Washington State is a vibrant hub offering a diverse calendar of annual events catering to every interest. Whether you’re passionate about culinary delights, craft beverages, live music, blooming flowers, thrilling rodeos, or unique local culture, you’ll find something to captivate you here. These Events In Washington State provide fantastic opportunities to experience the local flavor, traditions, and stunning natural beauty of the Evergreen State throughout the year. From lively city festivals to charming small-town gatherings, the state truly comes alive with activity.
This guide highlights some of the major annual events taking place across Washington state each month. Planning your visit around one of these celebrations can elevate your travel experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local community and create lasting memories. Explore the vibrant culture and spirit that define Events In Washington State.
Major Events In Washington State by Month
Washington, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse communities, hosts numerous festivals and events that reflect its unique identity. These gatherings celebrate everything from agricultural bounty and maritime heritage to arts, music, and seasonal changes. Diving into these local experiences is one of the best ways to understand the heart of the state and its people.
January
As winter blankets the state, the fun doesn’t stop. January brings cozy and festive events perfect for embracing the cooler weather. These early-year gatherings often feature unique winter-themed activities and local warmth.
Chelan Winterfest ice sculpture and fireworks
Lake Chelan Winterfest, Chelan: As temperatures drop, the fun heats up in Lake Chelan. Visitors can enjoy intricate ice sculptures, two fireworks shows, and more across downtown Chelan and nearby Manson. It’s a perfect blend of winter charm and community celebration, drawing visitors to the beautiful lake area.
Top 15+ Ideas for Unforgettable Family Fun Los Angeles
Discover the Best Backpacking in Michigan – Unforgettable Trails & Adventures
Discover the Best Time to Visit Denver – A Seasonal Guide 2025
Ellensburg Winterhop Brewfest, Ellensburg: Beer enthusiasts will love sipping their way through the Winterhop Brewfest, which invites breweries from around the Pacific Northwest to pour beers in downtown Ellensburg venues. This event is a fantastic way to sample regional craft beers in a lively, walkable setting.
February
February continues the winter festivities with popular shows and unique tasting experiences. It’s a great month to explore indoor events or enjoy special seasonal offerings that showcase the state’s diverse interests.
Northwest Flower & Garden Show, Seattle: Spanning five days, this impressive show for avid gardeners features more than 20 display gardens, free seminars and workshops, and a marketplace. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for inspiration or wanting to connect with the gardening community.
Red Wine and Chocolate Weekend, Yakima Valley: Sample Yakima Valley reds accompanied by tastings of special treats at more than 40 wineries during Presidents Day Weekend. This event is a delightful pairing that highlights the region’s excellent wines and local confections.
Seattle Museum Month, Seattle: Throughout February, visitors can explore the many museums in greater Seattle. Soar into aviation history, dive into marine life, immerse yourself in pop culture, wander the garden of glass, and more. It’s an ideal opportunity to delve into the rich cultural offerings of the city.
March
March signals the approach of spring with a burst of cultural and culinary events. From celebrating local seafood to world-class wines and diverse artistic expressions, this month offers a taste of what’s to come.
Great Blue Heron with a fish in its beak
Taste Washington, Seattle: Wine culture meets culinary excellence during Taste Washington each March. Enjoy educational seminars, wine and food events with celebrity chefs, and the Grand Tasting, which features hundreds of wineries showcasing their finest vintages plus dozens of local restaurants serving up delectable bites.
Penn Cove Musselfest, Coupeville: Celebrate the area’s briny mussels and waterfront offerings at Musselfest. Live music, mussel farm boat tours, food stalls, and a chowder-tasting competition offer lively fun on picturesque Whidbey Island. It’s a true taste of the Puget Sound.
Whatcom Cultural Arts Festival, Bellingham: Celebrate diverse cultures and immerse yourself in arts, crafts, food, song, dance, storytelling, and other creative endeavors in the historic Fairhaven district. This festival provides a platform for community connection and artistic expression.
Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival, Blaine: Birders flock to northwest Washington to take part in workshops, birding field trips and cruises, and hear from experts in the field. Plenty of kid-friendly activities will keep birders of all ages entertained. It highlights the region’s importance as a birding destination.
Winthrop Balloon Roundup, Winthrop: More than a dozen hot-air balloons fill the sky over Winthrop each winter during this three-day event. Perfect for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts who can also explore the area’s nordic ski trails. It creates a stunning visual spectacle against the winter landscape.
April
April is synonymous with spring blooms in Washington, particularly the world-famous tulip fields. Beyond the flowers, the month features film festivals and traditional community celebrations focused on the state’s agricultural heritage.
Field of yellow daffodils and orange tulips in Skagit Valley
Seattle International Film Festival, Seattle: See the best in international and independent films from around the globe. The festival also features programs, film talks, and a filmmaking camp for youths. It’s a premier event for film lovers.
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, Mount Vernon: This iconic Events In Washington State brings visitors to the Skagit Valley each spring to view acres of tulips and daffodils blanketing the valley in a patchwork of color. The month-long festival includes more than just blooms and display gardens. Visitors can also enjoy art shows, a street fair, concerts, and more.
Daffodil Festival, Pierce County: Launched in 1934 to celebrate the agriculture industry, the festival features the Grand Floral Street Parade, which travels through Tacoma, Puyallup, Sumner, and Orting complete with decorated floats, marching bands, and more. It’s a beloved community tradition.
Washington State Apple Blossom Festival, Wenatchee: Launched in 1919 to celebrate the apple industry, the festival has expanded to include a variety of events and family fun, from a grand parade, craft fair, and live entertainment, to a golf tournament and carnival. It’s a historic celebration of a key state crop.
Washington State Spring Fair, Puyallup: The biggest celebration of spring spans two weekends at the state fairgrounds in Puyallup. Expect live entertainment, fair food, animals, and rides for all ages. This fair offers classic springtime fun for the whole family.
May
May is packed with active events, from major running races and relay challenges to cultural festivals celebrating diverse heritages and local crafts. Spring is in full swing, and communities across the state are celebrating.
Runners at the start of the Bloomsday race in Spokane
Bloomsday Run, Spokane: Since 1977, the first Sunday in May has been dedicated to Spokane’s Bloomsday Run. The annual tradition and national running event attracts tens of thousands of runners each year. It’s a massive and energetic community event.
Athletes competing in a canoe race
Ski to Sea, Bellingham: This 93.5-mile relay encompasses multiple sports and runs from the slopes of Mount Baker to the waters of Bellingham Bay. Enjoy a festival at the finish line in Fairhaven featuring live music, food, beer gardens, and more. It’s a unique and challenging race followed by a lively celebration.
Lake Chelan Wine and Jazz Festival, Chelan: Enjoy a wide range of jazz performances including classic, funk, R&B, Latin, and more playing at wineries and venues around the Lake Chelan Wine Valley. Food and wine is available for purchase at every performance. A Festival Pass provides access to shows across four days.
Northwest Folklife Festival, Seattle: One of the largest folklife festivals in the country is held over Memorial Day weekend. The event boasts performances from dozens of national and regional folk musicians, crafts vendors, and good food. It’s a vibrant celebration of diverse cultural traditions.
Packwood Flea Market, Packwood: The multi-day event attracts hundreds of vendors. Visitors can browse an assortment of antiques, artisan gifts, upcycled items, art, and more. The Flea Market happens twice a year and is considered one of the largest in the Washington United States.
Penn Cove Water Festival, Coupeville: Held in the historic waterfront town of Coupeville, this festival features Native American canoe races, Native arts and crafts vendors, storytelling, music and dance performances, artist demonstrations, food, exhibits, and more. It highlights the rich indigenous history and culture of the region.
Spokane Lilac Festival, Spokane: This event celebrates the Spokane community with a week of festivities that combine the city’s famous lilacs with community events that culminate in the nation’s largest Armed Forces Torchlight Parade.
Viking Fest, Poulsbo: This festival in Poulsbo celebrates Norwegian heritage with plenty of action. Enjoy a carnival and street fair, road races, a strong-man competition, a parade, and more. It showcases the unique Scandinavian roots of the town.
June
June kicks off the summer season with outdoor events, cultural celebrations, and unique local competitions. From logging skills to sand sculpting and pride parades, there’s a wide array of Events In Washington State to experience.
Seattle Pride Parade floats and participants
Deming Logging Show, Deming: Originally established in 1963 to raise funds for injured loggers, this event has grown to include dozens of exhibitions that display the skills and tools used in the logging industry. Don’t miss axe throwing, speed climbing, log rolling, and more.
Sand and Sawdust Festival, Ocean Shores: This festival in Ocean Shores bills itself as one of Washington’s largest chain-saw carving contests. The festival includes an auction, live music, and sandcastle building. It’s a showcase of impressive artistry using wood and sand.
Meeker Days, Puyallup: Pierce County’s largest street festival is a community celebration dedicated to historical, educational, and cultural interaction. Enjoy entertainment, craft vendors, kids’ activities, food, and more.
Seattle PrideFest, Seattle: Seattle’s PrideFest combines advocacy and celebration during an action-packed weekend for all ages. Enjoy entertainment, beer gardens, food vendors, and more at the Seattle Center and Capitol Hill.
Seattle Pride Parade, Seattle: Join Seattle Pride® to celebrate love, diversity, and equality in the vibrant Seattle Pride Parade empowering the LGBTQIA+ community. This is a free, all-ages event along 4th Avenue in downtown Seattle.
Spokane Hoopfest, Spokane: The world’s largest 3-on-3 basketball event. Each year, more than 6,000 teams play 14,000 games across 42 blocks in downtown. The Toyota Shootoff and slam dunk competition are highlights. It transforms the downtown area into a massive basketball court.
Rhubarb Days, Sumner: Don’t miss this festival featuring a pie-eating contest, a rhubarb bake-off, games, and music. It’s a charming local event celebrating a unique regional crop.
July
July is peak summer, bringing warm weather and a plethora of outdoor festivals focused on food, music, rodeo, and regional specialties like lavender and raspberries. These Events In Washington State are perfect for enjoying the sunshine.
Woman smelling lavender in a purple field
The Taste Northwest, Puyallup: Formerly known as The Taste of Tacoma, this massive food festival features dozens of restaurants and specialty food vendors, live musical performances, food competitions, beer gardens, kids’ activities, and more. Held in Puyallup, it highlights food from the South Sound region.
Seafair Summer Fourth, Seattle: Experience an epic Fourth of July celebration with a choreographed fireworks show and a host of pre-show activities during the day. Enjoy multiple vantage points for either Lake Union, Gas Works Park, or Lake Union Park.
Chelan Pro Rodeo, Chelan: The Chelan Rustlers Saddle Club and Aces Wild Pro Rodeo bring two nights of heart-pumping rodeo fun to the Chelan Valley. Expect bronc riders, bulls, and a performance by the McMillan Family Trick Riders.
Darrington Bluegrass Festival, Darrington: Enjoy a jam-packed musical lineup in a picturesque setting where attendees can camp and enjoy nearby hiking trails. It’s a perfect event for music lovers who also enjoy the outdoors.
Northwest Raspberry Festival, Lynden: Held in downtown Lynden, this festival showcases fresh, local raspberries. Enjoy raspberry-themed events and food as well as basketball tournaments, local berry farm tours, and street vendor markets.
Sequim Lavender Weekend, Sequim: Each summer, the landscape around Sequim on the Olympic Peninsula is awash in purple as lavender fields burst into bloom. Visit during the third weekend in July to experience all things lavender, including the Lavender Festival Street Fair, visits to local farm fields, and more.
Skagit Valley Highland Games, Mount Vernon: Kilts and bagpipes abound at this traditional Scottish event. Enjoy bagpiping and drumming competitions, fiddling, traditional Scottish athletics, and Scottish Highland dancing. It’s a cultural immersion experience.
Tri-Cities Water Follies, Tri-Cities: Enjoy three days of hydroplane races and airshows on the Columbia River. Attendees can expect booths, a kids’ zone, pit tours, and more. It’s a thrilling event on the water.
4 Days of Aloha, Vancouver: Celebrate Hawaiian culture at this four day event in Esther Short Park, featuring live music, dance, arts and crafts, and food vendors. It brings a taste of the islands to the Pacific Northwest.
August
August continues the summer fun with major arts festivals, thrilling air shows, unique agricultural celebrations, and traditional Native American gatherings. There’s a wide variety of Events In Washington State to fill your itinerary.
Volunteers smiling at the National Lentil Festival
Anacortes Arts Festival, Anacortes: This art bash stretching through downtown Anacortes features 250-plus artisan booths, live music, wine and beer gardens, food trucks and vendors, a kids’ area, and a fine art show.
Boeing Seafair Air Show, Seattle: You don’t have to be an aviation geek to appreciate this air show spread over multiple days. Watch magnificent aerobatics done by a variety of military and civilian teams, including demonstrations by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, U.S. Army Golden Knights, U.S. Coast Guard, and the U.S. Air Force.
Makah Days, Neah Bay: This event on the Olympic Peninsula commemorates thousands of years of Makah culture. Tribal members and the public are invited to attend. Enjoy canoe races, a salmon bake, and browse Native American art while learning about the tribe’s past and present.
National Lentil Festival, Pullman: The Palouse Region in Eastern Washington grows a quarter of the lentils in the country, and this festival celebrates the legume with street fairs, open-air concerts, cooking demos, a cook-off, parade, and more. It’s a unique agricultural celebration.
Northwest Washington Fair, Lynden: Enjoy horse shows, a rodeo, livestock judging, food and craft displays, a demolition derby, and nightly entertainment in the grandstands during this 10-day event. It’s a classic county fair experience.
Omak Stampede, Omak: Enjoy heart-pounding entertainment at this annual event and World Famous Suicide Race. Activities include a carnival, kids’ night, art show, rodeo, and the Indian Encampment & Pow Wow sponsored by the Colville Confederated Tribes.
Washington State International Kite Festival, Long Beach: Enjoy world-class kite flying and competitions on the Long Beach Peninsula as flyers from around the world convene to awe spectators with choreographed movements and kite battles. It creates a colorful spectacle over the beach.
September
September transitions into autumn with major state fairs, balloon rallies, music festivals, and unique historical celebrations. The weather is often pleasant, making it a great time to explore outdoor Events In Washington State.
Musicians playing on an outdoor stage at Departure Fest NW
Departure Fest NW, Quilcene: This three-day music festival is held at the breathtaking Lake Leland Amphitheater on the Olympic Peninsula. Attendees can enjoy camping, live music, craft vendors, and phenomenal food. The event takes a community-oriented approach to traditional music festivals by infusing Native storytelling with world-class music, local artisans, and local businesses.
Ellensburg Rodeo, Ellensburg: The state’s biggest rodeo takes place over Labor Day weekend and features a carnival, parade, and musical performances. It’s a premier rodeo event in the Pacific Northwest.
Hot air balloons preparing for launch at sunrise
The Great Prosser Balloon Rally, Prosser: Balloon Pilots from across the western United States converge on Prosser for this annual festival. Don’t forget to bring your camera. It offers stunning photographic opportunities.
Packwood Flea Market, Packwood: The multi-day event attracts hundreds of vendors. Visitors can browse an assortment of antiques, artisan gifts, upcycled items, art, and more. The Flea Market happens twice a year and is considered one of the largest in the United States.
Pigout in the Park, Spokane: This six-day food and music festival held at Spokane’s Riverfront Park boasts 90 free concerts on three stages, more than 50 food booths, and three adults-only beverage gardens.
Washington State Fair, Puyallup: Washington’s official state fair draws visitors for concerts, rodeos, exhibitions, tons of rides and games, fair food, animal experiences, art booths, and so much more. It’s one of the largest and most popular annual Events In Washington State.
Wings Over Willapa, Long Beach Peninsula: Hosted by The Friends of Willapa National Wildlife Refuge and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, this multi-day festival takes place in the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge on the Long Beach Peninsula. Enjoy guided bird walks, a hands-on introduction to wildlife tracking, and other outings as well as a keynote presentation. It’s a key event for nature and birding enthusiasts.
Wooden Boat Festival, Port Townsend: Billed as the largest wooden boat festival in North America, this family friendly event offers visitors the chance to step aboard historic and modern wooden boats, watch demonstrations, and more. It celebrates the maritime heritage of the region.
October
October brings the taste of autumn with festivals focused on seafood, craft beverages, and Bavarian culture. As leaves change color, the event calendar offers delicious and fun reasons to explore the state.
Bellingham SeaFeast, Bellingham: This two-day event celebrates Bellingham’s maritime heritage legacy, bustling working waterfront, internationally renowned fishing and seafood industries, and culinary bounty. Enjoy live entertainment, seafood, and more.
Dungeness Crab Festival, Port Angeles: This annual event celebrates the region’s seafood and maritime and cultural traditions. Enjoy fresh, local Dungeness crab as well as live music, a 5K run, booths by local artists, and a U.S. Coast Guard demonstration.
Fresh Hop Ale Festival, Yakima: With more than 70 breweries, wineries, and cideries, as well as food and live music, this festival is recognized as one of the nation’s best beer festivals. The festival is located in the heart of hop country, which produces more than over 75 percent of the total United States hop crop.
Northwest Chocolate Festival, Seattle: Calling all chocolate lovers. Billed as the largest gathering of artisan chocolate makers in the world, this festival features educational workshops, exhibitors, and samples of indulgent chocolate concoctions.
Oktoberfest, Leavenworth: This traditional Oktoberfest celebration is held in the Bavarian-style town of Leavenworth in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. Enjoy delicious local beer and food, live music, traditional German dancing, steinholding competitions, kids’ activities, and more.
OysterFest, Shelton: Head to Hood Canal for shellfish, brews, music, and the West Coast Oyster Shucking Championships. The seafood festival features tons of food items and hands-on water quality exhibits.
December
December is filled with festive holiday Events In Washington State, transforming towns and attractions into winter wonderlands. Lights, markets, and special celebrations mark the end of the year.
Fairhaven Winterfest, Bellingham: Each December, Fairhaven is decked out in lights and holiday decor for the holiday season. Special events and attractions include a holiday market, tree-lighting celebration, horse-drawn carriage rides, visits with Father Christmas, and a lighted bike parade.
New Year’s at the Needle, Seattle: The Space Needle ushers in the new year with a big fireworks show when midnight strikes. It’s an iconic way to ring in the new year.
Village of Lights, Leavenworth: This Bavarian village was practically made for Christmas. Take in more than half a million lights and enjoy sleigh rides, roasted chestnuts, carolers, kids’ activities, and Santa photos from December through February. It’s a truly magical holiday destination.
Zoolights, Tacoma: More than half a million lights turn Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium into a holiday display. See a scuba-diving Santa and more family fun.
Frequently Asked Questions About Events In Washington State
Q: How can I find specific dates and times for these events?
A: Specific dates, times, and ticket information are best found by checking the official website for each individual event. Event details can sometimes change, so it’s always best to confirm directly.
Q: Are the events listed suitable for families?
A: Many Events In Washington State are family-friendly and offer activities for children. Look for mentions of kids’ zones, parades, animal exhibits, or specific family-focused entertainment in the event descriptions. Always check the individual event website for details on age appropriateness and specific family programming.
Q: Do I need to purchase tickets in advance for these events?
A: For many popular Events In Washington State, especially those with limited capacity, specific performances, or entry fees, purchasing tickets in advance online is highly recommended. Some smaller or free events may not require tickets, but checking ahead is always wise.
Q: What should I bring when attending an outdoor event in Washington State?
A: Washington’s weather can be unpredictable. For outdoor events, it’s wise to bring layers of clothing, comfortable walking shoes, rain gear (just in case!), sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and potentially a reusable water bottle. Cash is also helpful for smaller vendors.
Q: Are pets allowed at these events?
A: Pet policies vary greatly depending on the event location and type. Some outdoor festivals may allow leashed dogs in certain areas, while food festivals, indoor shows, or events within parks/venues with strict rules may not. Always check the specific event’s guidelines regarding pets before bringing your animal companion.
Plan Your Trip Around These Washington State Events
Exploring the calendar of Events In Washington State offers a fantastic way to plan a memorable trip. Whether you’re drawn by the vibrant arts scene, the rich agricultural heritage, the thrilling sports competitions, or the lively community festivals, there’s an event waiting for you. Use this guide as a starting point to discover the unique celebrations that make Washington State a dynamic and exciting place to visit throughout the year. Get ready to experience the best of Washington’s culture, food, history, and fun!