Spring has made its return in Washington, and the bright cherry blossoms, warmer weather and family festivals (virtually and in-person) have accompanied it. From whale watching to film festivals, there is something for everyone to enjoy this season.
Spring Barrel Tasting in Yakima Valley
What better way to celebrate the start of spring than with a drink in hand? Take a day trip to Yakima Valley in late April for its annual Spring Barrel Tasting Event where visitors will be surrounded by cherry blossoms and have the chance to sample new pours before they are released to the public. Guests can also expect to enjoy local farmer’s markets and food vendors.
The event is free and open to the public starting April 16. For more information, visit yakimavalleywinecountry.com.
Whale Watching
Spring is the peak season for whale watching in Washington, and Clipper Vacations offers the best day trip into the San Juan islands. Guests will venture through the waters in search of orcas, minke and humpback whales with a 96 percent chance to see the whales play, breach and feed.
To book your trip, visit clippervacations.com.
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
Skagit Valley’s festival is back for spring, inviting guests to venture through its picture-perfect tulip fields erupting in vibrant bright colors. The festival will also feature rides throughout the fields and the valley’s gardens, food, classes and much more!
The festival will run all of April. For tickets and more information, click here.
Lake Twentytwo
Take a hike to Lake Twentytwo off Mountain Loop Highway for a low-elevation climb to some of the most spectacular views in all of Washington. The five-mile hike to the lake brings you through the alpine forests, wetlands and lush overgrown greenery. This lake is the first of many lakes to shed its snow and elevate its waters, making it the perfect spring go-to hike.
Check out wta.org for more information and directions.
Outdoor Movies at Marymoor Park
Take advantage of the warmer weather and enjoy a movie under the stars in King County’s Marymoor Park this spring. The park is offering visitors a multitude of food trucks, films and spacious seating to enjoy, with movies slated through May.
To pick your movie and rent a spot, visit epiceap.com/movies-at-marymoor.
Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival
In celebration of the blooming cherry blossoms and Japanese tradition, the annual Seattle festival has returned and will celebrate virtually this year to keep all festival-goers safe and healthy. The adored festival will showcase Japanese art and technology, educate on the blossoming of cherry trees and sakuras, and teach the rich history of Japan.
The event is free. Learn more at cherryblossomfest.org.
Washington State Fair
Ranked among the top 10 largest fairs in the United States, the Washington State Fair has opened for its annual event and is offering guests a hybrid experience where they can choose to drive through the fair or walk the event. The fair, taking place April 7 to April 11 and April 14 to April 18, will feature its classic fried foods, exotic animals, rides, live concerts and much more.
To view the full list of events and reserve tickets, check out thefair.com.
Seattle Aquarium
Now that the weather has warmed up, it is the perfect time to take a trip to Seattle’s Aquarium, the ninth largest in the U.S.! Venture through interactive aquatic exhibits and learn about all of its sea creatures and plant life. The aquarium also offers dining, opportunities to feed some of the animals and interactive touch displays.
For tickets for admission and more information, visit www.seattleaquarium.org.
Seattle International Film Festival
With over 400 films from around the world and 150 thousand attendees, the Seattle International Film Festival is the largest of its kind in the United States. Running for three weeks, from April 8 to April 18, the festival will feature a red carpet experience, Q & A with the filmmakers, daily events and much more. To ensure the safety of its guests, the festival will be held virtually, so be sure to grab some snacks and cozy up around your screen.
To learn more and purchase tickets, click www.siff.net.