When summer’s pristine weather arrives, there’s a natural inclination to celebrate. What better way to do this than by participating in one of the many outstanding festivals across the country?
If you’re heading to the Redmond area, know that entertaining festivals are happening all around town, all summer long. Here are some of the most popular ones to choose from, so plan on attending one — or all of them!
Washington Brewer’s Festival — June 15-17
If you’re a fan of craft brews, head to Marymoor Park and tilt a glass or three at the 13th Annual Washington Brewer’s Festival. This all-ages event features more than 500 beers from 100 of Washington’s finest breweries, along with food trucks, live music, and fun activities for kids and adults. Tickets range from $25 Early Bird specials to $35 at the door. Please note that Friday’s festivities are for those 21 and over only.
If you like to put a few miles on your tennis shoes, you can join the Washington Beer Run 5k on the 17th. As part of the Brewer’s Festival, registration for the Beer Run gets you a ticket for its Sunday fun, including early admission. Early registration is $50 and general registration will run you $60.
Derby Days — July 13-14
Now in its 78th year, Redmond’s Derby Days 2018 celebrates all that makes the city so unique. This year’s festival is a family-friendly extravaganza, featuring a grand parade, carnival, pancake breakfast, 5k run and bicycle race, live music, an arts festival, and more.
There’s always great entertainment happening over these two exciting days, and you’ll be lucky if you can take it all in. You can visit their website to find out all the ways you and your children can join in the competitions, or you can simply enjoy the action from the cheering section. Admission and parking are both free.
9th Annual Redmond Arts Festival — July 13-15
Over 80 handpicked painters, sculptors, designers and jewelers will congregate here to display an amazing selection of artwork. If you’re a fan of music, food, and drink, it gets even better. Bands are scheduled each day, all day long, and there’s a “Wine, Beer & Bites Garden” to keep you filled up with a variety of delicious offerings.
If you’re visiting with kids, they’ll be encouraged to create their own artwork on sidewalks throughout the festival, which is free — as is parking. Since this festival is running concurrently with Derby Days, the city will be running a shuttle bus between the two events, so you can take in as much fun as you can handle.
Keep in mind, these popular festivals draw good crowds and area hotels are often booked up in advance of them. Make finding a hotel in Redmond an early part of your plans. Take a look at the area’s lodging options available to take in the fun and natural beauty. Now grab your sunscreen, some comfortable shoes, and gear up for festival season in Redmond!