When is Salmon Days in Issaquah? A Guide to this Beloved Community Celebration

Salmon Days is an iconic annual festival held in downtown Issaquah, Washington. Salmon Days is held in early October and celebrates the local salmon runs and the community’s history. People come from all over the region to enjoy live music, food, art, and family-friendly activities.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about Salmon Days, including when it takes place, the history and background of the festival, what types of events and activities you can enjoy, and tips for making the most of this beloved Issaquah tradition.

When is Salmon Days in Issaquah?

Salmon Days always takes place on the first full weekend of October For 2024, the festival dates are

• Saturday, October 5th, 2024
• Sunday, October 6th, 2024

The event runs from 10 AM to 5 PM on both days. Some venues and activities may stay open later into the evenings.

Salmon Days takes place rain or shine, so come prepared for autumn weather in the Pacific Northwest.

History and Significance of Salmon Days

Salmon Days has been a community tradition since 1970 The festival began as a way to celebrate the return of spawning salmon to Issaquah Creek

Salmon have great cultural, economic, and ecological significance in the Pacific Northwest. Issaquah was founded along the salmon-rich Issaquah Creek, so the community has always had a close connection to these iconic fish.

There was a time when Salmon Days was all about protecting local salmon runs. One of the main goals of the festival is still to teach people about Issaquah’s natural and cultural history.

Over 50 years later, Salmon Days has grown into the largest festival in Issaquah and one of the biggest cultural events on the Eastside. The festival typically attracts 30,000-40,000 attendees over the weekend.

Main Events and Attractions

There are many exciting events and activities to enjoy during Salmon Days weekend:

Grand Parade

• When: Saturday morning
• Where: Downtown Issaquah
• What: Floats, marching bands, dance groups, community entries

The Salmon Days Grand Parade kicks off the festival on Saturday morning. It winds through downtown Issaquah with local schools, businesses, clubs, and more participating. Grab a spot along the parade route to watch the festivities.

Artisan Craft Booths

• When: All weekend
• Where: Downtown streets
• What: Local arts & crafts vendors

With over 200 artisan booths, the craft show is a highlight of Salmon Days. Wander the booths to find beautiful local art, clothing, food items, home goods, and more.

Live Music & Entertainment

• When: All weekend
• Where: Memorial Field bandshell & venues around downtown
• What: Local bands, dance groups, school groups

There are several music and entertainment stages set up around downtown Issaquah during Salmon Days. Spend time relaxing and listening to live tunes from local rock, folk, jazz, dance, choir groups, and more.

Kiwanis Salmon Bake

• When: Saturday & Sunday lunchtime
• Where: Memorial Field
• What: Grilled wild salmon meals

Taste delicious grilled wild salmon plates at the Kiwanis Salmon Bake tent in Memorial Field. This is a popular meal spot during the festival.

Salmon Run 5K

• When: Sunday morning
• Where: Starts at Pickering Barn
• What: Timed 5K run/walk on local trails

Get moving in the annual Salmon Run 5K race on Sunday morning. The course follows the Issaquah Valley Trail and is suitable for all fitness levels.

Family Activities

• When: All weekend
• Where: Memorial Field, Senior Center
• What: Kids entertainment, games, crafts

Salmon Days has lots of fun, interactive activities for families and kids throughout the weekend. Enjoy magic shows, activity booths, face painting, balloon artists, and more.

Tips for Attending Salmon Days

To make the most of your Salmon Days experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Arrive early, especially if you want to catch the parade. Parking is limited.

• Bring cash for food, vendor booths, rides. Some booths accept cards. ATMs have long lines.

• Pack rain gear, layers, and comfortable walking shoes.

• Pick up a festival guide to map out your priorities and route.

• Refill your water bottle at free water stations. Stay hydrated!

• Utilize the free festival shuttle running from the Park & Ride.

• Check the online schedule for updated performance times and locations.

• Grab food from local restaurants and food trucks around downtown.

• Gear up in your best salmon or fish costume and join in the fun!

Plan Your Trip to Salmon Days 2024

With an iconic history spanning over 50 years, Salmon Days has become a can’t-miss event for the Issaquah community and visitors alike. Mark your calendars for October 5-6, 2024 and get ready for a weekend filled with festive entertainment, delicious food, quality local artistry, and community spirit.

See you at Salmon Days 2024! Let us know in the comments if you have attended Salmon Days before or have any additional tips for festival-goers.