OK, I'm repeating a little here:

voici itinerary: Fri 17th arrive Seattle lunchtime, Sa seattle, Su seattle, Mon Vancouver, Tues Vancouver, weds Seattle, Thurs Portland, Fri Seattle (I'd stay in Portland if it weren't for the fact that it's the friend in Seattle who's bought the plane tickets), Sat Seattle, Sun 26th fly back to Virginia.

How about that bolded Weds for the concept of central get-together? I know a lot of you won't be on vacation, but maybe with enough lead time...? Otherwise, the best weekend night would be Fri the 24th, I think, the Fri before I go back. This is gonna be fun. I've gotten some touristy info, and am making charts with your suggestions... not planning, just becoming aware of my options. I want to know what I'll be missing, too!