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Culture

Exploring the Cultures of Bellevue

Located in the heart of the Puget Sound region, Bellevue, Washington is a city that prides itself on its rich cultural heritage and diverse community. With a population of more than 145,000 residents, Bellevue is home to people from all walks of life, with diverse backgrounds and unique cultural traditions. From its history as a Native American gathering place to its thriving contemporary arts and culture scene, Bellevue is a city that truly embraces its cultural diversity.

Bellevue was originally inhabited by the Sammamish and Snoqualmie tribes, who lived along the shores of Lake Washington for thousands of years. In the late 1800s, the area was settled by European settlers and became a bustling center of commerce and industry. Today, Bellevue is one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, with a thriving economy and a rich cultural heritage.

Bellevue, Washington, is a city that showcases the diverse cultural heritage of the United States. Situated just across Lake Washington from Seattle, Bellevue is a city that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Bellevue is one of Washington’s largest majority-minority cities, and its diverse community is comprised of 49.4% of various races and ethnic groups. According to recent polling, 39% of Bellevue’s population was born in over 90 different countries, roughly half of the population identified as a person of color, and 43% speak a language other than English. This rich cultural diversity is what has helped Bellevue develop into a beautiful city rich in multicultural experiences, traditions, and ways of life. No wonder we were ranked the 3rd happiest city in the nation!

In 2014, the City of Bellevue adopted the Diversity Advantage Plan which serves to help make diversity an asset for the community. The plan is rooted in principles of equity, access, inclusion, opportunity, and cultural competence, and guides efforts to improve city policies, staffing, training, and outreach. The goal is to create a welcoming and wonderful city that promotes access equity, inclusion, opportunity, and cultural competency for all. Bellevue, Washington is a city that truly celebrates its cultural diversity. From its rich history to its thriving arts and cultural scene, Bellevue is a special place that truly embraces its diverse community. Whether you're interested in learning about the city's history, enjoying its cultural festivals and events, or simply exploring its stunning natural beauty, Bellevue is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression. We’ve made this multicultural hub to help you explore the multicultural influences and experiences of the gorgeous tapestry that is Bellevue.