If you’re cruising Central Puget Sound this season, why not moor at the docks in Old Silverdale to enjoy the free, family-oriented Whaling Days Festival, held the last weekend in July. If the docks are full during this popular event, you can anchor out and come in by dinghy to enjoy the carnival atmosphere. The festivities begin at 5 pm on Friday, July 24 and wrap up at 6 pm on Sunday, July 26.
Whaling Days Festival at Silverdale Waterfront Park features live entertainment, a beer & wine garden, and street vendors. Highlights include Movie Night at 8 pm on Friday, followed by fireworks at dusk over Dyes Inlet. On Saturday see the Grand Parade at 10 am, the Main Stage entertainment starting at Noon, and the Drone Show at dusk. Sunday brings more Main Stage entertainment and the famous Rotary Duck Race at 3 pm.
For a festival map, schedule of events, and the lineup of entertainment, go to https://whalingdays.com/. Whaling Days is a registered 501(c)(3); proceeds from the festival support local charities and scholarships for school graduates. While the event is free to attend, some special events may have a separate cost.
Historic Note: Contrary to the name, the festival isn’t necessarily about whales. When the community was looking for a name for their festival, a consolidation of events in 1974, Connie Cummings submitted “Whaling Days” inspired by her Silver Whale Furniture business and parade float. The store was formerly located on what is now Silverdale Way.
Header Photo: Kitsap Runner
Ducks Photo: Kitsap Daily News
