Organizers of the 38th annual Ballard SeafoodFest have kickstarted a fundraising campaign with the goal of raising $5,000 in two weeks to keep the Ballard tradition alive and free.

For 38 years, Ballard SeafoodFest has brought live entertainment, delicious foods, and summer fun to the heart of Ballard and attendees were never been charged admission.

This year, Ballard SeafoodFest has launched a Kickstarter campaign to help defray the cost of nearly $40,000 for entertainment.

"We're asking folks to show their appreciation in advance. If our goal is met, we promise not to ask for monetary donations from the stages," said the organizers in an email.

Kickstarter, the largest funding platform for creative projects, is a simple, online way to support this Ballard tradition. People can pledge whatever they can afford and as an added incentive, each pledge level offers complimentary gifts from totes, bumper stickers and buttons, to local merchant gift certificates and salmon BBQ tickets.

Some performers have donated recordings and Ballard SeafoodFest is even offering VIP seating at the MainStage.

Donations will go to directly into performer fees and stage production.

Ballard SeafoodFest has two weeks to raise $5,000. If they don't reach that goal, they get nothing.

Organizers encourage the public to make a pledge today and help keep Ballard SeafoodFest alive, festive and free.

Also read: Ballard SeafoodFest is just weeks away, organizers seek volunteers.