20 Things to Do This Summer in Vancouver, WA: Your Complete 2026 Festival & Events Guide
20 Things to Do This Summer in Vancouver, WA
Your complete 2026 festival and events guide — from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Every event, every date, every pro tip you need.
Summer in Vancouver, WA is no joke. From the moment Memorial Day weekend wraps up, this community goes full send — festivals, parades, paddle events, food fests, car shows, cultural celebrations, and everything in between. Whether you just moved here, you've lived here forever, or you're just now discovering what Southwest Washington has to offer, this is your go-to guide for summer 2026.
I've lined up all 20 events in chronological order — each one complete with the full details, what to expect, and an insider pro tip so you can actually plan. Screenshot this. Bookmark it. Send it to your people. SW Washington's calendar is stacked this year.
Hockinson Fun Days
Hockinson Fun Days is a beloved small-town community celebration that brings the whole Hockinson neighborhood together every Memorial Day weekend. Kicking off Friday evening with Bingo Night at the high school commons, the real action unfolds all day Saturday with a packed schedule of community-run events.
What to Expect-
Friday (May 29): Bingo Night at Hockinson High School commons, 6–8:30 PM. Doors open 5:30 PM. 2 bingo cards for $1. Families welcome.
-
Saturday morning: Fire District 3 Pancake Breakfast (7–11:30 AM) — pancakes, sausage, eggs, coffee, juice — plus a Fire Station Open House & Demonstrations.
-
Marketplace Bazaar (9 AM–3:30 PM) with local vendors, gyros, pizza, shave ice, hot dogs, lemonade, and ice cream.
-
Fun Days Parade at noon from the high school — bands, floats, classic cars, and community energy down to NE 182nd Ave & NE 164th St.
-
Country Fair Carnival (10 AM–noon & 1–3:30 PM) at the Community Center upper lot — games, dunk tank, cakewalk, and the fan-favorite chance to dunk HSD teachers after the parade.
-
Elim Church Cruise In all day 9 AM–2 PM — "Classics Then & Now" car show, live music from "Ten O'Clock Hill," and famous pulled pork sandwiches.
Tacos & Taps — Clark County Food Bank Benefit
Tacos & Taps is a high-energy 21+ fundraiser hosted by the Clark County Food Bank — one of the most fun ways to give back in Southwest Washington. Every ticket sold helps provide over 250,000 meals and food assistance to people in our community. This is feel-good eating and drinking at its finest.
What to Expect-
Gourmet taco creations from the area's finest local chefs and pitmasters
-
Craft beers and specialty beverages
-
Live music, games, prizes, and a photo op
-
A meaningful way to support food assistance for our Clark County neighbors — every bite counts
15th Annual Big Paddle Waterfront Festival — Ridgefield
Now in its 15th year, the Big Paddle Waterfront Festival commemorates the Lewis River to Vancouver Lake Water Trail on National Trails Day. This beloved Ridgefield tradition combines outdoor adventure on the water with a vibrant waterfront festival on land — live music, food, beer, games, and community spirit all day long.
What to Expect-
Dragon Boat Paddle at 8:30 AM — FREE, register on Meetup. No experience needed, all equipment provided.
-
The Big Paddle at 10 AM — $10/boat. BYOB (kayak, paddleboard, or canoe) on a guided 5-mile round-trip along Lake River to the Columbia River. Rentals available from Alder Creek Kayak.
-
Guided Wildlife Nature Tour at noon — $45 single / $55 tandem through the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. All gear included.
-
Live music: Takohachi (traditional Japanese drum & dance, 9–10:30 AM) and Hit Machine (7-piece band, 11 AM–2:30 PM)
-
Beer garden, food trucks (La Malquerida, Eight Cow Creamery, Sourpuss Lemonade), volleyball, spike ball, lawn games, and a free kayak check (11 AM–3 PM)
-
Free hayride shuttle between the waterfront and downtown Ridgefield 10 AM–2 PM. Free parking at the waterfront.
Vancouver's Pride Block Party — 5th Annual
About the EventNow in its 5th year, Vancouver's Pride Block Party is the largest Pride event in June in the entire Portland metro area — and it happens right here in the heart of downtown Vancouver. With 4,000+ attendees expected, this celebration takes over SW 7th and Main Streets for seven hours of community, color, and joy. Free, family-friendly, and ALL are welcome.
What to Expect-
80+ vendor booths featuring local businesses, artists, and community organizations
-
Live entertainment and performances throughout the day
-
Community resource and information booths
-
Activities for all ages in a vibrant street-party atmosphere in downtown Vancouver
ilani BBQ Fest — Featuring Food Network Champions
ilani BBQ Fest is one of the premier food and beverage events in Southwest Washington, set on the open-air rooftop of ilani's parking garage in Ridgefield. Two full days of championship-level BBQ, nearly 100 specialty and craft beers, wines and spirits, cooking demonstrations, and a backyard BBQ competition make this a standout summer experience.
What to Expect-
Kyle Bryner — Food Network BBQ Brawl Season 6 winner, "Master of 'Cue" title
-
Brad Leighninger — Jack Daniel's BBQ World Champion, 4-time KCBS Team of the Year (the only pitmaster to claim it four times)
-
Chef Tyler Anderson — Top Chef Season 15, Beat Bobby Flay contestant
-
Mary Cressler & Sean Martin of award-winning Vindulge blog and Fire + Wine cookbook
-
Grand Tasting ticket includes 24 drink sample punches across nearly 100 craft beers, wines, and spirits
-
Smokin' Hot BBQ Championship for backyard grill competitors. All attendees receive $10 in Promo Play upon entry.
Woodland Planters Days Celebration
Planters Days is Woodland, Washington's annual community celebration with over 100 years of tradition behind it. This year's theme — "Woodland Washington: A Legendary Spirit. America 250" — honors the nation's 250th anniversary while celebrating the tight-knit spirit of one of SW Washington's most charming small towns. The carnival is run by Cowlitz County Fire District #1, with proceeds supporting their programs.
What to Expect-
Fireworks, parades, and a beloved Pet Parade
-
Annual Cruise-In & Car Show in partnership with the Northwest Corvette Association
-
Saturday/Sunday Market with local vendors
-
Bed races (yes, actual bed races), "Woodland's Strongest" strongman competition, carnival rides, games, and live music from local bands
Juneteenth Freedom Celebration
Presented by Odyssey World International Education Services and the City of Vancouver, the Juneteenth Freedom Celebration is a meaningful, joyful, and community-centered event open to all ages. It honors the history and legacy of Black freedom in America while celebrating the vibrant culture of Vancouver's community.
What to Expect-
Free live concerts from two well-known 10-member bands — African jazz ensemble Wamba and African funk ensemble JuJuba
-
Outdoor interactive historical museum exhibit by the Clark County Historical Museum (sponsored by HP and Clark College)
-
Free face painting, a photo booth, and over 70 businesses and nonprofit vendors
-
The Vancouver Farmers Market runs simultaneously throughout Esther Short Park — one of the liveliest mornings of the summer
Amboy Territorial Days — In the Heart of Logging Country
Deep in the forested hills of northeastern Clark County, Amboy Territorial Days is a three-day small-town festival steeped in authentic Pacific Northwest character. About 40 minutes northeast of Vancouver, this is the kind of event that reminds you just how much beautiful, community-rich territory surrounds us in SW Washington.
What to Expect-
Classic small-town parade, artisan and craft vendors, food vendors
-
Carnival rides, games, and live music from local performers
-
Genuine PNW small-town energy — lawn chairs, kids running around, neighbors catching up, and fair food in the air
Saturday in the Park Pride — 32nd Annual
Vancouver's original Pride celebration — now in its 32nd year — is the longest-running LGBTQ+ pride event in Southwestern Washington. Born from a small 1993 community meeting, Saturday in the Park has grown into one of the most joyful and inclusive summer events in the region. Free, family-friendly, and ALL ARE WELCOME.
What to Expect-
All-day live music across Esther Short Park
-
Drag queen story hour and a children's area with an obstacle course and kid-friendly activities
-
Maker's market with over 150 local businesses and vendors
-
Information and resource booths supporting the LGBTQ+ community; the event also raises funds for local charities
Vancouver GoFest 2026 — Pokémon GO Community Celebration
Presented by Vancouver Arena, GoFest is Vancouver's Pokémon GO community celebration held along the stunning Vancouver Waterfront. This two-day outdoor event brings players of all ages together for a unique gaming-meets-outdoor experience — one of the most fun and family-friendly additions to Vancouver's summer calendar in recent years.
What to Expect-
Pokémon GO gameplay and community events along the waterfront
-
Outdoor activities and a great reason to walk one of Vancouver's most beautiful stretches of riverfront
-
Check Vancouver Arena's website for any ticketed gameplay sessions and the full 2026 schedule closer to the date
Harvest Days Parade & Festival — Battle Ground
Harvest Days is Battle Ground's beloved annual summer celebration, presented by the Battle Ground Festival Association. A full weekend of community spirit, live entertainment, and classic Pacific Northwest festival charm, Harvest Days draws locals and visitors from across Clark County for two days of fun in one of SW Washington's most lovable small towns.
What to Expect-
The Harvest Days parade through downtown Battle Ground — floats, local organizations, bands, and community pride on full display
-
Live entertainment, food vendors, local businesses, and activities throughout the festival grounds
-
A great opportunity to explore what makes Battle Ground such a special corner of Clark County
7th Annual Hockinson Blueberry Festival
One of the sweetest mornings of the entire summer — literally. The 7th Annual Hockinson Blueberry Festival celebrates berry season with local farmers in the most charming, community-centered way. This beloved event brings the Hockinson community together every July for fresh blueberries, live music, vendors, and good old-fashioned summer fun.
What to Expect-
Fresh blueberry sales from local farmers starting at 9 AM — flats and pints available while supplies last
-
Live music throughout the morning; kids' activity area and shaded seating
-
Local artisan vendors, flowers and plants for sale, concessions and food
-
A pie baking contest AND a pie eating contest — both exactly as fun as they sound
Scooped! All-You-Can-Eat Ice Cream Festival
Presented by Treadway Events, Scooped is the ultimate summer celebration for ice cream lovers of all ages. Coming to Esther Short Park for two glorious days, this all-you-can-eat ice cream festival brings thousands of scoop enthusiasts together for an indulgent, interactive, and unforgettable experience. Bigger, better, and sweeter than ever in 2026.
What to Expect-
All-you-can-eat ice cream scoops from a variety of vendors and flavors
-
Interactive activities and games throughout the park
-
Great photo opportunities, summer vibes, and the kind of event that makes you feel like a kid again no matter your age
4 Days of Aloha — Native Hawaiian Cultural Celebration
Now in its 24th year, 4 Days of Aloha is the largest Native Hawaiian cultural celebration in the entire Pacific Northwest — and Vancouver, WA is its home. Founded in the early 2000s by Aunty Deva Yamashiro, Vicky Holt Takamine, and the Ke Kukui Foundation, the festival draws tens of thousands of attendees from across the country. In 2024, it was honored as SW Washington's Event of the Year by the Washington Festival and Events Association.
What to Expect-
Hula competition, live Hawaiian music performances, and concerts
-
Cultural workshops in Hawaiian arts, language, and traditions
-
Keiki (children's) activities, dedicated family area, and a Summer Fun Run (5K, 10K & keiki run)
-
An abundance of 'ono (delicious) Hawaiian food, local and Hawaiian vendors, and a beer garden
-
The Welcome Pa'ina (gathering) — free and open to the public. Four days of aloha spirit and community connection.
42nd Ride Around Clark County (RACC)
The 42nd annual Ride Around Clark County is one of the most cherished cycling events in Southwest Washington, presented by the Vancouver Bicycle Club. Starting and finishing at historic Fort Vancouver, RACC 2026's theme is "See the Wonders of Clark County" — featuring five brand-new routes designed to showcase seven standout local sights. Every registration supports local charities.
What to Expect-
18-mile Family Route — the easygoing choice, perfect for all ages and fitness levels
-
34-mile Explorer — a mix of town and nature; 61-mile Adventure/Gravel Route — paved and unpaved mix
-
Metric Century (mid-distance challenge) and The Century (epic 100-mile journey)
-
Top-rated rest stops with "world-famous" trail putty and homemade cookies along each route
-
Ice Cream Bar at the finish line + special edition RACC performance t-shirt for all riders. E-bikes welcome. Helmets required.
Day of Festivals
Ridgefield First Saturday — August Edition
About the EventRidgefield's monthly First Saturday series is one of the most charming recurring community events in SW Washington. The August edition transforms Davis Park and the waterfront into a vibrant open-air market — local produce, handmade goods, artisan vendors, and the warm energy of a small town that genuinely loves its neighbors.
What to Expect-
Ridgefield Farmers Market at Davis Park — seasonal vegetables, locally made goods, flowers, baked goods
-
Local artisan and craft vendors throughout the park
-
The beautiful Ridgefield waterfront backdrop — grab a coffee, stroll the market, and enjoy a slow morning along Lake River
Vancouver USA Arts & Music Festival — 4th Annual
The crown jewel of Vancouver's summer calendar. Now in its fourth year, this free three-day celebration drew over 30,000 attendees in 2024 and has quickly become one of the premier cultural events in the Pacific Northwest. Organized by Vancouver Parks & Recreation and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra USA, it earned the Washington Recreation and Parks Association Spotlight Award for Best Special Event.
What to Expect-
The 2026 lineup includes violinist Pinchas Zukerman, pianist Shelly Berg, and composer Valerie Coleman, alongside the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra USA
-
Three outdoor stages, interactive visual arts, juried art shows, pop-up galleries, circus theater, and multicultural performances
-
Food vendors, hands-on family activities, lawn games, and accessible programming with ASL interpretation and multilingual events
Clark County Fair 2026 — 10 Days of Summer Fun
The Clark County Fair is Southwest Washington's biggest and most beloved summer tradition — drawing nearly 270,000 visitors annually over 10 full days. Established in 1868 (yes, 1868!), the fair started in Vancouver's Esther Short Park and now calls the Clark County Event Center in Ridgefield home. Ten days of nonstop entertainment, all just 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver.
What to Expect-
Grandstand entertainment free with admission — rodeo, demolition derby, monster trucks, and more. Reserved concert seating ($30–$40) includes fair admission.
-
Carnival rides and unlimited ride wristbands (weekday wristbands $35 + fee; weekend $38 + fee)
-
4-H, FFA, Grange, and Open Class exhibits showcasing the agricultural heart of Clark County
-
Classic fair food, local vendors, and exhibits for all ages. 2026 concert lineup to be announced — watch the website.
26th Annual Vancouver Wine & Jazz Festival
Now in its 26th year, the Vancouver Wine & Jazz Festival is the largest festival of its kind in the entire Pacific Northwest — and it calls downtown Vancouver home. Since 1998, this nationally acclaimed event has drawn visitors from across the country to Esther Short Park. In 2023, attendees traveled from 16 states and over 77 cities. It was awarded SW Washington's 2023 Event of the Year by the Washington Festivals and Events Association.
What to Expect-
Grammy-winning jazz, blues, and gospel headliners alongside regional and local artists across multiple stages. 2026 lineup to be announced.
-
Over 60 Pacific Northwest wines to sample
-
Food from local Vancouver restaurants, fine artists from Oregon, Washington, and California
-
All-ages event — children 12 and under are free
Ridgefield Multicultural Festival
Ridgefield First Saturday — September Edition
About the EventThe September First Saturday in Ridgefield is the perfect bookend to summer. By early September the crowds have thinned, the light is getting that golden late-summer glow, and the farmers market is at peak harvest abundance. This is summer's sweet goodbye — and it's a good one.
What to Expect-
Ridgefield Farmers Market at peak late-summer harvest — tomatoes, corn, stone fruit, peppers, and more
-
Local artisan and craft vendors, the beautiful waterfront setting, and an unhurried community morning along Lake River
📋 2026 SW Washington Summer Events at a Glance
| # | Event | Dates | Location | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hockinson Fun Days | May 29–30 | Hockinson | Free / Low Cost |
| 2 | Tacos & Taps (Clark Co. Food Bank) | June 5–6 | Vancouver | Ticketed (21+) |
| 3 | Big Paddle Waterfront Festival | June 6 | Ridgefield | Free / $10–$55 |
| 4 | Vancouver's Pride Block Party | June 13 | Vancouver | FREE |
| 5 | ilani BBQ Fest | June 13–14 | Ridgefield | $44–$49+ (21+) |
| 6 | Woodland Planters Days | June 18–21 | Woodland | Free |
| 7 | Juneteenth Freedom Celebration | June 20 | Vancouver | FREE |
| 8 | Amboy Territorial Days | July 10–12 | Amboy | Free |
| 9 | Saturday in the Park Pride | July 11 | Vancouver | FREE |
| 10 | Vancouver GoFest 2026 | July 11–12 | Vancouver | FREE |
| 11 | Harvest Days Parade & Festival | July 17–18 | Battle Ground | Free |
| 12 | Hockinson Blueberry Festival | July 18 | Brush Prairie | Free |
| 13 | Scooped! Ice Cream Festival | July 18–19 | Vancouver | $29+ |
| 14 | 4 Days of Aloha | July 23–26 | Vancouver | Free–Ticketed |
| 15 | 42nd RACC Bike Ride | July 25 | Vancouver | Ticketed |
| 16 | Ridgefield First Saturday (Aug) | Aug 1 | Ridgefield | Free |
| 17 | Vancouver USA Arts & Music Festival | Aug 7–9 | Vancouver | FREE |
| 18 | Clark County Fair | Aug 7–16 | Ridgefield | $10–$13 |
| 19 | Vancouver Wine & Jazz Festival | Aug 21–23 | Vancouver | TBD |
| 20 | Ridgefield First Saturday (Sept) | Sept 5 | Ridgefield | Free |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about summer events in Vancouver WA and SW Washington in 2026
What I love most about summer here is the community. These aren't big, corporate productions trucked in from out of town — they're local, homegrown, and built by neighbors for neighbors. Whether you're at the Hockinson Blueberry Festival picking up a flat of fresh berries, watching dragon boats launch from the Ridgefield waterfront, or sitting in a lawn chair at the Wine & Jazz Festival with a glass of Pacific Northwest rosé in your hand — this is the kind of summer that makes you feel genuinely lucky to live in Southwest Washington.
Bookmark this guide, share it with your friends and neighbors, and go make some memories. 🌿☀️
Last updated: May 2026. Event details are subject to change — always verify with the official event website before attending.
Thinking About Making SW Washington Home?
You're spending a great summer here — imagine spending every summer here. If you're curious what it actually looks like to live in Clark County, I'd love to show you around. No pressure, just real local knowledge from someone who genuinely loves this place.
Schedule a Discovery Session Join the Local NewsletterCategories
Recent Posts
GET MORE INFORMATION
Cassandra Marks
Realtor, Licensed in OR & WA | License ID: 201225764
Realtor, Licensed in OR & WA License ID: 201225764