The Most Epic Annual Events in Washington: Top 10 Must-Experience Festivals (Currently Open)
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival – Spring’s Floral Spectacle in the North Cascades
When the tulips bloom in Skagit Valley, it feels like the whole region bursts into color. The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival runs annually across April in northwestern Washington and draws thousands of visitors come to stroll fields, visit flower farms, and capture iconic images of row upon row of blooms
What to expect:
Miles of rolling fields planted by local growers; displays open to the public.
Farm tours, photo ops, artisan markets and local food vendors.
Ideal for families, photography lovers, and anyone who enjoys spring nature.
Why it stands out: The combination of natural beauty, accessible farms, and the iconic blooms makes it one of Washington’s most shareable events.
Tip for visitors: Stay in nearby towns like Mount Vernon or La Conner. Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture better light.
Washington State International Kite Festival – Sky-High Fun on the Evergreen Coast
One of the most unique annual events in Washington: this week-long kite festival held every August on the Long Beach Peninsula, where the skies become a colorful canopy of kites, stunt flying, inflatables, night light shows and seaside joy.
What to expect:
International kite fliers and competitors, synchronized kite shows, and night glows.
Family-friendly activities like kite-making, beach games, and hands-on experiences.
Coastal setting: wind, sand, surf and a lively community atmosphere.
Tip for visitors: Bring a kite (or buy one locally), pack wind-proof layers, and book lodging early on the peninsula.
Taste Washington – Culinary & Wine Celebration in Seattle
For foodies and wine lovers, this festival is top-tier. Held each March in the Seattle area, Taste Washington brings together 200+ wineries and dozens of restaurants for a weekend of tastings, seminars, pairings and live cooking demonstrations.
What to expect:
The Grand Tasting event with wines from across Washington’s viticultural regions (Columbia Valley, Red Mountain, Yakima, etc.).
Food pairings by acclaimed chefs, culinary showcases and educational seminars.
A slightly upscale feel—great for couples, groups of friends, or anyone who loves fine taste.
Why it stands out: It highlights Washington’s terroir and culinary evolution, not just a casual festival but a refined celebration.
Tip for visitors: Choose your ticket type (general vs VIP). Plan ahead for seminars if you’re keen on learning. Lodging in downtown Seattle helps.
Washington State Fair (Puyallup Fair) – Classic Fair Fun Near Tacoma
If you want an all-in one festival blending rides, exhibits, concerts, agricultural displays and family fun, this is among the biggest in the state. Held in Puyallup each late August through mid-September.
What to expect:
Carnival rides, livestock competitions, concert stages, food crazy in variety, and large-scale fair energy.
A blend of traditional fair-culture and modern entertainment.
Very family-friendly and accessible from the Seattle-Tacoma region.
Why it stands out: Its scale and variety mean there’s something for everyone—from toddlers to adults.
Tip for visitors: Arrive early on busy days; parking can fill up. Check the entertainment schedule if you’re targeting a specific show.
Oktoberfest Leavenworth – Bavarian Festival in the Cascade Mountains
In the Alpine-style town of Leavenworth, the fall brings a big dose of German-inspired celebration—music, beer, dancing, food and mountain scenery combine into one of Washington’s most beloved festivals.
What to expect:
Authentic Bavarian architecture and atmosphere with Oktoberfest flair.
Traditional beer stein-holding competitions, polka bands, bratwursts, and good fun.
Setting in the Cascades gives this festival a scenic depth.
Why it stands out: It’s a strong example of how a cultural festival can feel immersive, charming and rooted in place.
Tip for visitors: Book lodging early; weekend spots fill fast in Leavenworth during this festival. Dress in layers (mountain evenings get cool).
Issaquah Salmon Days – Nature & Culture in the Eastside Suburbs
Held each October in Issaquah, this festival celebrates the salmon run—and does so with art markets, food, music, parade and local flavors.
What to expect:
Parade through historic downtown Issaquah.
Arts & crafts vendors lining the streets.
Salmon viewing at the local hatchery, nature and heritage merging.
Family-friendly zone with kids activities, food stands.
Why it stands out: It combines natural rhythm (salmon run) with festival culture—great for families and nature-lovers alike.
Tip for visitors: Bring sturdy shoes for nature walks if you plan to visit the hatchery, check event maps for the parade route.
Northwest Folklife Festival – Seattle’s Big Folk Music & Culture Weekend
Held over Memorial Day weekend on Seattle Center grounds, this festival celebrates folklore, music, dance, and cultural heritage from across the region and world.
What to expect:
Multiple stages featuring music and dance from many traditions.
Food trucks, craft vendors, children’s activities, interactive workshops.
Free admission or low-cost entry—great for community feel.
Why it stands out: It offers deep cultural variety, in an urban setting, and is highly accessible from Seattle.
Tip for visitors: Check stage schedules ahead of time to catch your favorite acts. Bring layers—Seattle weather can be unpredictable even in late May.
Lakefair – Summer Community Festival in Olympia
A local gem in the state capital region, Lakefair is held over five days in July at Heritage Park in Olympia and offers a mix of arts, food, fireworks, family events and local pride.
What to expect:
Parade, arts & crafts booths, carnival rides, fireworks over Capitol Lake.
A strong community sense and multi-day fun centered in a smaller city setting.
Why it stands out: For travelers wanting festival energy without the mega-crowds, this offers a more relaxed yet full experience.
Tip for visitors: Combine with exploring Olympia’s waterfront, state capitol grounds, and beaches nearby for a full weekend.
Penn Cove Water Festival – Whidbey Island’s Sea-Side Celebration
Held in Coupeville on Whidbey Island, this festival blends maritime heritage, Native American canoe races, seafood, art and island charm.
What to expect:
Native American canoe races, artisan vendors, music and dance.
Seafood tasting, beachside culture, and small-town festival charm.
Easy ferry access from the mainland, giving it that “getaway” feel.
Why it stands out: Its location and unique mix of nature + cultural heritage make this festival especially memorable.
Tip for visitors: Take the ferry early, consider staying overnight on Whidbey to fully soak in island vibes.
OysterFest – Hood Canal’s Seafood & Coastal Festival
Held near Shelton along Hood Canal, OysterFest celebrates shellfish, brews, music and coastal living.
What to expect:
Oyster shucking demos, live music, craft beer and local food vendors.
Scenic canal-side setting, slower pace, great for food-lover travelers and coastal escape.
Why it stands out: It ties together food, place and seasonal rhythm in a coastal setting less overrun than major city festivals.
Tip for visitors: Combine with a stay near Hood Canal, explore beaches, kayaking or shoreline trails.
Planning Your Festival-Road Trip Across Washington
Here are some tips to make the most out of a festival-focused trip in Washington:
Choose your season & region
Spring: Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, Taste Washington (March)
Summer: Lakefair (July), Kite Festival (August), Folklife (late May)
Fall: Salmon Days (October), Oktoberfest Leavenworth
Late Summer / pre-fall: Washington State Fair (Aug-Sept)
Map your travel so you hit the region when the festival is active.
Book early & plan logistics
Lodging fills up around major festivals—coastal or mountain towns especially.
Parking and access can get tricky; check festival websites for shuttles and staging areas.
Bring layers and rain gear—Washington’s weather is famously variable.
Pack your festival toolkit
Comfortable walking shoes and a light backpack.
Reusable water bottle, sunscreen, hat (even in spring, outdoors matters).
Phone or camera for capturing share-worthy moments.
Check for age restrictions or ticket types (some events are 21+ or family-friendly).
Maximize your experience
Arrive early on first day of festival if you want the best access.
Preview entertainment schedule so you don’t miss headliner acts or demos.
Explore beyond the festival: local restaurants, natural attractions, small towns nearby.
Show respect for local culture and environment—especially in small towns or nature-rich areas.
Final Thoughts
Washington’s festival calendar offers something truly for everyone: from vibrant spring blooms to seaside kite clouds, from culture-rich parades to wine-filled city weekends. The ten events above—Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, Washington State International Kite Festival, Taste Washington, Washington State Fair, Oktoberfest Leavenworth, Issaquah Salmon Days, Northwest Folklife Festival, Lakefair, Penn Cove Water Festival, and OysterFest—stand out as must-experience milestones in the state’s celebrations.