Best Washington Fall Festivals for 2026
Experience the vibrant colors and celebrations of autumn across Washington State. From the charming Bavarian-inspired streets of Leavenworth to the rich agricultural landscapes of Yakima, plan your getaway and book a cozy vacation rental on Lake.com.
Washington State transforms into a spectacular canvas of colors and celebrations during the fall season. From the charming Bavarian-inspired streets of Leavenworth to the rich agricultural landscapes of Yakima, Washington’s fall festivals offer a unique blend of cultural heritage, local flavors, and breathtaking scenery.
Washington’s fall festivals provide something for everyone. With local bands, renowned chefs, and artisanal crafts, these events showcase what the Pacific Northwest has to offer.
Entertainment and Performances
Washington’s fall festivals come alive with a range of entertainment options for all ages and interests.
Live Music
At the Autumn Leaf Festival in Leavenworth, local bands fill the air with folk and bluegrass music while you sip hot apple cider from nearby cafes. The festival captures the spirit of the Cascade Mountains with its rich musical heritage and community warmth.
In Tacoma, the Greek Festival brings vibrant bouzouki music performed by well-known orchestras. Their energetic rhythms transport listeners straight to the heart of the Mediterranean, creating an atmosphere that feels worlds away from the Pacific Northwest.
Dance Shows
Dance performances remain highlights at many festivals. The Camlann Medieval Village Michelmasse Festival features dancers in period costumes performing jigs and reels that reflect the medieval spirit of the event. At Greek festivals throughout the state, traditional folk dancers twirl and leap to the bouzouki’s beat, inviting visitors to join in simple, fun, engaging group dances.
Theatrical Acts
Theatrical performances at medieval festivals bring history to life with short comedies and dramatic scenes performed by actors in authentic costumes. Roaming performers entertain crowds with impromptu skits, while puppet shows delight the younger audience with interactive stories that keep families engaged throughout the day.
Culinary Delights
Washington’s fall festivals are a haven for food enthusiasts, offering a rich selection of gourmet dishes, craft beverages, and artisanal products that reflect the state’s culinary diversity.
Gourmet Food Stands
Northwest Chocolate Festival
Location: Bellevue, Washington
Dates: October 3-4, 2026
Attendees: Approximately 8,000
Theme: Artisan Chocolate & Bean-to-Bar Craftsmanship
The Northwest Chocolate Festival brings together over 100 chocolatiers, including local favorites like Theo Chocolate and Fran’s Chocolates, who offer tastings and demonstrations. You can savor exotic chocolate flavors and learn about the bean-to-bar process from expert chocolatiers who share their passion for sustainable sourcing and craft techniques. The festival transforms Meydenbauer Center into a chocolate lover’s paradise, with workshops on truffle making, chocolate pairing seminars, and exclusive tastings that showcase the Pacific Northwest’s thriving chocolate culture.
The Autumn Leaf Festival in Leavenworth features seasonal specialties like apple cider doughnuts and hearty German-inspired dishes served by vendors such as Munchen Haus and Rhein Haus. The aroma of fresh-baked goods mingles with crisp mountain air, creating a sensory experience that defines autumn in the Cascades.
Local Craft Beer and Cider
Ellensburg Oktoberfest
Location: Ellensburg, Washington
Dates: October 3-4, 2026
Attendees: Approximately 4,500
Theme: Regional Breweries & Bavarian Traditions
Ellensburg Oktoberfest showcases over 50 regional breweries and cideries, including Iron Horse Brewery and Tieton Cider Works. You can enjoy a variety of craft beers and ciders while participating in beer tastings and food pairings that highlight Central Washington’s agricultural bounty. The festival takes place in Ellensburg’s historic downtown, where brick buildings provide a charming backdrop for outdoor beer gardens and live polka music.
Artisan Crafts and Gifts
Issaquah Salmon Days
Location: Issaquah, Washington
Dates: October 3-4, 2026
Attendees: Approximately 200,000
Theme: Salmon Run Celebration & Pacific Northwest Arts
Issaquah Salmon Days transforms the town into a massive celebration of the annual salmon run. The arts and crafts fair features handmade jewelry, pottery, and textiles from over 400 local artisans. The festival is a perfect spot to pick up unique, Pacific Northwest-inspired gifts and souvenirs while watching thousands of salmon return to spawn in Issaquah Creek. You’ll find everything from carved wood sculptures to hand-knit sweaters, all reflecting the region’s natural beauty and artistic spirit.
Family-Friendly Activities
Washington’s fall festivals pack in family-friendly activities, from pumpkin picking to corn mazes that create memories for all ages.
Pumpkin Patch Expeditions
Remlinger Farms Fall Harvest Festival
Location: Carnation, Washington
Dates: September 19 – October 31, 2026
Attendees: Approximately 15,000 throughout the season
Theme: Farm Activities & Harvest Celebrations
Remlinger Farms Fall Harvest Festival offers a U-pick pumpkin patch where kids can choose their favorite pumpkins from sprawling fields with views of the Cascade foothills. The festival also features tractor-pulled hayrides through apple orchards and pumpkin decorating stations, making it a perfect outing for families. Just minutes from Lake Sammamish vacation rentals, this farm provides easy access for those staying in lakeside accommodations who want to experience authentic Washington agriculture.
Corn Maze Adventures
Corn mazes are a staple of Washington’s fall festivals. At Beck’s Fall Harvest Festival in Spokane, visitors can explore a giant corn maze with paths for all skill levels, offering fun for the whole family. The maze spans several acres and typically takes 45 minutes to complete, with staff members stationed throughout to help families who get turned around.
Amusement Rides
Washington State Fair
Location: Puyallup, Washington
Dates: September 4-27, 2026 (Closed Tuesdays & September 3)
Attendees: Approximately 1.3 million
Theme: Agriculture, Entertainment & Pacific Northwest Culture
The Washington State Fair in Puyallup features an array of amusement rides for all ages. From gentle carousels to thrilling roller coasters, this fair provides endless entertainment options for families. The fair also showcases agricultural exhibits, prize-winning livestock, and concerts by national touring acts. As one of the largest fairs in the United States, it captures the essence of Washington’s farming heritage while offering modern entertainment. Consider booking a stay at nearby Lake Tapps vacation homes for easy access to the fairgrounds and peaceful evenings by the water.
Specialty Events
Washington’s fall festivals feature unique events celebrating the state’s rich cultural heritage and seasonal bounty.
Oktoberfest Celebrations
Leavenworth Oktoberfest
Location: Leavenworth, Washington
Dates: October 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 2026
Attendees: Approximately 30,000 across all three weekends
Theme: Bavarian Culture, German Beer & Mountain Traditions
Leavenworth Oktoberfest is a must-visit event for those looking to experience authentic Bavarian culture in the Pacific Northwest. This festival includes traditional German music at multiple venues, authentic food, and imported German beer. You can enjoy pretzels and bratwurst while participating in stein-holding competitions, pretzel tosses, and costume contests.
The festival takes place over three weekends with the ceremonial tapping of the kegs, Grand Parade each Saturday morning, and live performances from Bavarian bands flown in from Europe. The town’s Alpine architecture creates an authentic German village atmosphere nestled in the Cascade Mountains. Book your Lake Wenatchee cabin rental early, as accommodations fill quickly during Oktoberfest season. The lake is just 20 minutes from Leavenworth and offers stunning mountain views and peaceful waters.
Harvest Festival Gatherings
Green Bluff Harvest Festival
Location: Green Bluff, Washington (near Spokane)
Dates: Every weekend from September 19 to October 26, 2026
Attendees: Approximately 10,000 per weekend
Theme: Apple Harvest & Agricultural Tourism
Green Bluff’s Harvest Festival celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage with multiple family farms opening their doors to visitors. You can pick apples and pumpkins, enjoy hayrides, and explore corn mazes across 30+ participating farms. The festival also features local artisans selling handmade crafts, making it a family-friendly destination. Many farms offer fresh-baked pies, apple cider-pressing demonstrations, and farm-animal encounters. The Green Bluff area sits on a scenic plateau with panoramic views of the Spokane Valley, offering a peaceful rural experience just minutes from the city.
Cultural Parades
Autumn Leaf Festival
Location: Leavenworth, Washington
Dates: September 26-27, 2026
Attendees: Approximately 20,000
Theme: Fall Foliage & Community Celebration
The Washington State Autumn Leaf Festival in Leavenworth showcases cultural diversity with parades and traditional performances that have been a tradition since 1964. The Grand Parade features floats, marching bands, and festival royalty, while various cultural dance groups perform throughout the weekend. The festival celebrates the stunning autumn colors that paint the mountainsides in brilliant reds, golds, and oranges. You’ll find craft vendors, food booths, and live music filling Front Street Park and the surrounding areas.
Interactive Experiences
Washington’s fall festivals offer interactive activities that bring visitors closer to the state’s agricultural roots and artistic traditions.
Arts and Crafts Workshops
The Autumn Leaf Festival offers hands-on workshops where visitors can create leaf-print t-shirts or paint pumpkins. The Camlann Medieval Village Michelmasse Festival offers the opportunity to learn traditional crafts such as candle-dipping and weaving, allowing guests to make unique souvenirs to take home.
Agricultural Tours
Fresh Hop Ale Festival
Location: Yakima, Washington
Dates: October 1-2, 2026
Attendees: Approximately 3,000
Theme: Hop Harvest & Craft Beer Innovation
Farm tours are a highlight at many fall festivals, offering behind-the-scenes looks at the harvest process. The Fresh Hop Ale Festival in Yakima celebrates the hop harvest with special brews made from freshly picked hops. You can tour hop farms, learn about different hop varieties, and taste unique beers that can only be made during harvest season when hops are at peak freshness. The Yakima Valley produces 75% of the nation’s hops, making this festival a unique opportunity to experience the craft beer industry firsthand.
At Remlinger Farms, visitors can learn about sustainable farming practices and even try their hand at apple pressing to make fresh cider. These interactive experiences help families understand where their food comes from and appreciate the work that goes into farming.
Travel and Accommodations
Washington’s fall festivals offer a variety of lodging options, making it easy for visitors to find the perfect place to stay while exploring autumn celebrations.
Luxury Lodging Options
In Seattle, luxury hotels offer a comfortable, convenient base for exploring the city’s fall festivals and nearby lake destinations. The area around Lake Union offers upscale accommodations with water views and easy access to urban festivals. For those seeking a more serene retreat, Lake Chelan vacation rentals offer stunning views and access to the region’s wine country, located in Central Washington about three hours from Seattle.
Charming Local Retreats
For a cozy experience, bed and breakfasts in Puyallup offer a welcoming stay close to the Washington State Fair. Cabins around Mount Rainier National Park provide a rustic atmosphere, perfect for enjoying autumn hikes and scenic drives. Lake Cushman waterfront homes near Hoodsport offer a peaceful retreat with views of the Olympic Mountains, positioning you perfectly to explore both coastal and mountain festivals.
Consider Lake Whatcom accommodations near Bellingham for access to northern Washington festivals while enjoying pristine lake waters and forested shorelines. The lake sits at the base of the North Cascades and offers both relaxation and proximity to fall activities.
Planning Your Fall Getaway in Washington
Washington’s fall festivals offer a vibrant celebration of the season, from cultural parades to gourmet food tastings and interactive workshops. Whether you’re exploring the Bavarian charm of Leavenworth’s Oktoberfest, navigating the corn mazes of Spokane, or watching salmon return to spawn at Issaquah, each event provides a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of the Pacific Northwest.
To make the most of your visit, plan your travel and accommodations in advance. Browse Lake.com’s Washington vacation rentals to find the perfect lakeside retreat that puts you within reach of fall festivals while offering peaceful evenings by the water. From Lake Chelan to Lake Cushman, Washington’s lakes provide the ideal base for autumn exploration.
Be sure to dress for the unpredictable autumn weather with layers and rain gear. With so much to see and do, Washington’s fall festivals promise an unforgettable autumn experience for visitors of all ages. Book your lakeside escape today and get ready to experience the best of Washington’s harvest season.
