Orcas Island Summer Events

Within the beautiful San Juan Islands, Orcas Island is a destination for nature lovers. It offers stunning landscapes, charming villages, and a vibrant cultural scene. If you’re planning a summer getaway, Orcas Island should be at the top of your list. 

In this article, we’ll explore some of the top things to do on Orcas Island this summer. From exciting events to must-visit Orcas Island attractions, you’ll have plenty of activities to fill your days. We’ll also go over Orcas Island hotel options to ensure your stay is as comfortable as it is memorable and exciting. 

Summer Solstice Parade

Kickstarting the summer season in lavish style, the Summer Solstice Parade is a triumphant celebration of community and creativity. Colorful floats, lively music, and enthusiastic participants fill the streets, culminating in a magical procession through the heart of Eastsound, the island’s charming village. Join the festivities and immerse yourself in the island’s vibrant culture. This is sure to be one of the best Orcas Island events of the year you won’t want to miss!

Village Green Summer Concert Series

Spend your summer evenings from June to August surrounded by the melodious tunes of the Village Green Summer Concert Series. Featuring talented local and regional musicians such as Karan Casey, Marley’s Ghost, Ella Harp, Carl Verheyen, Fian, and more, this outdoor concert series provides the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and enjoy the warm summer nights. Bring a blanket, grab a picnic basket, and let the music serenade you under the starlit sky.

4th Of July Celebrations 

Deer Harbor Fireworks

As darkness falls, head to Deer Harbor on July 3rd for a mesmerizing fireworks display at the Deer Harbor Marina. This annual event promises to illuminate the night sky with dazzling colors, creating a magical atmosphere. The fireworks show will start at dusk, and viewing is only allowed from the pier and beach, providing the perfect vantage points to enjoy the spectacle. Join the crowd and soak in the experience with music playing on the dock, adding an extra layer of excitement to the evening. 

Fireworks on Orcas Island

July 4th 5k

Start your day with a burst of energy by participating in the thrilling July 4th 5k race. This exciting event, welcoming participants of all ages, offers a chance to run or walk amidst breathtaking island scenery. The race will kick off at 8 am on July 4th, providing an invigorating start to your holiday celebrations. Don’t forget to register online before July 2 to secure your spot in this memorable event. Lace up your running shoes and join in the excitement of the July 4th 5k race as you embrace the beauty of Orcas Island along the way.

July 4th Laser Light Show 

To cap off the evening, be sure not to miss the July 4th Laser Light Show at Mt. Bakers Farm, a unique visual spectacle that combines lasers, music, and pure enchantment. Seattle’s industry leader “Slick Lasers” will light up the night sky for a spectacular laser light show with glorious colors and music designed specifically for an Independence Day celebration. The gates will open at 7 p.m. for attendees to claim their spot and enjoy great food and treats from local eateries. Live music will start at 8 p.m., setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing laser light show and celebrate Independence Day in style.

Cider & Mead Festival

Discover a world of flavors at the Orcas Island Cider & Mead Festival. This event celebrates the ancient history of cider and mead, cider tracing back to evidence of apple trees existing along the Nile River Delta as early as 1300 BC. On the other hand, Mead is believed to be one of the oldest alcoholic beverages invented by humans. Excavations have also revealed mead remnants, including a cache from around 500 to 550 BC. At the Orcas Island Cider & Mead Festival, you can discover a wide selection of locally crafted ciders and meads, each sips a testament to the island’s rich agricultural heritage. Immerse yourself in the production process, indulge your taste buds, and raise a glass to the renowned beverage artisans of Orcas Island. 

Orcas Island Chamber Music Festival

Orchestra performing chamber music
Photo from Shutterstock

The Orcas Island Chamber Music Festival is an absolute must for classical music enthusiasts. World-class musicians gather on the island to enchant audiences with outstanding performances. From intimate chamber ensembles to grand orchestral concerts, the festival offers various musical experiences. Let the melodies of this Orcas Island music festival transport you to new realms and revel in the island’s harmonious ambiance.

Library Fair

Unleash your inner bookworm at the Orcas Island Library Fair. This annual event brings together book lovers of all ages, showcasing an extensive selection of literature, from poetry to novels and everything in between. Engage in literary discussions, meet local authors, and explore the many treasures waiting to be discovered on the library shelves. It’s the perfect event for both the avid reader and curious wanderer.

Orcas Fly-In

August 2nd through 4th, aviation aficionados will delight in the Orcas Fly-In, an event that celebrates the spectacle of flight. Marvel at a spectacular display of vintage and modern aircraft as they take to the skies, defying gravity with finesse. Engage with passionate pilots, explore the inner workings of these magnificent machines, and witness the thrill of aerobatic displays that leave you speechless.

Olga Daze

Quaint and charming, the village of Olga comes alive during Olga Daze, a celebration of the community’s rich heritage. Experience time-honored traditions such as the world’s shortest parade, admire handmade crafts furnished by local artisan creators and indulge in delicious homemade food. Don’t forget to try a maple bar, one of the event’s signature treats that festival-goers look forward to each year. Olga Daze is a vibrant event that embodies the true essence of Orcas Island.

Plan Your Visit

Discover all these incredible events on Orcas Island and more – browse our full inventory of Orcas Island hotel rooms to find your perfect accommodations!

San Juan County Fair

The San Juan County Fair highlights Orcas Island’s summer calendar. Showcasing the island’s agricultural bounty, the fair is a delightful convergence of livestock exhibits, farm-fresh produce, and local crafts. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides, cheer on participants in competitive events, and indulge in tasty fair food. The fair brings the entire community together in a joyous celebration of island life from August 15th through the 18th. 

Doe Bay Fest

Join us for a weekend filled with intimate performances by some of our favorite Pacific Northwest songwriters, where you can experience the magic of live performances set against a backdrop of pristine nature. Doe Bay Fest starts Thursday night and continues through Sunday at unique locations around the grounds of the beautiful bay. Throughout this Orcas Island festival, you can immerse yourself in the eclectic sounds of local and national musicians, discover hidden gems, and soak in the island’s enchanting atmosphere. The weekend will culminate with a new works showcase on Sunday, where all five artists will play in an in-the-round style show exploring newer works together at the Yoga Studio Stage. The Doe Bay Fest is a celebration of music, nature, and community that’s not to be missed.

Book Your Lodging in Orcas Island with The Village Inn at Eastsound

When finding the perfect hotel on Orcas Island, look no further than The Village Inn at Eastsound. This Orcas Island pet-friendly hotel offers guests a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, including your four-legged companions. All Orcas Island hotel rooms are thoughtfully furnished with sustainably sourced materials, ensuring a stay that is as eco-friendly as it is cozy. Our hotel also provides welcome bags and pet supplies to keep your furry friends comfortable throughout your stay. Plus, with on-site electric vehicle chargers and a water refill station to discourage single-use plastics, The Village Inn at Eastsound is the ideal choice for environmentally conscious travelers.