In 1909, the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition was held at the southern portion of the University of Washington campus in Seattle. The A-Y-P Exposition was held from June 1, 1909 to October 16, 1909 on what is now the campus of the University of Washington in Seattle.

More than 3.7 million people visited the exhibits. In 2009, individuals and organizations in Seattle, King County, and Washington State will present exciting projects that tell the story of how the 1909 event changed the course of local history and influences the region today.

Originally intended to celebrate Washington's growth and development resultant from the infusion of wealth created by the 1897 Yukon Gold Rush, the exposition was expanded to also include the importance of Pacific trade. The exposition was mandated by the state legislature to display the resources, products, and advantages of Washington and the region. It included exhibits in elegant buildings, along with fountains and formal gardens in the style of Versailles.

The A-Y-P Exposition strengthened economic and cultural ties throughout and beyond the Pacific Rim, focusing on Washington's role as a major trading partner with Hawaii and Alaska (well before statehood), Japan, the Philippines, and Western Canada. The exposition introduced people to new technologies, and to changes in societal structures. It was Washington's first World's Fair, and left lasting memories in the millions who attended.