Salmon Story: Past, Present, and Future - October 25, 2026 at Third Place Commons

Save the Date- October 25

Climate Conversation about Salmon in our Streams

Sunday, October 25, 2026, 4-6 pm at Third Place Commons

upper level Town Center LFP, intersection Bothell & Ballinger Way NE

When the elders of Lake Forest Park reflect on their youth here, their stories often include the abundance of salmon in McAleer and Lyon creeks. What happened to the salmon?

The LFP Climate Hub will host a Climate Conversation to explore our local Salmon Story: Past, Present and Future on October 25, 2026, 4-6 pm at Third Place Commons.

The conversation will highlight local experts who will help answer the questions: Why are salmon so sensitive to climate change? What is the local story of salmon in our streams? How are schools, local groups and residents making a difference?

Local groups involved in salmon conservation and habitat restoration will be available to talk with the people who come about how to get involved.

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Community Sing at Third Place Commons - September 13, 2026

Community Sing at Third Place Commons

Second Sunday Sings is back for another season!

Join us Sunday, September 13, from 3–4 p.m. (new time!) for a free, casual community sing featuring familiar, non-religious music.

No experience or materials needed—you’ll be taught everything you need to know! All ages and voices are welcome.
Come make some music and enjoy an afternoon of community singing!

Third Place Commons is in the upper level of the main building at Town Center, intersection Bothell & Ballinger Way NE, Lake Forest Park.

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Puzzle Exchange at Third Place Commons

Ann Corbett with her Little Free Puzzle Library
at Third Place Commons

LFP resident Ann Corbett worked with staff to bring a Little Free Puzzle Library to Third Place Commons!

Enjoy these puzzles (for all ages and skill levels!) in the Commons, at home or elsewhere. 

Based on the Little Free Book mini libraries, it has puzzles on a bring one - take one basic.

"What a wonderful addition to this community-driven space! Thanks, Ann!"

Jigsaw Puzzle Exchange

Third Place Commons is the organization that provides events and community space in Lake Forest Park Town Center at the intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way NE. 

It is housed in the upper, main building, across from Third Place Books.

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Live & Local at Third Place Commons in July

Tap your toes or get up and dance every Friday and Saturday night at 7 PM at Third Place Commons

July 10 - Snakebite (Blues)
July 11 - Guitar Gil & Friends (Jazz)
July 17 - Ray Skjelbred & the Yeti Chasers
July 18 - Five Mile Drive (Country)
July 24 - Rusty Cage Trio (Alt/Country)
July 25 - Moonlight Swing Orchestra (Big Band)
July 31 - Mark Hurwitz & Gin Creek (Blues)

Check out the music schedule HERE!

Third Place Commons, upper level LFP Town Center

17171 Bothell Way NE, LFP 98155

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Wild Adventures at the Third Place Commons Stage July 7, 2026

Mikey The Rad Scientist

Wild Adventures at the Third Place Commons Stage

Tuesday, July 7, 11:30am to 12:30pm

Have you ever met a saber-toothed tiger? Would you dance with a king cobra?

Join Mikey the Rad Scientist and go on a whirlwind musical adventure through time and space, and explore spectacular ecosystems and the creatures that live there!

Registration not required.

Third Place Commons, upper level Town Center LFP

Intersection Bothell & Ballinger Way NE

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Shoreline PTA Council names Third Place Books its Outstanding Community Partner 2025-2026

Becky from Third Place Books accepts the award from Susie Moore, Shoreline PTA Council 6.12

The Shoreline PTA Council has presented Third Place Books Lake Forest Park with its 2025-2026 Outstanding Community Partner Award!

Third Place Books has been a wonderful friend to Shoreline PTA Council and Shoreline Public Schools for many years.

Every year, they host the Pride Book Fair and often give or discount books for our school libraries.

They are always looking for ways to help students and families.

We look forward to a continued partnership in the years to come.

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The Giant Chess Set returns to Third Place Commons

Photo courtesy Third Place Commons

The giant chess set is back at Third Place Commons! On June 6, 2026 a joyful celebration marked the return of this iconic Commons tradition after its disappearance during the pandemic.

Commons Director Silje Sodal welcomed the crowd

Far more than simply a collection of oversized chess pieces, the chess set is a truly beloved part of the history and identity of the Commons, with generations of visitors holding fond memories of learning the game, playing spirited matches, and gathering around the board.

Thanks to an extraordinary multi-generational volunteer effort over the past year and a half, scattered chess pieces were located, restored, and rebuilt, and a beautiful new custom board was created. 

The heartwarming celebration featured a whimsical Parade of Pieces with a trumpet procession, chess workshops, open play, cake, button-making, festive decorations, and a video documenting the restoration journey. 

Ross Baarslag-Benson headed the restoration, assisted by many volunteers,
including Ethan Robertson, Henry Hill, and Justin Lee, who all spoke at the event 

Guests also enjoyed remarks from Mayor Tom French, Executive Director Silje Sodal, and teen volunteers Ethan Robertson, Henry Hill, and Justin Lee, who helped refurbish the pieces under the leadership and mentorship of Ross Baarslag-Benson.

Chess workshops and play

The return of the giant chess set is a celebration of the vision that inspired the Commons nearly 30 years ago: creating a space where people of all ages can come together to learn, play, and build community.

Third Place Commons is grateful to the volunteers whose dedication, creativity, and generosity made this special day possible, including Ross Baarslag-Benson, Ethan Robertson, Henry Hill, Justin Lee, Ken Lee, Siva Sankrithi, ShoreLake Arts, Safeway, Tara Shadduck and James Lyons.

--Photos courtesy Third Place Commons

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The beloved giant chess set is coming back to Third Place Commons

The Kings, Queens, Knights & Bishops Return!

After disappearing during the pandemic, this iconic community favorite has been fully restored and will return to its rightful place on the Commons floor on Saturday, June 6, from 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

Join us for a fun, all-ages celebration featuring:

Parade of Pieces
Chess workshops & open play
Chess books with Third Place Books
Arts & crafts with ShoreLake Arts
Cake, courtesy of Safeway
Chess costumes, friendly games & more!

Community participation is encouraged – sign up here!

A treasured part of the Commons for more than 20 years, the giant chess set has been carefully refurbished by a dedicated volunteer team led by Ross Baarslog-Benson and paired with a newly designed custom board.

Whether you're a seasoned player, a curious beginner, or just looking for some oversized fun, everyone is welcome!

Third Place Commons
17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park
 Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 10 a.m.–12 p.m.

The board is set, the pieces are ready, and the only thing missing is you. Make your move and join us for this special community celebration!

Third Place Commons is a community-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering real community in real space. Located at the Lake Forest Park Town Center, the Commons hosts hundreds of free performances, events, and community activities each year, offers an affordable community meeting space, and operates the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market. 

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♟️ Save the Date! The Giant Chess Set Returns to Third Place Commons ♟️

After disappearing during the pandemic, the beloved giant chess set is finally coming back! Join us on Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 10am–12pm as we celebrate the return of this iconic community favorite to Third Place Commons.

Thanks to an incredible team of volunteers, the oversized chess pieces have been fully restored and paired with a newly designed custom board, ready once again for players of all ages and skill levels.

Enjoy a morning of chess, community, and fun featuring:
Parade of Pieces
Chess Costume Pageant
Chess books with Third Place Books
Arts & crafts with Shorelake Arts
Chess workshops and open play
Chess cake showcase

For those interested, participation is encouraged! To make this celebration as grand as the star of the show, please sign up here.

The board is set, the pieces are ready, and the only thing missing is you. Make your move and join us for this special community celebration!

More details here.
Third Place Commons
17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park
Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 10am–12pm

Questions? Email director@thirdplacecommons.org

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Pop-up Pure Barre Community Class at the Commons Sunday April 26, 2026

Pop-up Pure Barre Community Class

Sunday, April 26, 2026 from 9 - 10am

Start your day with a free pop-up community class in the Commons! 

Pure Barre is a low-impact, high-intensity workout that uses small, controlled movements to strengthen and tone your entire body. 

It combines elements of barre, Pilates, and strength training - set to energizing music in a supportive environment.

Bring a yoga mat (extras available first come first serve), grip socks (or use bare feet) & water bottle.

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Third Place Commons receives $20,000 from Dembowski & King County Parks for music and dance events

Photo courtesy Third Place Commons

From Third Place Commons:

We’re thrilled to share that we’ve secured $20,000 in funding to support our Weekend Music program and other live music and dance events. This essential support helps ensure that people of all ages can enjoy live music and an open dance floor in the Commons all year long.

Huge thanks to King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski and King County Parks for their incredible support of Third Place Commons!

We’re so grateful for this partnership that supports our Commons Community!

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Green Fair at Third Place Commons April 4, 2026

 

LFP Green Fair will be held on Saturday April 4, 2026 at Third Place Commons, upper level Town Center, intersection Bothell and Ballinger Way NE, Lake Forest Park

A variety of vendors will be supplied with giveaways and be able to answer your questions!

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Third Place Commons creates GoFundMe for three long-time flower vendors at the LFP Farmers Market

Flower vendors at LFP Farmers Market need our help

GoFundMe for flower vendors

Support the flower vendors of the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market! Third Place Commons is pleased to host a community fundraiser to support three beloved Lake Forest Park Farmers Market flower vendors—Yeng Garden, Yang Lee Lao Flowers, and Long Farm—who suffered devastating losses due to the severe flooding this winter.

These small, family-run farms have been part of our market for nearly two decades. Many of us have watched generations of these families grow alongside our market, and we want to show up for them in their time of need.

The funds raised through this campaign will help these vendors rebuild after the flooding, replace bulbs and essential equipment, and ensure they can continue to bring beauty and joy to our community. 

These families are the heart of our market, and their flowers have brightened countless homes and celebrations over the years. Now, as they face the challenge of recovering from this disaster, we have the opportunity to give back and support them as they have supported us.

All donations to this campaign will be collected by Third Place Commons and distributed directly to these three businesses. 

Please note that because funds are being granted to for-profit businesses, donations are not tax-deductible. 

Thank you for helping care for the people who help make our market so special. Your generosity will make a real difference in the lives of these families and help keep our market thriving for years to come.

--Silje Sodal

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League of Women Voters of Seattle King County presents “LFP Reads the Constitution” in Lake Forest Park on May 3, 2026

The League of Women Voters of Seattle King County is sponsoring “LFP Reads the Constitution,” a community event in Lake Forest Park that invites neighbors to come together and read the United States Constitution aloud from beginning to end. Sign up here to be a reader.

The nonpartisan gathering, to be hosted at Third Place Commons at the Lake Forest Park Town Center on May 3, 2026, is designed to build community, deepen civic understanding, and create a shared experience around the nation’s founding document.

“LFP Reads the Constitution” began as an idea brought forward by LFP City Councilmember Matt Muilenburg, who worked closely with local League of Women Voter members and Third Place Commons leadership to help bring the event to life. 

Councilmember Muilenburg’s ongoing efforts focus on increasing resident involvement with local government and strengthening the bonds and connections among neighbors across Lake Forest Park and neighboring cities.

The event will take place on May 3rd, beginning at 3:00pm, and is expected to last approximately 90 minutes. LFP Mayor Tom French will open the program by reading the Preamble to the Constitution, after which community members will take turns reading the remaining text and all amendments aloud.

“Simply being in the same room, reading the Constitution together, is a powerful act,” said Muilenburg. “It’s a reminder that democracy is something we practice with one another, not just something that happens far away in Washington, D.C.”

During the event, participants will:

• Take turns reading portions of the Constitution and key amendments aloud in an accessible, inclusive format suitable for all experience levels.
• Hear the full text of the document in one continuous, shared experience.
• Reflect personally on the rights, responsibilities, and structures of government described in the Constitution.

“LFP Reads the Constitution” is open to all in our local communities, regardless of prior familiarity with the Constitution or level of civic engagement. Families, new residents, long-time neighbors, and those who do not typically attend government meetings are all encouraged to participate.

The event will be held at Third Place Commons at the Lake Forest Park Town Center at the intersection of Bothell & Ballinger Way, with generous sponsorship from the League of Women Voters of Seattle King County. 

Special thanks to Third Place Commons for hosting the gathering and for all they do to build community. We are deeply grateful to DLC Management for their ongoing support of Third Place Commons and community programming at the LFP Town Center.

To sign up to be a reader and for all event details and updates see the website.

For questions about the event or opportunities to volunteer, community members can contact Councilmember Muilenburg at matt@haveyoumetmatt.org or LWVSKC Board Member, Phillippa Kassover at phillippakassover@yahoo.com.

Third Place Commons is a community-supported nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering real community in real space by hosting hundreds of free events each year and presenting the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market from May to October. Learn more at www.thirdplacecommons.org

The League of Women Voters of Seattle King County is a nonprofit, nonpartisan political organization dedicated to empowering voters and defending democracy. For more than 125 years the League has encouraged informed and active participation in government and has worked to increase understanding of major public policy issues through education and advocacy. Learn more at www.lwvskc.org

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Commons community breakfast raises $50,000 for programs and music

The Commons Community Breakfast sold out
Photo by Brian Lee

The 2026 Commons Community Fundraising Breakfast raised $50,000 to support programs and music at the Commons.

The annual Commons Community Fundraising Breakfast on March 4, 2026 sold out and was a fantastic success! Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make it such a joyful and uplifting morning.

Auctioneer Ken Carson
Photo by Brian Lee

A huge shout-out to our amazing student volunteers from Shorecrest High School, Milner Family Fiddles for providing beautiful music, rock-star emcee and auctioneer Ken Carson.

Bothell resident and Commons Chess Club founder Katie Long shared an example of the many clubs and meet-ups that are hosted in the Commons on a regular basis. 

Student volunteers from Shorecrest High School
Photo by Brian Lee

Learn more about how YOU can get involved by looking at the calendar here! 

We’re also deeply grateful to our generous sponsors, local business donors, and community members whose support made the event possible.

This year's Friends of the Community Award honored the founders of the Lake Forest Park Climate Hub.

Sarah Phillips at the podium with other founders of the Climate Hub
Photo by Brian Lee

What began as an idea has grown into an inspiring community resource, bringing people together around information, education, and meaningful action on climate issues. 

Their dedication has made a real difference, and our community is stronger because of it.

Congratulations to these extraordinary neighbors! Learn more about their story and the transformation of the Commons space into the Climate Hub!

Milner Family Fiddlers entertained
Photo by Brian Lee

Funds raised at the Breakfast help sustain the operations and programs of Third Place Commons, including the hundreds of free performances, events, and activities hosted in the Commons each year, as well as the beloved Lake Forest Park Farmers Market. 

Thank you for helping keep the Commons such a vibrant and welcoming gathering place for our community!

Still want to give? There’s still time! Your donation helps ensure Third Place Commons remains a vibrant and welcoming space for all. Give here.

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Friday night at Third Place Commons

Mosquito Fleet is composed of Shoreline HS Alum / Shoreline residents

Friday Night Plans? We've got you covered!

Don’t miss Mosquito Fleet live at Third Place Commons! Experience a rich tapestry of bluegrass, old time, and Americana, bridging centuries of tradition with the spark of today’s music. Perfect for the whole family!

A fun bonus – four of the six members of the group are Shoreline High School alumni.

• Robb Bell ('71, mandolin), Mark Demaray ('71, guitar), Bill Clements ('75, guitar/vocals) and Chip Erickson ('76, bass/vocals). 
• Also featured are Shoreline residents Anne Sherwood (banjo/vocals) and Ken Ritland (fiddle).

Come on out and say hello – and get ready for some great music!
Where: The Commons Stage (LFP Town Center, intersection of Bothell / Ballinger Way NE)
When: Friday, March 13 @ 7 PM

Cost: FREE!

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Enjoy the traditional music of Mosquito Fleet at the Commons on Friday March 13, 2026

Members (L-R) are Kenneth Ritland, Robb Bell, Mark Demaray, Bill Clements, Chip Erickson and Anne Sherwood. 

Mosquito Fleet will be performing this Friday March 13, 2026 from 7pm to 9pm at Third Place Commons, located on the upper level of Town Center at Lake Forest Park, intersection Bothell & Ballinger Way NE. 

Born from long ago weekly jams at the Cabin Tavern in Richmond Beach, Mosquito Fleet brings to life a rich tapestry of bluegrass, old‑time and Americana, bridging centuries of tradition with the spark of today’s music. 

Admission is free and all ages are welcome. Join us for a fun evening of music and dancing!

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Honor Elsa Bouman at Third Place Commons March 24, 2026

Elsa Bouman

For over 20 years, Elsa Bouman was a friendly and familiar face at Third Place Commons. 

As a Lake Forest Park resident, artist, and teacher, she founded our longest-running art groups and even led the original restoration of our communal wooden tables a decade ago. 

These iconic tables have recently been refinished, and we invite you to find the new memorial plaque dedicated to Elsa’s spirit and support for the Commons.

Join us in the Commons as we celebrate Elsa on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 11:00am

Learn more about Elsa here.

Questions? Email director@thirdplacecommons.org

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Dance to the lively music of Scandinavia at Third Place Commons February 27, 2026

Six Feet Back Band plays the sounds of Scandinavia

Join us this Friday on the Commons Stage at 7pm for the wonderful sounds of Scandinavia!

The Six Feet Back Band brings the traditional tunes of Norway, Denmark, and Sweden to life. 

Featuring Nick Ericson on the torader (button accordion), Jared MacFarlane on fiddle, Lydia on flute, and Lyn Jackson on guitar and banjo—along with other local folk favorites.

It’s going to be a night of high energy and beautiful music you can dance or listen to. 

Whether you're a fan of Nordic folk or just looking for a reason to get up and dance, we’d love to see you there!

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