#Seattle #MayDay 2026 steps off from Capitol Hill.
— Alex Garland (@alexgarland.bsky.social) May 1, 2026 at 1:50 PM
Organized labor turned out in force with unions from across the region participating.
Police estimated up to 5,000 participated in the Cal Anderson Rally and march through the city. The Seattle Police Department deployed a contingent of bike officers and members of the Police Outreach Engagement Team for the event.
Following years of intense clashes between police and demonstrators pushed onto the streets of Capitol Hill, recent Seattle May Days have been peaceful.
Public safety issues along the route this year were limited to a few reports of quarrels with counter-demonstrators and a strong security presence at the federal building downtown.
UPDATE: Two people who reportedly had been “corking” downtown — using bikes to block intersections and protect marchers along the route — were reported taken into custody by police.
In addition to messages of solidarity with workers, many signs focused on the federal immigration crackdown and ICE and the Trump administration.
CHS reported here on preparations for May Day 2026 in Seattle, the second year the city’s rally and march have started from Capitol Hill after years in the Central District.
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