A Huge Schedule of Festivals and Fairs in May

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Festival season starts to get into swing in the month of May, with celebrations taking place all over the region. And while May weather is a wild card, most of the events are held rain or shine. You won’t have to go far to find something to do close to home. The hardest part will be choosing.

5/3-5/11 – Sequim Irrigation Festival

There are two weekends of fun in this long-running festival that include a children’s parade, family days, a grand parade and classic car show.

5/4 – Cinco de Mayo on Beacon Hill in Seattle

El Centro de la Raza holds a party every year to celebrate Mexican heritage, featuring live music, great food, family activities and more. Hours are 11 am to 6 pm.

5/5 – Japanese Children’s Day Festival in Seattle

Food, music, martial arts are part of this traditional celebration. There’s a lot for kids to do at this festival, held from 11 am to 5 pm.

5/10-5/12 – Maifest in Leavenworth

Celebrate all things Bavarian, including a Maipole dance and parade. There are plenty of activities and things to do in this quaint town, so consider making a weekend of it.

5/10-5/11 – Long Beach Razor Clam Festival

A celebration of the tastiest thing at the beach, you can learn how to dig razor clams, taste competition chowders, wander the street fair and listen to music.

5/11 – Spirit of Africa in Seattle

The cultural festival is a big celebration of heritage, featuring music, dancing, food and more at the Seattle Center from noon to 8 pm.

5/17 - Syttende Mai in Seattle

The 50-year-old Norwegian Constitution Day celebration is highlighted by a popular parade through the streets of Ballard.

5/17-5/19 – Viking Fest in Poulsbo

There’s good old fashioned fun at this festival that includes a parade, carnival, street fair and strongman competition.

5/18 – Petpalooza in Auburn

Head to Game Farm Park with your leashed pet for a whole day of activities, including a dog trot, agility demonstrations, adoptions, and a pet contests. Hours are 10 am to 5 pm.

5/18 – Penn Cove Water Festival on Whidbey Island

A celebration of Native American heritage, with canoe races, storytelling, music, and more. Held in Coupeville with the starting ceremony at 11 am.

5/18 – Gig Harbor Beer Festival

The adult-only event celebrates local brewers and live music at the Uptown Gig Harbor Pavilion from noon to 5 pm. You’ll need to purchase tickets and they come with drink tokens.

5/18-5/19 – Lacey Spring Fun Fair

Designed for family fun, this fair includes rides for kids, live music and a car show.

5/18-5/19 – U District Street Fair in Seattle

10 blocks of vendors, food trucks, live entertainment and music, and activities for kids running along The Ave mark this highly popular event.

5/25-5/26 – Hood Canal Fjord Fest in Brinnon

The music is a highlight of this festival that also features everything you would expect. Get a license and go clamming while you’re there.

5/24-5/27 – Northwest Folklife Festival in Seattle

The granddaddy of cultural festivals is free to attend on the grounds of the Seattle Center.