Anyone who knows me knows that from September on, I wear sweaters regardless of the weather and keep my eyes peeled for the first pumpkins to show up on my neighbors’ porches. I’m not the only Washingtonian who greets the shorter days like long-lost friends or the only one who keeps close tabs on the fall festivals near me. If you’re looking for places to celebrate the season, check out this list of the best fall festivals in Washington!
1. Washington State Autumn Leaf Festival, September 22-24
What could be more seasonally appropriate than celebrating the changing leaves this fall? That's what's done each year at the Autumn Leaf Festival in the quaint Bavarian-themed village of Leavenworth, Washington. Founded in 1964, this autumnal bonanza is the community's oldest festival. Explore this historic event at the end of the month!
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2. Remlinger Farms Fall Harvest Pumpkin Festival, September 30-October 28
There are spooky fall people and harvest fall people. Starting on September 30, Remlinger Farms in Carnation, Washington, transforms a portion of its stunning 350 acres into a pumpkin-themed extravaganza that's sure to delight all visitors, regardless of age or where they fall on the spooky-to-harvest spectrum. This fall festival near Seattle should make it onto any autumn lover's list!
3. Camlann Medieval Village Michelmasse Festival, September 30
If you'd prefer to kick it old school this autumn, consider kicking it in some suede crackows! At Camlann Medieval Village in Carnation, Washington, it's always 1376. Every year, they host the Michelmasse Festival for the old souls who'd like to be immersed in the fall celebrations of the 14th Century.
For foodies, few events are as mandatory as the Dungeness Crab & Seafood Festival hosted by Port Angeles, Washington. Against the backdrop of the stunning Olympia Peninsula, this celebration highlights the dynamic and beautiful culture that exists around Washington's seafood. Besides delicious dining, the calendar is stacked with live music, children's events, and activities organized by local Indigenous tribes.
Washingtonians with the common sense to avoid the rain may prefer celebrating fall indoors. Nowhere is better for that than the Tacoma Film Festival, which has spotlighted local film talent since its inception in 2006. You'll love the collaborative and uplifting atmosphere at this fall event near Seattle. You'll also enjoy exploring the creative work of Evergreen State artists.
With five native species, salmon have been integral to Washington's culture long before Washington was even a state! Since 1970, Issaquah has honored these incredible fish each year at Salmon Days. Though it started as a small, local event, over time, the festival has exploded into a multi-million-dollar bonanza, including a parade, mouth-watering eats, music, an artisanal market, and, naturally, salmon education.
Since Allied Arts of Yakima created the Fresh Hop Ale Festival in 2003, this celebration has helped fuel a craft-brewery renaissance in the Yakima area. Today, it includes over 70 cideries, breweries, and wineries and annually hosts thousands of brew-loving merry-makers. Its success has attracted attention, and the nation's leading beer publications have recognized the festival as one of America's best. See what all the fuss is about this fall, and find your new favorite beverage for Washington's long, cold winter nights.
