Arts in the Parks: Celebrating Culture in Washington State Parks

One of the richest ways to experience a state park is the traditions and stories of Washingtonians who share these lands. That’s why Washington state parks have hosted diverse musicians, artists, dancers, and storytellers to share their culture with visitors for over 20 years through Arts in the Parks, otherwise known as the Folk & Traditional Arts Program.

Donors of the Washington State Parks Foundation have generously supported this Arts in the Parks program since its inception. From Salish Sea tribal canoe journeys to cowboy poets, from Cambodian cuisine to Polynesian dance, from Indigenous cedar basket weaving to Skandia Midsomarfest, these experiences invite visitors to celebrate the many cultures that make Washington home.

Here is a selection of the many incredible Arts in the Parks programs Washington State Parks Foundation donors have brought to life since the program’s inception.

Celebrating Washingtonians’ Heritage Through Cultural Festivals 

Each year, individual state parks host cultural festivals featuring traditions from around the world to celebrate the diverse heritage of Washingtonians. These public events invite visitors with shared backgrounds and those celebrating others to learn, dance, and eat together, all while enjoying state parks.

Cultural festivals help visitors connect with traditions near and far and offer a particularly welcoming environment for first-time park visitors. Salish Sea Day is a family favorite celebrating the local Samish and Swinomish tribes at Deception Pass State Park, with traditional activities ranging from canoe rides to cedar weaving and salmon feasts.

Saltwater State Park has hosted the annual Cambodian Cultural Celebration for over 15 years. This event showcases traditional Cambodian dance, cuisine, martial arts, live music, and cultural activities. Other cultural festivals throughout the years have included African Heritage Festivals, Hispanic Heritage Month Celebrations, and the Laos Summer Festivals.

Connecting With Local Cultures Through Music

Concert series are a beloved part of Arts in the Parks. State parks provide spectacular backdrops for visitors to enjoy weekly concerts around dedicated themes each summer. For example, American Roots at Deception Pass State Park features performances from American traditions ranging from Cajun Dancing to bluegrass and swing music. Rhythm on the River at Lincoln Rock State Park showcases traditions ranging from Trinidadian and Toboggan steel pan music to instrumental Yiddish music.

Learning New Skills and Cultural Traditions Through Workshops

Another way visitors connect with cultural practices and traditions in state parks are the Arts in the Parks workshops. Over the years, visitors have delighted in learning how to make beaded earrings in the tradition of the Huichol people of Mexico at Millersylvania State Park, and how to play the classical Iranian Daf drums at Tolmie State Park.

Collectively, Arts in the Parks programs help make parks more welcoming to all by inviting Washingtonians of all backgrounds to celebrate both their own and others’ heritage. By connecting with one another and nature on shared land, Arts in the Parks ignites community building and curiosity for all who participate. Thank you to the generous donors who make this work possible.