Fall Festivities you wont want to miss!
As the air turns crisper and the leaves begin to paint the landscape with their warm hues, the charming town of Ellensburg, Washington, comes alive with a plethora of exciting fall events that promise to capture the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Nestled against the backdrop of the picturesque Kittitas Valley and surrounded by the Cascade Mountains, Ellensburg sets the stage for an autumn experience like no other. From cultural celebrations to outdoor festivities, this guide dives into the must-attend fall events that will make your visit to Ellensburg unforgettable in 2023.
1. Ellensburg Farmers Market: Harvest Bounty and Community Spirit
Fall wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Kittitas County Farmers Market, where the bounties of the harvest season take center stage. Stalls overflow with freshly harvested produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts that showcase the local talent and creativity. The market is not just a shopping experience, but a communal gathering where neighbors catch up, musicians strum soulful tunes, and children enjoy face painting and other delightful activities. It’s a true embodiment of the fall spirit, offering a chance to connect with the community while enjoying the best of the season. Click here to learn more about the Ellensburg Farmers Market
2. Kittitas County Fair & Rodeo: Where Tradition Meets Thrills
A beloved tradition for 100 years, the Kittitas County Fair & Rodeo is one of the most popular events of the year that encapsulates the essence of rural, Western life in the Pacific Northwest. The fairgrounds transform into a land of excitement, featuring carnival rides, livestock shows, and competitions that highlight the talents of local farmers and ranchers. The exhilarating rodeo competitions draw crowds from the local PNW and beyond, showcasing the determination and skills of cowboys and cowgirls as they take on bull riding, barrel racing, and more. This event seamlessly blends 100 years of tradition with modern entertainment, making it a must-attend fall experience.
Click here to view the Centennial Celebrations of the Ellensburg Rodeo!
3. Buskers in the Burg
Buskers in the Burg brings the quirky and eccentric to downtown Ellensburg providing unique street performers and fun for all ages. The streets of downtown Ellensburg come alive with a diverse range of performers, including musicians, jugglers, magicians, dancers, and other street entertainers. Buskers in the Burg” is a celebration that embraces the spirit of artistic expression, encourages interaction between performers and audiences, and adds a touch of magic and excitement to the streets of Ellensburg.
4. Harvest Fun at Jensen Farms
For the young and young at heart alike, admission lets you enjoy the fall season with a day of good old fashion farm fun! Jump aboard a hayride, get lost in Gourdy’s Corn Maze, make some four-legged friends in the petting zoo, start your engines on the Talladega trike course, adventure throughout Jack’s Kid Zone where you’ll find slide mountain, wall ball, Farmer John’s playset, wall maze, horse swings, farmer’s market, mini slides, giant connect-4 and more. Click here for more Jensen Farm information.
5. Windfall Ciderfest
WindFall is the biggest gathering of craft cider in central Washington. Tune in to an extensive line up of cider houses and beloved bands that make you want to dance and come together in Ellensburg to harvest the tastes and tunes of the season. This is a lively and fun benefit event with enough flavors to make the most experienced taster swoon. Nationally touring and local bands light up the stage at the Kittitas Valley Event Center to help you and your friends create memories that will last forever.
6. Central Washington University Homecoming
The Central Washington University Homecoming is a testament to the strong bond between the university and the Ellensburg community. As fall colors blanket the town, the campus comes alive with a range of spirited activities. Alumni reunite to celebrate their alma mater while current students revel in the excitement of the festivities. Football games, parades, and the crowning of the homecoming royalty are just a few highlights that showcase the unity and pride that define the spirit of Ellensburg. Click here for CWU Homecoming information and tickets.
7. Junk-tiquen
Shop seasonal antiques, up-cycled treasures, jewelry, and more from one-of-a-kind vendors at the fall Junk-tiquen in the Burg Vintage Market. This show was ranked one of Flea Market Decor’s Top 12 Flea Market Picks in the Nation! Shop dozens of vendors, all in one location at Ellensburg’s Kittitas Valley Event Center as you harvest an abundance of gently loved pieces! Grab a bite, enjoy live entertainment, and shop for one-of-a-kind treasures you’ll love! Click here for Junk-tiquen details.
8. An Autumn Art Walk
For those seeking a more intimate and immersive experience, take a stroll around town and admire the countless murals as they change in the golden autumn sun. Against the backdrop of fall’s inspiring landscapes, visitors can explore a variety of artistic mediums, from painting to pottery, as they interact with the art, local artists and enthusiasts and more. This self-guided tour allows art enthusiasts to engage with the local arts scene while taking in the beauty of the season.
Mark your Calendars for Ellensburg’s monthly First Friday Art Walk! Grab your flannel, warm hats and scarves and take to the streets to view local artists showcase their work, listen to local musicians, and take in the fall foliage falling around Historic Downtown. Click here to learn more about First Friday Art Walks in Ellensburg.
9. Trick or Treat Festival
The Ellensburg Downtown Association and merchants will once again host their family friendly Trick or Treat event that offers children a spooktacular alternative to door-to-door trick or treating and is a free, all ages, Halloween and harvest celebration. Enjoy magical moments throughout this town tradition such as the Dancing Witches, petting zoos and pumpkin painting. Plus! Give all of the brave scarecrows some love and vote for your favorite! Click here for your Trick or Treat Harvest Festival details.
As the autumn leaves start to fall and the air carries a certain crispness, Ellensburg, Washington, emerges as a hub of activity and celebration. From cultural festivals to traditional gatherings, the town offers a diverse range of events that capture the essence of the season and the unique spirit of its community. Whether you’re sipping craft beer at Oktoberfest, enjoying a cinematic masterpiece at the film festival, or indulging in the warmth of the Farmers Market, Ellensburg’s fall events promise an unforgettable experience that will leave you enchanted by the magic of the season and the town’s rich cultural tapestry
