9 Local Street Fairs in Washington State

Street fairs bring people together in a way few other events can. They fill sidewalks with food, music, art, and conversations. In Washington State, you’ll find them in big cities and small towns alike, each with its own flavor.

Over time I’ve come across fairs that feel rooted in their communities, where local makers and performers get to shine. Here are nine that stand out if you want to experience Washington through its streets.

1. Fremont Fair (Seattle)

There’s a reason people keep talking about the Fremont Fair long after summer ends. This event wraps Seattle’s fun-loving spirit into two vibrant days, mixing art, music, and local personalities. The Fremont Solstice Parade is famous for its celebration of self-expression, often featuring painted cyclists and whimsical floats that get everyone smiling.

Wandering through the fair, I always find something unexpected, maybe a hand-crafted jewelry booth or a food vendor serving something I’ve never tried before. The blend of local artisans, offbeat humor, and community-driven performances gives the fair a style all its own. Even the pets get in on the action, with costume contests and dog parades adding a lighthearted touch.

Fremont’s motto, “De Libertas Quirkas,” roughly translates to “the freedom to be quirky.” That vibe is baked into every part of the fair. If you’re looking for a street festival that never takes itself too seriously, this neighborhood bash in Seattle’s artistic core is a must-see each June.

2. Capitol Hill Block Party (Seattle)

Capitol Hill Block Party isn’t just a music festival, it’s a ticketed, three-day neighborhood takeover with stages tucked between coffee shops and vintage stores. The first time I attended, the mix of music and local businesses struck me, baristas pouring espresso, artists sketching nearby, and the constant thrum of guitars from pop-up stages.

Every July, the neighborhood transforms for three days, with stages squeezed between coffee shops and vintage stores. You can wander from a high-energy concert to a quiet art booth in just a few steps. Local food vendors serve everything from vegan tacos to classic Seattle dogs, ensuring no one leaves hungry.

It’s not just about the big acts. I’ve discovered incredible up-and-coming bands here, playing midday sets to enthusiastic crowds. The blend of music, art, and authentic neighborhood flavor makes the Block Party one of Seattle’s most anticipated annual gatherings.

3. Issaquah Salmon Days (Issaquah)

Issaquah Salmon Days feels like the entire town turns out to cheer on the returning salmon. You’ll see generations gather along Issaquah Creek, pointing out the fish making their way home. The parade marks the start each October, with community floats and local school bands leading the way.

Booths line the streets with crafts, art, and the unmistakable aroma of smoked salmon wafting through the crowd. It’s a place where you can grab a fresh fry bread while listening to a bluegrass band perform just steps away. Kids dart between face painting stations and nature exhibits, learning about the region’s ecosystem in a hands-on way.

What makes Salmon Days special is its strong sense of place. The festival honors both the natural cycle and the people who care for it, turning a small city into a living celebration of Pacific Northwest traditions.

4. Ellensburg Arts Festival (Ellensburg)

Ellensburg’s Arts Festival has a charm that’s both relaxed and creative. I’ve always admired how the event showcases regional talent, from jazz quartets playing on street corners to muralists working on live installations. Each August, Gallery One’s Ellensburg Arts Festival turns the historic downtown into a colorful street fair of regional art and music.

Local vendors set up shop with everything from homemade jams to hand-thrown pottery. The sense of camaraderie here sets it apart, artists chat with visitors, and musicians often stick around after their sets to mingle. There’s even an interactive kids’ area, where children experiment with painting or try a musical instrument for the first time.

This festival gives Ellensburg a little extra sparkle every summer. Its mix of grassroots creativity and genuine hospitality makes it feel like the whole town is opening its doors for a weekend.

5. Olympia Harbor Days (Olympia)

Stepping onto the Olympia waterfront during Harbor Days, I always feel a sense of nostalgia. Historic tugboats line the marina, drawing enthusiasts and families alike. The sound of boat horns blends with laughter as children watch the races from the docks.

The fair stretches along the water, with seafood vendors serving local catches and crafters selling maritime-themed goods. There’s a parade of ships, and every so often, a tugboat captain shares stories about the old days. I’ve spent hours exploring the rows of vintage boats and chatting with crew members about life on Puget Sound.

Harbor Days isn’t just for boat lovers. The festival brings Olympia’s history to life in a way that’s accessible and fun for all ages, celebrating the region’s ties to its waterways each Labor Day weekend.

6. Spokane Pig Out in the Park (Spokane)

For food lovers, Pig Out in the Park is a sensory adventure. I remember my first visit, each booth offered something new, from classic barbecue to Thai noodles, and I found myself trying bites from every corner. The aroma of smoked meats and sweet desserts fills Riverfront Park during this six-day feast.

Live music from various stages keeps the energy high. Local artists and bands play everything from blues to hip-hop, drawing people to dance or just tap along while they snack. The event remains free to enter, which is rare for something on this scale.

Pig Out in the Park draws visitors from all over the Inland Northwest. With nearly fifty years of tradition, it’s a celebration of Spokane’s diverse tastes and a highlight of the city’s summer calendar.

7. Anacortes Arts Festival (Anacortes)

Walking through the Anacortes Arts Festival, I’m always impressed by the sheer variety of work on display. The town’s main streets transform into outdoor art galleries, with local and national artists setting up shop. On my last visit, I watched a sculptor create a new piece right on the sidewalk.

The festival embraces every form of creativity: painting, sculpture, photography, and more. Food trucks and live music add to the lively scene, giving visitors a reason to linger. Each summer, Anacortes brings together people who appreciate both art and community.

One unique feature is the working artist booths, where you can see the creative process in real time. It’s a celebration that reflects the town’s maritime and artistic roots, offering new discoveries with each visit.

8. Kent Cornucopia Days (Kent)

Kent Cornucopia Days welcomes everyone with its friendly, community-first approach. I grew up coming to this fair each July, and the parade is always a highlight, marching bands, dancers, and vintage cars roll past cheering crowds. Local nonprofits and clubs use the event to share their projects and recruit new members.

Food vendors serve dishes from around the world, reflecting the city’s diversity. There are crafts, games, and even a dragon boat race on the nearby river. The energy feels positive but never overwhelming, with plenty of shady spots to relax if you need a break.

This festival brings together all ages and backgrounds. The focus on local involvement means you’re as likely to meet old friends as you are to make new ones among the bustling tents.

9. Leavenworth Autumn Leaf Festival (Leavenworth)

Leavenworth’s Autumn Leaf Festival stands out for its mountain setting and storybook vibe. As the leaves turn gold and orange, the town’s Bavarian architecture makes it feel like a European village celebrating harvest. I always look forward to the costumed parade, where brass bands and folkloric dancers fill the streets.

Food stalls offer German specialties like bratwurst and pretzels, while children crowd around pumpkin-decorating tables. The festival honors Leavenworth’s transformation from a logging town to a destination known for its festivals and hospitality. Each year, the changing foliage frames the festivities with a splash of color.

Tradition runs deep here, but the event never feels stuck in the past. Locals and visitors mingle over cider and pastries, sharing in a sense of celebration that marks the arrival of fall in Washington’s mountains.