Experience Creativity at Its Finest: 2025 Anacortes Arts Festival
The vibrant coastal town of Anacortes, Washington is gearing up once again for one of its most beloved traditions — the Anacortes Arts Festival, happening August 1–3, 2025. For over six decades, this annual event has brought together artists, musicians, food vendors, and the community in a vibrant celebration of creativity and culture along the shores of the Salish Sea.
🎨 Festival Hours:
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Friday, August 1: 10:00am – 6:00pm
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Saturday, August 2: 10:00am – 6:00pm
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Sunday, August 3: 10:00am – 5:00pm
A Rich Tradition of Art & Community
What began as a small-town art fair in 1962 has blossomed into one of the Pacific Northwest’s most well-loved arts events. Over 220 juried artists from across the country will fill downtown Anacortes with original works in painting, ceramics, fiber, wood, jewelry, and more — all displayed along Commercial Avenue from 10th Street to 3rd Street.
What to Expect at the 2025 Festival
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Fine Art Exhibition: Located at the Port Transit Shed Event Center, this curated indoor show features top-tier regional and national artists. The 2025 theme, “Sense of Place,” explores our relationships with natural and cultural landscapes.
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Live Music: With two music stages and performances ranging from indie to folk to funk, the festival soundscape is as diverse as the art. Grab a cold drink from the Beer & Wine Garden and enjoy the show!
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Tasty Bites & Local Sips: Savor delicious eats from regional food vendors and food trucks. Wash it all down with craft beer, Washington wine, and cocktails served in the Festival’s beverage gardens.
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Youth Activities: Bring the family! Kids can create their own masterpieces, enjoy face painting, and more in the Kids' Discovery Area, plus take part in the Art Dash Kids' Fun Run.
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Working Artist Demonstrations: Watch art come alive as creators share their process live — including pottery, glasswork, and wood sculpture.
Frequently Asked Questions
🚗 Where is the best place to park?
Parking can be tricky during Festival weekend. There is no designated festival parking, so street parking is your best bet.
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If entering on R Avenue, start looking for spots near 12th Street (by Safeway). The Depot Arts Center area often has available parking.
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If entering on Commercial Avenue, turn left at 12th Street and loop into the downtown neighborhood. Try looking near the Anacortes Library or Causland Park.
♿ Where is handicapped parking located?
Limited designated handicapped parking is available and fills quickly. This year, look for it in the City of Anacortes lot on Q Avenue & 6th Street, just east of City Hall. Blue flags and signage will mark the area.
🐾 Can I bring my dog?
We strongly urge you to leave your dogs at home. The festival can be overwhelming for pets: hot pavement, large crowds, and other animals often lead to uncomfortable or even unsafe situations. For the safety of your dog and fellow festivalgoers, please let them sit this one out.
🕗 What’s the best time to visit the Festival?
If you're looking to avoid crowds, the early mornings, late Saturday afternoon, and all day Sunday tend to be a bit quieter.
🛏️ Where can I stay overnight?
Accommodations fill up fast for Festival weekend, so book early! Anacortes has a variety of excellent hotels, charming inns, and cozy vacation rentals available in town and nearby.
Mark Your Calendar: August 1–3, 2025
Come celebrate art, culture, and community in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. For artist previews, performance schedules, and more details, visit the official site: anacortesartsfestival.com
