Whether you’re looking for some spooky Halloween fun or a great local food festival to attend, we’ve got a list of some of the best events happening in Oregon and Washington this October! Take a look at some of our favorite happenings around the Greater Portland area, Vancouver, and Spokane. And, be sure to check our calendar for updated event dates and times.
October Events in Oregon & Washington
Dine the Couve – October 1-31
During the entire month of October, Vancouver eateries are offering up special culinary delights and affordable pricing. Dine the Couve at any of the 22 participating restaurants in October and choose three menu items for just $23. Also available are $3 brew specials at any of the five breweries on the restaurant list. Click Here for a full list of participating restaurants.
Pumpkin Pageant – October 6
Head to Historic Downtown Camas during First Friday to witness the annual Pumpkin Pageant and Harry Potter Costume Contest. Local businesses each carve a special pumpkin and the public votes for their favorite. Voting enters you in a raffle for a fall-themed gift basket. Dress up to enter to win the Harry Potter Costume Contest, check out the local art exhibits and gallery shows, enjoy live music, festive dining, and much more.
Portland Greek Festival – October 6-8
The Portland Greek Festival is celebrating it’s 66th year at the historic Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in southeast Portland. The festival shares the Greek Orthodox faith and culture with over 15,000 guests each year and has been designated an Oregon Heritage Tradition. Experience incredible Greek cuisine, learn about the history and culture through performances and tours, shop handcrafted traditional goods, and more at this family-friendly festival.
Old Apple Tree Festival – October 7
Did you know the largest living apple tree in the Northwest is located in Vancouver? Planted at Fort Vancouver in 1826, the community of Vancouver celebrates the tree every October with the Old Apple Tree Festival. The festival includes community apple cider pressing, a Cider Garden for adults, and plenty of food and entertainment. The Urban Forestry Commissioners will be giving away limited amounts of cuttings from the historic tree, so that you can plant your own “Old Apple Tree”.
Portland Fall Home Show – October 12-15
The Portland Fall Home Show is back at the Portland Expo Center and ready to inspire your next home improvement or remodeling project. The Expo Center will be packed full of experts and professionals ready to make your dreams a reality. New this year is the Vintage Marketplace and don’t miss the Artisan Gallery and Orchid Show and Plant Sale.
Great Onion Festival – October 14
Sherwood’s 31st Annual Great Onion Festival is sure to be fun for all ages. The event has over 35 vendors and plenty of fun contests to participate in like the Onion Rolling Contest, Onion Eating Contest, Stinky Breath Contest, and the Best Dang Onion Dish competition.
Portland Open Studios – October 14-15 & 21-22
For two weekends in October, curious art enthusiasts can visit Portland artist’s studios to watch and learn at Portland Open Studios. Guests can experience tours with artists of all mediums, like sculpting, painting, printing, and more. There are over 100 artists participating in the annual tour. as well as a bevy of creators who teach classes, workshops, and private lessons. Pick up the guide online for just $15.
West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta – October 21
Billed as Oregon’s best October event, the West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta is a race and event unlike anything else. Held at the Tualatin Lake of the Commons, costumed participants sit inside giant pumpkins and paddle across the lake. The event features a 5k fun run, food, crafts, and plenty of fall pumpkin fun.
America’s Largest Antique & Collectible Show – October 27-29
Treasure hunters rejoice – America’s Largest Antique and Collectible Show has come back to Portland. The show includes memorabilia from past decades including vintage clothing, glassware, toys, dolls, Star Wars collectibles, and much, much more. Accredited appraisers are on hand to provide market evaluations. You never know what you might find!
Spokane Oktoberfest – October 27-29
Three days, two stages full of entertainment, outdoor and indoor beer gardens, games, and authentic German cuisine – you’ll find this and more at the Spokane Oktoberfest. This event is fun for the whole family and benefits the German American Society of Spokane. Don’t miss the special (and adorable) Wiener Dog Races benefiting Dachshund Rescue NW.
Howloween – October 28
Kid-friendly Halloween fun happens at the Oregon Zoo this October. Howloween is an event for costumed trick-or-treaters (aged 2-12) to learn about wildlife and participate in a fun scavenger hunt at the zoo. Kid’s collect prizes and treats as they learn about animals and their habitats. This event is free with zoo admission.
Not-So-Scary Halloween – October 29
Take the little ones to the Portland Children’s Museum for a Not-So-Scary Halloween. Activities include trick-or-treating throughout the museum, a DJ and costumed dance party, a pumpkin smash, fall-themed arts and crafts, spooky story time, and more.