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Tag: Everett

  • Narrative Coffee: The Best Coffee Shop in Everett You Should Already Know About

    Narrative Coffee: The Best Coffee Shop in Everett You Should Already Know About

    If you’ve lived in Everett for any length of time and haven’t been to Narrative Coffee, we need to talk. Because Narrative isn’t just a good coffee shop for Everett — it’s genuinely one of the better independent coffee bars in the Pacific Northwest, full stop.

    A 2017 Sprudge award for Best New Café in the World doesn’t get handed out to mediocre espresso operations, and nearly a decade later, the quality has held. But the Yelp rating — 4.6 stars across more than 570 reviews — isn’t what makes Narrative worth knowing about. What makes it worth knowing about is that it has spent almost ten years being genuinely and deliberately Everett. That’s harder to do than it sounds, and it’s the reason locals keep coming back.

    Where It Is and What It Looks Like

    Narrative Coffee is at 2927 Wetmore Ave in downtown Everett. The building was previously a car dealership, and the bones show: high ceilings, massive skylights that flood the space with light even on a gray Pacific Northwest morning, and original brick walls that give the room warmth without trying too hard.

    It doesn’t feel like a coffee shop that was designed to look cool. It feels like a space that was allowed to be what it is. That distinction matters more than it seems to at first.

    The Multi-Roaster Model: Why It Actually Works

    Most coffee shops source from one or two roasters and stick with them for years. Narrative does something different: they run blind tastings every two months and select the top roasters from that session. The espresso and drip coffee is always the best they can source at that moment — not whatever supplier they’ve been locked into.

    This also means the menu rotates. If the single-origin pour-over you loved last month isn’t there, that’s the point — something equally interesting has taken its place. The baristas know what they’re pouring and why. If you’re curious, ask. They’ll actually tell you.

    The Coffee

    Espresso-based drinks here are properly extracted. Not the burnt, over-steamed approach that passes for espresso at most drive-through coffee stops. The cortado is where we’d send a first-timer: it shows off what’s in the portafilter without hiding it in milk.

    Drip coffee is offered via self-serve batch brew alongside more involved filter methods. If you just need caffeine and a seat, batch brew is fast and good. If you want to understand what you’re drinking, the pour-over options are worth the extra minutes.

    No seasonal syrup explosion here. The menu is focused and intentional. We respect the restraint.

    Food: Actually Worth Ordering

    Narrative serves breakfast and lunch with food available until 1pm daily. The biscuit sandwiches are the consistent crowd favorite — substantial, well-made, not trying to be anything other than a good breakfast sandwich. The avocado toast exists on the menu because it has to, and it’s executed without apology.

    Pastries rotate and tend toward things that pair well with coffee rather than compete with it. The salted chocolate chip cookie has a reputation we won’t oversell — but get one.

    Beer and wine are available in the afternoon, which makes Narrative a legitimate post-lunch destination. Work through the morning, have coffee, stay for a glass of wine at 2pm if the occasion calls for it. Wetmore Ave has worse options for a Tuesday afternoon.

    The Community Piece

    Narrative hosts music events, supports local startups, and has spent nearly a decade being a genuine presence in downtown Everett. This isn’t a marketing posture — the staff are personable, the regulars are loyal, and the energy in the room reflects a place that’s done the work of being a neighborhood anchor rather than just a neighborhood business.

    For people who work downtown or live in the Bayside and Riverside neighborhoods, Narrative has become the kind of place you don’t think about because it’s always just there. That familiarity is earned, not inherited.

    The Details

    • Address: 2927 Wetmore Ave, Everett, WA 98201
    • Hours: Monday–Friday 7am–2pm; Saturday–Sunday 8am–3pm; Breakfast daily 8am–1pm
    • Price range: Coffee $4–$8; Food $6–$14
    • Parking: Street parking on Wetmore Ave; metered downtown parking nearby
    • What to order first time: Cortado + biscuit sandwich + ask the barista about the current roaster
    • Beer and wine: Available during afternoon hours
    • Order ahead: Available via the Narrative Coffee website

    The Verdict

    Narrative Coffee is the kind of place that makes you feel genuinely good about Everett’s food and drink scene. It’s operating at a level that would be notable in Seattle, and it’s been doing it on Wetmore Ave for close to ten years. If you know someone who says there’s nothing worth doing in downtown Everett, take them to Narrative. The argument ends there.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What makes Narrative Coffee different from a regular coffee shop?
    The multi-roaster blind tasting model means they’re always serving the best espresso and drip they can source — not what a supplier provides. Quality is a deliberate, ongoing choice here.

    What are the hours?
    Monday–Friday 7am–2pm; Saturday–Sunday 8am–3pm. Breakfast available until 1pm daily.

    Do they serve food?
    Yes — biscuit sandwiches, avocado toast, pastries, and rotating breakfast and lunch items. Food service runs until 1pm.

    Can I work there?
    Yes. Large space, excellent natural light, good wifi. Bring a laptop, order a cortado, and you’ll be comfortable.

    Do they serve alcohol?
    Beer and wine available during afternoon hours.

    How do I know what roasters are on?
    Ask the barista. They know, and they enjoy talking about it. That’s part of the experience.

  • Quán Ông Sáu Is Three Months In and Already Everett’s Best Vietnamese Kitchen

    Quán Ông Sáu Is Three Months In and Already Everett’s Best Vietnamese Kitchen

    Quán Ông Sáu has been open since January 2026, which means it’s had just about three months to prove itself. The verdict: it’s already one of the most distinctive Vietnamese restaurants in Everett, and if you haven’t been yet, you’re behind.

    The restaurant sits at 2821 Pacific Ave, Everett — a part of town with solid Vietnamese dining options, so the competition is real. What sets Quán Ông Sáu apart isn’t just the food. It’s the story behind it.

    What Quán Ông Sáu Is Actually About

    The name translates roughly to “Uncle Sau’s Place,” and the concept is rooted in the owner’s family origins in Trà Vinh province and the cooking traditions of the Mekong Delta. This isn’t a generic pho house. The menu leans into southern Vietnamese coastal cooking — the kind of home-style food that doesn’t show up often this far north.

    The space is generous — around 6,000 square feet — with natural light and room to breathe. It doesn’t feel like the cramped lunch-counter Vietnamese spots you might be used to. There’s a full café section that opens at 6am serving Vietnamese coffee and tea, and the main restaurant opens at 11am for lunch and dinner, staying open until 9pm daily.

    The Pho: Yes, It’s Worth the Hype

    We’ll start here because everyone starts here. The Combo Beef Pho ($23.75) is the move. The broth is deeply developed — clear, rich, and fragrant with star anise and cinnamon, served with a proper plate of bean sprouts, fresh basil, lime, and hoisin. This is the real thing. Not the watered-down, lightly seasoned version you’d find at a fast-casual spot.

    The Chicken Pho ($23.75) runs cleaner and lighter, and if you’re bringing someone who’s pho-skeptical, this is the entry point. We’d still push them toward the beef. But the chicken doesn’t disappoint.

    Don’t Sleep on the Bún Bò Huế

    The Bún Bò Huế — a spicy, lemongrass-forward noodle soup from central Vietnam — is where things get genuinely interesting. It’s not on every Vietnamese menu in the region, and Quán Ông Sáu’s version doesn’t pull punches. The broth is robust, reddish, and spicy in a way that builds slowly over the bowl. You finish it and then realize you’ve been sweating for ten minutes. That’s a good sign.

    If you’re a pho regular who wants to branch out, start here. The Bún Bò Huế is the dish that separates the restaurants that care from the ones that don’t.

    Broken Rice and Skewers

    The Com Tam (broken rice) platters are a Mekong Delta staple and appear here in multiple configurations — with grilled pork, chicken, or beef rib. Broken rice has a slightly nutty, textured quality different from steamed jasmine rice. First time having it? Order the pork rib version and add a fried egg. It’s the move.

    The skewer options run the full protein range: chicken, pork, beef rib, shrimp, and tofu. These are solid value and the right way to sample multiple proteins when you can’t decide — or when half your table can’t agree on anything.

    The Café Side: Vietnamese Coffee Worth Waking Up For

    The café opens at 6am and serves Vietnamese coffee, egg coffee, and a wide range of teas. If you’ve only had Vietnamese iced coffee at American-Vietnamese restaurants, Quán Ông Sáu’s version will recalibrate your expectations.

    The egg coffee — a Hanoi tradition of whipped egg yolk and sugar over strong Vietnamese-style drip coffee — sounds strange and is completely addictive. Order it once and you’ll understand why it has a following. Show up before 10am if you want the café menu. The restaurant side starts at 11.

    The Details That Matter

    • Address: 2821 Pacific Ave, Everett, WA 98201
    • Hours: Café 6am–10am daily | Restaurant 11am–9pm daily
    • Phone: (425) 339-3390
    • Price range: Mains $12–$25; Pho bowls $23.75
    • Parking: Street parking on Pacific Ave; lot available nearby
    • What to order first time: Combo Beef Pho or Bún Bò Huế if you want spice. Add an egg coffee.
    • Online ordering: Available via DoorDash for delivery and pickup

    Three Months In — Is It Worth It?

    Yes. Unequivocally. Quán Ông Sáu opened without much fanfare, but the word has been building steadily — over 50 reviews on Yelp in just three months, with regulars already making it a weekly stop. That kind of momentum doesn’t happen at mediocre restaurants.

    The closest comparison we can offer: this is a restaurant that cooks the way someone’s grandmother cooks if that grandmother is from the Mekong Delta and doesn’t take shortcuts. That’s high praise, and it’s earned.

    Everett’s Pacific Ave corridor has been developing its identity as a food destination for years. Quán Ông Sáu is one of the best arguments yet for making the trip.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is Quán Ông Sáu good for groups?
    Yes — the 6,000-square-foot space means you can bring a large table without feeling stacked on top of strangers.

    Is parking easy?
    Pacific Ave has street parking that’s generally available outside of peak lunch and dinner hours. Plan ahead on Friday and Saturday evenings.

    Do they deliver?
    Yes, via DoorDash.

    What’s the café like?
    Separate from the restaurant section, open at 6am. Great for an early-morning coffee stop. Vietnamese iced coffee and egg coffee are the standouts.

    Is the menu authentic?
    The cooking is rooted in Trà Vinh and Mekong Delta traditions — southern Vietnamese, coastal, homestyle. Not Americanized. If you want familiar Americanized pho, some items may surprise you. That’s a feature, not a bug.

    What’s the best dish for a first visit?
    Combo Beef Pho for a classic entry point, or Bún Bò Huế if you want something with more complexity and heat. Either way, add a Vietnamese coffee.

  • AEW Dynamite & Collision Are Both Taping in Everett This Wednesday — Here’s What to Know

    AEW Dynamite & Collision Are Both Taping in Everett This Wednesday — Here’s What to Know

    AEW in Everett: All Elite Wrestling brings both AEW Dynamite and AEW Collision to Angel of the Winds Arena on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. Two tapings, one night — a rare double-header for wrestling fans in the Pacific Northwest.

    AEW Is Coming to Everett This Wednesday — Dynamite and Collision Both Tape at Angel of the Winds

    Wrestling fans in Everett are getting a rare treat this week. All Elite Wrestling is bringing back-to-back live tapings to Angel of the Winds Arena on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 — both AEW Dynamite and AEW Collision will film in Everett on the same night.

    This kind of double-taping is uncommon and means fans in attendance will see material that airs across two different TV programs. AEW Dynamite airs on TBS, and AEW Collision airs on TNT — both are core programming for the second-largest professional wrestling promotion in North America.

    What Is AEW?

    All Elite Wrestling launched in 2019 and quickly established itself as the primary alternative to WWE. Founded by Tony Khan, AEW features top-tier in-ring talent including CM Punk, Samoa Joe, Swerve Strickland, and a roster of international stars. The product skews toward hard-hitting, athletic wrestling and has a passionate fanbase across the Pacific Northwest.

    Event Details

    • Date: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
    • Venue: Angel of the Winds Arena, 2000 Hewitt Ave, Everett WA 98201
    • Shows: AEW Dynamite (TBS) + AEW Collision (TNT) — both tapings same night
    • Tickets: Available at angelofthewindsarena.com and at the Les Schwab Box Office

    Why This Is a Big Night for Everett Wrestling Fans

    Live wrestling events in the Pacific Northwest are not everyday occurrences. Angel of the Winds Arena has become one of the more active mid-size arenas for touring wrestling and live events, and a double-taping night gives the local fanbase a full evening of live television-quality wrestling.

    If you’ve been on the fence about attending a live AEW event, this is an especially good entry point — two shows’ worth of storyline progression in a single evening, all from your seat in Everett.

    How to Get Tickets

    Tickets are available now at angelofthewindsarena.com and through the Les Schwab Box Office at the arena. Check the AEW website (aew.com) for the most current ticket availability and show times.

    Frequently Asked Questions: AEW in Everett April 15

    What is AEW Dynamite and Collision?

    AEW Dynamite is All Elite Wrestling’s flagship weekly show airing on TBS. AEW Collision is the secondary show airing on TNT. Both are live professional wrestling programs from the second-largest wrestling company in North America.

    When is AEW coming to Everett?

    Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett. Both Dynamite and Collision will tape the same night.

    Where can I buy tickets for AEW in Everett?

    Tickets are available at angelofthewindsarena.com and through the Les Schwab Box Office at Angel of the Winds Arena, 2000 Hewitt Ave, Everett WA.

    Is AEW appropriate for kids?

    AEW events are generally family-friendly — think of it like a rowdy sporting event. Kids who enjoy professional wrestling will have a great time. The arena environment is energetic and loud.

  • Jetty Island Cleanup Day Is April 18 — How to Volunteer

    Jetty Island Cleanup Day Is April 18 — How to Volunteer

    Jetty Island Cleanup Day: The annual Jetty Island Cleanup is happening on Friday, April 18, 2026. Volunteers help restore and maintain one of Everett’s most beloved natural landmarks. Sign-up details are available through the Port of Everett.

    Jetty Island Cleanup Day Is April 18 — Here’s How to Get Involved

    Jetty Island is one of Everett’s most beloved outdoor destinations — a two-mile-long natural sandbar in Port Gardner Bay that draws swimmers, kayakers, and families every summer. And every spring, volunteers come together to get it ready for the season.

    This year’s Jetty Island Cleanup Day is Friday, April 18, 2026. If you’ve ever spent a summer afternoon on Jetty Island, this is a chance to give something back.

    What Volunteers Do

    Cleanup volunteers typically help remove debris and litter that has washed ashore over the fall and winter months, clear trails, and help prepare the island for the summer ferry season. The work is hands-on and outdoors — comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes are recommended.

    The Port of Everett manages Jetty Island and coordinates the annual cleanup in partnership with community volunteers. Past cleanups have brought out hundreds of Everett residents, school groups, and local organizations.

    About Jetty Island

    Jetty Island was formed over decades from dredge spoils deposited by the Army Corps of Engineers during maintenance of the Port of Everett’s navigation channel. It has since evolved into a thriving natural habitat — home to shorebirds, seals, and native plants — as well as a popular destination for Everett families.

    The Jetty Island Ferry runs from McIntyre Park in Everett during the summer months, making the island accessible without a boat. Summer programming for kids is also available through the City of Everett Parks Department.

    How to Sign Up

    To volunteer for the April 18 Jetty Island Cleanup, visit the Port of Everett’s website at portofeverett.com or contact the Port directly. Spots typically fill up — sign up early if you want to participate.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Jetty Island Cleanup 2026

    When is the Jetty Island Cleanup?

    Friday, April 18, 2026. Check portofeverett.com for exact timing and meeting location.

    How do I sign up to volunteer?

    Visit portofeverett.com or contact the Port of Everett directly to register for the cleanup.

    What should I bring to the Jetty Island Cleanup?

    Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Gloves are helpful. The Port typically provides bags and tools.

    Can kids participate in the Jetty Island Cleanup?

    Yes — past cleanups have included families and school groups. Check with the Port of Everett for any age requirements for youth volunteers.

    When does the Jetty Island Ferry start running for summer?

    The Jetty Island Ferry typically begins service in late June or early July from McIntyre Park. Check the City of Everett Parks Department for the 2026 schedule.

  • Earthquake Swarm Off Washington Coast: No Threat to Everett, Experts Say

    Earthquake Swarm Off Washington Coast: No Threat to Everett, Experts Say

    What happened: Starting around midnight on April 12, a swarm of more than 18 earthquakes struck the Juan de Fuca Ridge, roughly 250 miles off the Washington coast. The largest reached magnitude 4.2. Experts say the swarm poses no threat to people on land in the Pacific Northwest, including Everett.

    Earthquake Swarm Off Washington Coast: What Everett Residents Need to Know

    An active swarm of earthquakes struck far off the Washington coast this weekend, but seismologists say there is no cause for concern for people in Everett or anywhere else on land in the Pacific Northwest.

    The Pacific Northwest Seismic Network (PNSN) reported that since around midnight on April 12, more than 18 earthquakes were detected at the Juan de Fuca Ridge — a tectonic spreading center located approximately 250 miles offshore of Washington state. The largest quake in the swarm reached magnitude 4.2.

    Why This Is Not a Land Threat

    The PNSN was clear in its assessment: the earthquakes are not located anywhere near the Cascadia Subduction Zone — the fault system that scientists watch most closely for potential large earthquake risk to the Pacific Northwest coast.

    The quakes are also not at the Axial Seamount Volcano, an undersea volcano that has received attention in recent years due to predictions that it may be nearing an eruption. Axial Seamount eruptions are entirely underwater and do not pose a surface threat.

    Earthquake swarms at the Juan de Fuca Ridge are a natural and relatively common occurrence. The ridge is a mid-ocean spreading center where tectonic plates are gradually moving apart — a process that generates seismic activity regularly.

    What Is the Juan de Fuca Ridge?

    The Juan de Fuca Ridge is an underwater tectonic boundary roughly 250 miles west of the Washington and Oregon coasts. It’s part of the system that also creates the Juan de Fuca Plate — the relatively small tectonic plate that subducts (slides under) the North American Plate along the Cascadia Subduction Zone. However, earthquake activity at the ridge itself, far offshore, does not translate into risk for the Seattle-Everett metro area.

    Should Everett Residents Be Concerned?

    No. This swarm is a distant, offshore geological event. However, it’s always a reasonable time to review your household earthquake preparedness — the Cascadia Subduction Zone remains a long-term seismic risk for the Pacific Northwest, and preparedness is something every Snohomish County household should maintain regardless of what’s happening offshore.

    The Washington Emergency Management Division recommends keeping at least three days of emergency supplies on hand, including water, food, and a first aid kit. Snohomish County’s emergency management resources are available at snohomishcountywa.gov.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Washington Earthquake Swarm

    Is the earthquake swarm off Washington a threat to Everett?

    No. The swarm is approximately 250 miles offshore at the Juan de Fuca Ridge, far from the Cascadia Subduction Zone. Experts at the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network say there is no threat to people on land.

    How many earthquakes were in the swarm?

    More than 18 earthquakes were recorded as of noon on April 12, 2026, with the largest reaching magnitude 4.2.

    What is the Juan de Fuca Ridge?

    An underwater tectonic spreading center about 250 miles off the Washington coast where the Juan de Fuca Plate and Pacific Plate are gradually moving apart. Seismic activity here is normal and does not indicate risk to coastal communities.

    Is this related to the Cascadia Subduction Zone?

    No. The PNSN confirmed the quakes are not near the Cascadia Subduction Zone, which is the fault system that poses the main long-term seismic risk to the Pacific Northwest.

    Should I update my earthquake preparedness?

    It’s always a good idea. The Washington Emergency Management Division recommends keeping at least three days of emergency supplies at home — water, food, flashlight, first aid kit, and important documents.

  • Everett Is Celebrating the New Edgewater Bridge on April 27 — Walk Across It First

    Everett Is Celebrating the New Edgewater Bridge on April 27 — Walk Across It First

    Edgewater Bridge Grand Opening: The City of Everett is celebrating the completion of the new Edgewater Bridge on Sunday, April 27 at 3:30 PM. The community is invited to walk across the bridge and learn about the project from the engineers and city leaders who built it.

    Everett Is Celebrating the New Edgewater Bridge on April 27 — You’re Invited

    The City of Everett has officially announced the grand opening celebration for the new Edgewater Bridge. The event takes place on Sunday, April 27 at 3:30 PM, and the entire community is welcome to attend.

    Attendees will get to walk across the new bridge, hear remarks from Mayor Cassie Franklin and city leaders, and speak directly with the project team about what went into building it. It’s the kind of local infrastructure moment Everett doesn’t get very often — a brand new bridge connecting neighborhoods, built from the ground up.

    What Is the Edgewater Bridge?

    The Edgewater Bridge is a new City of Everett infrastructure project connecting neighborhoods near the waterfront area. The project was a multi-year effort involving coordination between the City of Everett and the City of Mukilteo. The new structure replaces aging infrastructure and improves pedestrian and vehicle access in the area.

    The April 27 celebration gives Everett residents a chance to be the first to walk across it — and to get the full story of the project from the people who made it happen.

    Event Details

    • Date: Sunday, April 27, 2026
    • Time: 3:30 PM
    • What to expect: Community walk across the bridge, remarks from Mayor Franklin and city officials, project team available to answer questions
    • Cost: Free and open to the public

    Part of Everett’s Bigger Infrastructure Momentum

    The Edgewater Bridge opening comes as Everett is seeing significant infrastructure investment across the city. Mayor Franklin’s 2026 priorities include housing growth, youth safety, and major placemaking updates — and public infrastructure projects like this bridge are central to that vision.

    With the Sound Transit Link Extension moving forward, waterfront development accelerating, and now a brand-new bridge opening, this is an active stretch for Everett’s built environment.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Edgewater Bridge Opening

    When is the Edgewater Bridge opening celebration?

    Sunday, April 27, 2026 at 3:30 PM. The event is free and open to the public.

    What will happen at the Edgewater Bridge celebration?

    The community is invited to walk across the new bridge, hear remarks from Mayor Cassie Franklin and city officials, and talk with the project team about the construction process.

    Who built the Edgewater Bridge?

    The bridge was a City of Everett infrastructure project built in coordination with the City of Mukilteo. Details will be available from the project team at the April 27 event.

  • Skate America Is Coming to Angel of the Winds Arena in November — Here’s What to Know

    Skate America Is Coming to Angel of the Winds Arena in November — Here’s What to Know

    Skate America 2026: The U.S. Figure Skating Grand Prix event returns to Everett’s Angel of the Winds Arena on November 13–15, 2026. It’s the third time the arena has hosted the event and the first time figure skating has come to the Pacific Northwest since 2018.

    Skate America Is Coming Back to Angel of the Winds Arena in November

    Everett is getting a world-class figure skating event this fall. U.S. Figure Skating has announced that the 2026 Skate America — one of six stops on the International Skating Union (ISU) Grand Prix of Figure Skating Series — will be held at Angel of the Winds Arena on November 13–15, 2026.

    The event is being hosted in partnership with the Snohomish County Sports Commission and marks the fifth time Skate America has been held in Washington State. For Angel of the Winds Arena, it’s the third time hosting the prestigious event — cementing Everett’s reputation as one of the premier destinations for major figure skating in the country.

    What Is Skate America?

    Skate America is the first event in the ISU Grand Prix series each season, drawing the top-ranked figure skaters in the world. Competitors include Olympic medalists and World Championship contenders across four disciplines: men’s singles, women’s singles, pairs, and ice dance. The event feeds directly into the Grand Prix Final held later in the season.

    The last time world-class figure skating came to the Pacific Northwest was 2018 — so this is a significant return for regional fans of the sport.

    Session Schedule

    • Thursday, Nov. 12 — Practice Session (All-Access ticket holders only)
    • Friday, Nov. 13 — Men’s Short Program & Pairs Short Program
    • Saturday, Nov. 14 (afternoon) — Women’s Short Program & Men’s Free Skate
    • Saturday, Nov. 14 (evening) — Rhythm Dance & Pairs Free Skate
    • Sunday, Nov. 15 — Free Dance & Women’s Free Skate

    How to Get Tickets

    Tickets go on presale for Friends of Figure Skating members on Tuesday, April 21 at 10:00 AM PT. The public on-sale opens Thursday, April 23 at 10:00 AM PT.

    Tickets are available at the Les Schwab Box Office at Angel of the Winds Arena or online at angelofthewindsarena.com. All-session packages are also available. More details at usfigureskating.org.

    Why This Is a Big Deal for Everett

    Angel of the Winds Arena has quietly become one of the most active mid-size event venues in the Pacific Northwest. Between the Silvertips playoff runs, AEW wrestling events, Billy Strings concerts, and now back-to-back Skate America appearances, the arena is drawing national attention.

    “Hosting Skate America in Everett is a privilege for Angel of the Winds Arena,” said General Manager Corey Margolis of Oak View Group. The Snohomish County Sports Commission has played a key role in securing the event each time.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Skate America 2026 in Everett

    When is Skate America 2026 in Everett?

    November 13–15, 2026 at Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett, WA.

    When do Skate America tickets go on sale?

    Public on-sale is Thursday, April 23 at 10:00 AM PT. Friends of Figure Skating presale starts Tuesday, April 21. Tickets available at angelofthewindsarena.com.

    What disciplines are at Skate America?

    Men’s singles, women’s singles, pairs, and ice dance — all four Olympic figure skating disciplines.

    Has Everett hosted Skate America before?

    Yes. This will be the third time Angel of the Winds Arena has hosted Skate America, making it one of the most frequently used Skate America venues in the country.

    How do I get to Angel of the Winds Arena?

    Angel of the Winds Arena is located at 2000 Hewitt Ave, Everett, WA 98201, just off I-5. Parking is available on site and in nearby garages.

  • Silvertips Lead Kelowna 2–0: Game 3 Is Tuesday Night

    Silvertips Lead Kelowna 2–0: Game 3 Is Tuesday Night

    Silvertips Round 2 Snapshot: The Everett Silvertips lead the Kelowna Rockets 2–0 in the 2026 WHL Western Conference Semifinals after winning both home games at Angel of the Winds Arena. Game 3 is Tuesday, April 14 at 7:05 PM PDT in Kelowna.

    Silvertips Win Games 1 & 2, Head to Kelowna With a 2–0 Series Lead

    The Everett Silvertips are two wins away from advancing to the WHL Western Conference Finals. After a dominant first-round sweep of the Portland Winterhawks — outscoring them 25–5 across four games — the Tips carried that momentum into Round 2, winning back-to-back games against the Kelowna Rockets at Angel of the Winds Arena.

    Game 1 ended 4–1 on Friday, April 10. Game 2 went 4–2 on Saturday, April 11 in a physical contest that grabbed headlines beyond the scoreboard. The series now shifts to Prospera Place in Kelowna for Games 3 and 4.

    Game 1 Recap: Busch Leads the Way in 4–1 Win

    Shea Busch opened the scoring on the power play in the first period, and the Silvertips never looked back. Matias Vanhanen added the eventual game-winner, with Landon DuPont and Julius Miettinen also finding the net. Everett went 5-for-5 on the penalty kill — a theme that would define the series.

    Kelowna’s only goal came from Ty Halaburda, who beat goaltender Anders Miller just 23 seconds into the second period. Rockets goalie Harrison Boettiger made 36 saves but couldn’t overcome Everett’s efficiency at both ends of the ice.

    Game 2 Recap: Miller Shines, Special Teams Win the Night in 4–2 Win

    Saturday’s game was louder and more intense. Kelowna came out flying in the first period, outshooting Everett 20–11, but the Silvertips went 6-for-6 on the penalty kill and Anders Miller stopped 37 of 38 shots to seal the win.

    Goals from Zackary Shantz, Jaxsin Vaughan, Carter Bear (power play), and Julius Miettinen (power play) gave Everett the 4–2 final. Kelowna’s Hayden Paupanekis and Owen Folstrom scored for the Rockets.

    The game was stopped midway through the third period when Kelowna forward Ty Halaburda was stretchered off the ice after a collision along the boards. Halaburda remained conscious and was transported to Providence Regional Medical Center. The Rockets confirmed he was “alert and conscious” overnight. His status for Game 3 is uncertain.

    Game 3 Preview: Can Kelowna Use Home Ice?

    The series heads to Prospera Place in Kelowna for Game 3 on Tuesday, April 14 at 7:05 PM PDT. Game 4 follows Wednesday, April 15, also in Kelowna.

    Kelowna has yet to beat Everett in any game this season — the Silvertips went 4–0–0–0 against the Rockets in the regular season. But three of those four wins were decided by a single goal, and the Rockets swept the Kamloops Blazers in the first round. Home ice and crowd noise could be a factor.

    Everett has a star-studded lineup on the ice. Carter Bear (Detroit Red Wings prospect), Julius Miettinen (Seattle Kraken affiliate), Landon DuPont, and Matias Vanhanen are the offensive drivers. On defense, the penalty kill has been near-perfect across Round 2. Coach Steve Hamilton has his team locked in.

    If the Silvertips sweep again, they return home to Angel of the Winds Arena for Game 5 on Friday, April 17.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Silvertips Round 2

    What is the Silvertips’ current playoff record?

    The Silvertips are 6–0 in the 2026 WHL Playoffs, having swept Portland in Round 1 and won both home games against Kelowna in Round 2.

    When is Silvertips Game 3?

    Game 3 is Tuesday, April 14 at 7:05 PM PDT at Prospera Place in Kelowna, BC. You can stream it free on Victory+.

    What happened to Ty Halaburda?

    Kelowna forward Ty Halaburda was stretchered off the ice during Game 2 after a hit by Everett’s Jaxsin Vaughan. He was transported to Providence Regional Medical Center in Everett and was reported alert and conscious. His status for Game 3 is uncertain.

    How can I watch Silvertips away games?

    Games 3 and 4 in Kelowna are available to stream free on Victory+ (victoryplus.com) and on 104.7 The Lizard radio.

    Who are the top scorers for the Silvertips in the playoffs?

    Julius Miettinen leads with 6 goals in the playoffs. Matias Vanhanen, Carter Bear, Landon DuPont, and Shea Busch have all been significant contributors.

  • Everett City Council Approves Fair Labor Ordinance 9-1: What It Means for City Contractors

    Everett City Council Approves Fair Labor Ordinance 9-1: What It Means for City Contractors

    The Everett City Council voted 9-1 on March 25, 2026 to approve a new fair labor standards ordinance that requires contractors doing business with the city to maintain detailed payroll records, properly classify workers, and allow employees to report violations directly to city officials.

    The ordinance gives Everett expanded enforcement tools against contractors who commit wage theft or misclassify employees — and applies the protections not just to union workers, but to all workers on city contracts.

    What the Ordinance Requires

    Under the new law, contractors seeking city business must meet a set of labor standards as a condition of their contract. According to Ward 2 Councilor Stephanie Martins, who championed the measure, those requirements include:

    • Maintaining industrial coverage insurance
    • Properly classifying employees rather than misclassifying them as independent contractors
    • Keeping daily sign-in and sign-out logs for workers on the job
    • Complying with federal healthcare reform law
    • Submitting monthly certified payroll records to the city

    Employees working under city contracts will be able to report violations through a city-managed reporting system. If a contractor is found to be out of compliance, the city gains the authority to revoke or suspend the contract, or attach additional conditions to it.

    Why It Matters Beyond Union Workers

    One of the central arguments Councilor Martins made during debate was that the ordinance fills a protection gap that union contracts don’t address. Union members typically have collective bargaining agreements that cover labor standards. Non-union workers on city-funded projects have had less formal protection.

    “A developer in the wrong will find it cheaper to pay employees than fighting the city,” Martins argued during council deliberations.

    The ordinance was also framed as a tool to combat trafficking and immigration-related exploitation of workers on city job sites — not just traditional wage theft.

    The One Dissenting Vote

    Ward 1 Councilor Michele Capone cast the lone no vote, expressing concern that Everett’s city government lacks the administrative capacity to meaningfully enforce the ordinance’s requirements.

    “I don’t think the City of Everett can even enforce all of the different issues within this ordinance suggestion,” Capone said, also raising questions about potential legal challenges to the measure.

    Supporters of the ordinance pushed back on the enforcement concern. Councilor Rogers explained during debate that enforcement does not have to fall entirely on city staff — the ordinance creates a mechanism to “elevate a violation to the state,” meaning complaints can be referred to state labor agencies with broader investigative authority. “We would have the ability to elevate a violation to the state,” Rogers said, noting this gives the city meaningful enforcement reach without requiring a large new city bureaucracy.

    Who’s Affected

    The ordinance applies to contractors who enter into agreements with the City of Everett. It does not apply retroactively to existing contracts. Businesses that rely on city contracts — from construction firms to service providers — will need to ensure their record-keeping and employment practices meet the new requirements before seeking future city work.

    What Happens Next

    The ordinance passed with a veto-proof 9-1 margin and is now city law. Contractors working on upcoming city projects should review the requirements and consult with their legal counsel about compliance timelines.

    Residents who believe a contractor working on a city project is violating the ordinance can report concerns through the city’s official channels at everettwa.gov.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What did Everett’s new fair labor ordinance do?
    The ordinance requires contractors doing business with the city to maintain proper payroll records, correctly classify workers, and provide employees with a way to report violations. The city can now revoke or suspend contracts for noncompliance.

    When did the ordinance pass?
    The Everett City Council passed the ordinance on March 25, 2026, by a 9-1 margin.

    Who voted against it?
    Ward 1 Councilor Michele Capone cast the sole dissenting vote, citing concerns about the city’s ability to enforce the ordinance.

    Does this apply to union workers?
    Union workers on city contracts are already covered by their collective bargaining agreements. The ordinance primarily extends protections to non-union workers, though it applies to all contractors working under city agreements.

    Can employees report violations?
    Yes. The ordinance creates a formal reporting mechanism so employees can flag violations to the city. The city can then act on those reports or refer them to state labor enforcement agencies.

    Does this apply to all businesses in Everett?
    No. The ordinance applies to contractors seeking or holding contracts with the City of Everett — not to all private employers operating within city limits.

    What can the city do if a contractor violates the ordinance?
    The city can revoke a contract, suspend it, or impose additional conditions. It can also refer violations to state labor agencies for investigation.

  • Everett’s Proposed Utility Tax Would Add $10.74 a Month to Most Snohomish County Water Bills

    Everett’s Proposed Utility Tax Would Add $10.74 a Month to Most Snohomish County Water Bills

    Everett residents and Snohomish County water customers could see their monthly bills increase by nearly $11 starting July 1, 2026, if the Everett City Council approves a proposal to double the city’s utility tax rate on water and sewer services.

    The proposal, which the council is expected to consider through three readings beginning in April, would replace the existing 6 percent “payment in lieu of taxes” (PILT) fee with a 12 percent utility tax on water and sewer. That change would raise approximately $7.5 million per year for the city’s general fund — closing about half of a projected $14 million budget deficit the city faces heading into 2027.

    What It Means for Your Water Bill

    For the average Everett water customer, the tax increase would add roughly $10.74 per month in additional charges. The city’s current 6 percent fee has been in place since 1983 — more than four decades without adjustment. City officials argue the updated structure better aligns with state law that explicitly allows municipalities to levy utility taxes.

    “Our tax will be embedded in wholesale water costs, and then other cities can do what they will with their utility taxes,” City Finance Director Mike Bailey told the Everett Herald in March.

    The change affects more than just city residents. Everett’s water system serves approximately 670,000 people — roughly three-quarters of all businesses and residents across Snohomish County. Communities that purchase wholesale water from Everett will see the tax embedded in what they pay Everett, and those cities may then choose to layer their own utility taxes on top of that wholesale rate.

    Over 180,000 sewer customers would also be affected.

    Why Everett Faces a $14 Million Gap

    The budget shortfall is not a sudden emergency — city officials have been working to address a structural revenue gap that grows as demand for services increases while traditional revenue sources remain flat. Mayor Cassie Franklin addressed the issue directly during her March 2026 State of the City address, telling residents: “We cannot cut our way to a sustainable future.”

    Options the city has evaluated to close the gap include regionalizing library or fire services and pursuing a targeted property tax levy lid lift. The utility tax approach has gained traction because it does not require voter approval, can be implemented relatively quickly, and taps into a revenue source the city’s legal department says is clearly permitted under Washington state law.

    The new tax would close approximately half the projected $14 million deficit. City officials have not yet publicly committed to a specific plan for closing the remaining gap.

    Low-Income Customer Protections

    City officials have indicated they plan to expand utility payment assistance programs for income-qualified customers before the tax takes effect. No details about the expanded program have been released publicly as of publication.

    What Happens Next

    The Everett City Council is expected to hold its first reading on the utility tax ordinance in April 2026. Under standard council procedure, an ordinance requires three readings before it can be voted on for final approval. If the council approves the measure on its current timeline, the 12 percent rate would take effect July 1, 2026.

    No council vote has occurred yet. Residents who wish to weigh in can attend council meetings held at 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays at the Everett City Council Chambers, 3002 Wetmore Ave., or submit comments through the city’s official website at everettwa.gov.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the current utility tax rate in Everett?
    The city currently charges a 6 percent fee described as a “payment in lieu of taxes” on water and sewer services. This rate has been in place since 1983.

    How much more will I pay each month?
    The city estimates the average customer will pay approximately $10.74 more per month if the 12 percent rate is approved.

    Do I have to be an Everett resident to be affected?
    No. Everett’s water system serves approximately 670,000 people across Snohomish County — roughly three-quarters of the county’s residents and businesses. If your community buys water from Everett, you may see the increase reflected in your bill.

    Does this require voter approval?
    No. A utility tax does not require a public vote. The Everett City Council has authority to approve it through the standard ordinance process.

    When would the new rate take effect?
    The proposed effective date is July 1, 2026, pending council approval.

    Will there be assistance for low-income customers?
    City officials have stated they plan to expand utility payment assistance programs before implementation, but details have not been finalized.

    How much money will this raise?
    The city projects the 12 percent utility tax would raise approximately $7.5 million annually toward the general fund.

    Why does Everett have a budget deficit?
    The city faces a projected $14 million budget shortfall in its 2027 general fund. Mayor Franklin has said the city cannot solve the gap through cuts alone and is pursuing new revenue strategies.

    Go Deeper: We’ve published detailed knowledge nodes expanding on this story for specific Everett audiences: