Microsoft and Boeing both have established operations in Issaquah and both have significantly affected
Issaquah's history, cultural development, and diverse population through their active community participation and attraction of outside residents. In June 1996, Costco moved its global headquarters to Issaquah. Other Issaquah employers include Siemens Medical Ultrasound Group, GoldSim Technology Group, Boehm's world famous Candies, Darigold and the Hedges Winery.

An interesting fact: Boeing's first wooden seaplane was built by employees from Issaquah and took off from Lake Sammamish, located at the northern edge of downtown Issaquah.

Issaquah public schools are under the jurisdiction of the Issaquah School District 411, home to 23 different schools including schools outside of Issaquah. Issaquah students achieve at high levels, and we need to be proud of our classroom accomplishments. Our test scores consistently rank in the top five in the state in all areas of the WASL.

Dr. Steve Rasmussen, District Superintendent of Schools recently wrote: “Our teachers and support staff are world class. In the coming years, we are going to go further, pushing our good schools to become great schools. Our students need nothing less to fully prepare them for the world of today and tomorrow. Issaquah graduates will not only be ready for the dynamic global economy—they will lead the innovation! What does this look like in practice in schools? We are focusing our efforts and resources on research-driven strategies that produce powerful student learning. These are the strategies that will remain consistent through educational fads or hot-button issues to make an impact in the classroom. By investing in these strategies, we invest in our students. Powerful teaching - Powerful leadership - Powerful systems - the foundation for a great education.

Some typical Issaquahomes and the Highlands neighborhood

Issaquah’s Salmon Days Festival is a two-day International award-winning festival held on the first full weekend of October each year. It is initiated by a parade celebrating the return of the salmon to their birth-water and praises Issaquah's history, culture, and ethnic diversity. This free festival attracts many Northwest artisans and artists, featuring arts and crafts, wood, glass, jewelry, paintings, pottery and metal artworks for sale. There are four entertainment stages; sporting events include 5K and 10K meter runs; a fencing invitational, bike rides, a golf tournament. A 3K run for kids and a "Field of Fun," providing free entertainment for children of all ages.

Salmon Days October Festival             

 Founded in 1979, Issaquah’s Village Theatre is a leading producer of musical theatre in the Pacific Northwest with four main programming components: Mainstage, Village Originals, and our Youth Education Program which includes both KIDSTAGE and Pied Piper.

*Information and photos were secured from the City of Issaquah, Issaquah Chamber of Commerce and other public information web sites.