Spring Flings, Farm-Fresh Flavors, Festivals and Outdoor Fun
Wondering what to do and where to go for springtime fun, adventure and flavors? Warmer days around the Yakima Valley mean orchards in bloom, springtime wine releases, wildflower hikes and cultural festivities and foods.
Check out some of the top spring highlights, events and happenings.
Trails in Bloom – Favorite Wildflower Hikes
Wildflower season on surrounding mountain trails remains months off (think mid-summer). But, wildflowers burst into bloom just in time for hikes under the Yakima Valley’s sunny spring skies. From late April to the end of May or even early June, find trails winding through dense carpets of flowers in every color, from bright yellows and shades of orange to vibrant white and a multitude of purples and pinks. Check out top trail picks from local outdoor expert and guide extraordinaire, Shannon Mahre.
Locals’ Favorite Wildflower Hikes
Cultural Festivals, Events & Foods
There’s a lot to celebrate the first weekend in May around the Yakima Valley. Yakima Taco Fest, May 3, is a delicious day filled with traditional and fusion tacos and other cultural food and drink specialties from the valley’s favorite vendors. It’s also a day to dance to the rhythms of Latin music and enjoy traditional performances, art displays and artisan goods in the mercado. The same weekend, May 2 to 4, the town of Sunnyside hosts one of the largest celebrations of Hispanic culture in the Northwest. Their annual Cinco de Mayo festival is filled with delicious foods, traditional music, entertainment, dancing horses and other festivities.
May 16 to 18, experience and learn about the tribal traditions of the Yakama Nation as the community shares their culture at the Legends Casino Pow Wow & Stick Game Tournament. Watch hundreds of dancers in colorful regalia, traditional games and more.
Farm-Fresh Flavors
Some of the first signs of spring around the Yakima Valley are orchards beginning to bloom and the beginning asparagus season. About the time local orchards are in full bloom, the first spring asparagus makes its appearance at farm stands, farmers markets and restaurants around the valley. If you haven’t tasted just-picked asparagus, it’s time for a road trip! Soon to follow are the rest of the spring crops and then, berries, cherries and more!
Spring Flavors on the Menu at Farmers Markets, Farm Stands and More
Springtime in Wine Country
Spring is an exciting time in the valley as vineyards come to life and Yakima Valley wineries begin pouring new releases. Every April, wineries all around the valley open their doors to celebrate the season with Spring Barrel Weekend. Enjoy tastes pulled from the barrel, brand new spring wine releases, perfect pairings, educational events, tours, goods and tasty bites from local vendors, live music and more. Check out Yakima Valley Wine Country events all season long.
Scenic Races and Running Events
Whether you’re a serious runner, or like to take it at your own pace for fun, there’s a lineup of great springtime runs and races that make the most of the valley’s scenic landscapes. Runners and casual racers from around the Northwest come for the events such as the Rattlesnake Hills Wine Run through the vineyards (complete with tasting stops), the stunning Yakima River Canyon Full and Half Marathon and the picturesque Never Say Never Half Marathon and 10K.
Coming Soon for Summertime
Next up on the calendar, you’ll find live music all around the Yakima Valley, from vineyard concerts to Chinook Fest, a can’t-miss mountain music festival. A summer season of brewery events and craft beer festivals in the heart of Hop Country kicks off. Outdoor adventures are waiting to be found on 200 miles of trails and winding waterways all around the valley.
Check out the full lineup of things to do, see and taste all summer long
Plan ahead for all the events and happenings all year long!
Check out seasonal overview of Yakima Valley attractions and events
Categorized in: Family Fun, Farm Fresh Fun, Farmers Markets, History and Culture, Outdoor Recreation, Wine Country
