The best winter festivals in Washington state include Lake Chelan’s Winterfest. Two types of Washingtonians exist: Those who don beanies and heavy coats and embrace winter and those who prefer to hide on the couch under blankets until spring. But no matter which type you are, add Lake Chelan’s Winterfest to your bucket list. This annual winter festival is so beautiful and so fun — you’ll forget that it’s freezing outside — we promise. Come see why Winterfest at Lake Chelan is one of the most underrated and locally loved events of the season!

Lake Chelan is a long-time recreational destination - especially in winter.
best winter festivals in washington state
UW Digital Collections, No restrictions, via Wikimedia Commons
These folks enjoyed a day of ice skating around 1900 in front of the gorgeous backdrop.
It is not surprising that a Winterfest was born to celebrate and create a Lake Chelan tradition for years, and it seems to get bigger and brighter every year.
best winter festivals in washington state
Lake Chelan Winterfest/Facebook
Chelan is one of Washington's most popular summer destinations, but those who have been in the winter know just how magical it is year-round.
Lake Chelan Winterfest/Facebook
Lake Chelan sits on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains range in a glacial valley that gets about 300 days of sunshine every year. So even though it gets quite cold, you just might see some sunshine when you visit. It's probably not enough to warm these people participating in the icy Polar Bear Plunge.
The next Lake Chelan Winterfest is January 17-26, 2025, and it's a valley-wide event.
best winter festivals in washington state
Lake Chelan Winterfest/Facebook
When Winterfest buttons go on sale for 2025, folks can get an all-access pass to special offers at restaurants, retail stores, wineries, breweries, cideries, and more.

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The ice sculptures are always a major attraction, and you can see them all on the Ice Sculptures Driving Tour.
Lake Chelan Winterfest/Facebook
During the week, enjoy the live ice sculpture carvings throughout Chelan and Manson.
Of course, anyone who has ever been to Winterfest will tell you that nothing tops the fireworks: There's just something about watching them reflecting off the snowy peaks and shimmering water.
Lake Chelan Winterfest/Facebook
This year two fireworks shows will take place.
The best part about Winterfest is that you can enjoy it with anyone (or even solo).
best winter festivals in washington state
Lake Chelan Winterfest/Facebook
Bring your special someone, treat the entire family, or gather a group of friends and have a great time.
There's no better cure for cabin fever than coming together and embracing winter in this beautiful community.
best winter festivals in washington state
Lake Chelan Winterfest/Facebook
Lake Chelan is a wonderful place, and one of the best Washington festivals just might make a winter lover out of you.

Best winter festivals in Washington State include this one! Watch for updates on the Lake Chelan’s Winterfest web page. Have you attended this fun outdoor festival? If so, please share your experience in the comments below.

If you need some snow gear, check out the offerings on The North Face website. And while you’re there, find out why Chelan is one of the best small towns in Washington.

Plan A Trip To Chelan, One Of Washington’s Best Small Towns

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More to Explore

Festivals In Washington

Carolyn Harmon | May 14, 2024

What are some of the best festivals in Washington?

  • Apple Blossom Festival (Wenatchee): A festival ongoing for over a century deserves a visit as more than 100,000 visitors annually can testify of the 11-day event. The amazing fun includes a parade and come hungry for the Food Fair at Memorial Park.
  • Cranberry Harvest Festival (Grayland): Join the fall fun of Cranberry Bog Tours, a Cranberry Cook-off, and shop at the Cranberry Market Place. You can also sign up for the 10K and 5K run or a 3K walk.
  • Midsummer Renaissance Faire (Snohomish): Go back in time to see exciting joust and battle performances and shop at the Artisan Marketplace for handcrafted leather items and unique jewelry pieces. Folks are welcome to don their favorite outfits from the 1500s at this summer event.
  •  Pig Out in the Park (Spokane): Have fun at this six-day food and musical festival featuring 85 concerts and 40 food booths! Can you think of a better way to spend your Labor Day weekend?
  • Skagit Valley Tulip Festival (Mount Vernon): This fun-filled event showcases the gorgeous blooms, but that's not all. Sign up for the Pickleball Tournament, dance to awesome music, and check out some great artwork.

What are some of the best state parks in Washington?

  • James Island Marine State Park (Blakely Island): Accessible only by boat, these 581 acres are packed with fun activities, especially camping. You'll find 13 primitive campsites with different amenities, such as picnic sites and trails. Have you ever been clamming or oyster harvesting?
  • Leadbetter Point State Park (Ocean Park): An excellent spot for bird watching, this 1,732-acre day-use park is near the forested Willapa National Wildlife Refuge. Explore the beach for shells, go fishing, hiking, and swimming at this pretty place.

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Lake Chelan, Washington, USA