10 Can’t-Miss Pacific Northwest Events

While we know everyone wants to move to the Pacific Northwest, we recommend visiting first to see if it’s the place for you. If you’re looking for a taste of the upper left coast, we’ve rounded up the perfect list of spring and summer events that are not to be missed. Whether it’s music, food, art, or comics, you’ll find something worth traveling for!

  1. The Oregon Shakespeare Festival runs from February through October, so there’s plenty of time to check out this event in Ashland, Oregon. The amazing theater productions at this Tony Award-winning theater are not something to miss. Shakespeare isn’t all they do, either! Take a look at their lineup and give yourself a taste of the arts.
  2. The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is held throughout April at a series of tulip farms near Seattle. This event is organized as a driving tour, so you can see the colorful blooms from the comfort of your car. Get ready to enjoy the quintessential colors of spring in the PNW!
  3. The Northwest Folklife Festival is held May 25–28 in Seattle this year. This inclusive and unique event celebrates global traditions of local, independent artists. Featuring 5,000 performers, this festival is full of dancing, music, and art. If you’re looking to enjoy a fun atmosphere of diversity and creativity, this is the festival for you.
  4. The Portland Rose Festival starts on May 25 and runs through June 9. This 110-year-old festival has it all: parades, fireworks, carnivals, a rose show, and so much more. Initially designed to promote the Portland area, this event is now a staple of the Pacific Northwest and well worth attending every year. Take a look at the list of activities and make your plans for May!
  5. Sasquatch is a three-day music festival held in the Columbia Gorge May 25–28. Featuring over 80 musical guests, this festival offers great performances set against the stunning backdrop of the Gorge. But if you want to enjoy these musical delights, be prepared to camp.
  6. The Portland Fruit Beer Fest is held June 8–10. While Portland is a destination for craft beer year round, this event brings new flavors to the forefront. With countless berry and citrus-inspired brews, this festival is a great opportunity to sample and explore fruit beer and ciders from all over.
  7. The Willamette Valley Lavender Festival is a unique event held at a lavender farm, featuring arts, crafts, and lavender products. Held on July 14 and 15, this event is your perfect chance to stock up on fresh lavender. Meander the purple fields, enjoy some lavender lemonade, and take in the fresh, floral scents!
  8. The Oregon Brewers Festival takes place at Waterfront Park in Portland every summer. This event is one of the longest-running craft beer festivals in the U.S. and serves over 80 brews. Held in late July, it’s the perfect time to enjoy some Portland sun with a delightful craft beer in hand.
  9. Bite of Seattle is the festival to attend if you’re on the hunt for amazing food. Voted “Best Food Festival” in 2016 and 2017, this event is sure to impress and satisfy this year! Head to Seattle July 20–22 to sample foods from over 60 restaurants. We’re getting hungry just thinking about it.
  10. Waterfront Blues Fest is held in early July at Portland’s Waterfront Park. With multiple stages, tons of food, and almost countless performers, this festival is a symbol of Portland summer. Whether you’re sprawled out on the grass listening to the blues or rocking out on a boat just offshore, this festival is definitely one to check out.

Which events will you attend in the PNW? With so many fun festivals, your whole summer can be packed with music, beer, parades, and food. Once you’re drawn in by the delights of the PNW, you’ll probably want to move here, so consider finding a secure spot in Oregon or a dry place in Washington to protect your stuff. Whenever you’re ready to make the move, Northwest Self Storage is here to help.

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