Rain poured, so did hardy concertgoers for last day of Bumbershoot

The weather didn't let up during Bumbershoot weekend, but thousands still poured into Seattle Center for one of the city's signature events.

Many looked ready for all-terrain hiking rather than concert-going — decked out in waterproof jackets, boots and backpacks. These fans forked out $50 for a ticket each day, then lined up at food stands for cash-only treats from Russian dumplings to Thai noodles.

But the concertgoers, who weathered rain and the recession, did not equal the crowds of years past. Last year, tickets were about $10 a day cheaper. It was sunnier, too.

"This weekend's weather has had an impact on attendance, but to what extent we're still unsure," said Michele Scoleri, Bumbershoot executive and artistic director.

Last year, One Reel reported an estimate of 142,000 at Bumbershoot, down from about 150,000 in 2007.

Another reason for thinned-out crowds this year was the lineup: Although this year boasted the Black Eyed Peas, Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Modest Mouse, in previous years fans were spoiled with the likes of Kanye West, B.B. King and The Ramones.

Not to say that those who did come didn't enjoy the three-day fest. There was much merriment in the rain — spontaneous dance circles, creative costumes (gypsies, pimps and pea pods!) and the usual crowd surfing.

Artists prayed for sun — and during the Black Eyed Peas' performance Monday afternoon, the sound may have given out a couple of times, but the clouds did part during their set list of past and current hits like "My Humps," "Where Is the Love" and "Boom Boom Pow."

And Monday's rain didn't deter Seattle rapper Macklemore, who rapped about "the beautiful day." He brought onstage other hip-hop locals, such as Grynch and Champagne Champagne.

"There's something amazing about the music that comes out of Seattle," Macklemore told fans, half of them holding umbrellas. "There's a lineage of history on this grass you're standing on."

Besides braving the elements outdoors, there was much to experience indoors.

Flatstock showcased the art behind the music — colorful band posters, buttons and T-shirts. An addition this year was the Seattle-Moscow Poster Show, with more than 70 posters bridging the musical ties between the two cities. The Gage Drawing Jam was also ongoing all three days, giving fans the opportunity to make their mark on Bumbershoot, with free art supplies and plenty of paper.

Another rain-free activity was the film festival, including lineups such as the Reel Grrls showcase, which featured the work of young Seattle female filmmakers.

All in all, the weather brought out the hardiest fans — who proved that nothing would keep them from their love of music, art and comedy.

Marian Liu: 206-464-3825 or mliu@seattletimes.com