Like clockwork, as soon as the flowers start to emerge from the ground, Seattle comes to life as events begin popping up around the city. Kick off the beginning of the festival season and check out the many fun and exciting activities happening around Seattle. From food and flowers to sci-fi and Japanese culture, there are a number of Seattle spring events to schedule on your calendar.
Taste Washington
Brimming with a seemingly endless array of drinks and dishes from over 225 wineries, 70 restaurants and 60 culinary exhibitors from across the region, the annual Taste Washington event is an unforgettable epicurean adventure that we love. Soak in the flavors of the Pacific Northwest on a unique lunch excursion to the countryside where you will visit local farms and savor a delicious meal prepared by the farmers themselves, a celebrity chef and Washington winemaker.
If you feel like partying after a day outdoors, stop by the stylish, upbeat New Vintage event and groove to the beats of the famous DJ Tina T, nosh on mouth-watering bites and sip on crisp rosé wines. The festival culminates with an opportunity to learn from the pros with talks led by renowned wine writers and sommeliers during educational seminars and to taste delectable bites from award-winning chefs and hundreds of amazing restaurants and wineries at the Grand Tasting.
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
Nestled between Mount and La Conner, the quiet Skagit Valley region comes alive with blooms and visitors from April 1-30 during the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. Meander through field upon field of vibrant tulips in nearly every shade imaginable, from dark red to pale pink and from sunny yellow to deep purple. Drive along scenic country roads and view the many fields scattered throughout the valley, which are free to visit and the perfect opportunity for a quick photo op.
You can also stop in the two beautiful display gardens, Roozengaarde and Tulip Town to see spectacular floral designs, pick up a snack and grab some bulbs or cut flowers to take home with you. Just be sure to bring your rubber boots as the fields can get a bit muddy.
Emerald City Comicon
Join thousands of superheroes, storm troopers, elves, trolls, fairies, Jedi, princesses, aliens and Norse gods in geeking out over everything related to sci-fi and fantasy in the lively halls of the Emerald City Comicon. As the city’s premier comic book and pop culture convention, the festival offers an array of discussion panels where you can pick up industry news as well as celebrity sightings, gaming tables, prize drawings and, of course, lots of cosplay.
To make the most of your experience, scout out where your favorite starts or artists will be appearing ahead of time so you can stop by for photo or autograph. In addition, be sure to browse through the millions of stands in the Exhibitor’s hall, a veritable geek marketplace offering an abundance of classic or modern comics, cool art and fabulous collectibles.
Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival
One of the surest signs of spring is the abundance of pink cherry blossom covered trees, transforming the streets along Lake Washington Boulevard, Seward Park, the Seattle Center and more into a cotton candy wonderland. Celebrate these beautiful trees and Seattle’s deep connection with Japan at the Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival, which commemorates Japan’s gift of 1,000 blossoming cherry trees to Seattle in 1976.
Enjoy a feast for the senses as you listen to everything from the booms of Taiko drums to the soothing sound of the 13-stringed koto, learn how to make delicious Japanese food or view tea ceremony and martial arts demonstrations. Kids are able to get in on the action as well and can dress up in vibrant, silky kimonos or learn how to master the chess-like Go, the oldest board game in the world.
Whether you prefer to explore flower-filled paradises or sip fine wines, Seattle is bursting with an abundance of events and activities that cater to nearly every interest. Shake off your winter grogginess and get out and play in the warm spring sunshine!