As the Pacific Northwest shakes off its winter blues and blossoms into spring, Washington State welcomes the season with an array of lively festivals and events. From serene cherry blossom and tulip celebrations to whimsical fairy markets, the following are some of the top spring festivals in Washington State.
April 1 to April 30: Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
Skagit Valley
Experience the heart of spring in Washington at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, an annual extravaganza in the picturesque landscapes of Skagit Valley. Throughout April, millions of tulips burst into bloom, painting the county in a kaleidoscope of colors. During this event, known as one of the largest tulip festivals in North America, explore a variety of farms in the valley, including RoozenGaarde’s expansive 50-acre display, Tulip Valley Farms’ 75 tulip breeds, the charming Garden Rosalyn and the signature Tulip Town, hosting 18 acres with over 50 varieties of tulips to explore. Additionally, an assortment of events take place all month long, from captivating art shows to lively street fairs and even a thrilling pickleball tournament; there’s something for every guest during this spring festival in Washington. Plan your visit wisely by tracking bloom updates, ensuring you don’t miss the chance to witness this vibrant spectacle.
Cost: Prices vary depending on the selected tulip field but start as low as $15.
Tickets: tulipfestival.org.
April 11 to April 14 & April 18 to April 21: Washington State Spring Fair
Puyallup
Arguably one of the most highly anticipated spring festivals in Washington State, Washington State Fair has returned for spring for two weekends of fun. This exciting fair will bloom with an assortment of activities, including mouthwatering fair food, thrilling rides and games, exhibits, firework shows and much more for the whole family to enjoy. Washington State Spring Fair will also host Monster Truck and Derby mayhems, in addition to a dinosaur exhibition with giant animatronics and interactive displays.
Cost: General admission starts at $11 on weekdays and $12 on weekends, but it varies depending on age and chosen activities (kids enjoy free admission on Thursdays).
Tickets: thefair.com.
April 12 to April 14: Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival
Immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of Japan at the Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival. Held at the Seattle Center from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., this festival celebrates Japanese culture through art exhibits, martial arts performances, hands-on activities, culinary treats and, of course, the breathtaking cherry blossom trees in full bloom. An assortment of speakers will also offer educational examinations on Japanese culture, aiming to deepen and expand the cultural contributions and achievements of the Japanese American community.
Cost: Free.
For more information: seattlecenter.com.
May 4 to May 5: Belltown Bloom
Seattle
Get ready to bloom at The Crocodile, an iconic venue hosting Belltown Bloom, an exciting music festival taking place over two days in Seattle. With live music performances across three stages, headliners include Aluna and Tokimonsta, in addition to performances by BbyMutha, Cat Clyde, Elusin, Glitterfox, Gustaf, Kara Jackson and dozens of other performances from local artists and and stars alike. The event is for those 21-plus only.
Cost: Tickets start at $105 for early-bird general admission.
Tickets: belltownbloom.com.
May 9 to May 19: Seattle International Film Festival
Seattle
Celebrating 50 years of showcasing extraordinary films from around the world, Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) is back and bigger than ever this spring. In honor of the big 5-0, the spring festival in Washington State will showcase international and independent films across Seattle.
Cost: Individual tickets will be available for purchase once all films are announced on April 18. Passes and packages are currently available for those planning to view all films, starting at $67.75 for SIFF members and $79.99 for non-members.
Tickets: siff.net.
May 21: Spring Fairy Magic Market
Tacoma
Support local artists, crafters and small businesses at Spring Fairy Magic Market, a fantasy-inspired extravaganza taking place at Crescent Moon Gifts in Tacoma from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The whimsical event will feature various enchanting vendors to shop from and browse, live music performances, dance numbers, book signings from fantasy authors, food trucks and more.
Cost: Free.
For more information: cmgfantasyfestivals.com.
May 24 to May 27: 53rd Annual Northwest Folklife Festival
Seattle
Derived from the Greek values of Meraki–meaning to do something with passion, soul and love–the 53rd Annual Northwest Folklife Festival is the third chapter in a five-year-long focus on different cultural festivals hosted by Northwest Folklife, an independent art organization celebrating different cultures and traditions. With this season’s event showcasing aspects of Greek traditions, the spring festival in Washington State will feature a wide variety of fun, including traditional music, dancing, food and fresh perspectives on the culture’s heritage and origin at the Seattle Center. A fashion show, Threads of the People, will also take place during the immersive event, showcasing traditional clothing.
Cost: Free, though donations are encouraged to help future festivals and programming.
For more information: nwfolklife.org.