Washington isn’t just about rain, coffee, and pine trees, it’s also packed with some of the wildest, weirdest, and most unforgettable festivals you’ll ever go to.
We’re talking about parties for tulips, rodeos that’ll make you yell “yeehaw,” and even a full-on celebration for lentils (yes, the little bean).
From mountain towns that turn into German villages to small cities that light up with hot air balloons, there’s something unique happening in every corner of the state.
So mark your calendar, because these festivals are the kind of events you’ll be talking about way after the confetti’s gone.
1. Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, Mount Vernon
Time of year: April
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival in Mount Vernon turns endless farm fields into a rainbow wonderland with millions of blooming tulips.
Located about an hour north of Seattle, this month-long celebration draws visitors from all over.
Many come to snap selfies, stroll through the vibrant rows of flowers at Roozengaarde and Tulip Town, and gather fresh-cut bouquets.
You’ll find everything from tulip-themed treats and local art booths to farm tours, tractor rides, and even a tulip parade.
Pro tip: Go early in the morning to beat the crowds and wear boots as it gets muddy, but that’s half the fun!
2. Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival, Winthrop
Time of year: July
If flowers aren’t your thing but dancing absolutely is, the Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival delivers three days of nonstop live music in the Methow Valley.
This isn’t just a concert, it’s a full-on summer camp for music lovers, with riverside jamming, and stage after stage of blues, soul, and funk.
Located in the Western-style town of Winthrop, the festival feels like a backyard party with big headliners, plus food trucks, artisan vendors and a cool riverside location.
Don’t be surprised if you leave with sunburn, a new favorite band, and a couple of dance moves you definitely didn’t have before.
3. National Lentil Festival, Pullman
Time of year: August
And if you thought music and flowers were wild, meet Pullman’s National Lentil Festival, where the whole town celebrates a tiny legume in style.
It’s a small-town bash that celebrates the Palouse region’s famous crop, complete with a parade, live music, cook-offs, and a giant lentil chili bowl you can eat from.
It’s goofy, it’s delicious, and all about community, from the fun run and kids’ zones to lentil dishes you didn’t know you’d love.
It’s the kind of weird, wonderful event where you show up for the laughs and leave seriously impressed by how much fun you just had celebrating a bean.
4. The Ellensburg Rodeo, Ellensburg
Time of year: Labor Day Weekend
The Ellensburg Rodeo is where you go when you want pure, old-school cowboy action with a whole lot of adrenaline.
This is one of the biggest rodeos in the country, with bronc busting, bull riding, barrel racing, and a whole lineup of heart-pounding events.
Ellensburg itself leans heavily into its Western roots, so expect parades with horses, live country music, fair food galore, and locals dressed in boots and fringe.
Even if you’ve never yelled “yeehaw” in your life, by the end of the weekend, you’ll be cheering louder than anyone in the stands.
5. Washington State Apple Blossom Festival, Wenatchee
Time of year: Late April to Early May
Things get sweet in Wenatchee at the Washington State Apple Blossom Festival which is actually a 100-year-old hometown tradition.
This two-week spring celebration fills the streets with parades, a carnival and a food fair.
Set right in apple country, it’s a great way to enjoy Wenatchee in bloom with events like the Classy Chassis car show, live concerts, and even a youth parade.
Whether you’re munching on kettle corn or riding the Ferris wheel with views of the Cascade foothills, this festival feels like pure, feel-good magic.
6. The Dungeness Crab Festival, Port Angeles
Time of year: October
When fall rolls in, Port Angeles serves up something totally different—The Dungeness Crab Festival, a salty, seafood-loving bash that’s all about the crustaceans.
This coastal town goes full crab mode with a giant waterfront celebration featuring cooking demos, crab feasts, craft vendors, and live music.
The star of the show? A massive crab boil where you grab a tray, crack open your catch, and dig in elbow-deep.
It’s messy, it’s delicious, and if you love seafood, this is your happy place.
7. The Great Prosser Balloon Rally, Prosser
Time of year: Late September
Just when you think Washington can’t surprise you anymore, The Great Prosser Balloon Rally floats in with one of the most magical sights you’ll ever wake up to.
Held in the wine country town of Prosser, this weekend event kicks off at dawn with dozens of hot air balloons drifting like a rainbow across the Yakima Valley.
There’s also a Night Glow show where balloons light up in sync with music, plus a lively harvest scene with local bites, arts, and a classic car show.
It’s peaceful, it’s photogenic, and it’ll have you setting your alarm clock early.
8. Leavenworth Oktoberfest, Leavenworth
Time of year: October
If you’re looking for bratwurst and beer, Leavenworth Oktoberfest is where the party’s at—Bavarian style.
Here, the mountain town turns into a German village for the season, with oom-pah bands, lederhosen, giant pretzels, and beer flowing by the stein.
You’ll find multiple beer gardens, traditional dancing, and more schnitzel than you ever thought possible, all set against the backdrop of alpine-style buildings.
Whether you’re here to polka or just people-watch, this festival is pure, festive chaos in the best way.
9. Lake Chelan Winterfest, Chelan
Time of year: January
When winter hits, Lake Chelan Winterfest turns up the magic with snowy scenes, cozy fires, and a whole lot of wine.
In the lakeside town of Chelan, this frosty festival serves up an ice bar, blazing bonfires on the beach, live music, and an exciting fireworks show.
You can sip hot spiced cider while watching ice carving artists do their thing, or take a plunge into the freezing lake if you’re feeling brave.
It’s the kind of event where you bundle up, grab your people, and toast to winter with a glass of local wine and a marshmallow on a stick.
10. Viking Fest, Poulsbo
Time of year: May
If you’re in the mood for medieval mayhem but want a bit more Norse flair, Viking Fest in Poulsbo is where things get extra epic.
This celebration honors the town’s Scandinavian roots with a full weekend of Viking-themed activities, lively parades, and costumed locals.
There’s traditional Norwegian food and folk dancing, so yes, it’s part heritage, part party.
Come hungry, bring your inner warrior, and prepare to shout “skål!” more times than you can count.
11. Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival, Seattle
Time of year: Mid-April
For a festival that’s all about beauty and tradition, the Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival is pure springtime magic.
Held at the Seattle Center, this event celebrates Japanese culture with stunning cherry blossoms, taiko drum performances, and tea ceremonies.
You can also enjoy origami workshops and rows of food stalls offering yakisoba and mochi.
It’s a mix of quiet moments and lively showcases, all set against the backdrop of the Space Needle and beautiful blooming trees.
Whether you’re snapping flower photos or learning how to fold a paper crane, this festival is a breath of fresh air in the middle of the city.
12. Spokane Renaissance Faire
Time of year: October
The Spokane Renaissance Faire takes over the Spokane Fair & Expo Center every October with knights, jesters, and more turkey legs than you can count.
It’s known for epic jousting battles, live sword fights, and a village full of costumed performers who stay in character all day long.
You can shop for handmade leather goods, try your hand at archery, and cheer on your favorite knight while munching on giant pickles or sipping mead.
Fun fact: there’s even a royal court and themed costume contests, so don’t be surprised if you bump into a queen while buying kettle corn.
Related Posts
