Whether you’re a longtime local or it’s your first time hopping on the ferry for Strawberry Festival weekend, this beloved Vashon tradition offers a packed schedule of music, food, fun, and a whole lot of quirky charm. Here are ten ways to make the most of it:
1. Cheer for the Thriftway Shopping Cart Drill Team in the Parade
The Saturday morning parade is a must-see, and nothing says “Vashon” like our iconic Thriftway shopping cart drill team, weaving and spinning in perfect (sort of) synchronization. It’s joyful chaos at its finest.
2. Hum Along with the Kazoo Band
Also marching in the parade is Vashon’s proudest and loudest kazoo band—equal parts musical and hilarious. Bring your own kazoo and jump in, or just clap along to the off-key brilliance.
3. Wave at the Classic Tractors Rolling In
You’ll know the parade is officially underway when the classic tractors rumble down the road to kick things off. These beautifully restored machines are a nod to Vashon’s deep agricultural roots.
4. Catch a Set at the Main Stage
This year’s music lineup is stacked. Friday night lights up with Little Creatures (Talking Heads tribute) and Bowie Rex & His Boogie Army. Saturday brings in The Dusty 45s, Kimmi Bitter, and Publish the Quest, and Sunday rocks with Hell’s Belles and Loose Change. Don’t just watch—get up and dance.
5. Bring the Kids to See the Reptile Man
On Friday at 5:30 PM, kids (and curious adults) can catch the Reptile Man live on stage. He’ll bring out snakes, lizards, and fascinating facts in a show that’s equal parts science and spectacle.
6. Get Your Swing On at Sporty’s with Portage Fill
The legendary Portage Fill Big Band takes over the street in front of Sporty’s on Saturday night. If you’ve never danced in the road to a full brass band, this is your chance.
7. Dance Like No One’s Watching (But Everyone Is)
With three full days of live music, dancing is not optional—it’s inevitable. Whether you’re grooving to reggae-funk with Panda Conspiracy or belting out “Highway to Hell” with Hell’s Belles, the music invites movement.
8. Visit the Vashon-Maury.com Booth
Come meet the team behind your favorite island website! We’ll be there all weekend with stickers (VSH ovals, purple Vs, and the famous Bike in the Tree), magnets, pens, and local knowledge. Say hi to Anna Schomsky (Weekly Rundown), Heather Love (business listings), and founder Jennifer Mathews—fourth-generation islander and SEO strategist at Adobe.
9. Browse the Booths for Local Art, Crafts & Treats
Festival streets are lined with vendors selling handmade goods, farm-fresh treats, local art, and more. From tie-dye tees to island honey and kettle corn, there’s something for every taste and budget.
10. Make a Memory (Or Ten)
More than just an event, the Strawberry Festival is a feeling: community, creativity, and summer joy. Whether you’re watching the parade, dancing to the last set on Sunday, or just wandering with a berry smoothie in hand—this weekend stays with you.
We’ll see you there—music in the air, sticker in hand, kazoo at the ready.
Author: Vashon Island
Vashon is an Island located between Tacoma and West Seattle. This account manages the vashon-maury.com website full on useful information for residents and visitors of the Island.
