Redmond, Washington
Redmond is a city in King County, Washington, United States, 15 miles east of Seattle. Redmond is known as the "Bicycle Capital of the Northwest," with an annual bike race on city streets and the state's only velodrome. In Redmond, Microsoft and Nintendo of America have their headquarters. The city's urban core is located just north of Lake Sammamish, with residential districts to the north and west. Overlake is the city's second urban area, located west of Lake Sammamish. Along the west edge of the city's downtown, the Sammamish River flows north from the lake.
Summers in Redmond are hot and dry, with little rain and sunny or partly sunny skies from June through September. November is often the wettest month of the year, with chilly winters and heavy rain. It has a mild climate for its latitude, like the rest of the Pacific Northwest, yet nonetheless experiences all four seasons. Though snowfall is infrequent here, it is not as uncommon as it is in other cities such as Seattle. The most prevalent form of cold air is in the form of a high-pressure system, which drives rain out of the area.
Redmond Derby Days is a community celebration that takes place every year on the second full weekend in July, and it celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2015. Redmond's Bicycle Derby began as a race around Lake Sammamish in 1939 and has since grown into a multi-day event that includes a bicycle criterium, parade, entertainment stages, beer garden, local food options, and activities. On Saturday, there will be a carnival featuring rides and attractions, as well as a fireworks display at twilight. There are a number of performing arts companies in Redmond, including the Eastside Symphony and the Second Story Repertory Theatre company. Many of Redmond's street sculptures are part of a revolving sculpture display, which can be seen throughout its parks and streets.
Redmond Lights is a community festival that takes place every year on the first Saturday in December. On the city hall property, the mayor conducts a tree-lighting ceremony. A lantern walk along the Sammamish Trail and Redmond Central Connector with musical and light stations will lead to Redmond Town Center, where there will be a carousel, skating rink, and food tastings.
Since 2010, Redmond has had a poet laureate appointed by city ordinance. Rebecca Meredith was the first laureate, followed by Jeannine Hall Gailey, Michael Dylan Welch, and many others.