The Pacific Northwest’s fragrant summer tradition is in full bloom as Sequim, Washington, kicked off its annual Lavender Weekend today, running July 18 through July 20. Nestled between the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Sequim has long been celebrated as the “Lavender Capital of North America.” This weekend, the town transforms into a vibrant showcase of purple fields, local art, and community celebration.
Lavender Weekend draws thousands of visitors from across the U.S. to experience the serene beauty of blooming lavender farms, the energy of bustling artisan markets, and a wide variety of wellness, culinary, and family-friendly activities. At the heart of the celebration is the Festival in the Park, held at Carrie Blake Park, where more than 150 vendors offer everything from handcrafted soaps and oils to lavender-infused snacks and beverages. Visitors can enjoy lavender ice cream, cookies, lemonade, and even barbecue dishes seasoned with lavender herbs.
Live music plays throughout the weekend, providing a soundtrack of jazz, folk, blues, and country that complements the festive yet laid-back atmosphere. Workshops and demonstrations—from essential oil distillation to wreath-making—invite guests to interact more deeply with the culture and craft of lavender farming. These experiences are designed not only for education and entertainment but also to support the region’s growers and artisans.
What sets Sequim’s Lavender Weekend apart is its integration of outdoor recreation. Cyclists can participate in the popular Tour de Lavender, a scenic ride that takes participants through the Sequim-Dungeness Valley along routes that connect several of the region’s renowned lavender farms. Biking along the Olympic Discovery Trail, visitors can stop at farms for U-pick lavender experiences, artisan pop-ups, and refreshments. The route is both picturesque and practical, offering a sustainable way to explore the landscape.
Many local farms open their gates to the public during the weekend, providing self-guided tours, photo opportunities, and the chance to meet the farmers behind some of the most aromatic crops in the country. Farms like Purple Haze, Victor’s Lavender, and Lavender Connection are among the most visited, known for their award-winning essential oils, vibrant product lines, and welcoming atmospheres. Most of the farm experiences are free, though some workshops or tastings may carry a nominal fee.
The Lavender Weekend has grown considerably since its inception in the late 1990s, when a handful of local farms first opened their doors to showcase the region’s unique microclimate—a rain shadow created by the Olympic Mountains that allows for exceptionally dry, sunny summers ideal for lavender cultivation. Today, the event is a regional tourism pillar, drawing both first-time visitors and returning enthusiasts eager to immerse themselves in a calming, nature-filled weekend.
Lodging in and around Sequim tends to book quickly for Lavender Weekend, with many guests opting for stays in neighboring towns like Port Angeles and Port Townsend. Shuttle services and ample parking options help ensure a smooth experience for attendees traveling in from nearby cities and states. The town’s businesses—from cafés and bakeries to boutiques and bookstores—often extend their hours and offer lavender-themed specials to align with the weekend’s celebratory vibe.
Family-oriented programming also plays a significant role. The festival includes kids’ activity zones, pet-friendly trails, and farm animals to visit, making it an ideal outing for families. The interactive, hands-on nature of the weekend helps visitors of all ages appreciate the full sensory experience that lavender farming offers.
With so much to see, taste, and explore, Sequim’s Lavender Weekend is more than just a floral celebration—it’s a cultural experience that merges agriculture, art, wellness, and recreation into a community-wide showcase. It’s also a meaningful boost for local farms and small businesses that rely on seasonal tourism.
Whether arriving by bike, car, or shuttle, visitors are encouraged to take their time, soak in the scenery, and support the community that has made lavender a defining element of its local identity. As the fields bloom and the music flows, Lavender Weekend offers a rare combination of relaxation and engagement—an idyllic summer tradition in Washington’s Olympic Peninsula.
