Welcome to your ultimate Summer Festival Guide in Vancouver, WA for 2025

Whether you’re a longtime local or a visitor looking to soak up the Pacific Northwest sunshine, Vancouver, WA offers an exciting lineup of fairs, festivals, farmers markets, and free concerts throughout the summer months. From vibrant community celebrations to outdoor movie nights and pop-up events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your perfect summer—complete with insider tips on parking, pet-friendly events, and ways to stay refreshed while exploring all that Vancouver has to offer. Get ready to mark your calendar and make unforgettable memories this season!

Pro Tips for Enjoying Summer events in Vancouver, WA

Summer in Vancouver, WA is full of outdoor festivals, live music, markets, and community events—but a little planning goes a long way in making the most of it. Here are some expert tips to help you stay cool, prepared, and ready for fun all season long:

Arrive Early for Major Events

Events like the Vancouver Farmers Market, Fourth of July fireworks at Fort Vancouver, and concerts in Esther Short Park draw big crowds. Arriving early not only helps you snag the best parking but also gives you first pick of shaded seating areas and a chance to explore before it gets too hot.

Pack Smart: Reusable Bags & Water Bottles

Most summer events include artisan vendors, food trucks, and fresh local produce. Bring along reusable shopping bags so you’re not juggling items, and don’t forget a refillable water bottle—many venues offer free water stations to help you stay hydrated in the heat.

Keep an Eye on the City Calendar

The City of Vancouver’s event calendar is your best friend this summer. It’s updated regularly with free community concerts, family movie nights in the park, cultural festivals, and last-minute pop-up events. Bookmark it or follow city social media accounts so you don’t miss out!

Check Dog Policies Before You Go

Vancouver is a pet-friendly town, and many summer events welcome dogs. That said, not all venues allow them—especially food-centered or crowded events. Always check the event listing first, and if you do bring your pup, make sure to pack water, poop bags, and maybe even a cooling vest.

Bonus Tip: Bring a Blanket or Low-Back Chair

Many events encourage you to kick back and stay awhile. A lightweight picnic blanket or low-back folding chair makes it easy to enjoy live music or movies under the stars in comfort.

Top Summer Events in Vancouver, WA You Won’t Want to Miss in 2025

Summer in Vancouver, Washington is more than just sunshine—it's a full-blown celebration of community, creativity, and outdoor adventure. From lively street festivals and classic car cruise-ins to LGBTQ+ pride events, farmers markets, and free outdoor concerts, there's something happening every weekend. If you're searching for the best summer events in Vancouver, WA, planning a local family-friendly itinerary, or just looking for fun things to do in Vancouver WA this summer, this all-in-one guide has you covered. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just visiting Clark County, discover what makes this Pacific Northwest city come alive when the weather warms up.

4 Days of Aloha Festival

📍 Esther Short Park | 🗓️ July 24 – July 27, 2025

About the Event:

For over 20 years, the 4 Days of Aloha Festival has welcomed thousands of attendees from around the world to celebrate Hawaiian culture right here in Vancouver. With a record attendance of over 43,000 people in 2019, this festival truly brings the spirit of aloha to the Pacific Northwest. Each day features unique events ranging from Hula & Craft Workshops to the Concert in the Park, Multi-Cultural Celebrations, a fun Aloha Run, and more. Whether you’re a keiki (child) or kupuna (elder), there’s something to enjoy for everyone at this vibrant, family-friendly event.

What to Expect:

• Traditional hula dance performances and craft workshops

• Live concerts in Esther Short Park

• Family-friendly activities for all ages, including fun runs

• Multicultural celebrations and community feasts (Pāʻina)

• Authentic Hawaiian food vendors and vibrant festival atmosphere

Pro Tip:

• Arrive early to get good spots for concerts and workshops

• Check the daily schedule for kid-friendly events and performances

• Don’t miss the Hōʻike (performance showcases) and Pāʻina (community feasts) for a full cultural experience

25th Annual Vancouver Wine & Jazz Festival

📍 Esther Short Park | 🗓️ August 15 – August 17, 2025 |  🎟️ Coming Soon

⏰ Time:

• Friday: 3 PM – 10 PM

• Saturday: 11 AM – 10 PM

• Sunday: 11 AM – 9 PM

About the Event:

Celebrate summer evenings with smooth jazz, fine wines, and good company at Vancouver’s Wine & Jazz Festival. This annual event brings top jazz musicians to the stage alongside a curated selection of local wineries and food vendors. Relax in the beautiful setting of Esther Short Park while enjoying live performances, delicious tastings, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Perfect for date nights, friend gatherings, or solo music lovers, the Wine & Jazz Festival is a must-visit for anyone wanting to savor the best of summer vibes.

What to Expect:

• Live jazz, blues, and gospel music from nationally acclaimed and local bands

• Over 60 Northwest wines to sample

• Local food vendors and arts & crafts booths

• All-ages event with free admission for kids 12 and under

• Opportunities to enjoy performances from student musicians

Pro Tip:

• Buy tickets early for reserved seating (when available)

• Bring a picnic blanket or lawn chair for comfort

• Plan to spend the full day or weekend to enjoy all performances and tastings

• Check out the student musician showcases to support emerging local talent

Vancouver USA Arts & Music Festival

📍 Esther Short Park & Various Locations | 🗓️ July 31, 2025 - August 3, 2025 |  🎟️ Free

About the Event:

Get ready to dive into a world of electrifying creativity July 31-August 3 with the Vancouver Arts & Music Festival at Esther Short Park in downtown Vancouver, Washington! This free festival transforms the park into a playground of creativity featuring outdoor stages, local art vendors, a juried art exhibition, family activities, and more. Experience culture and community with performances by GRAMMY® Award-winning artists Renée Fleming, Mark and Maggie O’Connor, and Sharon Isbin, performing with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra USA under maestros Gerard Schwarz and Salvador Brotons.

What to Expect:

• Free access to outdoor stages with diverse musical performances

• Local artists and juried exhibitions showcasing fine arts

• Family-friendly activities suitable for all ages

• Performances by world-class musicians with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra USA

• Vibrant community atmosphere celebrating arts and culture

Pro Tip:

• Wear comfortable shoes to explore all venues and activities

• Check the daily event schedule to catch your favorite performances

• Arrive early to explore the art exhibitions and vendor booths before the crowds

• Bring water and sun protection for outdoor activities at Esther Short Park

Clark County Fair

📍 Ridgefield | 🗓️ August 1–10, 2025 | ⏰ 10 AM–11 PM (varies) | 🎟️ Tickets go on sale July 5

About the Event:

Held annually at the Clark County Fairgrounds in Ridgefield, this beloved event is a summer must. With rides, livestock, 4-H shows, concerts, food booths, and nightly entertainment, it’s ten days of non-stop fun for families. This year’s fair promises exciting new exhibits and the same classic charm.

What to Expect:

• Carnival rides and games for all ages

• Live entertainment and music stages

• Agricultural exhibits and competitions

• Food trucks and classic fair treats

• Vendor booths with crafts and local products

Pro Tips:

• Purchase tickets early to avoid long lines.

• Arrive early for parking and to maximize your time.

• Bring sunscreen, hats, and water bottles for comfort.

• Check the schedule for special events or concerts during the fair.

Saturday in the Park Pride

📍 Esther Short Park | 🗓️ July 12, 2025 | ⏰ 10 AM–5 PM | 💵 Free

About the Event:

2025 will mark the 31st anniversary of Vancouver, Washington’s Pride in the Park — the city’s original pride event, formally known as “Saturday in the Park.” This event, in addition to being the longest-running LGBTQ+ pride celebration in Southwestern Washington, is a celebration of life, a gathering of joy, and a place to discover support and friends.

Inspired by a meeting held in 1993 when a small group got together to celebrate Southwest Washington’s LGBTQ+ community, the Saturday in the Park pride event has grown into a significant celebration. It is now held on the second Saturday of every July at Esther Short Park in downtown Vancouver — this year’s event will be on July 12, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This event includes plenty for the whole family, including:

• Live music (all day long!)

• Drag queen story hour

• A children’s area featuring an obstacle course and other fun, kid-friendly activities

• A maker’s market featuring over 150 local businesses and vendors

• Plenty of food vendors

• Information booths featuring organizations and businesses that support the LGBTQ+ community

In addition to being a fun, joyous celebration, Saturday in the Park also has the important mission of raising funds for local charities and providing educational workshops for LGBTQ+ families.

As always, Saturday in the Park 2025 is a family-friendly event where admission is free, and ALL ARE WELCOME!

What to Expect:

• All-day live music and entertainment

• Engaging children’s activities including obstacle courses and storytelling

• A vibrant maker’s market with 150+ local vendors

• Food trucks offering a variety of options

• Informational booths with LGBTQ+ resources

Pro Tips:

• Arrive early to explore the vendor market fully and secure good spots for activities.

• Bring sunscreen, water, and hats as much of the event is outdoors.

• Use public transport or bike to avoid parking hassles downtown.

• Perfect for families — don’t miss the drag queen story hour!

Car Shows & Cruise-Ins

📍 Locations across Clark County | 🗓️ May–September

About the Event:

Car cruises and shows have been a cherished summer tradition in Vancouver for decades. Starting from the 1950s, these events celebrate classic cars, hot rods, and vintage automobiles while supporting local downtown businesses and fostering community spirit. The events range from informal weekly meetups to large-scale annual shows, providing plenty of nostalgia and entertainment for car enthusiasts and families alike.

What to Expect:

• Hundreds of classic, vintage, and hot rod cars on display

• Live music and entertainment

• Food vendors and family-friendly activities

• Award ceremonies like Best in Show

• Opportunities to mingle with car owners and other enthusiasts

Pro Tips:

• Arrive early to get good parking and a close-up view of the cars.

• Bring a camera for great photo opportunities.

• Check the event schedule for specific show themes or contests.

• Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen—it’s mostly outdoors!

Event Details:

In addition to informal summer cruises, Vancouver and Clark County host many formal car shows, including:

• Cruisin’ the Gut and Cruise the Couve: Large annual car cruises supporting downtown businesses.

• Camas Car Show: Held in downtown Camas, featuring classic cars and family activities.

• Battle Ground’s Harvest Night’s Cruise: A nostalgic cruise during the annual Harvest Days festival.

• Weekly/Bi-monthly Cars and Coffee: Various spots across Vancouver during warm months.

• Other notable car shows:

  • 40et8 Annual Labor Day Car Show

  • Endless Summer Cruise-In

  • Northwest Festival & Carshow

  • Public Vintage Car Show at Elks Lodge 823

  • Touchmark’s Annual Car Show and Music Festival

  • Velvet Acres Gardens Annual Car Show

  • West Coast Wild Cards Car Show

Bonus: These events often include live music, awards, kids’ zones, and local food trucks.

Free Summer Concerts in Vancouver, WA

📍 Vancouver Waterfront Park + Columbia Tech Center | 🗓️ July–August | 💵 Free

About the Event:

Vancouver offers a lively lineup of free summer concerts at some of the city’s most scenic outdoor venues. From the beautiful Columbia River waterfront to local parks, these concerts showcase diverse musical styles, provide fun family-friendly atmospheres, and highlight local talent. Here’s what you need to know to enjoy the best of Vancouver’s summer music scene.

What to Expect:

• Scenic views of the river and downtown skyline

• A welcoming, family-friendly crowd

• Local food vendors offering refreshments and snacks

• Accessible via public transit (C-TRAN Route 71)

General Pro Tips for Enjoying Vancouver’s Free Summer Concerts:

• Arrive early to secure the best seating or standing areas.

• Bring sunscreen, hats, and a blanket or low-back chair.

• Stay hydrated—bring water, especially on hot days.

• Use C-TRAN public transportation to avoid parking issues.

• Check event schedules on official city websites for any last-minute updates.

Outdoor Family Fun

Beyond big events, Vancouver shines with everyday adventures your family can enjoy all summer long:

• Frenchman’s Bar Park – sandy beaches & river access

• Dinosaur Playground at Nikkei Park – Jurassic-sized fun

• Columbia Springs Environmental Center – fish hatchery, nature walks

• Water Resources Education Center – interactive exhibits

• Sky Zone & The Source Climbing Center – for high-energy kids

Bonus: Cool down with milkshakes at The Yard or Salt & Straw on the waterfront.

General Tips for Attending Free Outdoor Concerts:

• Arrive Early: To secure a good spot, especially for popular performances.

• Bring Essentials: Items like sunscreen, a hat, a picnic blanket, and a reusable water bottle.

• Check the Weather: Be prepared for changing conditions; some events may be held rain or shine.

• Respect the Venue: Follow any posted rules and be considerate of fellow attendees.

Sample Summer Weekend Itinerary

Friday

• Start the evening at a Cruise-In event or local food truck roundup

• Catch a sunset show at the Vancouver Waterfront

Saturday

• Shop the Farmers Market

• Spend the afternoon at a car show or Pride festival

• End the day with ice cream and music in the park

Sunday

• Relax at Frenchman’s Bar

• Explore Columbia Springs trails

• Cap it off with brunch downtown

Final Thoughts on Summer Festival Guide in Vancouver, WA

Summer in Vancouver, WA is truly a season to celebrate, filled with vibrant festivals, lively concerts, and community gatherings that bring everyone together. With this complete 2025 guide, you’re well-equipped to make the most of the sunny days and warm evenings—whether that means enjoying fresh local produce at a market, dancing under the stars at a free concert, or discovering new favorites at one of the many fairs. Remember to plan ahead, stay hydrated, and embrace the friendly, welcoming spirit that makes Vancouver’s summer events so special. Here’s to a fantastic summer full of fun, food, music, and unforgettable experiences!

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