A current of camaraderie and connection flows between our communities here on the Olympic Peninsula. Our towns and cities are an easy drive from one to another. Each offers a different perspective from the landscape we see every day in our own backyard. That’s why locals and visitors alike love to explore these communities and areas on the peninsula.
Each of our communities has its own unique feel with a special vibe to it. The personality of a place draws us to discover more. And when you visit, you can sense and see the pride of its residents. Consider exploring these communities during their quiet season—winter into spring or in the fall—to really experience the Olympic Peninsula like a local, celebrating community together.
Time to meander
Give yourself a few days to explore. There’s a lot of land to cover with stunning vistas along the way and exciting things to do. Rushing from one place to the next takes away the fun. So, give yourself the gift of time and meander from one community to the next. We recommend starting at the Hood Canal Bridge—one of the primary gateways to the Olympic Peninsula—and head west.
Finnriver Cidery – In the heart of Chimacum
Stop for a glass of cider at Finnriver Cidery. But it won’t just be a glass of cider. It’s a work of art. That cider reflects the passion of a team of farmers who’ve come together to build community. To create a small-scale rural economy. To provide stewardship of the land in a collaborative partnership. The Cider Garden is an all-ages gathering place with music and a local food court where friends meet or discover new ones, and to celebrate community.
Creative District – Downtown Port Townsend
Head to historic Port Townsend to explore the exciting Creative District. With its rich history of creative pursuits, you’ll find a community of world-class visual, literary, performing, and culinary artists, makers and arts organizations. Check out galleries, eateries, bookstores and performing arts venues. A great place to start is the monthly First Saturday Art Walk when more than 20 galleries and alternative spaces are open from 5 – 8 pm. Many offer refreshments and demonstrations.
Celebrate the Sun at the Sunshine Festival – Sequim
As winter begins to wind down, we look forward to the coming warmth and light of the spring and summer seasons. Join the Sequim community and visitors as we gather to celebrate the sun at the annual Sequim Sunshine Festival on March 7 and 8, 2025, with a color run, light exhibits, a craft market, community art projects, live music, and an amazing illuminated drone show.
Juan de Fuca Music & Arts Festival – Port Angeles
The largest live music event on the Olympic Peninsula happens in Port Angeles every Memorial Day weekend. Make it an artsy long weekend filled with dancing, storytelling, art workshops for both kids and adults. There’s also a maker’s market, plus plenty of delicious food and drink. See over 30 live performances over three days and on five stages at the Juan de Fuca Music & Arts Festival!
Explore the West End – Forks Area
This is a land of original indigenous people, as well as a community of pioneer families, of fishermen and of early settlers and loggers. Travel to Neah Bay and visit the Makah Cultural and Research Center to see 500-year-old artifacts and learn their rich history. Visit La Push, home to the Quileute Tribe, and hike the wind-swept rugged First or Second Beach (always mindful of ocean tides). Stop in the Forks Timber Museum to discover fascinating stories of the hearty settlers who made it all the way west to provide lumber to a growing nation. To experience the true grandeur of the rain forest, visit the Hoh or Quinault Rain Forests in the winter or early spring when they are moist, lush and quiet.
Razor Clam Digging – Kalaloch, Mocrocks, Copalis and Twin Harbors Beaches
Looking for a new activity, or one you already love, to do with your kids? Razor clam digging could be just the thing. In both spring and fall, razor clams can be found on intertidal coastal beaches on the Olympic Peninsula. Tides for optimum digging range from +3 foot to -2 foot tide levels. Check out all the details you need to know with Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. And don’t miss the Ocean Shores Razor Clam and Seafood Festival March 21 – 23, 2025!
Shelton – Home of Christmastown and the Festival of Firs
For generations families in Mason County and Shelton have enjoyed holiday traditions centered around their evergreen roots. When the community worked together to win the Guinness World Record for Most Lit Christmas Trees in One Display in 2019, they knew they’d hit the big time. 797 trees that volunteers arranged in a giant maze were lit for the community and visitors to enjoy for free. Christmastown is a seven-decade tradition that is a bucket list experience for lovers of everything Christmas. You won’t want to miss Festival of Firs, but check back later in the year for 2025 dates.
At the heart of all our community events are cadres of volunteers who dedicate their time, skills, and energy to organize and operate these activities. Their care for their communities and for each event ensures success while creating meaningful experiences for everyone involved and for those visiting our areas.
There’s a connection that sparks conversation when we travel. A chance encounter can turn into pure magic and unexpected inspiration. It’s part of the adventure of going to different places and meeting new people. We welcome you to come and experience our special places and spaces, celebrating community together, with all of us who love and live on the Olympic Peninsula.
Click HERE for a full list of events happening on the Olympic Peninsula.
Cover photo courtesy of Finnriver Farm & Cidery
