Looking for a fun summer day trip from Seattle? Vashon Island’s Strawberry Festival is one of the most charming annual traditions in the Pacific Northwest. Presented by the Vashon Chamber of Commerce, this three-day community celebration transforms the island into a lively hub of music, food, art, and family-friendly fun every July. This year it takes place July 17-19—and admission is free!
Throughout the weekend, you’ll find a packed schedule of live entertainment, local artisan booths, delicious eats, beer gardens, vintage cars, and, of course, plenty of fresh strawberry-focused treats. The festival has a laid-back, hometown feel, with families filling the streets, friends reconnecting, and live music creating a festive atmosphere around every corner. It’s a tradition that’s been part of island life for more than 100 years and continues to draw thousands of visitors back year after year.
One of the weekend’s biggest highlights is Saturday’s parade, which begins at 10 a.m. (participants should line up by 9 a.m. south of Kathy’s Corner on the highway, with spots available on a first-come, first-served basis). Before the main parade rolls through town, don’t miss the beloved Kids Parade, where Vashon’s youngest residents show off decorated bikes, wagons, scooters, costumes, and other creative creations.
After the parade, make your way to the main stage at 3 p.m. for the announcement of this year’s Unofficial Mayor. Community members cast votes with $1 donations to support local nonprofits, making it a fun tradition with a good cause. This year’s candidates include Jazzy the Australian Shepherd, the Giving Tree at the Vashon Senior Center, and Vashon Explorers Preschool.
There’s plenty of free entertainment throughout the weekend, including live music all three days, Reptile Man’s educational live reptile show on Friday afternoon, the Vashon Heritage Museum’s free ice cream social, the free Strawberry Festival Train on Saturday, and DIY kids’ games at Island Queen. Looking for even more adventure? Festival-goers can also purchase activities like bungee jumping, bounce houses, bubble soccer, water walking, and baseball and softball speed pitch at Camp Colvos Brewery.
Getting to Vashon from Seattle for the festival is easy: just hop on the Fauntleroy-Vashon ferry from West Seattle. We recommend having a car or bike for getting around the island, and give yourself plenty of time in your schedule in case of long ferry lines.
