As the leaves begin to change and the air grows crisp, Washington State buzzes with autumn celebrations welcoming the beginning of the new season. From cozy harvest festivals to the state fair, the following are some of the top fall festivals in Washington.
Sept. 1 to Sept. 24: Washington State Fair
Puyallup
Traditionally associated with summer’s end, Washington State Fair is a must-visit for a family-friendly atmosphere brimming with thrilling rides, live entertainment and delectable fair food that captures the essence of community and culture. This year’s new addition is “Survival: The Exhibition,” an exhilarating adventure blending science, survival tips and heart-pounding educational scenarios.
Cost: $14 for those 13-plus.
For more information: thefair.com.
Sept. 9: Tacoma Moon Festival
Tacoma
Tacoma Moon Festival is a cultural extravaganza that celebrates diversity and community. With mesmerizing lantern displays, live performances and delicious international cuisine, this festival offers a unique blend of Chinese traditions that will enchant visitors of all ages. Tacoma Moon Festival will be held on Saturday, Sept. 9, from 1 to 7 p.m. at the Chinese Reconciliation Park.
Cost: Free, donation-based.
For more information: tacomamoonfestival.org.
Sept. 22 and Sept. 23: Autumn Leaf Festival
Leavenworth
Embrace the arrival of fall with open arms at Autumn Leaf Festival, taking place from Friday, Sept. 22, and Saturday, Sept. 23, in Leavenworth. This long-standing tradition features parades, live music, hiking experiences and indulgent treats just as the leaves begin to change. There’s something for everyone, from crafts and clowns for little ones to dancing and art exhibits for adults to enjoy.
Cost: Free.
For more information: wastalfa.org/index.html.
Sept. 23: Lula Fest
Olympia
Lula Fest is a delightful celebration of Hispanic heritage taking place in Downtown Olympia. This inaugural event will run on Sept. 23, from 3 to 9 p.m., as the community gathers to celebrate Hispanic art, food and other parts of its vibrant culture. Lula Fest will feature arts and crafts, live music performances, dances and more for the whole family.
Cost: Free.
For more information: facebook.com.
Sept. 23: OlyLit
Olympia
What better way to step into the cozy season than by picking up some fall reads from OlyLit, a literary festival taking place in Downtown Olympia on Sept. 23 at 10 a.m. This seasonal event is a unique gathering that celebrates the literary scene in Olympia, where authors, readers and fans alike will gather to discover new books and connect over some of their favorites. This fall festival in Washington is family-friendly and will include readings and activities for both little ones and adults.
Cost: Free.
For more information: southsoundreading.org.
Sept. 23 to Oct. 31: Beck’s Fall Harvest Festival
Green Bluff
Back for another season, Beck’s Fall Harvest Festival, located in Green Bluff, promises an authentic fall experience its committed fans have come to love. With pumpkin patches, corn mazes, warm apple cider and fresh produce, this festival is a quintessential autumn destination for families and friends looking to create lasting memories. The festival is open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: Free.
For more information: becksharvesthouse.com.
Sept. 30: Tumwater Falls Fest
Tumwater
Tumwater Falls Fest is a celebration of nature’s beauty and the changing of the seasons. This festival offers hiking adventures, breathtaking views of Tumwater Falls and a variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts as they soak up the changing of the leaves and the healing properties of water. In addition to outdoor fun, the event will also have local food trucks to dive into, including Ember Goods Coffee, Meggie’s Lumpia, Radio Fryer and more. The event will take place on Sept. 30 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Brewery Park.
Cost: Free.
For more information: ci.tumwater.wa.us.
Oct. 7: Fife Harvest Festival
Fife
Fife Harvest Festival is a community-focused event celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage. Enjoy tractor rides, pumpkin decorating, performances, activities, crafts, food and shopping at various market vendors. This family-friendly festival is free to attend and includes new features such as an adult zone with a beer garden, a dedicated performance stage with seating, an emergency-preparedness fair and a kids’ traffic garden. Fife Harvest Festival is the city’s most prominent community celebration, bringing in more than 7,500 participants annually.
Cost: Free.
For more information: www.cityoffife.org.
Oct. 14 and Oct. 15: Olympic Peninsula Apple & Cider Festival
Olympia
Enjoy a rustic tree-to-glass experience at Olympic Peninsula Apple & Cider Festival to celebrate fall’s abundance and Washington’s rich apple-growing tradition. From apple picking to cider tastings, this festival offers a deep dive into the world and process of cider-making, and attendees can join any or all of the weekend (some are family friendly). The fun will take place on Oct. 14 and Oct. 15.
For more information: theproductionalliance.org.
If you’re in love in Washington and want to stay here longer, check job opportunities in Washington and start a new career.