Did you have an uneventful summer? You may have procrastinated planning all those camping trips and beach getaways, and now summer is almost over!
But, don’t worry! You can redeem yourself this fall. If you don’t already live in the Pacific Northwest, consider taking a trip up this way to enjoy the gorgeous autumn weather.
There are so many things to do around Seattle, that your days will be booked. But don’t forget to make time for some of the fall festivals – you won’t regret it.
But with so many to choose from, how can you decide which ones to attend? Keep reading to discover the 9 best fall festivals that can’t be missed.
1. Bumbershoot Music Festival
Do you have any plans for this Labor Day weekend? You do now! Every year, the Bumbershoot Music Festival takes over Seattle. As one of the best fall festivals in Washington State since 1971, you need to check it out.
Bumbershoot isn’t your average music festival – it’s more of a celebration of the arts. Any type of art form, including dance, theatre, music, comedy, and visual arts will be showcased. You can expect to see some big-name artists perform this year, including Lil Wayne, The Chainsmokers, Ludacris, and J. Cole.
2. Washington State Fair
Are you planning to be in the Pacific Northwest in September, but haven’t picked a date yet? That’s okay – the Washington State Fair runs for 20 glorious days from August 31st until September 23rd (although it is closed on Tuesdays).
This is one of the best Washington fall festivals as there are so many different things to do and see. Kids will love the Discover the Dinosaurs exhibit and the Fair Farm Petting Zoo, while adults will get a kick out of the Cirque Ma’Ceo Equestrian Stunt Show and the Home Arts Cooking and Crafts Demonstrations. There are tons of food and activities to keep the whole family busy.
3. Cider Summit Seattle
What’s your favorite part of fall? Is it all the festive foods? Then, you’re in for a real treat.
Head to Seattle in fall for the annual Cider Summit on September 7th and 8th. Of course, the main draw is sampling artisanal ciders. Once you’ve tried the cider here, you’ll never want boring old grocery store cider again!
But, there’s more to this festival then delicious cider. You’ll also get to try some amazing food and listen to live music!
4. San Gennaro Festival of Seattle
Is there no limit to the amount of pizza you can eat? Are you ready to put that to the test?
The San Gennaro Festival of Seattle is one of the best ways to spend fall in Washington State. This Italian street fair has everything from your favorite Italian foods to live Italian music. You can eat your heart out, enjoy some music, and learn a little bit about the Italian culture if you find yourself in Seattle from September 7th to September 9th.
5. St. Demetrios Greek Festival
Of course, the Italians aren’t the only one partying this fall. The St. Demetrios Greek Festival has been one of the best fall festivals in Washington State since it began in 1960.
Indulge in some of your favorite Greek food, including traditional baklava and lamb. Listen to live Greek music and watch award-winning Greek dancers perform as you enjoy your weekend (September 14th through September 16th). Don’t forget to keep an eye out for Greek wine tasting too!
6. Artisan Cheesemakers Festival
Hmm, are you seeing a theme form? The Artisan Cheese Festival is yet another amazing fall festival that circulates around food.
You’ll get to learn about and taste artisan cheese made from local cheesemakers while you pair it with some wine. But it’s not just the cheese you’ll enjoy – there will be other artisan food and beverage stands here so you can pair your amazing cheese with as many things as possible. Just be sure to leave your kids at home for this festival on September 15th – nobody under 21 years old will be admitted.
7. Fishermen’s Fall Festival
September 15th is a big day in Seattle – both the Artisan Cheesemakers Festival and the Fishermen’s Fall Festival take place on this day. If you opt for the Fishermen’s Fall Festival, you’ll get to spend your day learning about fishing.
This one of the most unique family-friendly fall festivals. Kids love the fishing-themed crafts and meeting all the fun animals The Reptile Man brings with him. Of course, you’ll get to indulge in some amazing seafood, and know that proceeds from the activities support the Seattle Fishermen’s Memorial Foundation.
8. Fremont Oktoberfest
Have you always dreamed of celebrating Oktoberfest in Germany? Well, we can’t help you get there, but we can offer you the next best thing – the Freemont Oktoberfest.
Between September 21st and September 23rd, this neighborhood in Seattle comes to life with live music and beer steins filled to the brim. If you hate leaving your dog at home, take them with you on Sunday for a festive Dogtoberfest!
9. Zoo Boo
Of course, no list of fall festivals would be complete without something Halloween-themed. The Zoo Boo occurs October 13th and 14th at the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium in Tacoma, Washington. It’s a great way to let your kids enjoy the zoo with a unique twist.
Halloween decorations and jack-o-lanterns adorn the zoo, and everyone enjoys the day in a costume. Plus, there are some adorable Halloween themed activities, like pumpkin bowling, and candy everywhere. Don’t forget to stop at one of the best Tacoma restaurants for dinner after the zoo.
The Best Fall Festivals in Washington State
If you’re looking for a fun way to spend the next few months, hit up the Pacific Northwest. Washington is home to some of the best fall festivals that will get you excited for autumn. Just follow our list of the best fall festivals in Washington State to make sure you hit the best ones.
Did you like this list? Check out our blog to learn more about what’s going on in Seattle and the surrounding cities.
