Summer in Washington is the most exciting
time of the year. The names of Seattle
events like Bumbershoot and Seafair give you just a hint
of the excitement you will experience when you visit Washington.
Regional events like the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
draw visitors from all across the country to the colorful
fields of flowers in bloom.
Seattle Events
Seafair has been held for over 50 years in Seattle, and
has become a welcome annual tradition for visitors and
locals alike. One of the top ten events in the whole country,
this is the largest Northwest festival and is worth checking
out if you like the city of Seattle. Outdoor stands featuring
arts and crafts, live Seattle concerts, a parade, and
an air show featuring the Blue Angels make this a great
reason to come to Seattle. The races on Lake Washington
by the incredibly fast hydroplanes also add the Seafair's
reputation as one of the most exciting Seattle events.
Bumbershoot
This is the biggest of all the Seattle concerts, lasting
four days. Celebrate the approach of the last of the summer
with the incredible live music and Seattle concerts showcasing
the talents of over 2,500 artists. Held at the Seattle
Center, Bumbershoot is one of the biggest Seattle events,
and Bumbershoot also plays host to a Film Festival and
lively Parades.
Fourth of July
From Myrtle Edwards Park at Pier 70 down to Ivars fish
bar further south, the waterfront is filled with spectators
who come here to see the enormous fireworks displays,
parades, picnics and live Seattle concerts. Definitely
one of the top Seattle events, Fourth of July in Seattle
is a non-stop party. Gasworks Park will feature a massive
display of pyrotechnics over Lake Union at 10pm, so you
can understand why this and many other free Seattle events
draw crowds of over 300,000.
While the bloom dates may vary, this month long event
held in April is in its 22nd year, and is a serene alternative
to the crowds at Bumbershoot. Rows upon rows of colorful
tulips, daffodils, lilies and irises bloom with brilliant
color. Set in a tranquil valley, the Skagit Valley Tulip
Festival is a place to experience nature's beauty. March
is when the daffodils make their first appearance, and
the Tulips come to life in April.
The blooming lasts well into May, when irises and lilies
make their appearance. La Conner and Mount Vernon are
two towns that are filled with visitors who come here
for the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival and the accompanying
events, such as the Street Fair, the Tulip Parade, Art
Shows, a Quilt Walk, and a salmon barbeque. Aside from
all the fun, you can add to the main industry of Skagit
Valley and purchase some tulips bulbs, or just take pictures
of the display gardens and the colorful fields.
Northwest Flower and Garden Show
Nature lovers will also enjoy the Northwest Flower and
Garden show. For 17 years, this event has featured flora
from the northwest. Thirty top designer gardens are on
display, transforming the convention center in downtown
Seattle into a mecca for garden and nature lovers. Organization
and nurseries will give you advice and resources on how
to beautify your own garden.
Enjoying outdoor events like concerts and festivals brings
you closer to the pulse of the Emerald City. Whether you're
a friendly native or a curious visitor, at any time of
year you can enjoy excitement in Seattle.
