As summer gives way to autumn, Labor Day weekend arrives, marking a time for relaxation, celebration and community spirit. The long weekend, taking place from Sept. 1 to Sept. 4, boasts a plethora of events for all celebration types. From fun-filled excursions to the fair to lively music festivals and block parties, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are just a few of the many exciting events taking place this Labor Day weekend in Washington State.
Washington State Fair
Puyallup
Discover the heart of local Labor Day celebrations at the Washington State Fair. This event offers 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. The festivities span from Sept. 1 to Sept. 24, with general admission for those 13 and older starting at $14.
For more information: thefair.com.
Evergreen State Fair
Monroe
Head to Monroe for the return of Evergreen State Fair, where timeless traditions and thrilling attractions come together. From carnival games to live music, this fair has something for everyone, making it the ideal destination to celebrate Labor Day weekend in Washington. This year’s fair features a star-studded concert lineup, including performances by Neon Trees, Nate Smith and more beloved artists. The community event takes place from Aug. 31 to Sept. 4, with general admission starting at $16 for those visiting during the holiday weekend.
For more information: evergreenfair.org.
Olympia Harbor Days
Olympia
Celebrate Labor Day weekend in Washington with exciting boat races, delicious food vendors and a nostalgic glimpse into the region’s rich maritime heritage at Olympia Harbor Days. Featuring the world’s largest vintage tugboat as the centerpiece, this unique, free event–taking place Sept. 1 to Sept. 3–offers family-friendly experiences like tours of vintage tugboats and friendly boat races. This year’s Harbor Days coincides with its 50th anniversary, making it bigger than ever with over 300 attractions, including food trucks, exhibits, face painting and more to enjoy.
For more information: harbordays.com.
Oak Harbor Music Festival
Oak Harbor
Experience the coastal charm of Oak Harbor’s Music Festival, taking place Sept. 1 to Sept. 3. Enjoy three days of live music performances by artists like Eden, John Primer & The Real Deal Blues Band and 30-plus other talented bands. With a blend of arts and crafts, live performances and local culinary delights, this event offers a laidback and enjoyable way to spend the holiday weekend. Best of all, this event is free and open to the public, taking place in Oak Harbor’s historic old town district.
For more information: oakharborfestival.com.
Heritage Flight Museum’s September Fly Day
Burlington
Aviation enthusiasts won’t want to miss Heritage Flight Museum’s September Fly Day. Witness captivating aerial displays, explore vintage aircraft and celebrate the Labor Day weekend in Washington with a touch of airborne excitement. This event marks the end of the flying season at the museum and will take place Sept. 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. General admission starts at $12 and includes access to eight exhibits, food trucks, kid-friendly activities and special flights depending on the weather.
For more information: heritageflight.org.
Waterfront Block Party
Seattle
What better way to celebrate Labor Day weekend in Washington than with a classic block party? Join Waterfront Block Party in Seattle for a celebration against the stunning backdrop of Puget Sound. This family-friendly event features live music, immersive activities, dancing, vibrant cuisine and breathtaking waterfront views. The fun kicks off on Sept. 1, from 1 to 8 p.m., and is free and open to the public.
For more information: waterfrontparkseattle.org.
Blackberry Festival
Bremerton
Indulge in the juicy flavors of Washington’s finest blackberries at Blackberry Festival in Downtown Bremerton. This sweet event celebrates all things blackberry with pie-eating contests, over 150 vendors showcasing their berry creations, live music, beer gardens, blackberry wine tastings and more. This unique event takes place from Sept. 2 to Sept. 4, with hours varying depending on your chosen date. Admission is free; donations are accepted.
For more information: blackberryfestival.org.
Bumbershoot
Seattle
Immerse yourself in a cultural extravaganza at Bumbershoot, Seattle’s iconic arts and music festival. With a diverse lineup of performances, art installations and activities, this Seattle Center event promises an unforgettable Labor Day weekend in Washington. Although the artist lineup is still being determined, attendees can expect live performances across multiple stages, as well as artistic displays of pole dancing, drag shows, performance art, films, extreme pogo-sticking and much more. This exciting festival will take place from Sept. 2 to Sept. 3, with tickets starting at $50.
For more information: bumbershoot.com.
Kittitas County Fair and Ellensburg Rodeo
Ellensburg
From thrilling rodeo events to carnival rides, this holiday weekend destination embodies the spirit of the American West. The fun begins on Aug. 31 and continues until Sept. 4, featuring a frontier village, live music performances, a kid’s zone, livestock shows and more. General admission starts at $10 per person, with discounts for seniors and free admission for active military.
For more information: kittitasvalleyeventcenter.com.
Walla Walla Fair & Frontier Days
Walla Walla
Embrace small-town charm at Walla Walla Fairgrounds during Walla Walla Fair & Frontier Days. With agricultural showcases, live entertainment and more community fun, this fair is a must-visit for those seeking special events this Labor Day weekend in Washington. In addition to its staple activities, the fair is set to host a performance from The Beach Boys on Aug. 30, a derby on Aug. 31 and a good old-fashioned rodeo from Sept. 1 to Sept. 3. Prices for these thrilling performances may vary, but general admission starts at $12.
For more information: wallawallafairgrounds.com.