Small-town festivals are made from the heart, usually operated by volunteers holding fundraisers throughout the year for these exciting events. Spend a little time in Washington and you'll surely hear about some of our largest festivals like Bite of Seattle, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, and Hoopfest. But do some exploring and you'll see that our small towns also have some exciting festivals, and they happen all year. They may not have the fanfare of our bigger cities' events, but they're just as fun. Here are 10 small-town festivals near me to put on your calendar for this year or next!
1. Juan de Fuca Festival, Port Angeles: May 24-26, 2024
Hosted by the Juan de Fuca Foundation for the Arts, the 31st annual spring fair will have a big turnout. Enjoy live performances of more than 100 talented musicians from several genres, including indie-folk, junk box blues, and country. The lineup also includes ballet and live theater performances and more. See the full schedule on the Juan de Fuca Festival web page.
2. Hood Canal Fjord Fest, Brinnon: May 25 and 26, 2024
Formerly the Hood Canal Shrimp Fest, one of the best street fairs near me takes place at the Brinnon Community Center.
The weekend festival is full of local seafood, crafts, music, kids' activities, and exhibits. It's held on Memorial Day weekend, so if you love shrimp, plan your trip now. For further details, visit the JHood Canal Fjord Fest website.
3. Prospectors' Days, Republic: June 7-9, 2024
For the last 60 years, this mining town has hosted an amazing festival. Held on Clark Avenue and Patterson Park, folks participate in a costume contest, a horseshoe tournament, a soapbox derby, and parades. Watch for updated posts on the Prospectors’ Days Facebook page.
4. Camlann Medieval Village Midsomer Festival, Carnation: June 22 and 23, 2024
Leave behind these hectic times because you've been summoned. The lord of Camlann invites you to attend his summer village festivals in Somersetshire, with crafts and minstrels, puppetry, and archery. Visit the colorful world of Chaucer's England in 1376 and wait for magic to happen. Other events are planned. Discover more on the Camlann Medieval Village website.
5. Union Gap Old Town Days: June 15-16, 2024
Located just outside of Yakima, Union Gap is a small pioneer town with a lot of local history. Head out to Fullbright Park and wander through acres of history camps with demonstrations and information about life and hardships during the Civil War at home and on the battlefield, brought to you by the Washington Civil War Association. More details are coming on the Union Gap Old Town Days web page.
6. Kla Ha Ya Days Festival, Snohomish: Carnival July 10-14 and Festival Events July 19-21, 2024
This celebration welcomes people from all over Washington to celebrate the beauty of Snohomish. Proceeds from the family-friendly activities support Snohomish-based community organizations with programs and services for youth and families. Find the entire schedule on the Kla Ha Ya Days website.
7. Pacific NW Scottish Highland Games & Clan Gathering, Enumclaw: July 26-28, 2024
Attend the sixth-oldest Scottish festival in the U.S. You'll enjoy the North American Scottish Athletics Championship, the U.S. West Coast Drum Corps Championship, pipe bands, and other entertainment. And if you like to eat, plenty of delicious and traditional Scottish foods will be on hand at the Enumclaw Expo Center. Read all about it on the Seattle Scottish Highland Games Association website.
8. Washington State Garlic Fest, Chehalis: Aug. 23-25, 2024
Located at the Southwest Festival Fairgrounds, this is a festival based on garlic-themed cuisine. In other words, it's amazing when you can see live musicians, crafts, and antiques along with the delicious garlic delicacies. We enjoy the live chef demonstrations. For further information, visit the Washington State Garlic Fest web page.
9. Mossyrock Blueberry Festival: Aug. 2-4, 2024
Every August, the Mossyrock Blueberry Festival is held at several venues in the quiet Lewis County town, including the Klickitat Prairie Park. Aside from all the blueberry treats, you'll see plenty of live music from great local bands. Take part in the Pie Eating Championship and try your skills at the Fishing Pond. See more details on the Mossyrock Blueberry Festival web page.
10. Palouse Cabin Fever Brew Fest: Feb. 2025
Since winter can be an isolating time in Eastern Washington, Palouse hosts an annual Cabin Fever Brew Fest every February. Sample local brews and meet your neighbors while enjoying a much-needed night out, which benefits the Palouse Community Center. Stay tuned for the February 2025 date for this annual festival on the Palouse Cabin Fever Brew Fest Facebook page.
Small-town festivals in Washington are abundant. Have you attended any of these on the list? What are your favorite events? Please share your comments below.
If you're out traveling to some of these fun celebrations, you might want to incorporate a Washington road trip. And when lodging comes up, consider renting a comfy Vrbo.
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/washington/best-road-trips-in-washington/
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