers.org/locations-lodges/olympia-branch/events/adventure-speaker-series-2-2026-01-07
Description: An evening talk exploring Mount Rainier through science, storytelling, and changing perspectives.
Astronomy Highlight:
Comet 24P/Schaumasse – Peak Brightness
Description: A celestial treat for astronomy enthusiasts—visibility will depend on conditions and equipment.
Thursday, January 8
Neighborhood Bird Outing: Olympic Sculpture Park & Myrtle Edwards Park
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Organization: Birds Connect
Location: Paccar Pavilion, 2901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
Description: Urban birding along the waterfront with sweeping views and diverse habitats.
Saturday, January 10
Neighborhood Bird Outing: Juanita Bay Park (Young Adults <40)
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Organization: Birds Connect
Location: 2201 Market St, Kirkland, WA 98033
Description: A social bird walk designed for young adults, blending birding with community.
Paramount Park Stargazing
Time: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Organization: Seattle Astronomical Society
Location: Paramount Park, 15300 8th Ave NE, Shoreline, WA 98155
Description: Stargazing night featuring Jupiter at opposition, offering excellent viewing conditions.
Sunday, January 11
Neighborhood Bird Outing: Marymoor Park
Time: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Organization: Birds Connect
Location: Lot G, 6046 West Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE, Redmond, WA 98052
Field Trip: Westcrest Park
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Organization: Birds Connect
Location: 8658 9th Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98106
Children’s Neighborhood Bird Outing: Seward Park
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Organization: Birds Connect
Location: Seward Park Nature Center, 5902 Lake Washington Blvd S, Seattle, WA 98118
Description: A kid-friendly introduction to birds and nature.
Neighborhood Bird Outing: Discovery Park
Time: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Organization: Birds Connect
Description: Explore forest, meadow, and shoreline habitats in Seattle’s largest park.
Sensory-Friendly Hours – Pacific Science Center
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Admission: Free (reserve tickets online)
Link: https://pacificsciencecenter.org/events/sensory-hours/
Description: A welcoming, low-sensory environment for families and individuals seeking a calmer museum experience.
Photo By Madison Kirkman, Aurora from Lincoln Park in Seattle, WA