Announcements and Updates

With summer in full swing on Washington’s Whidbey Island, the month of August brings celebration of the arts with a variety of festivals and events that celebrate creativity in all mediums. LittleBIGFest (August 16-18) is a growing arts festival featuring headliners like the Polyrhythmics and a collection of local island talent. LittleBIGFest’s mission is to create an inclusive, supportive and safe space for people of all walks of life to come together and find community. Accessibility for celebration of the arts is prioritized with traditional live music performances, alongside yoga, a healing zone and silent disco.  

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Coming up on May 18, Whidbey Island’s Penn Cove Water Festival highlights Native American history through an outdoor family festival featuring music, crafts, and traditional canoe races. Entertainment includes traditional storytelling and music while enjoying the only tribal canoe race to not take place on a reservation. On the evening of May 17, join a bonfire where Native American myths and legends will be shared by anthropologist Lou LaBombard.

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It’s time to travel! Grab the freshly minted calendar and set your sights on an event or festival for you. Whidbey and Camano Islands prepare to celebrate its bounty of artists, culinary stars, independent filmmakers, and more. Read on for details on upcoming events and a reason to get on island time in 2024.

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Get hands-on in all mediums – from pasta making to cookware, watercolor, and more. The picturesque islands of Whidbey and Camano are not only known for their natural beauty but also for their vibrant art communities. With options for beginner or experienced artists, the island's artists and galleries provide a wide range of art classes that will inspire and nurture the creative spirit. Here are a few offerings coming up in 2024.

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Seeking somewhere to travel this September? Trust the team at National Geographic, who just named Whidbey Island a top place to travel this month. The article recommends Eat Local month, as a means of supporting the community and farms of the island. There are a variety of events in Washington’s Whidbey and Camano Islands this fall focus on the people, food, and history of this beloved destination. Enjoy the bounty of all things local during Whidbey Island’s Eat Local Month, preview new trails before they open to the public, take part in an historic anniversary at Ebey’s Landing, and more. Read on for details.

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This spring, Island County’s tourism board unveils a new strategic direction that invites the community to join in building a regenerative tourism approach. Formerly known as Whidbey and Camano Islands Tourism, a new name and brand Embrace Whidbey and Camano Islands reflects a shift to reimagine tourism. Guided by the experts at the Transformational Travel Council across an 18-month period, this new framework was created to preserve and improve the islands for residents. It is an invitation to co-create richer experiences for visitors and to harness tourism’s power as a force for good.

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Visitors come to this special corner of the world to appreciate the biodiversity of the Salish Sea, sample the freshest fare prepared by passionate chefs, travel the trail less traveled and meet artists inspired by these breathtaking surroundings. As the weather warms and blooms begin, here are three hikes to try, with more ideas to be found at www.whidbeycamanoislands.com/24trails.

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Four-legged love, a PNW scavenger hunt for blown glass, or new ways to enjoy that perfect glass of Washington red with friends – there is so much to love in the month of February. Below, find a variety of getaway ideas, indulgent treats and special events to carry us through the coming month and beyond.

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Those seeking transformative travel experiences in the coming year have arrived at the right place. As a community, Whidbey and Camano Islands are committed to regenerative travel that deepens the visitor experience and makes a lasting, positive impact on the islands. From engaging with local artists to the sensitive ecosystems of the Salish Sea, here are 10 transformative experiences to try.

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The variety of events and festivals on Washington’s Whidbey and Camano Islands this spring, focus on the people, food and history that make this destination so appealing. Join an open-air treasure hunt for hand-blown art, welcome the arrival of spring with Oak Harbor’s Holland Happening Parade, or taste some of the islands’ treasured Penn Cove Mussels during Whidbey’s annual MusselFest! Read on for details!

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Escape the city to the shortest distance to far away. Plan an island getaway complete with ocean views, small town holiday cheer, and a variety of festive events throughout the month of December. A curated list of ideas follow, and a full lineup of events are posted at www.whidbeycamanoislands.com/calendar

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Whidbey and Camano Islands Tourism launches a new publication to suggest alternatives to popular, well-loved trails, Field Guide, 24 Trails off the Beaten Path. In partnership with Sound Water Stewards, Island County Public Works, Whidbey Camano Land Trust and other local partners, the publication is intended to take on the go, measuring 4.5 inches wide, 6.75 inches tall. It details 24 trails along wooded hideaways, pastoral vistas and rugged beaches.

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Planting parties, guided forest and birding walks, guided meditations and more will welcome April on Whidbey Island. Here, Earth Day has expanded to encompass the whole month of April, collectively known as Whidbey Earth and Ocean Month. In addition, Orca whales have been making their appearance to the area early, with sightings being seen in north Puget Sound!

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