Tygart Media

Category: Mason County Events

Festivals, markets, community events, seasonal activities

  • Things to Do in Mason County: The Definitive Guide

    Things to Do in Mason County: The Definitive Guide

    Mason County offers visitors and residents remarkable opportunities for outdoor recreation, natural exploration, and small-town experiences. From world-class shellfish harvesting on Hood Canal to mountain hikes and river adventures, there’s genuine adventure and relaxation available year-round.

    Water Recreation and Hood Canal

    Hood Canal is Mason County’s crown jewel for water recreation and represents one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier destinations.

    Shellfish Harvesting

    Hood Canal is famous for oyster farming and recreational shellfish harvesting. During open seasons, residents and visitors harvest oysters, clams, shrimp, and crab directly from the water. It’s accessible, educational, and results in incredible seafood dinners. Check Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for current seasons, regulations, and closures.

    Boating and Water Sports

    Hoodsport, Union, and other Hood Canal towns have boat launches, marinas, and rental facilities. Boating, water skiing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding are popular. The canal offers protected water ideal for beginners and experienced boaters alike.

    Kayaking

    Kayaking Hood Canal is exceptional. Multiple launch points provide access. Popular routes include exploring the shoreline, visiting islands, and exploring river mouths. Calm weather (spring and summer) offers optimal conditions.

    Fishing

    Salmon, steelhead, and trout fishing in Hood Canal and tributary rivers draws anglers year-round. Consult Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for seasons and regulations.

    Parks and Natural Areas

    Olympic National Forest

    Massive national forest covers much of Mason County’s western regions. Hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing are core activities. Popular trails include hikes to mountain peaks, river valleys, and scenic viewpoints.

    State Parks

    Hood Canal Scenic Byway: Stunning drive with multiple pullouts, picnic areas, and access points along Hood Canal. Best experienced spring through fall.

    Shelton-Matlock State Park Area: Local parks provide river access, picnic facilities, and light hiking.

    Green Cove Area: Belfair-area parks offer beach access, picnic facilities, and small-town park amenities.

    Hiking and Trail Systems

    Extensive hiking available through Olympic National Forest, state parks, and local trail systems. Options range from easy riverside walks to challenging mountain hikes. Popular destinations include mountain peaks with views of Hood Canal and the Olympics.

    Fishing and Hunting

    Mason County has strong hunting and fishing traditions. Opportunities include:

    • Salmon and steelhead fishing in rivers and Hood Canal
    • Trout fishing in lakes and streams
    • Deer and elk hunting in season
    • Upland game bird hunting

    Check Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for seasons, regulations, and licensing. Local outdoor shops offer guides and equipment.

    Seasonal Events and Festivals

    Spring

    Rhododendron Festival (Shelton) – Celebrates spring with parades, craft vendors, local activities, and community gathering. Popular family event drawing visitors from across the region.

    Summer

    Fourth of July Celebrations: Shelton and communities throughout Mason County host Independence Day parades, fireworks, picnics, and festivities.

    Farmers Markets: Shelton and Belfair host summer farmers markets featuring local produce, crafts, and community gathering.

    Fall

    County Fair (Shelton): Traditional county fair with livestock shows, local crafts, carnival rides, and community connection. Late summer/early fall event.

    Year-Round

    Farmers Market/Community Events: Ongoing in various communities, offering fresh local produce, crafts, and community connection.

    Family Activities

    Beaches and Swimming

    Hood Canal offers saltwater beach access. Popular swimming areas include Hoodsport and Union beaches. Freshwater swimming available at local lakes and rivers during warm months.

    Picnicking

    Abundant picnic areas throughout county—state parks, riverside areas, and scenic pullouts offer perfect family gathering spots.

    Wildlife Viewing

    Washington wildlife—bald eagles, deer, elk, seals, and marine life—are visible throughout Mason County. Hood Canal particularly offers marine wildlife viewing opportunities.

    Camping

    Numerous campgrounds in state parks and national forest land offer family camping from basic tent sites to RV facilities.

    Dining and Local Food

    Seafood Restaurants

    Hood Canal waterfront towns feature casual seafood restaurants serving fresh oysters, crab, and regional seafood. Hoodsport is the epicenter of casual waterfront dining.

    Local Taverns and Pubs

    Small-town character dining and gathering. Shelton and Hoodsport have local establishments reflecting community character.

    Casual Dining

    Shelton offers typical chain and local casual dining options. Expect limited fine dining—most dining is casual, family-friendly, or sports-bar style.

    Farmers Markets

    Seasonal farmers markets offer fresh local produce, prepared foods, and crafts. Summer Saturdays in Shelton and Belfair.

    Downtown Shelton

    The county seat’s downtown area features local shops, galleries, restaurants, and community gathering spaces. Take a stroll and explore local businesses, grab coffee, and experience small-town Washington.

    Day Trips from Mason County

    Olympic National Park (1-2 hours)

    One of America’s premier national parks. Visit temperate rainforests, alpine peaks, and wild coastline. Accessible from Mason County via various routes.

    Mount Rainier National Park (2-3 hours)

    Iconic peak and national park. Hiking, scenic drives, and alpine scenery await.

    Tacoma and Seattle (1-2 hours)

    Museums, urban dining, shopping, and cultural attractions available for day trips to larger cities.

    Pacific Beaches

    Ocean beaches (Ocean Shores, Westport) are 1-2 hours away. Explore wild coastline and coastal towns.

    Nightlife and Entertainment

    Mason County is not known for vibrant nightlife. Entertainment focuses on outdoor recreation, community events, and casual dining. Expect limited live music venues, no nightclubs, and quiet evenings. Shelton and Hoodsport have casual bars and sports establishments.



    Frequently Asked Questions

    What’s the best time to visit Mason County?

    June through September offer the best weather, sunshine, and recreation opportunities. Spring (March-May) features wildflowers and mild weather. Winter is wet but offers quiet solitude and river recreation.

    Can I harvest shellfish from Hood Canal?

    Yes, during open seasons with proper licensing. Check Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for current regulations, seasons, and area closures. Shellfish harvesting is a popular and accessible recreational activity.

    What outdoor activities are available in winter?

    Winter offers river fishing, eagle viewing, hiking through quiet forests, and enjoying the slower pace. Snow is rare at lower elevations but available in nearby mountains.

    Is there fine dining in Mason County?

    Mason County dining is primarily casual—seafood shacks, taverns, and family restaurants. Fine dining is limited. Shelton and Hoodsport have the most dining variety, but expectations should match a small rural region.

    How far is Mason County from Olympic National Park?

    Olympic National Park is 1-2 hours away via Highway 101. Multiple entry points offer different experiences—rainforests, peaks, and coastline are all accessible.

  • New to Mason County? The Forest Festival Is the Event That Explains Everything About Shelton

    For New Mason County Residents: The Mason County Forest Festival — 81 years running — is Shelton’s defining community event. If you’ve recently moved to the area, attending June 5–7 is the fastest orientation to who Mason County is and where it came from.

    New to Mason County? The Forest Festival Is Required Attendance

    If you’ve recently moved to Mason County — whether to Shelton, Belfair, Allyn, Union, or anywhere along Hood Canal — you’ll hear about the Forest Festival before long. It’s the one event that concentrates the full character of this community into a single weekend.

    The 81st annual Mason County Forest Festival runs June 5–7, 2026 in downtown Shelton. Here’s what it is, why it exists, and what you need to know to get the most out of it as someone still learning the area.

    Why This Festival Exists

    Mason County’s identity is inseparable from timber. Michael T. Simmons built the first American sawmill on Mill Creek in 1853. By the late 1800s, the Simpson Logging Company had become the economic backbone of the region, shaping not just Shelton’s economy but its physical layout — the railroad routes, the mill sites, the neighborhoods.

    The first Mason County Forest Festival was held in 1945, just after World War II, as a way to celebrate and promote the logging industry that employed much of the county. Eighty-one years later, that heritage is still honored — not as nostalgia, but as living identity. When you watch the Paul Bunyan Grand Parade move down Railroad Avenue, you’re watching a community acknowledge where it came from.

    What to Expect

    The weekend is fuller than it looks from a distance. Key events for newcomers to prioritize:

    • Paul Bunyan Grand Parade (Railroad Avenue): The centerpiece of the festival. Community organizations, bands, equestrian groups, businesses, and floats. This is where you’ll see the full cross-section of Mason County’s civic life in one place.
    • STIHL TIMBERSPORTS Western Qualifier (Loop Field): Competitive logging — axe throwing, log rolling, chainsaw events. This is a national qualifier, not a demonstration. Chainsaw carving runs alongside. Free to watch.
    • Manke Fireworks Show: Launches from Oakland Bay Junior High, visible from Wallace-Kneeland Boulevard. One of Mason County’s most-attended annual events.
    • Shelton Car Show-Off (Sunday, F Street): A quieter, community-focused way to see a different side of Shelton.

    Start early: The Goldsborough Creek Run on May 30 is the unofficial Forest Festival opener — a great way to meet neighbors before the main weekend. It starts at Shelton Valley Christian School and finishes downtown on Railroad Avenue.

    How to Think About It

    For longtime residents, the Forest Festival is an annual reunion. For newcomers, it’s an orientation. The organizations that staff the booths, the businesses that sponsor the floats, the families that show up every year — this is the visible layer of Mason County’s social infrastructure. Showing up is how you start to become part of it.

    Most events are free. Bring layers — June evenings in Shelton can be cool. Full details at masoncountyforestfestival.com.

    For more on Shelton and Mason County’s history, see our coverage of Shelton’s Deep Roots — Squaxin Island Tribe and the Mosquito Fleet and the Forest Festival 2026 announcement.

    Related: Mason County Forest Festival 2026: Complete Guide

    Frequently Asked Questions: Mason County Forest Festival for New Residents

    Why is the Mason County Forest Festival significant?

    It’s Shelton’s oldest and largest annual community event — now in its 81st year. The festival celebrates Mason County’s timber heritage and serves as the primary community gathering of the year, drawing residents from across the county and beyond.

    When and where is the 2026 Forest Festival?

    June 5–7, 2026 in downtown Shelton, WA. The parade is on Railroad Avenue, the logging show is at Loop Field, and the fireworks are best viewed from Wallace-Kneeland Boulevard.

    Are most Forest Festival events free?

    Yes — the parade, logging show, concert, and fireworks are free to attend. Carnival rides require ticket purchase. The Goldsborough Creek Run on May 30 has a registration fee.

    How do I get to Shelton from other Mason County communities?

    Shelton is the Mason County seat, accessible from Belfair and Union via SR-3, from the Hood Canal communities via US-101, and from Allyn via SR-3. The festival takes place in the downtown core near Railroad Avenue and Loop Field.

    Is there parking at the Forest Festival?

    Downtown Shelton fills up on parade and fireworks days. Plan to arrive early, and consider Wallace-Kneeland Boulevard as both a parking and fireworks-viewing location. Check masoncountyforestfestival.com for event-specific parking information closer to the date.


  • Mason County Forest Festival 2026 Family Guide: What’s Free, What to Bring, and When to Go with Kids

    For Mason County Families: The 81st Mason County Forest Festival (June 5–7 in Shelton) has family-specific programming throughout the weekend — Family and Pet Parade, Junior Jog at the May 30 Goldsborough Creek Run, carnival at Grove and First, STIHL TIMBERSPORTS logging show, and the Manke Fireworks Show from Oakland Bay Junior High.

    Mason County Forest Festival 2026: Family Planning Guide

    The Mason County Forest Festival is one of the most family-friendly weekends of the year in Shelton. The 81st annual celebration runs June 5–7, 2026 and includes dedicated programming for kids throughout. Here’s how to plan your days.

    Start Early: Goldsborough Creek Run — May 30

    The Forest Festival’s unofficial kickoff is the Goldsborough Creek Run and Walk on Saturday, May 30. Kids can participate in the Junior Jog and quarter-mile option starting at 7th Street and Railroad Avenue in Shelton. The full run starts at Shelton Valley Christian School on Shelton Valley Road and finishes downtown. Proceeds go to the Mason General Hospital Centennial Guild and the Kristi Armstrong Memorial Scholarship — a good conversation starter for older kids about what community fundraising looks like.

    Parade Day: The Family and Pet Parade Comes First

    On main parade day, the Family and Pet Parade runs before the Paul Bunyan Grand Parade — giving younger kids a chance to march or cheer in their own parade before the full event begins. The Grand Parade follows along Railroad Avenue with floats, bands, equestrian groups, and community organizations. Arrive early for good sidewalk spots on Railroad Avenue.

    Loop Field: The Logging Show

    The STIHL TIMBERSPORTS Western Qualifier at Loop Field is genuinely engaging for older kids. Athletes compete in axe throwing, log rolling, and chainsaw events at a national qualifier level. Chainsaw carving demonstrations show artists creating sculptures from raw logs during the festival. Most Loop Field events are free to attend and provide a great education in Mason County’s working forest heritage.

    Carnival

    The carnival at Grove and First runs throughout the festival weekend with rides, games, and food. Carnival rides require ticket purchase. This is typically where families with younger children (under 8) spend the most time outside of parade day.

    Fireworks Evening: Planning for Kids

    The Manke Fireworks Show launches from Oakland Bay Junior High after the Rockin’ the Forest concert. Best viewing is from Wallace-Kneeland Boulevard parking lots. Arrive early — this is the most-attended event of the weekend. For families with very young children, the fireworks can be loud; consider bringing ear protection or sitting farther back along Wallace-Kneeland.

    Sunday: Car Show-Off for Older Kids

    The Shelton Car Show-Off on Sunday (10 AM–3 PM on F Street) is a lower-key way to close out the weekend — good for families with older kids who enjoy classic and custom vehicles. Judging at 11 AM, awards at 2 PM. Proceeds benefit the Shelton High School NJROTC program.

    Full schedule and event details at masoncountyforestfestival.com. For the complete festival overview, see Mason County Forest Festival 2026: Complete Guide. For other family-friendly Mason County events, see Harstine Island Theatre Club’s 1776 auditions.

    Related: Mason County Forest Festival 2026: Complete Guide

    Frequently Asked Questions: Forest Festival 2026 for Families

    Is the Mason County Forest Festival good for young children?

    Yes. The festival includes a Family and Pet Parade, Junior Jog at the May 30 Creek Run, carnival rides and games, the logging show at Loop Field, and the Manke Fireworks Show. Most daytime events are relaxed and appropriate for all ages.

    Which Forest Festival events are free for families?

    The parade (including Family and Pet Parade), logging show, chainsaw carving, concert, and fireworks are all free. Carnival rides require ticket purchase. The Goldsborough Creek Run has a registration fee.

    What should families bring to the Forest Festival?

    Comfortable walking shoes, layers (June evenings in Shelton can be cool), cash or cards for carnival and food vendors, and sunscreen for daytime events. If attending the fireworks with young children, bring ear protection — the show launches from Oakland Bay Junior High and is loud nearby.

    Is there a kids parade at the Forest Festival?

    Yes — the Family and Pet Parade runs before the main Paul Bunyan Grand Parade, giving younger kids a chance to participate before the full community parade begins on Railroad Avenue.

    When does the festival officially start on Friday, June 5?

    The festival opens Friday, June 5 at 4 PM and runs through Sunday, June 7 at 5 PM. The Goldsborough Creek Run precedes the festival weekend on Saturday, May 30.


  • Mason County Forest Festival 2026: Complete Guide to Shelton’s 81st Annual Celebration

    Mason County Forest Festival 2026: The 81st annual celebration runs June 5–7 in Shelton, WA. Highlights include the Paul Bunyan Grand Parade, STIHL TIMBERSPORTS Western Qualifier at Loop Field, Rockin’ the Forest concert, Manke Fireworks Show (visible from Wallace-Kneeland Blvd), Sunday Car Show-Off on F Street, and the Goldsborough Creek Run on May 30.

    Mason County Forest Festival Returns June 5–7 for Its 81st Year

    Every summer, Shelton becomes the center of Mason County’s public life for one unforgettable weekend. The Mason County Forest Festival — one of the longest-running community celebrations in the South Puget Sound — returns for its 81st year from June 5–7, 2026.

    The festival is rooted in the county’s timber heritage and has drawn residents and visitors from across the region since 1945. Here’s everything you need to know for 2026.

    The Paul Bunyan Grand Parade

    The anchor of the Forest Festival is the Paul Bunyan Grand Parade, a Shelton tradition that winds through downtown along Railroad Avenue. The parade features floats, marching bands, community organizations, equestrian groups, and local businesses. A Family and Pet Parade runs before the main event, giving younger participants their own moment on the route.

    STIHL TIMBERSPORTS Western Qualifier at Loop Field

    The logging show at Loop Field is more than nostalgia. The 2026 festival includes the STIHL TIMBERSPORTS Western Qualifier — a competitive logging skills event serving as a regional qualifier for the national series. Athletes compete in log rolling, axe throwing, and chainsaw events. A chainsaw carving exhibition runs alongside, with artists creating sculptures from raw timber during the festival. Most Loop Field events are free to attend.

    Rockin’ the Forest and the Manke Fireworks Show

    The Rockin’ the Forest concert delivers live music in the hours before the festival’s signature evening event: the Manke Fireworks Show, launching from Oakland Bay Junior High. Best viewing is from parking lots along Wallace-Kneeland Boulevard. Plan to arrive early — this is the highest-attendance event of the festival weekend.

    Sunday: Shelton Car Show-Off

    The festival closes Sunday with the Shelton Car Show-Off on F Street. Registration runs 8–11 AM, judging begins at 11 AM, and awards are presented at 2 PM (show runs 10 AM–3 PM). The event benefits the Shelton High School NJROTC program.

    Carnival

    The carnival runs throughout the festival weekend at Grove and First in Shelton with rides, games, and food vendors. Rides require ticket purchase.

    Kick Off Early: Goldsborough Creek Run — May 30

    The Forest Festival’s official opener is the Goldsborough Creek Run and Walk on Saturday, May 30. The run starts at Shelton Valley Christian School on Shelton Valley Road and finishes on West Railroad Avenue in downtown Shelton. A Junior Jog and quarter-mile option are available for younger participants. Proceeds benefit the Mason General Hospital Centennial Guild and the Kristi Armstrong Memorial Scholarship.

    81 Years of Timber Heritage

    The first Mason County Forest Festival was held in 1945 to celebrate and promote the county’s logging industry — which had shaped this region since Michael T. Simmons built the first American sawmill on Mill Creek in 1853. The Simpson Logging Company’s growth through the late 1800s and 1900s defined Shelton’s economy and community structure for generations. The festival has honored that heritage every year since.

    For complete event details and updates, visit masoncountyforestfestival.com. For more on Mason County’s history, see our coverage of Shelton’s Deep Roots and the Mason County Historical Society.

    Related: Mason County April 28 Special Election: Ballot and Return Information

    Frequently Asked Questions: Mason County Forest Festival 2026

    When is the Mason County Forest Festival 2026?

    June 5–7, 2026 in Shelton, WA. The festival runs Friday June 5 at 4 PM through Sunday June 7 at 5 PM. The Goldsborough Creek Run precedes the festival on Saturday, May 30.

    Where is the Mason County Forest Festival held?

    In downtown Shelton, WA. The Paul Bunyan Grand Parade follows Railroad Avenue. The logging show and vendors are at Loop Field. The carnival is at Grove and First. Fireworks launch from Oakland Bay Junior High and are best viewed from Wallace-Kneeland Boulevard.

    Is the Mason County Forest Festival free?

    Most events — the parade, logging show, concert, and fireworks — are free to attend. Carnival rides require ticket purchase. The Goldsborough Creek Run (May 30) has a registration fee.

    What is the STIHL TIMBERSPORTS Western Qualifier?

    A competitive logging skills competition at Loop Field featuring axe throwing, log rolling, and chainsaw events. The 2026 Forest Festival event is a Western regional qualifier for the national STIHL TIMBERSPORTS series.

    Where are the best spots to watch the fireworks?

    The Manke Fireworks Show launches from Oakland Bay Junior High. Parking lots along Wallace-Kneeland Boulevard offer the best viewing angles and space. Arrive early — the fireworks draw the largest crowd of the festival weekend.

    How long has the Mason County Forest Festival been running?

    The 2026 event is the 81st annual Forest Festival, which began in 1945 to celebrate Mason County’s timber heritage.

    What charity does the Goldsborough Creek Run benefit?

    The run benefits the Mason General Hospital Centennial Guild and the Kristi Armstrong Memorial Scholarship. Multiple distance options are available including a Junior Jog for younger participants.



  • Harstine Island Theatre Club Holding Auditions for ‘1776’ on April 26 — No Experience Required

    Auditions: The Harstine Island Theatre Club is holding auditions for the musical “1776” at 6:30 PM on Sunday, April 26 at Harstine Island Community Hall, 3371 E. Harstine Island Road N. People ages 16–80 are welcome. No singing experience required — just bring a piece of music to perform.

    Want to Be in a Musical? Harstine Island Theatre Club Is Auditioning April 26

    If you’ve ever thought about performing on stage, the Harstine Island Theatre Club has an open invitation. The group is holding auditions for the musical 1776 at 6:30 PM on Sunday, April 26 at Harstine Island Community Hall.

    No prior singing experience is required — just bring a piece of music to perform at the audition. The club is welcoming anyone between the ages of 16 and 80.

    About the Show

    1776 is a Tony Award-winning musical about the drafting and signing of the Declaration of Independence. The show follows the delegates to the Second Continental Congress as they debate, argue, and ultimately vote for American independence. It’s a drama, a comedy, and a piece of history — all in one production.

    The production has roles for 13 main characters — 11 male and 2 female — plus chorus members. Casting for most roles will be gender blind. The play is scheduled to run June 26–28 and July 3–5.

    Audition Details

    • Date: Sunday, April 26, 2026
    • Time: 6:30 PM
    • Location: Harstine Island Community Hall, 3371 E. Harstine Island Road N.
    • Directions: Turn left after the Harstine Island bridge and drive 3 miles
    • Ages: 16–80 welcome
    • What to bring: A piece of music to sing

    Contact Information

    The musical is directed by Barb Hubbard. Music directors are James Coventry and P.J. Hopkins. For questions, call Coventry at 559-681-1884 or Hubbard at 360-463-6358.

    Frequently Asked Questions: 1776 Auditions on Harstine Island

    When are auditions for 1776 on Harstine Island?

    Sunday, April 26, 2026 at 6:30 PM at Harstine Island Community Hall, 3371 E. Harstine Island Road N.

    Do I need singing experience to audition?

    No. The Harstine Island Theatre Club welcomes people of all experience levels, ages 16 to 80. Just bring a piece of music to sing.

    When does the show run?

    June 26–28 and July 3–5, 2026.

    How do I get to Harstine Island Community Hall?

    Cross the Harstine Island bridge, turn left, and drive 3 miles. The hall is at 3371 E. Harstine Island Road N.

  • Mason County Forest Festival 2026 Is June 5–7 in Shelton — Here’s What to Expect

    Mason County Forest Festival 2026: The 81st annual Mason County Forest Festival takes place June 5–7, 2026 in Shelton, WA. The multi-day event includes the Paul Bunyan Grand Parade, a logging show and vendor showcase at Loop Field, carnival rides, live music, fireworks, and the Goldsborough Creek Run.

    Mason County Forest Festival Returns June 5–7 — Mark Your Calendar

    One of Mason County’s most beloved annual traditions is coming back this summer. The Mason County Forest Festival — in its 81st year — runs Friday, June 5 through Sunday, June 7, 2026 in Shelton.

    The festival celebrates Mason County’s rich timber heritage and has been a community cornerstone since 1945. It draws visitors from across the South Puget Sound region each year for a packed weekend of events.

    What’s at the Forest Festival

    The weekend centers around the Paul Bunyan Grand Parade — a Shelton tradition featuring floats, marching bands, community organizations, equestrian groups, and local businesses winding through downtown. A Family and Pet Parade traditionally precedes the main parade for younger participants.

    Other festival highlights include a Logging Show and Vendor Showcase at Loop Field featuring demonstrations of traditional forestry skills including log rolling and axe throwing. The Manke Fireworks Show caps off the main festival day with a spectacular evening display. Live music at the Rockin’ the Forest concert keeps the energy going before the fireworks.

    A carnival runs throughout the festival weekend with rides, games, and food vendors. The Shelton Car Show-Off, which benefits the Shelton High School NJROTC program, takes place Sunday.

    Goldsborough Creek Run — May 30

    The festival weekend officially kicks off early with the Goldsborough Creek Run and Walk on Saturday, May 30 — a Forest Festival tradition that starts on Shelton Valley Road and finishes on West Railroad Avenue in downtown Shelton. The run benefits the Mason General Hospital Centennial Guild and the Kristi Armstrong Memorial Scholarship. Multiple distance options are available.

    About the Mason County Forest Festival

    The first Mason County Forest Festival was held in 1945 to celebrate and promote the county’s timber industry. Mason County has deep roots in logging — from Michael T. Simmons’ first sawmill on Mill Creek in 1853 to the Simpson Logging Company’s growth in the 1890s. The festival has honored that heritage every year since.

    For more information and updates, visit masoncountyforestfestival.com.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Mason County Forest Festival 2026

    When is the Mason County Forest Festival 2026?

    June 5–7, 2026 in Shelton, WA. The Goldsborough Creek Run precedes the festival on May 30.

    Where is the Mason County Forest Festival held?

    In downtown Shelton, WA, with the parade on Railroad Avenue and the logging show and vendors at Loop Field.

    Is the Mason County Forest Festival free?

    Most festival events are free to attend. Carnival rides require ticket purchase. The Car Show-Off is free to spectators.

    How long has the Mason County Forest Festival been running?

    Since 1945 — the 2026 event is the 81st annual Forest Festival.


    Related: Mason County Forest Festival 2026: Complete Guide