Art, Adventure and a Dash of Salmon Sass

Ready for a getaway that’ll tickle your artistic fancy and let your inner adventurer do a happy dance? Pack your bags for a two-night romp in the mountain-hugged, art-sprinkled haven of Issaquah, Washington—where Lake Sammamish shimmers, the Issaquah Alps beckon, and serendipity is just a fifteen-minute zip from downtown Seattle.

The Great Issaquah Extravaganza: August 8-10

Set your calendar for three days of wonder! Kick off with the third annual Issaquah Film Festival—where popcorn meets passion at the Hilton Garden Inn and Longman Performing Arts Center. Then, get ready for a curtain call at the 22nd annual Festival of New Musicals, courtesy of the legendary Village Theatre. On Saturday night, let your curiosity lead the way as you waltz through the Art Walk and Music Stroll, weaving between art and tunes in the historic Creative District.

Salmon Shenanigans & Quilty Pleasures: September 12-14

From August through November, Issaquah’s rivers become the ultimate fishy catwalk—salmon strut their stuff, leaping and swirling in a spectacle that’s equal parts nature documentary and dance-off. For a front-row seat, plan your visit September 12-14 for the Salmon on Sunset Celebration Saturday, September 13, and don’t forget to stroll to the nearby quilt show (Sept. 12-14) -where threads and creativity collide, all within the charming Creative District.

Art Safari & Equinox Vibes: September 20

Feeling artsy? September 20th is your passport to atelier exploration! Wander the Issaquah Open Studio Tour, peeking into studios where artists conjure magic from canvas and clay. Wrap your adventure with a soul-soothing Sound Bath Experience at Lake Sammamish State Park, marking the autumn equinox with cosmic tranquility.

Pedal Power & Salmon Days Festival

October 4 is a two-wheeled whirlwind—bring your littlest daredevils to the Take a Kid Mountain Biking Festival at Duthie Hill Mountain Bike Park. The pace doesn’t slow: Issaquah’s legendary Salmon Days Festival takes over downtown October 4 & 5, with fish-themed fun, parades, and quirky crafts galore.

Broadway in the Mountains

Between September 16 and October 19, fall head over heels for the enchanting romance of Lerner and Loewe’s Brigadoon at Village Theatre. Grab your tickets at VillageTheatre.org and prepare for a musical journey that’ll sweep you right off your hiking boots.

No matter when you visit, Issaquah offers a quirky blend of adventure, artistry, and salmon-sized surprises. Pack your sense of wonder—you’ll need it!

Find details and more things to see and do on the Events Calendar.