The 3 Best Things to Do at the Wenatchee River Salmon Festival
During the fall in Leavenworth, the leaves change, and the landscape erupts into fiery colors. The air gets a little crisper, and the days get a little shorter. Along with the stunning scenery, autumn brings some of the village’s best annual events, including the Wenatchee River Salmon Festival. This family-friendly event celebrates the return of the salmon to the area. Read on to learn more about what’s in store during this unforgettable festival.
Don’t forget to access your free copy of our exclusive Leavenworth Vacation Guide. Inside, you’ll find recommendations for the area’s top events, restaurants, outdoor activities, and more.
About the Wenatchee River Salmon Festival
Every September, the Wenatchee River Salmon Fest returns to Leavenworth to celebrate the return of salmon to the Northwest’s rivers. Join us amidst the scenic backdrop of the Cascade Mountains for this two-day natural resource event.
The festival takes place at the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery, which is located at the mouth of the scenic Icicle Canyon. Attend the Salmon Fest to learn about the natural world and the salmon’s significance to the region’s ecosystem
3 Ways to Spend a Day at the Wenatchee River Salmon Festival
- Family-Friendly Activities
There’s so much to do at the Salmon Festival that attendees of all ages are guaranteed to have a fantastic time. Enjoy live music, food booths, arts and crafts, and a variety of educational activities. Here are a few of the upcoming activities and exhibits you won’t want to miss:
- Costume Parade
- Chalk Art
- Gyotaku Fish Printing
- Hatchery History and Tour
- Salmon Maze
- Salmon Storytelling
- Outdoor Recreation
Experience the joy of the great outdoors at the Wenatchee River Salmon Festival. If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some options to satisfy your inner explorer during the event:
- Climbing Wall
- Rafting
- Disc Golf
- Fishing Demos
- Traditional Bowhunting
- Hiking Trails
- Native American Village and Ceremony
The Native American tribal village is a cultural education experience exclusive to the Wenatchee River Salmon Fest. It is a unique opportunity to learn more about the Northwest Native American tribes and share in their traditions. Visitors will experience hands-on canoe carving, traditional salmon cooking, drumming and dancing, and more! The Native American village is a favorite of many festival goers, and we’re sure you’ll love it too!
More Leavenworth Fall Festivals to Add to Your Itinerary
If the Salmon Festival sounds like fun, you won’t want to miss these fall events in Leavenworth!
Leavenworth Oktoberfest
Celebrate Leavenworth Oktoberfest in authentic German fashion at one of the largest Bavarian events in the nation! Visitors from all over the country flock to our village every October to indulge in traditional festivities, fantastic food, and of course, lots and lots of beer.
Leavenworth Fall Wine Walk
There’s nothing better than enjoying a delicious glass of wine on a crisp autumn day. Attend this fall’s Leavenworth Wine Walk and sample wine from over 20 vendors while strolling through the picturesque downtown streets.
Leavenworth Autumn Leaf Festival
The Leavenworth Autumn Leaf Festival celebrates the vibrant colors of fall with parades, themed festivities, live music, and more. Not only is it one of the biggest Leavenworth events of the year, but it is also the town’s original festival.
Plan the Romantic Getaway of Your Dreams at Pine River Ranch
Offering unrivaled charm, ambiance, and hospitality, Pine River Ranch is the perfect destination for your visit to Leavenworth. Whether you’re here to attend the Wenatchee River Salmon Festival or enjoy a peaceful retreat from reality, you’ll love our secluded inn. Our premium amenities include hand-delivered homemade breakfast, plush robes and bedding, and outdoor games. Our Lodgepole Suite also features a pine log bed, a large walk-in shower, and a rock propane fireplace for the colder months. Pine River Ranch has everything you need and more to make memories that will last a lifetime!
