Thanksgiving Dinner Brought to You By Pike Place Market

I know we put up a big stink about Halloween, but sadly Halloween is over now (yes, if you were curious, we are already brainstorming for next year's costume) so we must look forward to the next holiday that we can stuff our faces and then regret those decisions the next day. Cue Thanksgiving. 

Ok, ok, obviously this is a day that is about more than food. It's about looking around and noticing all the good you have in your life, big and small, and being thankful for those things. Lucky for us one of the things we are thankful for in life is delicious food, so it all comes full circle in the end :) 

To ensure your shopping goes smoothly we've put together a nice list of shops you can hit up in our favorite place, Pike Place Market, to get the goods to prepare a perfect Thanksgiving dinner. We encourage everyone to shop local and hope we can make it a tad easier with this easy-peasy, full-coverage list. 

Here are 13 shops in Pike Place Market to help you build a P-E-R-F-E-C-T Thanksgiving dinner!

First things first, you need to set the table. And you can't have a beautiful table without fresh flowers. 

Pike Place Flowers

Pike Place Flowers is located at the corner of 1st and Pike and has everything you need for a beautiful fall flower arrangement. You can call ahead at 206-682-9797 to have them create something unique for your table. 

Next up you need to keep your guests from getting hangry. This means plenty of snacking food prior to actual dinner. 

Quality Cheese Company

There are a few places to get cheese in the market, but we like Quality Cheese for its small, but diverse selection partnered with the staff that is always willing to help you pick cheeses to create the perfect platter. 

Simply the Best

Simply the Best is located right across from Pike Place Fish and right next to Rachel the Pig. You've probably sampled their delicious dried apples if you frequent the market. These are a perfect, healthy snack that even people on the most stringent of diets can enjoy! We personally love the pineapple and mango.

Chukar Cherries

Chukar Cherries is a PNW favorite. They take boring old fruit and nuts and dip them in delicious, mouth-watering chocolate. So simple, yet so delicious. We recommend the sampler box! 

And now for the main event... Dinner! 

First things first, no thanksgiving is complete with out...

Wine. 

You thought we were going to say Turkey, didn't you? (That comes later, wine first, always wine first.)

DeLaurenti

If you ask either of us what our favorite store in the market is, we will both say DeLaurenti. They have so many great things to offer and their wine shop is one of them. Head up the steps in the back of the store (behind the deli and cheese counter) and have the knowledgeable staff help you find a few bottles for your feast! 

If you aren't a wine fan, walk up the block and grab a growler or two at...

Old Stove Brewing Co.

Old Stove Brewing Co. is a new and welcome addition to Pike Place Market! They brew smooth, flavorful beers and have a large enough variety you can get something for everyone! Plus since it's got an old-timey vibe they sell you the beer to go in these super cool crowlers (that is a growler, size small) that are representative of the same time period the brewery is fashioned after! 

Then comes the stuffing...

Three Girls Bakery

You'll probably smell the bread baking before you see the shop window. This place is the oldest continually operating business in the Market and we know why. People love carbs. And Three Girls Bakery excels at making awesome carbs. Buy the rosemary loaf for your stuffing and your family will thank you.

And you won't get very far without spices....

Market Spice

You'll find Market Spice near Pike Place Fish as well (stop here after you grab your dried fruit from Simply the Best). And you can probably follow your nose to this shop as well. The spices and teas are potent and you won't be disappointed with their selection. Anything you want, they have! 

Now for the cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, and roasted veggies...

Choice Produce

Choice Produce is a great produce stand in the market to support. The staff is friendly, they give back to their community in the form of food donations, and they always go out of their way to wave and talk to people passing by. Plus their prices are some of the lowest we've found for certain items. Find them at the entrance of Post Alley off Pike Pl.

And the meal centerpiece....protein! 

Don and Joe's Meats

Don and Joe's is a great example of what Pike Place Market is all about. Family owned and operated since 1924 in Pike Place Market. Don Jr. is still working in the shop, making sure his customers always get personalized and friendly service. You can rest assured they will make sure you have the best turkey for your table! 

Alright you have the turkey, but Thanksgiving is no reason to abandon your PNW roots. Make sure you've got an option for the pescatarian in your group too! 

 Pike Place Fish

Pike Place Fish is the only shop in the market that sells 100% sustainable fish and seafood. No Thanksgiving feast should be devoid of a beautiful salmon fillet with some rosemary and garlic butter. These guys will make sure you have fun filling your order too. Be prepared for shouting/cheering/fish throwing! 

It seems like it should be over. Your stomach is telling you to stop, but your mind knows you can keep going. 

That's right. Dessert. 

A step away from traditional pumpkin pie and our personal favorite!

Ellenos

We have a small (ok, large) obsession with Ellenos yogurt. As does everyone who has ever tried it. It's crack. Best of all, they make a pumpkin pie Greek yogurt that will make your heart sing little pumpkin spice songs. 

Choukette Eclair'art

Want to really show off to your guests? Serve them a seasonal variety of Eclairs from Choukette. Choukette is new to the market and located on Western Ave on the backside of the Market. They have pumpkin, pecan, and praline flavored eclairs that are light, fluffy, and a perfect end to this stomach exploding meal. 

Now it's time for a nap. Night night. 

Your Complete Guide to Halloween in Seattle

Halloween. The beginning of the holiday season. We here at Rain or Shine love Halloween. We dress up in ridiculous costumes, get stares on public transportation, and eat way too much candy corn (what is that stuff anyways? sugar and corn starch? probably going to kill us one day...). And we do it all for nothing other than a good time.

Halloween in Seattle is always a bit of a risk because of that pesky thing we all know and love so much here, rain. Face paint doesn't do so well in the rain. Elaborate hair-dos don't either. But when has the rain ever stopped us? We are Seattleites and we WILL do Halloween right. Check out our list to find all the things you need to have a spook-tacular week (yep, we just said spook-tacular and we aren't ashamed at all)! 

Costume shops

Display and Costume 

Display and Costume is home to all of your party planning needs, but they really go all out at Halloween time. The store is filled with already-made costumes including a wide selection of masks, wigs, outfits, and accessories. On top of all that they also have everything for the do-it-yourselfer, the store is filled with all sorts of items to create your perfect look including fabric, sequins, buttons, felt and much, much more.

Value Village 

Everyone's favorite thrift store stocks their shelves with ready to wear costumes every October. We love all their cute, little accessories (like witches hats, silly glasses, and colored hair spray!), but it's also the perfect place to find cheap, used clothing to fulfill costume needs. 

Arnie's Vintage Costumers 

Arnie's is going to be the place where you can get REAL costumes. We're not talking about the pre-packaged, cheap stuff from other stores. These babies are elaborate and beautiful and will 100% win you all the costume awards (I mean, maybe, no promises). You rent costumes here vs. buying and it's the place to shop if you want orante costumes from wild west wear to pirates and wenches to wizards. Our personal pick is Dweedle Dum. Please send us photos immediately.

Create your own Halloween masks at MOHAI

If you want something truly unique you have to create your own! For all you creative artists out there, MOHAI is hosting a mask making workshop the Saturday before Halloween. 

Parties/Events

Campout Cinema: Carrie

Watch this epic screening of Carrie at the EMP on Friday, October 28. There will be trivia, giveaways, and drink specials (everyone must be 21+). 

This is Halloween at the Triple Door 

See a scandalous rendition of The Nightmare Before Christmas at The Triple Door. Our favorite dancers at the Can Can will be performing the spooky and sexy show. 

Creepy Crawly Cocktails

Burke Museum at UW is hosting a night where you can look at bats and snakes (don't worry they aren't alive) and drink specialty cocktails. They didn't have us convinced until we read the cocktail creation: Westland Distillery American Single Malt Whiskey, black walnut bitters, orgeat syrup and lime juice. 

7th Annual ER Costume Crawl

This costume party is put on by some seriously players in Seattle. Vito's, Hotel Sorrento, and the Hideout team up to throw the hottest party in town. Plus if your costume rocks you could win $500.00. 

For the kiddos

Trick or Treat at Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market has a ton of stalls that participate in trick-or-treat. Walk around from stall to stall getting to know your local farmers and artists. Oh, and don't miss Orange Dracula, which is the hub of the event, in the lower level with it's photo booth (perfect for capturing those awesome costumes), and Dracula pinball machine! 

University Village Trick or Treat

U-Village goes all out for their trick or treat event. Parents and kids will enjoy it, plus it's safe and some stores even have sales! Mom, we recommend making Dad do a few rounds alone! 

Pumpkin Patches

The Farm at Swan Lake

The Farm is one of the most popular pumpkin patches in the area and for good reason. They literally have it all and they don't half ass anything. 50-acre pumpkin patch, a 12 acre corn maze, and a pick your own apple orchard make it a great day full of good, wholesome, fall fun.

Fall City Farms

Fall City Farms is simply put, a-freaking-dorable. Seriously this place is right out of a fairy tale and is great for photos and as well as all the traditional pumpkin patch-ing activites! 

Your Ultimate Father's Day Guide

Actual Rain or Shine Guide Dad

Father's Day is coming people (Sunday, June 19 for those of you who forgot)! Even though it is after Mother's Day, it is still important. I mean, he didn't have to physically give birth to you, but he still probably did some nice stuff over the years. We've compiled a list for you to successfully wow dad into loving you the most (it is a competition, don't let your sibling tell you differently). 

Photos From: Ray's Boathouse Instagram, Tom Douglas Co. Instagram

Best Restaurants

Ray's Boathouse is dining with a decent view (you know, only 30 feet of waterfront bar seating with views of the perfect Puget Sound). Their seafood is delicious, their service is friendly, and seriously, the view is unreal. Dad will love their cocktails too :) 

Dahlia Lounge is that place in town for a good steak, but for other good food too. So if dad wants a juicy cut of red meat, but other people in the family don't, head to Dahlia and order anything, literally anything, on the menu. 

Chandler's is famous for their local Dungeness Crab, but any of their other 20 crab dishes are worth the price tag too. Plus, they have unique views of Lake Union. 

And for the casual dad, Royal Grinders makes a mean sandwich and serves up delicious ice cream too! Spend the afternoon at the Solstice Parade (see below) after you are so full you want to die.

Best Activities

Snoqualmie Falls is a great day trip out of Seattle. 

A ride on the antique steam engine is a treat for all ages. 

America's Car Museum in Tacoma, WA is any gearheads dream. They have an exhibit right now featuring the Hot Rods of Route 66. 

Snoqualmie Falls is a fun family outing, especially during the beautiful summer months! The Northwest Rail Museum is conveniently down the road for a second stop that dad will love. Plan your visit according to the train schedule because no trip is complete without a ride on the steam engine.

The Museum of Flight is a place everyone has to visit in Seattle, so if you haven't yet, hit it up! If you've already been and loved it, we recommend driving up to Everett, WA to visit the Flying Heritage Museum. This collection of planes is primarily from WWII and provides a lesson in the history of aviation different than what you gain from the Museum of Flight. 

Your Dad will love all the wacky Fremont Solstice events

Fremont Solstice Festival has a great stage on Father's Day, particularly the Seattle Rock Orchestra from 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM. Take dad to jam out and don't forget to go hungry and thirsty to take advantage of all the awesome vendors that will pack the area! 

Photos From: Seattle Thread Instagram, Seattle Cutlery, Fitbit, NFL Shop

Best Gifts

Seattle Thread Company is a local men's fashion company that sells only the best. This shirt is calling your dad's name ($145). 

This Shippu Santoku Knife ($139) is a chef's best friend. Prep vegetables, meats, or fish with this beauty. 

Help him track his fitness goals with the stylish new Fitbit Blaze ($245). Pair it with this sleek watch band (137.17) and we guarantee he will be the sexiest dad around (ok, we aren't going to guarantee that, but with "Dad Bod" taking the world by storm it is a lower bar to hit).

No Seattle Father can have too many Seahawks items. Get him a new shirt ($27.99) or if you want to really go big, an autographed Marshawn Lynch football ($279). Be sure he is sitting down when he opens that, we aren't responsible for any harm that may come if he isn't.

And if you really love him...

Photo from Lily

Meet Lily. The coolest drone around for the coolest dad around. Throw her into the air and she will follow you and film all your adventures whether that is rafting, biking, fishing or partying at a summer BBQ. 

Alright, we release you! Good luck and god speed. May the best sibling win. 

20 Things to Do Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day signals the beginning of summer (well not the REAL beginning, that is Kristina's birthday on June 21, don't forget to send donuts), but it is the symbolic beginning, okay? How you spend this weekend will set the stage for how your entire summer will go.

Get inspired. Bryan Adams should want to write a song about the Summer of 16. In order to help out we put together a little list of 20 things you can do over the weekend to make sure you kick off Summer 2016 the right way.

Let's do this. 

Boat views are the best views.

Get out on the water.

• Rent an electric boat, grab some beers and a group of friends and spend the afternoon navigating Lake Union and Lake Washington. 
• Get a workout in and enjoy the water by kayaking or paddleboarding Greenlake or Lake Union
• Insider Tip: Rent a sauna and float around Lake Union! An architectural design company, goCstudio created a floating, motorized sauna that fits six people and you can rent it for 1-2 hours for $150. See photos here and email info@gocstudio.com to book it! 

Experience the great outdoors and hike.

• Lake TwentyTwo is a great, moderate hike to see a beautiful part of the PNW. It is full of interesting vegetation, waterfalls, and the lake at the top is stunning. Something for everyone!
• Poo Poo Point is a great, easy hike that won't take you too long. Plus, the top of the mountain is a big open field, perfect for a picnic and you can watch (or take our recommendation and actually take the jump!!) the Paragliding that takes off from this point. 
• Wallace Falls is for all of you hikers who love the awesome water feature! There are also a few different options for how to complete this hike. We recommend making a loop from Wallace Falls to Lake Wallace.

Insider tip: At the half-mile marker, you will encounter a split in the trail. The path on the right, distinguished by a wooden gate, leads to the Woody Trail, which will take you to Wallace Falls. The left fork diverts to the old Railroad Grade that leads north to Lake Wallace. If you head to Wallace Lake look for the smiley face carved into a fallen down tree.

The tree face at Wallace Falls.

• Mailbox Peak is for people who like a challenge with a reward at the end. You will want to turn around or possibly lay down and just die. But once you reach that summit you will forget all the pain and just stare at all the beauty before you (hey, that's kind of like they describe childbirth)! Then you get to sign the bad-ass guest book in the mailbox! 

Insider tip: The mailbox is filled with small tokens and items. If you want to take something from the mailbox make sure you bring something to leave in exchange!

See a show.

• Teatro Zinzanni is this amazing dinner theater by Seattle Center that for a price (which is worth it!) you can see an amazing show served with a delicious Italian meal. Right now they are showing Be Italian, which we haven't seen, but looks like a winner!
• The Naked Magic Show at the Moore Theater. We don't think we need to explain why you should want to go to this one. 
• Ballard Locks has a summer concert series! Head over for the start at 2PM and enjoy a beautiful area of Seattle while listening to some classic music.

Spend some time at a festival.

• Northwest Folklife Festival at Seattle Center is an amazing, vibrant event held at Seattle Center. Come jam to fantastic indie bands, take in beautiful artwork, and SO MUCH MORE! It's awesome and if you live in Seattle you have to love learning about new things. Go fulfill your destiny! 

Memorial Day and bikes go together like white on rice.

Day Trip.

• Start driving south and make your way to Mount Rainier National Park. It is a 14,000 + foot active volcano covered in wildflowers. This is basically the coolest place in the state. If you haven't been, go for the day and if you have been, well.. still go for the day! 
• Memorial Day is the perfect weekend to take a trip with your friends to Woodinville Wine Country and drink your hearts out! No work Monday. Woo. Also, drink responsibly and make someone be DD. (Prep for the day with our post on How to Wine in Woodinville.)
• Leavenworth is just a little over two hours away and this little German town is always up for a good time! Hot ticket items: wine hikes at Icicle Ridge Winery, yoga retreats at the Sleeping Lady, and river rafting with Osprey Tours

Kid-Friendly Awesomeness.

• Seattle Aquarium Family Science Weekend is supposed to be geared for families, but not going to lie, that line-up makes us want to go too. Meet the octopus and diver shows? Yes, please!
• Magnuson Memorial Day Run is set up so the whole family can enjoy! Mom and Dad can run the 5K and the kiddos can participate in the 400 meter kids run! Plus Magnuson is a beautiful park to spend time at after the run as well. Pack and picnic and make a day of it!

Photo of art classes from Brooke Westlund's website.

Learn something new. 

• Hipcooks (don't let the awful website turn you off) offers the best cooking classes! You can't go wrong with any of the options and you get a great experience for the cost. Also, Bonny is the best! 
• Take a painting class at Brooke Westlund's gallery at Pike Place Market! Not going to lie, a lot of those paint and wine night classes seem to produce sub-par art no one would ever actually want to display. Not the case here- her classes help you produce classy, beautiful art! 

Get some R & R.

• Banya 5 will quite literally evaporate the stress off of you. Go alone, leave your phone at home, and leave feeling lighter than a feather! 
• Go for a float! Float Seattle is the best spot for sensory deprivation, a way to relieve stress and pain! Plus, first timers get a discount!