With taglines such as “Little Norway, Big Fun”, it’s not surprising that there are so many great events in Poulsbo happening throughout the year. From shopping and live music to embracing the Nordic roots of Poulsbo’s founders, here’s a roundup of festivals and activities to put on your calendar.
Spring
First Wednesday in May
Shop and dine in Downtown Poulsbo with your gal pals. Stores and boutiques stay open late and offer discounts, promotions, and giveaways. There’s even a “golden ticket” awarding a $100 shopping spree. Enjoy food and drink specials, and snap a photo with the famous Poulsbo Sons of Norway Vikings.
Cost: Free to Attend
3rd Weekend in May
Perhaps one of the most well-known events in Poulsbo, Viking Fest is a weekend-long event featuring a carnival, Viking village, parade, live music, vendor marketplace, a road race, and many other family-friendly activities. With a city slogan of “The Viking City”, this signature event is one you don’t want to miss.
Cost: Free to Attend and Activities Vary
Summer
3rd Saturday in June
Paying homage to mid-summer festivals popular in Nordic countries, this annual event at the Waterfront Park in Poulsbo features the raising of a maypole, traditional Nordic dancing, flower crowns, music, and a Viking Bonfire at dusk. This cultural event is hosted by the Sons of Norway.
Cost: Free to Attend and Activities Vary
3rd Weekend in August
For 35 years, this festival has been art lovers’ favorite. The waterfront park is a wonderful backdrop for all types of art, live music, food, raffles, and family fun.
Cost: Free to Attend and Activities Vary
Last Weekend in August
Hosted by the Poulsbo Historical Society, this event showcases the nautical history of Poulsbo. This unique, family-friendly event highlights a fleet of wooden boats known as “Poulsbo Boats.” Locals and tourists enjoy live music, boat tours, historical presentations, and more.
Cost: Free to Attend and Activities Vary
Fall
3rd Weekend in September
Celebrating beer and cider made in Western Washington, Poulsbrew is a lively one-day festival. Of course, Poulsbo’s own breweries are part of the celebration too. Come for the beer and stay for the live music, food, and friendly community atmosphere.
Cost: Varies, Approx. $30 Each
The weekend prior to or on Halloween
Hosted by the Poulsbo Chamber of Commerce, this drive around town brings families into businesses to collect candy and goodies. More details posted when the event nears.
Cost: Free and There’s a Suggested Non-perishable Food Donation
Halloween
A fun, safe evening for families, this is one of Poulsbo’s busiest annual events. Kids of all ages can celebrate Halloween and parade down the street in their costumes. A section of Front Street in downtown Poulsbo is closed off and all businesses hand out candy and treats.
Cost: Free to Attend
Winter
Weekend after Thanksgiving
Join Santa and the Vikings to kick off the holiday season in Little Norway. Enjoy the tree lighting, cookies, holiday crafts, and lots of festive photo opportunities. Location to be announced in the fall.
Cost: Free to Attend
1st Saturday in December
A Saturday full of Little Norway fun, the Julefest and Bazaar provides an authentic experience. Start the day at the Nordic Marketplace at the Sons of Norway to kick off your holiday shopping, and grab some Scandinavian food for lunch. In the evening, the Poulsbo Sons of Norway Vikings will escort the Lucia Bride from a Viking ship on Liberty Bay to a winter proclamation and Bonfire to celebrate the winter solstice.
Cost: Free to Attend and Activities Vary
Watch our video below to get a glimpse of last year’s festivities.
Second Saturday in December
A Poulsbo Yacht Club tradition for over 50 years, this annual parade of boats decked out in lights and holiday cheer is a fun family event. Contact the Yacht Club in advance to have a special shout-out by Santa himself as he cruises by.
Cost: Free to Attend
Weekend closest to Valentine’s Day
Celebrate love with a Norse Valentine’s Day, complete with a bonfire at Muriel Iverson Waterfront Park.
Cost: Free to Attend
Recurring
Every Saturday from April through December
From fresh produce to prepared foods, baked goods to wine and cider, the Poulsbo Farmers Market is sure to offer something delicious every weekend. This market also features locally-made crafts and home goods, garden starts, honey, jam, fresh flowers, and meat products. A picnic area and live music create a fun atmosphere to relish your market finds. Our office is a proud sponsor.
Cost: Free to Attend and Products Vary
Our video below gives you a taste of this wonderful market.
March and October
Twice a year, craft beer enthusiasts can participate in the Poulsbo Beer Run, a 4 mile “run” with stops in Downtown Poulsbo as well as the Viking Way corridor. Costumes are encouraged with the March run being St. Patrick’s Day themed, and October being Oktoberfest themed. Proceeds benefit the Blue Star Banner Program, which honors locals currently serving in the military by installing street banners throughout Washington.
Cost: Registration $45+
Monthly, 2nd Saturday, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Every month, Poulsbo’s art galleries stay open late to create an engaging atmosphere for art lovers. Gallery hop and enjoy sales, specials, drinks, and snacks.
Cost: Free to Attend; Purchases Separate
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