Brain Health Block Party on Seattle’s First Hill

June 07, 2024

Community Stories, Brain Health, News, Brain Health Awareness Month

Neighboring organizations come together to promote brain health for this second annual event

From 1-4 p.m. on Wednesday July 10, head to Seattle’s First Hill for the second annual Brain Health Block Party! This special event promoting brain health features outdoor “brain-healthy” activity stations spread throughout the neighborhood. As you walk from site to site, solve a puzzle, make your own trail mix, play games, create art, and more! Read about last year's Brain Health Block Party.

Initiated by the Memory Hub, a community center operated by UW Memory and Brain Wellness Center,  the fun neighborhood event celebrates easy steps we can take to promote brain health – like staying active, reducing stress, challenging our minds, connecting with others, and eating a healthy diet. It’s also a unique way to build awareness about memory loss and dementia.

“We are enthusiastically counting down the days until the 2nd Annual Brain Health Block Party!” states Katie Zeitler, program manager for the Dementia Friends public awareness program with the UW Memory and Brain Wellness Center. “Brain health and social connection are important for everyone, and we look forward to celebrating brain health with our community.” 

Nine organizations are partnering to produce this year’s event, offering activities at the following locations:

  • The Memory Hub (1021 Columbia St)
  • Frye Art Museum (704 Terry Ave)
  • Murano Senior Living (620 Terry Ave)
  • Skyline Retirement Community (715 Ninth Ave)
  • St. James Cathedral (804 Ninth Ave)
  • Horizon House (900 University St)
  • Swedish First Hill (747 Broadway Ave)
  • Town Hall Seattle (1119 8th Ave)
  • Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (1201 Terry Ave)

Each of the participating organizations has a commitment to supporting older adults and the community at large. Ildiko Pikali, Director of Life Enrichment for Horizon House, notes: “Horizon House is excited to be a part of raising awareness about brain health and aging by participating in the First Hill Brain Health Block Party in partnership with like-minded organizations. We hope to demonstrate the unique and enriching lifestyle that exists in this diverse community, as well as how it contributes to overall well-being and mental health.”

Jessica Baloun, Community Engagement & Outreach Manager with Town Hall Seattle, agrees: “As an arts and culture organization dedicated to fostering an engaged community, Town Hall is thrilled to join our First Hill neighbors and participate in the Brain Health Block Party this year. We hope to see familiar faces and meet new community members as we enjoy activities that promote cognitive health!” 

Visiting all 9 stations is about 1 mile. The event is free, family-friendly and all ages – with a special invitation to adults age 50+.

Pick up an event map at any participating location on the day of, or download it in advance here. Collect stamps at each station, and visit at least 3 stations for a chance to win a special brain-health raffle prize.