Summer Events to Look Forward to in Clark County, WA

Summer in Clark County brings a mix of hometown tradition, live music, local art, and farm fun. If you're looking for a few standout events to add to your calendar, these three are worth a closer look. From one of the region's biggest annual fairs to a downtown arts festival and a sunflower-filled family outing, there's a little something for everyone this season.

The Clark County Fair

The Clark County Fair is one of the biggest summer traditions in Southwest Washington, and for good reason. It brings together fair food, rides, concerts, exhibits, shopping, livestock, and family attractions in one place. Whether you're going for the midway, the live entertainment, or just a basket of curly fries and a lemonade, it's the kind of event that can easily fill an entire day.

The 2026 fair runs August 7 through August 16 at the Clark County Event Center, 17402 NE Delfel Road, Ridgefield, WA 98642. Fair hours are 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday.

For families, there are attractions throughout the grounds, including the Kids' Park, community stage programming, exhibits, and themed entertainment. If you're new to the area, the Clark County Fair is one of the easiest ways to get a feel for the local community and summer energy in the county.

Vancouver Arts & Music Festival

If you prefer a weekend built around creativity and community, the Vancouver Arts & Music Festival deserves a spot on your list. This free festival brings together live performances, local art vendors, exhibits, family activities, and multiple outdoor stages in the heart of downtown Vancouver.

The 2026 festival takes place August 7 through August 9 at Esther Short Park in Vancouver, WA. It's presented by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra USA and the City of Vancouver, and the event is centered on celebrating arts, culture, and community.

One of the best parts of this festival is the setting. Esther Short Park makes it easy to turn the event into a full day downtown, with restaurants, coffee shops, and other local stops nearby. If you're looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy a summer weekend in Clark County, this is a strong pick.

O'Keefe Farms Sunflower Festival

For something a little more laid-back and photo friendly, O'Keefe Farms offers a sunflower festival that blends simple summer fun with a scenic farm setting. It's a good option for families, couples, or anyone who wants an excuse to get outside and enjoy peak sunflower season.

The 2026 Sunflower Festival is scheduled for August 8 and 9, and August 15 and 16, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., at O'Keefe Farms, 17604 NE 182nd Ave, Brush Prairie, WA 98607. Admission includes two U-cut flowers, and the event also features vendors, food for purchase, beverages for all ages, live music from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, and optional hay rides for $1 per person.

Ticket pricing is listed as free for ages 5 and under, $5 for ages 6 to 12, and $10 for ages 13 and up. It's the kind of event that works well whether you want family time, summer photos, or a slower-paced afternoon outdoors.

Plan Your August Weekends

One nice thing about these events is that they each offer a different version of summer in Clark County. The fair gives you big crowds and classic tradition. The arts festival brings music, culture, and downtown energy. The sunflower festival offers a quieter farm experience with plenty of color and room to wander.

If you're making plans for August, these are three local events worth keeping on your radar. They also happen to be great reminders of what makes Clark County such a fun place to live, visit, and explore in the summer months.

Before heading out, it's always smart to check each event's official site for tickets, parking, schedules, and the latest updates.