(Updated for 2023)
It’s September, and the vibrant hues of summer have yielded to the rich, earthy tones of autumn. While you might mourn the barbecues and beach days of our summer season, fall is filled with all sorts of festivals and other fun here in the Pacific Northwest. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Pacific Northwest landscape, Seattle’s fall festivals celebrate the bounties of harvest, the arts, diverse cultures, and the unmistakable charm of this cozy season. From pumpkin patches and apple orchards to exhibitions and cultural showcases, the Greater Seattle area offers a captivating array of opportunities for locals and visitors alike to revel in the magic of autumn and create cherished memories with family and friends. Whether you’re a foodie, art collector, car aficionado, lover of local breweries, fan of cooking competitions, or someone who is simply eager to walk through some newly remodeled homes before beginning your remodeling journey, learn all about family-friendly festivals available in the PNW this September.
Arts, Food, & Culture: Top 7 Fall Festivals in the Greater Seattle Area
The Greater Seattle Area is practically unparalleled when it comes to fun fall festivals. As the leaves turn brilliant shades of red and gold, the region hosts a medley of events that appeal to all ages and interests.
Take the 8th annual Snohomish Pumpkin Hurl and Medieval Faire. Giggle at the spectacle of pumpkins launched through the air while immersing yourself in the enchanting world of knights and dragons.
For those seeking to savor the flavors of fall, the Snohomish Festival of Pumpkins features farm tours, cider tastings, and pumpkin patches – making it a perfect family outing. Meanwhile, art enthusiasts can explore local craftsmanship and creativity at the Fresh Paint Festival or at nearby artist studios.
From Puyallup to Leavenworth, there’s a lot to see and do during the fall. We break down our list of the top seven fall festivals in the Greater Seattle Area by month below.
September Fall Festivals
The Washington State Fair (Puyallup, WA)
First on our list is the Washington State Fair in Puyallup. Drawing visitors from across the Pacific Northwest, this iconic event showcases the heart and soul of Washington's rich culture.
From thrilling carnival rides and games that remind you of your childhood to mouthwatering fair food like sizzling corn dogs and deep-fried Twinkies, there's an abundance of treats for every palate and age range.
Livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, and horticultural displays pay homage to the state's farming heritage. World-class entertainment – including live concerts by top artists like Kane Brown – adds a musical touch to the fair's vibrancy.
For more than 120 years, the Washington State Fair has been a beloved tradition. Check out The Puyallup Rodeo and Outpost 47 at the fairgrounds this fall too.
Wooden Boat Festival (Port Townsend, WA)
Second on our list of September happenings is the Wooden Boat Festival in Port Townsend. Held annually, this event is a tribute to the artistry and craftsmanship of wooden boat construction. The event attracts boat enthusiasts, artisans, and visitors from all around the world each and every year.
During the festival, the marina becomes a living museum – displaying an impressive array of wooden vessels. These vessels run the gamut from classic sailboats to handcrafted canoes. Attendees can engage in hands-on workshops – learning the traditional skills of boat building and restoration.
With live music, delicious local cuisine, and a vibrant waterfront atmosphere, the Wooden Boat Festival offers a unique and immersive experience for all who appreciate the beauty and heritage of wooden boats.
This year, the 46th annual Wooden Boat Festival is scheduled between September 8th and September 10th. For more information, view their site here. Not sure where to grab a bite after the festival? Check out our list of restaurants you absolutely must try in the PNW.
Puget Sound Bird Fest (Edmonds, WA)
Third, we have the Puget Sound Bird Fest in Edmonds. One of our favorite festivals in Washington, this annual event brings together bird enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and nature lovers to explore the rich birdlife of the Puget Sound region.
The festival features guided birdwatching tours, informative lectures by ornithologists, and interactive workshops for all levels of birding expertise. Attendees can watch migratory birds as they make their stopover in Edmonds – creating prime opportunities for bird photography.
With a focus on environmental education and bird habitat preservation, the Puget Sound Bird Fest is a delightful and educational experience that fosters a deep appreciation for our feathered friends and the natural world they inhabit. Find more information about the Fest here.
Ready for more birdwatching? Enjoy migrations of duck, geese, and other waterfowl over Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge.
Autumn Leaf Festival (Leavenworth, WA)
If you love fall events with a theme, look no further than Leavenworth, WA. Leavenworth is a charming Bavarian-themed village located in the Cascade Mountains of our great state. It is beloved for its picturesque alpine setting, Bavarian-style architecture, and a year-round calendar of events and festivals that draw visitors from near and far. One such event is the Autumn Leaf Festival.
This event typically takes place in late September and features a delightful parade through the Bavarian-themed streets of Leavenworth – with colorful floats, marching bands, and costumed participants. Spectators can enjoy a variety of live performances – including traditional Bavarian music and dance plus local and regional artists showcasing their talents.
The festival also offers a diverse selection of food vendors, craft booths, and family-friendly activities.
Fishermen’s Fall Festival (Seattle, WA)
Next on our list of Washington Festivals is the Fishermen's Fall Festival. Held at the historic Fishermen's Terminal in Seattle, this family-friendly event typically takes place in late September. It provides a unique opportunity for the community to connect with local fishermen and learn about their way of life. This year, the Fishermen's Fall Festival is scheduled for September 30th.
Highlights of the Fishermen’s Fall Festival include educational displays, live demonstrations, and hands-on activities – such as net mending and crab pot stacking. Visitors can savor delicious seafood dishes while enjoying live music, arts and crafts vendors, and interactive exhibits – making it a fun and educational experience that showcases the importance of the fishing industry to our region.
Edmonds Art Studio Tour (Edmonds, WA)
For the art-lovers among us, we must recommend the Edmonds Art Studio Tour – which takes place each September in Washington State. The Edmonds Art Studio Tour in Edmonds, Washington offers a unique and intimate look into the creative process of local artists.
This self-guided tour invites visitors to explore a diverse range of art studios and galleries throughout the picturesque town of Edmonds. Participants can meet and interact with artists – learning about how they craft their paintings, sculptures, functional ceramics, art installations, and jewelry.
The tour not only provides an opportunity to purchase original artwork directly from the artists but also offers insight into the artistic community's vitality and innovation. With a focus on fostering connections between artists and the public, the Edmonds Art Studio Tour celebrates the PNW’s vibrant art scene.
Find out more here, and plan to attend between the 16th and 17th of September!
Remlinger Farms Fall Harvest Pumpkin Festival (Carnation, WA)
Last but not least, our final festival of September is the Remlinger Farms Fall Harvest Pumpkin Festival in Carnation. Before the obsession with Halloween fully descends and wipes out all thought of the larger harvest until Thanksgiving, get your pumpkin fix at Remlinger Farms. Nestled in the picturesque Snoqualmie Valley, this festival offers a charming blend of rural, seasonally-appropriate activities.
Visitors can explore the pumpkin patch to pick the perfect pumpkins with their children, take tractor-drawn hayrides through the scenic farm, and enjoy a plethora of kid-friendly attractions. These attractions typically include pumpkin carving, hay rides, a petting zoo with farm animals, pony rides, and a mini-train.
The festival also features live dance performances, delicious farm-fresh treats like apple cider donuts, and ample opportunities for photo ops amidst the vibrant fall foliage. Celebrate the local harvest, explore food booths, and listen to live entertainment with the whole family!
With its wholesome and festive atmosphere, the Remlinger Farms Fall Harvest Pumpkin Festival is a cherished tradition that truly captures the spirit of autumn in the Pacific Northwest.
Ready for More Fall Fun?
Stay tuned for our upcoming posts about fall festivals in the PNW between October and November this year. Not sure where to start? “Pour” over our lists of fall fun with a delicious cup of local coffee.
