Local History - youthforhistory.org

Celebration recap · August 23, 2026

Bellevue Local History Celebration Brings Community Together

BELLEVUE, Washington — The Bellevue Local History Celebration on August 23, 2026, was a major success, bringing families, neighbors, nearly 20 participating organizations, and 40+ volunteers together at Bellevue Downtown Park. Organized by Youth for History, the gathering brought government departments, historical and cultural organizations, schools, and community groups together for an afternoon of discovery through exhibits, conversations, and activities for all ages. Historical photographs, archival materials, and interactive exhibits helped visitors explore the development of Bellevue and Washington State. Children’s reading activities, educational programs, and hands-on experiences made local history welcoming to families and residents of all ages.

The program included speeches by Richard Hao, founder of the nonprofit Youth for History, former Bellevue Mayor Conrad Lee, and the president of Eastside Heritage Center. Participating organizations included Eastside Heritage Center, King County Library System, Bellevue College, City of Bellevue departments, and other educational, cultural, and community groups.

Volunteers were central to making the celebration happen. From contacting participating organizations and coordinating displays to developing activities and welcoming visitors, the youth team helped bring their preparation to life. Youth for History thanks every participating organization, speaker, volunteer, and visitor who contributed to this successful celebration of Bellevue’s past and community spirit.

Community booths and visitors at the Bellevue Local History Celebration, with the downtown skyline behind them

A community gathering in the heart of Bellevue Downtown Park.

Nearly 20participating organizations

40+volunteers

All ageslearning and connecting

Volunteers and celebration participants gathered for a group photograph at Downtown Park — The people behind an afternoon of community history.

Planned and powered by young people

Youth leadership,
in action.

40+ volunteers helped bring the celebration to life. The youth team contacted government agencies and community organizations, coordinated exhibits, developed activities, and managed on-site operations.

From early planning to welcoming visitors, the event gave young people a hands-on role in connecting their community with its history.

Bellevue City Councilmember Jared Nieuwenhuis attended the celebration. Former Bellevue Mayor Conrad Lee spoke at the event and visited participating booths, meeting with community organizations and volunteers.

Moments from the day

A celebration in pictures.

Meet the volunteers, explore the displays, and revisit the community connections that made the afternoon special.

A youth speaker addressing the celebration in front of the Bellevue Local History banner — Youth voices at the center of the celebration.

Three Youth for History volunteers welcoming visitors at their information booth — Welcoming neighbors to Youth for History.

City of Bellevue booth with historical displays arranged by decade — Exploring Bellevue’s story, decade by decade.

A speaker addressing the Bellevue Local History Celebration with a microphone beside the event banner — Community voices celebrating Bellevue’s history.

A speaker sharing remarks at Bellevue Downtown Park with Youth for History volunteers nearby — Sharing stories and connecting generations.

Two youth presenters holding microphones and notes beside the Bellevue Local History Celebration banner — Young presenters helping bring the celebration to life.

Visitors talking with an Eastside Heritage Center representative beside historical displays — Sharing Eastside stories across generations.

Community participation

Many perspectives. One Bellevue.

Nearly 20 organizations participated, bringing together public service, education, culture, and local history. Thank you to the organizations, volunteers, and neighbors who shared their time and knowledge.