Celebrate what makes the Northwest unique with music, art, food, films, books and fun. Enjoy these Northwest Festivals before the rain and snow set in.
Visit "Washington's Bavarian Village" nestled in the Cascade Mountains, located east of Seattle near Wenatchee. This traditional German family festival runs for three weekends in October. Over its 9 year history, Leavenworth's Oktoberfest has enjoyed an increasing number of visitors, and new entertainment acts from around the world. Enjoy food and fun, while learning about German history and culture. Festival goers enjoy authentic German food, from brats and sausage to delicious pastries. Paulner, a fine beer served in Germany at Munich's Oktoberfest, will be the new attraction at this year's festival. Other festivities include music, dance performances, a parade and children's activities.
Celebrate the 35th annual Fall Festival in Corvallis, enjoying a wonderful mix of music, art and history. Musical performances include bands such as "Amadan" playing their "Stout Irish Music." Other music genres in the line-up include blues, jazz, funk, country, Cuban and good old rock n' roll. Be sure to check out the Street Dance. However, the main attraction of the festival is its major showcase of local art. Media includes fine arts, ceramics, glass, textiles, photography, paintings, jewelry and more. Kids activities include the Joke Jam, poetry contest, Art Discovery Zone, magic and puppet shows and other workshops designed with children in mind. Adults can also take part in educational activities with art demonstrations and workshops. This family-friendly celebration runs during the third week in September in Corvallis, Oregon.
Award-winning films and filmmakers come to Boise during the last week in September, to take part in the Idaho International Film Festival. Watch films at several venues located in downtown Boise, as it is turned into a "Film Festival Village." Film types include documentaries, short films, narratives and other types. Enjoy post movie discussions, workshops and children's activities, like KidFlicks.
Join regional writers as they showcase their work during this literary festival. The festival includes readings, panels, workshops and signings by award-winning authors. This literary celebration is sponsored by the National Endowment for the Humanities. This year's literary contest is called "Happy Tales" where contestants turn sad story endings into those with happy endings. The festival runs during mid-September.
Showcasing cowboy poetry and western art, this festival presents the artwork of local Wyoming artists. The Cowboy Jubliee Music and Poetry Roundup is one of the main events in downtown Jackson Hole. Visitors will enjoy the art gallery walk, where over 30 local art galleries open their doors to the public. Visitors can also take part in the art auction, workshops and the Historic Ranch Tour. This fall festival runs during the second week in September.