Labor Day Weekend in Vancouver WA: Events and Activities (August 29 - September 1 , 2025)

Labor Day weekend in Vancouver, WA is more than just the unofficial end of summer—it’s a chance to slow down, celebrate with family and friends, and take in everything our community has to offer. From vineyard evenings and scenic train rides to outdoor adventures and local festivals, Southwest Washington comes alive with events that highlight the very best of the season.

This year, residents and visitors alike can enjoy a mix of traditions and new favorites: sip estate-grown wine at Jacquot Vineyard’s Wine Down Your Week, cheer on the Community Dragon Boat Paddles in Ridgefield, or indulge in handmade treats at Cedar Creek Grist Mill. Whether your ideal weekend includes live music, local food, or exploring the outdoors, there’s something happening nearby to make your Labor Day in Vancouver unforgettable.

Wine Down Your Week at Jacquot Vineyard

📅 Dates:

• Friday, August 29 (3 PM – 9 PM)

• Saturday, September 6 (1 PM – 9 PM)

• Friday, September 19 (3 PM – 9 PM)

📍 Location: Jacquot Vineyard – Brush Prairie, WA
🕒 Times: See above per date
💲 Cost: Admission is free, wine and food available for purchase
🌐 Website: Jacquot Vineyard

About the Event

Usually, Jacquot Vineyard opens its bar only for private events—but for three special evenings this season, the gates swing wide for Wine Down Your Week 2025. This family-friendly gathering blends the charm of a vineyard evening with music, artisan shopping, delicious bites, and of course—estate-grown, handcrafted wines.

What to Expect

✨ Sip estate wines, beer, cider, and seltzers
🎶 Live music by Kiley Jeanne on August 29 (4:30–8:30 PM)
🌮 Tasty eats from Anahi’s Tamales & More
🛍 Artisan vendors showcasing local creations
👨‍👩‍👧 Family-friendly vibes with plenty of space to relax
🌅 Vineyard sunsets that make the perfect backdrop for unwinding

Pro Tip

Bring a picnic blanket or comfy chairs—after grabbing your glass of wine and some tamales, you’ll want a cozy spot to soak in the views while the live music sets the mood.

Cedar Creek Grist Mill Treat Day

📅 Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025 (recurs every last Saturday of August)
🕛 Time: 12:00 PM
📍 Location: Cedar Creek Grist Mill – 43907 NE Grist Mill Rd, Woodland, WA 98674
💲 Cost: Free (donations appreciated)
🌐 Website: Cedar Creek Grist Mill

About the Event

Step back in time at the Cedar Creek Grist Mill, a historic, water-powered grain mill built in 1876. On Treat Day, the mill transforms into a community gathering spot where fresh-milled whole wheat is turned into delicious cookies, cakes, muffins, scones—and even homemade dog biscuits!

What to Expect

✨ A working demonstration of the mill in action
🍰 A rotating selection of baked goods made from freshly milled flour
🐶 Dog-friendly snacks for four-legged visitors
📸 A picture-perfect setting surrounded by lush forest and a covered bridge
🌿 A family-friendly outing with history, nature, and food all in one

Pro Tip 

Arrive early—the treats go fast! Pair your visit with a scenic hike in the Cedar Creek area or a stop in Woodland for a full afternoon adventure.

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad: Mid-Summer Weekend Rides

📅 Dates: Saturday, August 30 & Sunday, August 31, 2025
🕛 Departure Times: 12:00 PM & 2:30 PM
📍 Location: Chelatchie Prairie Railroad – 207 Railroad Ave, Yacolt, WA 98675
💲 Cost: $20 adults, $15 youth, $13 seniors, $10 children, under 2 free
🌐 Website: Chelatchie Prairie Railroad

About the Event

Step back into a slower, simpler time with a scenic ride on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad. This six-mile round-trip journey takes you through lush forests, over wooden trestles, and alongside the Lewis River. You’ll stop at Moulton Falls for a stretch and photo opportunities before continuing through a 330-foot rock tunnel—a favorite highlight for kids and train lovers alike.

What to Expect

✨ Scenic views of the North Clark County countryside
🚂 A fun ride in vintage rail cars pulled by a classic locomotive
🌲 A stop at Moulton Falls for photos and fresh air
🕰 A one-of-a-kind historic experience perfect for all ages
📸 Opportunities to capture some truly unique family photos

Pro Tip

Arrive at least 20 minutes early to get your tickets and seating preference—outdoor cars offer the best views, but indoor seating is a cozy option if the weather changes. Pack a snack or water bottle to make the ride even more enjoyable.

Shih-Tzu Meet-Up at For Pup Sake

📅 Date: Saturday, August 31, 2025
🕛 Time: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
📍 Location: For Pup Sake Pet Food & Supplies – 8606 E Mill Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA
💲 Cost: Free to attend (raffles, vendor goodies, and pup treats available for purchase)
🌐 Host: For Pup Sake & @letstalkshiht

About the Event

Calling all Shih-Tzu pawrents! This special afternoon is all about celebrating the fluff, wiggles, and tail-wags of everyone’s favorite little lion dogs. Hosted by For Pup Sake in partnership with @letstalkshiht, this paw-some event brings together Shih-Tzus, their humans, and plenty of vendors for a fun-filled community meet-up.

What to Expect

🎁 Goodie bags for attending pups
🍦 Unlimited pup cups to keep tails wagging
🎟️ Raffles & prizes throughout the afternoon
🛍️ Pet-friendly vendors, including:

• Sourpuss Lemonade – cool, refreshing sips for humans

• Jarvis Love – pet-friendly plants to brighten your home

• The Romance Era – magical book truck with spicy reads

• Tatis Market – authentic Mexican antojitos, perfect for snacking

Pro Tip

Dress your Shih-Tzu in their cutest outfit—there will be plenty of photo opportunities with new furry friends! And don’t forget to bring some extra cash or cards for the raffles and vendor goodies.

City of Ridgefield Community Dragon Boat Paddles

📅 Dates: Fridays, June 20 – October 3, 2025
🕡 Time: 6:30 PM
📍 Location: Ridgefield Waterfront Boat Launch – Mill St, Ridgefield, WA 98642
💲 Cost: Free (registration required)
🌐 Host: City of Ridgefield

About the Event

Ever wanted to try dragon boat paddling? Now’s your chance! The City of Ridgefield invites you to join their free Community Dragon Boat Paddles this summer. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or brand new, this is a fun and accessible way to get out on the water, connect with neighbors, and experience the beauty of Ridgefield’s waterfront.

What to Expect

✨ Weekly paddles every Friday evening through October 3
✨ All equipment provided—just bring your sense of adventure
✨ Ages 14 and up welcome (no prior experience needed)
✨ Registration required—spots fill quickly, so don’t wait!

Pro Tip

It’s best to wear quick-dry clothing and shoes you don’t mind getting wet. Bring a water bottle and be ready for an unforgettable sunset paddle with your community!

Where Will Your Labor Day Weekend in Vancouver WA Take You?

With so many events, festivals, and local favorites happening August 29–September 1st, the hardest part is deciding where to go first. Are you planning to catch some live music, sip wine under the summer sky, or maybe just relax with family and neighbors close to home? However you choose to spend it, Labor Day Weekend in Vancouver WA is all about making the most of these last golden days of summer

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