Colorful celebration
(Between 18th and 30th avenues)
Portland, OR 97211
+1 503 972 2206
http://www.albertastreetfair.com/
info@albertastreetfair.com
Review © 2007, Wcities
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Colorful celebration |
2939 Northeast Alberta Street (Between 18th and 30th avenues) Portland, OR 97211 +1 503 972 2206 http://www.albertastreetfair.com/ info@albertastreetfair.com |
What was once a deteriorating and crime-ridden part of the city is now an epicenter of diversity, art and culture in the Rose City. Trendy little art galleries, novelty stores and unique restaurants have replaced the boarded-up windows. Portlanders of all kinds come to this event. Held in September, it's a lively celebration complete with live music and dancing, food, kids' stuff and a free trolley that rolls right through the middle of everything. Come and see why Northeast Portland is quickly becoming the capital for culture in this town. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: mela-mama |
Fruitful family fun |
5050 Southeast Stark Street Portland Nursery Portland, OR 97215 +1 503 231 5050 http://www.portlandnursery.com |
If you love this sweet and tangy fruit, give your taste buds a treat at this annual autumn party. The whole family is invited for a weekend filled with fun activities for all ages. This event allows you to sample close to 50 apple varieties, a large selection of which are for sale. You'll also find cider, workshops, live music and lots of activities for children. The party's host, Portland Nursery, is one of the city's oldest and largest nurseries. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: kellerichon |
 Photo: kimsf |
 Photo: Samantha Bruner |
 Photo: Luke Mahan |
Lutefisk eating contest |
2208 North West Market Street Suite 100 Seattle, WA 98107 +1 206 784 9705 http://www.seafoodfest.org/ Seafoodfest@ballardchamber.com |
Since 1974, crowds have come to downtown Ballard for the famous salmon barbecue that has grown into this two-day festival in July. With several stages featuring live music and kid-friendly entertainers, this festival brings generations together for a great street party. Food and craft booths provide tasting and shopping. Stouthearted Vikings can sign up to compete in the lutefisk eating contest. The beer garden is set conveniently near the main stage. Enjoy a local microbrew while listening to Seattle bands perform blues, country, swing and folk music. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gina Jen |
Great Food for a Great Cause |
Naito Parkway Tom McCall Waterfront Park Portland, OR 97201 +1 503 246 0600 +1 800 452 6079 (Toll Free) http://www.biteoforegon.com/ |
Three hot August days with fireworks and a stellar line up of entertainment including everything from big bands to stand-up, plus all the best restaurants in town competing for your attention, is what this festival is all about! Booths vary from year to year, but count on some great crab cakes and spicy ribs. Wash it all down with fresh squeezed lemonade, local brews or try Oregon's best vintners. Admission to the event is Adults USD7, Children under 12 free, and all the proceeds go to the Special Olympics program held for athletes with intellectual disabilities. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Hydee Rickert |
 Photo: Jennifer Daunt |
Go hungry |
305 Harrison Street Seattle Center Seattle, WA 98101 +1 425 283 5050 http://www.biteofseattle.com jodym@biteofseattle.com |
More than 60 restaurateurs from the Seattle area flock to Seattle Center for this event. They set up booths and sell their specialties to the masses. Come hungry and try gourmet appetizers, entrees and luxurious desserts from numerous restaurant menus. Once you've had enough to eat, meander through the booths dedicated to novelties and specialty items, or let your kids play interactive games and win prizes. Admission to the event is free. Held annually during July. Check website for this year's dates. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin O'Donnell |
 Photo: Rosie Kaehrle |
 Photo: highway kind |
 Photo: Scott Lovejoy |
 Photo: Patrick Workman |
Celebrate again |
Spui 18-20 Amsterdam, WA 1012 XA +1 206 623 5124 |
At the end January or the beginning of February every year, the International District welcomes in the Chinese and Vietnamese New Year on a calendar 2698 years older than the Western calendar. Bright colors encircle just about everything, bringing a feel of warmth into the winter month. Festivals and music fill the streets of Chinatown, and traditional lion dancers join the parade. On Sunday, the Lunar New Year is celebrated at Seattle Center. Dress warmly because the temperatures may be in the 30s or 40s. Call for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ed peterson |
 Photo: lurg3 |
 Photo: Ma. Liza Bautista |
185 acres of fun |
14405 179th Avenue South East Evergreen State Fairgrounds Monroe, WA 98272 +1 360 805 6700 http://www.evergreenfair.org |
In existence for a century, this fair consistently ranks as one of the top 25 fairs in the nation. It runs annually the 12 days up to and including Labor Day. The fair features country music concerts, a lumberjack show, roping and riding events, a circus, carnival rides, farm animals, home shows and great fair food. The 185-acre site also boasts the best equestrian park in the state. If you're over 90 or under five, you'll get in free every day. See their website for event times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Julie Markee |
 Photo: Erik Thauvin  |
 Photo: Eric Spangler |
 Photo: Betty Armstrong |
 Photo: Tony Cyphert |
 Photo: Lane Erickson |
 Photo: Kevin J. O'Conner |
 Photo: Robert Jones Jr |
 Photo: Missy |
Summer Solstice Celebration |
North 34th Street Seattle, WA 98103 +1 206 694 6706 http://www.fremontfair.com info@fremontfair.org |
Located along the Fremont Ship Canal, this fair celebrates the beginning of summer. It's held annually on the weekend nearest summer solstice (usually the last week of June). More than 100,000 fairgoers enjoy crafts, food, music, entertainment and the Summer Solstice Parade. During the event, the streets are packed with craft booths, ethnic food stands, and booths for non-profit and community organizations. There are six entertainment stages and an indoor Brewhouse stage at Trolleyman Pub and Tasting Room. There are also street performers and a special area just for children called Kids Universe. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Neil Parekh |
 Photo: Jesse Card |
 Photo: heckzotica |
 Photo: Mel Murphy |
 Photo: Sarah Rogers |
Annual German tradition |
North 34th Street & Fremont Avenue North Seattle, WA 98103 +1 206 633 0422 http://www.fremontoktoberfest.... |
German tradition designates the last Saturday of September through the first Sunday of October as the time to consume the remainder of last season's beer. You don't have to go all the way to Germany to enjoy this tradition known as Oktoberfest. Offbeat, funky Fremont celebrates the beer-drinking season every year. Sample various microbrews, listen to music from live bands, take part in pumpkin carvings and peruse a craft and flea market. There's fun, if not beer, for the whole family. Festival admission is free, but a fee is required to enter the beer garden. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: James Logan |
Forums, festival and parade |
Broadway Avenue (and other Capitol Hill venues) Seattle, WA 98102 email@gaypridenw.com |
Dances, forums, sports events and a pride festival make up this week-long event. Times for individual events vary, but there's always something going on until the wee hours. It ends on the last Saturday of June with the annual Pride Parade/March and Freedom Rally at Volunteer Park for the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities of Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. The goal is to celebrate, advance and defend the issues and causes that affect gay communities. This popular Seattle event often attracts more than 70,000 supporters. The parade might take a longer route in 2006, depending on the decision of the organizers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: blinque_blinque |
 Photo: Alfredo JC |
Garden of Lights |
NE 85th Avenue (at Sandy Boulevard) Portland, OR 97220 +1 503 261 2400 http://www.thegrotto.org/event... |
This event thrills crowds with more than 250,000 lights that cover the garden-filled grounds of Portland's historic Grotto. Children will adore the petting zoo and puppet shows. Adults will want to check out some of the 135 indoor concerts or peruse the gift shop for last-minute holiday shopping. In the spirit of the season, biblical renditions are highlighted, and food and drinks are plentiful. Admission: $7 for adults, $3 for children 3-12, children under 2 are free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: L. Roxana Negreanu |
University of Washington Husky Stadium |
Athletic Department Box 354070, University of Washington Seattle, WA 98195 +1 206 543 2210 http://gohuskies.collegesports... |
Husky Stadium was built in 1920 and seats 72,500 sporting fans. 70% of the seats are located in the end zone; so this venue is often referred to as the loudest arena! Between all college and professional stadiums, it is indeed the largest one on the Pacific Northwest coast. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ashwin Rao |
 Photo: Garth Vander Houwen |
 Photo: Sam Daddow |
 Photo: Jeremy Juel |
 Photo: Walakazoo |
 Photo: Kevin Love |
 Photo: Patrick Bouchor |
 Photo: Thierry Giasson |
 Photo: Dave Hovenden |
Just like the old days |
45200 284th Avenue (King County Fairgrounds) Enumclaw, WA 98022 +1 206 296 8890 |
This is an old-fashioned fair, the oldest in the state to be exact, founded in 1863. Every year starting in the third week of July, as many as 200,000 people flock to these grounds to enjoy one of life's simple pleasures. The fair has everything a county fair should, including country music headliners, a rodeo, 4-H and FFA exhibits, a logger competition, crafts and lots of hearty fair food. Admission Adults USD8, Seniors/Children (6-12) USD6, Children (under 6) Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Seniortravelaide.com |
Bona Fide Seattle Event |
500 Pine Street Seattle, WA 98101 +1 206 628 2111 http://about.nordstrom.com/hel... |
Because this Seattle-based store has been around for over 100 years, this is a bona fide event for many Seattleites. Once a year, usually at the end of July, Nordstrom holds its two-week-long Anniversary Sale. The store drops prices on name-brand apparel and accessories for men, women and children. Come early because the crowds start to gather around the doors before the store opens. The sale also takes place at the other branches. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Amanda Allen |
 Photo: Katrina Salvador |
Got a green thumb? |
800 Convention Place (Washington State Convention Center) Seattle, WA 98101 +1 206 789 5333 / +1 800 229 6311 http://www.gardenshow.com/ nwinfo@gardenshow.com |
For five days in the middle of February, when the last thing on your mind is spring gardening, this show comes to town. But don't worry, you won't be cold because this show takes place inside the Washington State Convention & Trade Center. Information booths and plants from landscapers, nurseries and noncommercial gardeners fill more than five acres of display space. Whether you have a green thumb or want a green thumb, this is the ultimate event. See their website for further information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: S. Burgess |
 Photo: Sarah Ketchley |
Nation's biggest folk festival |
305 Harrison Street (Seattle Center) Seattle, WA 98109 +1 206 684 7300 http://www.nwfolklife.org folklife@nwfolklife.org |
This is the largest folk festival in the country, and people come from all over to participate in or just enjoy the ethnic traditions showcased here. Watch hundreds of cultural acts on the 18 stages set up around the 74 acres of Seattle Center. Bring family and friends, find a spot on the spacious lawns and enjoy the sights and music on a beautiful spring day. The free (although a USD5 donation is suggested) festival always takes place on the four days of Memorial Day weekend. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lei Wong |
 Photo: Sharif Ahmed |
Software fair |
777 Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard Oregon Convention Center Portland, OR 97232 +1 707 827 7000 / +1 503 235 7575 (Venue) http://conferences.oreillynet.... marsee@oreilly.com |
The software industry is the focus at this annual conference, which also provides major software companies with an opportunity to understand what the OSCON open-source society has on cards. The event promises to contribute to the expansion of discourse between both the source and companies, and in keeping with this, a lot of workshops, tutorials, and events are held at the Oregon Convention Center every summer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Justin Hirsch |
Bring your boat |
East Park Dr E Montlake Park (East and West) Seattle, WA 98112 +1 206 325 1000 http://www.seattleyachtclub.org/ |
Boaters in the Pacific Northwest take the opening day of yacht season, the first Saturday in May, very seriously. That's not surprising when you consider that Seattle has one of the highest rates of boat ownership in the United States. Arrive early to hear the Navy concert and see the world-class University of Washington crew team compete in the ceremonial regatta, which officially kicks off the boating season. Parade registration for watercraft is free. Park in UW lots and follow the crowds to the Montlake Cut. See their website for event times. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ken Smith (2006) |
Beer and Local Flavor |
Various venues across the city Portland, OR +1 503 778 5917 http://www.oregonbrewfest.com/ |
Suds is what you'll find here and lots of them, along with a plethora of Portland food items. Brewers from all around the USA and Canada invite you to taste their beer. Cups usually cost about $2 and each beer is $3. Whether you prefer lager or ale, sweet or bitter, you'll find what you like right here. Don't forget to put something in your stomach to help absorb all that brew. Nothing does the trick like grilled and greasy items from local eateries. You'll also find craft-brewed cider, soda and other non-alcoholic beverages. There's plenty of live music to enjoy, and, naturally, given all the alcohol consumption that occurs, the event can get boisterous. The event is typically held at the end of July. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brent Harris |
 Photo: Reid Nicholson |
Lighting the neighborhood |
SE Stark St (1 block east of SE 39th Ave; SE Stark St to Belmont St) Portland, OR 97214 |
Since the 1920s, each house in this quaint southeast area has been required to decorate for Christmas. Mostly Tudors, the houses are adorned with not only beautiful sparkling lights, but also nativity scenes, rotating Christmas trees and stunningly lifelike replicas of Santa and Frosty. Be forewarned: this is a very popular Portland tradition and the crowds become quite thick. It is wise to park several blocks away and walk, rather than drive, through the area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sirenna Brown Palici |
 Photo: Jess Dolan |
Fresh Flicks from Many Countries |
1219 South West Park Avenue (Northwest Film Center's Guild Theater) Portland, OR 97205 +1 503 221 1156 http://www.nwfilm.org/festivals info@nwfilm.org |
For nearly 25 years, this festival has been celebrating international film art in the northwest. Many countries are represented in dozens of film works shown in a handful of theaters throughout Portland. The festival, which is presented by Northwest Film Center's Guild Theater, generally begins in February and runs for three weeks. See their website for further details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: lucyjan |
Running event of the year |
Southwest Fourth Street (starting line) Portland, OR 97076 +1 503 226 1111 http://www.portlandmarathon.org info@portlandmarathon.org |
The Portland Marathon is held in the first part of October when the weather is sunny and cool. This important running event attracts world-class runners as well as first-timers. Runners complete 26 miles on a course that begins downtown and then heads out Highway 30 where runners cross the St. John's Bridge. Runners then follow the route as it turns south and loops back into downtown to the finish line. Along the way, runners are entertained with bands, watering and snack stops, and thousands of enthusiastic spectators with colorful signs and banners. If you want to start training for this exciting event, visit the Portland Marathon Web site. Free training runs begin in the spring. Registration is required. Call or visit the website for details. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: K Classen |
 Photo: Tamara |
 Photo: Joe English |
 Photo: Michael Watters |
 Photo: Michele L Newell |
 Photo: Britt Piehler |
 Photo: Joshua Stack |
 Photo: Sarah E. Marshall |
The city's party |
5603 Southwest Hood Avenue Portland, OR 97201 +1 503 227 2681 http://www.rosefestival.org info@rosefestival.org |
This is without a doubt Portland's showcase event. With more than 70 happenings, the festival always takes place in June as the roses kick into full bloom. The Grand Floral Parade is the second-largest floral parade in the country. The Junior Parade is the oldest and largest children's parade. The city's bridges and people come to life with events on the water, an arts festival, fair-rides and fireworks. The city will be busy, so make your hotel reservations early. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: coppersam_2000 |
 Photo: StephanAinley.com |
 Photo: Andrew Mathewson |
 Photo: brianwestbrook.com |
 Photo: Stace Walker |
 Photo: Kim Pedersen |
 Photo: Metromint |
Ships Ahoy |
Front Avenue (Waterfront Park) Portland, OR 97204 +1 503 227 2681 http://www.rosefestival.org/ev... info@rosefestival.org |
Every year, just before the city streets shut down for the Rose Parade, the bridges raise for a parade of ships that floats up the Willamette River to join in the festivities held at Waterfront Park. Frigates, patrol boats, destroyers, and cutters, double and triple dock up to the sea wall and allow civilians to board for free tours. The United States Navy, Coast Guard, Army and the Royal Canadian Navy are represented in the fleet of more than a dozen ships. Watch the fleet along Tom McCall Waterfront Park's esplanade seawall from the Steel Bridge to Waterfront Village. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeff Gothelf |
Sacred celebration |
3010 SE Oxbow Parkway, Sandy River Gorge Oxbow Regional Park Gresham, OR 97080 +1 503 663 4708 /+1 503 797 1850 http://www.metro-region.org/ar... metroparks@metro-region.org |
This festival at Oxbow Regional Park celebrates the annual spawning of native fall Chinook salmon in the Sandy River. Events such as Native American storytelling and traditional music mix seamlessly with hands-on fish anatomy exhibits and spawning observations at river edge viewing points. October can be a wet and muddy month in the park, especially along the river; do not forget your rain gear and a pair of boots. The entrance fee is $8 per car. Free shuttles are available for activies throughout the park. Pets are not allowed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: A Lon MacLean |
Hydroplanes and jets |
Koningin Astridplein 27 (Suite 400) Antwerp, WA 2018 +1 206 728 0123 http://www.seafair.com |
For half a century, this has been a tradition for Seattle locals and visitors alike. Running for about a month up to the first Sunday in August, the festival is the largest in the Northwest and one of the top 10 in the United States. You'll find plenty of crafts, music, parades, triathlons, cultural festivals and demonstrations throughout the city during the fair. Major events include the Milk Carton Derby, Torchlight Run and Parade, the Air Show featuring the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, and the General Motors Cup Unlimited Hydroplane Races on Lake Washington. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Rentz |
 Photo: Franz |
 Photo: Ray He |
 Photo: all41 |
Prizes for Stinkiest & Runniest |
1435 1st Avenue Pike Place Market Seattle, WA 98101 +1 206 622 0141 / +1 800 873 6685 (Toll Free) http://www.seattlecheesefestiv... anne@annetheisen.com |
If names like Brie, Edam, Gruyère, and Cheddar sound Greek; maybe it is time to attend a cheese festival. Apart from getting acquainted with types of cheeses, learn about wine-cheese pairings, the right cracker, and cheese platters. Chefs demonstrate their skills at recipes and seminars provide information on the business of cheese making. Kids can also participate in games. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stan Rawrysz |
 Photo: Donna McKenzie |
Hundreds of films |
911 Pine St (office) (film showings at various locations) Seattle, WA 98101 +1 206 324 9997 http://www.seattlefilm.org info@seattlefilm.org |
Every May and June, the festival unveils films for every taste from slapstick to drama and art house. Independent films like The Blair Witch Project get an opportunity to make themselves known in an otherwise cutthroat industry. The festival is three and a half weeks long, and hundreds of films screened citywide. Series tickets (full and partial) go on sale in January. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: JakeLudington.com |
Run for the green |
Waterfront Park Portland, OR 97209 +1 503 226 5080 http://www.ontherunevents.com/... pdqemail@aol.com |
Going strong since 1977, the Shamrock Run offers distance runners of all levels and ages an opportunity to test themselves on the streets of Portland. Prizes include everything from T-shirts and shoes to your weight in beer and a $5,000 prize. Distances range from the 1K "Leprechaun Lap" (for children 10 and under) to a 15K adult event. This event usually happens on the Sunday morning before St. Patrick's Day. Entry fees are $8 in advance or $10 the day of the event. Children under 10 run for free. Please call for schedule of events. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Layne Anderson |
Tiptoe through the tulips |
100 East Montgomery Street (Festival Office) Mount Vernon, WA 98273 +1 360 428 5959 http://www.tulipfestival.org info@tulipfestival.org |
If you like tulips, come to Mount Vernon (60 miles north of Seattle) during the month of April. The surrounding Skagit Valley explodes with color as more than 1,500 acres of tulips bloom. Tiptoe though them, watch the parade and wander through the street fair. Or bring a bicycle for a flat ride through the colors. Dress in layers as the weather is unpredictable. Check the Web site for a detailed calendar of events. Most events are free, but some parks and gardens charge a small entry fee. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jeffrey Randow |
 Photo: Rick Leche |
 Photo: dEEsign photography |
 Photo: Josh Schumacher |
 Photo: Chris and Jenni |
 Photo: Raj Painumkal |
 Photo: Rita Winn, John Pool |
 Photo: Masivie |
 Photo: Jeannette Privat |
 Photo: mandi trowbridge |
 Photo: Jennifer Cox |
 Photo: Dave Story |
 Photo: Arindam@Sen |
 Photo: Thomas Kirh |
 Photo: karynsig |
 Photo: Rebecca Latson |
By the waterfront |
845 Terry Avenue North South Lake Union Park Seattle, WA 98101 +1 206 684 7331 http://www.cityofseattle.net/p... Victoria.Schoenburg@seattle.gov |
How about watching a concert on Seattle's waterfront? The Summer Nights at the Concert series has been shifted to this new venue due to the restoration work at the earlier Pier 62/63 location. The 12 acre park, north of downtown Seattle, offers magnificent views of Lake Union. All you music fans can drop in at this 4,000 capacity spot to experience the best in R&B, jazz, country, pop and rock. As the sun sets, watch the skyline take shape and the city lights take over. Food and beverages are available to keep you pepped up throughout the event. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brian Bundridge |
 Photo: Ben Brooks |
Real rodeo, big prizes |
20025 4th Street North East St. Paul, OR 97137 +1 503 633 2011 / +1 800 237 5920 http://www.stpaulrodeo.com bilsmith@stpaulrodeo.com |
Located about 30 miles south of Portland, this 65-year-old rodeo is hosted by the town of St. Paul. The event features top, real cowboys competing for over $200,000 in prize money. There is roping, riding, bucking and racing as well as rodeo clowns, trick riders, barbecue, country music and fireworks. Typically held over the Fourth of July weekend, tickets cost $2-14 depending upon seating. Pull on your boots—this is the real thing. Two shows run on July Fourth at 1:30pm and 7:30pm. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kevin Jean |
 Photo: Karen Rorick |
Plant Party |
11321 SW Terwilliger Boulevard Tryon Creek State Park Lake Oswego, OR 97035 +1 503 636 4398 http://www.tryonfriends.org/in... |
This festival, dedicated to a three-petal native plant that flowers in early spring, takes you to the thick, wooded country of Lake Oswego. Offering a number of natural activities for kids and adults, including crafts and mini-tours, the event is a wonderful introduction to our lush landscape. You can also buy plants or trees to benefit maintenance and programs at the park, located about 20 minutes from downtown Portland. The paths here are ideal for walking or biking and the forest is full of tall, old trees. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bill Buse |
Sport Center with Recreation |
5000 North Willamette Boulevard Portland, OR 97203 +1 503 943 7911 |
Play basketball, volleyball, attend sports conferences and even witness musical concerts of none other than the legend Bob Dylan himself. Now that's a rare treat! Although you can have the Oregon Symphony for company sometimes. A visit to this very different recreational center, in picturesque Portland, allows you to be a part of sport, hand in hand with the arts. A very inviting combination welcomes you all the way to Oregon. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Joel Davis |
 Photo: Daniel Bachhuber |
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