In the wee hours of the New Year, something was afoot in downtown Bothell along Main Street. It wasn’t the tail end of the Jan. 1 celebrations, nor was it people moseying about for their first antique shopping of the year.

Instead, it was unknown assailants posting three lawn chairs out for the Fourth of July Parade – some seven months down the road.

According to Bothell citizens and local shop owners, alike, the chairs found their way to Main Street, in front of Banner Bank, and no one knows who put them there.

“I think it’s a joke, but I’d like to know who it is,” said Cheryl Bosch of Main Street’s Banner Bank. “It’s a conversation, it’s bothell, it’s killing everyone to figure out who it is putting them out there.”

While, the identity of those who put the chairs on Main Street may not be the only issue that comes from these random acts of chair-ity.

“I think somebody really wanted to make sure they got that spot,” said Kirk Bradley owner of Harmony Massage. “If you found a good spot you want to make sure no one gets it before you do.”

According to the city of Bothell, the chairs could be considered a public nuisance, under Bothell Municipal Code Chapter 8.24, and therefore removed.

“There are currently no restrictions against setting up chairs for the parade, provided the chairs don’t block driveways or sidewalks,” said Peter Troedsson, assistant city manager. “The city hopes that the spirit of patriotism and community, which has always carried the day at Bothell’s Fourth of July Parade, will prevail and that everyone will have a chance to see and be part of the fun.”

Even though the chairs are out early, many people are taking it as a curious prank on the city; something to talk about as amusing entertainment.

“I honestly think it may be space aliens that put them there,” Bradley said. “They should get their bottoms in the chairs or get to the bottom of the chairs – either one.”

Last year, there was a hubbub in town over chairs coming a few weeks early. Needless to say that these chairs, some seven-months in advance, has ruffle some tail feathers.

“I must protest! Rather vehemently, I might add,” said Enid Strict of Bothell in a letter to the editor. “What next? The city of Bothell taking online reservations for prime spots? Perhaps VIP packages will be available complete with wait staff?”

The current set of chairs on Main Street do not come with valet, Wi-Fi or luxury accommodations. No reservations are currently planned.

To those who did put the chairs out, Bosch from Banner Bank has a message. “Thank you for the entertainment. It’s been, again, another funny conversation piece for the community.”