The Seattle Traveler

Discover the Treasure of Sequim at this year’s 113th Irrigation Festival.

Pronounced “skwim” it is an Indian word for calm waters.  The city is known for its mild climate, a location frequently referred to as Washington’s banana belt.  It’s also famous for its Dungeness crab and lavendar crops surpasses only by those in France.

The festival celebrates bringing irrigation from the Dungeness River to the prairie of Sequim. Folks believed the idea was crazy, but despite little money, harsh geography, and a doubting citizenry, the headgates to an irrigation ditch opened on May 1st, 1896, providing water to the community.

This year’s festival theme was chosen to encourage people to explore the many facets of Sequim, the mountains, the water, the people, and the quality of life the community has to offer.  As with all festivals, there will be entertainment, parades, arts and craft, food, and lots of special events. Check the event listing here.

Location: Sequim is about an hour and a half drive from Seattle, about two hours from Tacoma. You can find full directions here.

Dates & Times: May 3rd - 11th, 2008. The schedule of events lists the precise times of activities.

Admission: Most events are free. Consult the schedule of events for details.

Photo credit:  Sequim Irrigation Festival poster

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