Spring has sprung! Well, at least we’re getting a little bit closer. Though we’ll have to endure a few more months of consistent rain, there are still plenty of fun things to do all over the Northwest. Take a look at our top picks for events around Portland, Vancouver, and Spokane. And, be sure to check our calendar for updated event dates and times.
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March Events in Oregon & Washington
Savor Cannon Beach Wine & Culinary Festival – March 9-12
Wine lovers and foodies alike will head to the coast during the Savor Cannon Beach Wine & Culinary Festival. The festival offers six unique wine tasting experiences over the course of four days. Award-winning wine is specially paired with culinary creations from top Northwest chefs. The entire town of Cannon Beach celebrates with special events at galleries, shops, and restaurants.
The Portland Women’s Expo – March 11
Treat yourself to a day of food, wine, music, and much more at The Portland Women’s Expo. The event has a new resource feature that’s designed to help women of all ages and abilities improve various aspects of their life. Job recruiters, legal experts, life coaches, and many more will be on hand. A percentage of each ticket cost goes toward the Portland Women’s Foundation, whose goal is to build a Women’s Resource Center in Portland.
Winter Blues Music Festival – March 11
Get rid of all your winter blues just in time for spring at the Winter Blues Music Festival. The festival celebrates it’s sixth year with six featured bands and a special collaboration with the Youth Music Project. This event supports both the YMP and the Oregon Food Bank. Attendees are asked to donate six cans of food or provide $10 to purchase an emergency food box to donate.
Oregon Cat Video Festival – March 11
A Cat Video Festival…only in Oregon, right? In actuality, the idea for a Cat Video Festival started in Minnesota and became an instant hit. This year marks the first annual festival in Salem, featuring comedy, food, music, and more. You can even submit your own video or picture for the chance to compete for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes. Best of all, 20% of proceeds go toward care for the kitties at the Oregon Humane Society.
Vancouver Brewfest Spring Edition – March 17-18
The spring edition of the Vancouver Brewfest brings a great craft beer selection to Esther Short Park and the community of Vancouver. This year’s festival includes a fun basketball tournament, free throw contest, and a big screen to watch all of the NCAA action.
Northwest Comic Con – March 18-19
The Northwest Comic Con heads to Tillamook for the first annual “Con on the Coast”. The halls of the Tillamook County Fairground are filled with notable comic book artists, science fiction writers, cosplay personalities, and vendors of all kinds. Dress up and cosplay is not required, but very much encouraged.
Whale Watching Week
– March 25-31
In late March, the majestic gray whales make their way north to Alaska. The last week of the month is prime viewing time for Oregon Coast visitors aka the spring Whale Watching Week. Each season, trained volunteers take part in the Whale Watch Spoken Here program. They are there to help teach visitors more about the animals and to help spot them on the coast line. Visit the Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay or one of 24 locations along the coast.
St. Patrick’s Day Fun
There’s no lack of Irish pride in the Northwest! And there are plenty of ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, even if you don’t hail from the Emerald Isle. Here are just a few of the fun St. Patrick’s celebrations happening around Oregon and Washington. Click on each link to learn more about specific event details. Happy St. Patty’s Day!
Spokane St. Patrick’s Day Parade – March 11
Feckin’s Irish Craft Ale Festival – March 17-19
St. Patrick’s Day Festival at Kells – March 17-19
Dirty Leprechaun 5k Mud Run – March 18
St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival at St. Agatha’s – March 18