Arts & Entertainment 

Parks/ Recreation Guide

Calendar of Events

Transportation Guide

Pacific Northwest Gourmet

Restaurants

Also see events sponsored by the 
South Whidbey Parks and Recreation District.

April 2008

April through Mid-May
Meerkerk Gardens in Bloom
The Gardens enter their peak blooming season in April, with the exact dates set by Mother Nature. Tens of thousands of daffodils, delicate cherry trees, magnificent magnolias and early rhododendrons provide a symphony of color throughout the ten acre gardens. The crescendo of rhododendron bloom begins in late April and continues through mid-May. Enter the Secret Garden and envelop yourself in the Bluebell Wood. Magical! Open Daily, 9am-4pm Peak Bloom Season. http://www.meerkerkgardens.org

April 19, 2008
Meerkerk Magic, A Festival of Flowers!
Enjoy peak blooming season and celebrate spring in the Gardens.
Children of all ages love this tradition of making forest fairies from woodland materials, Noon-4pm. http://www.meerkerkgardens.org

April 19, 2008
Welcome the Whales, Langley, WA
Each spring, our resident gray whales and orcas return to Puget Sound waters. Along their way from Mexico to Canada and Alaska, they stop to feed and frolic in Saratoga Passage, just off of Langley. Come celebrate the return of our beloved whales with the Welcome the Whales festival in Langley on Saturday, April 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 2008 whale watching trips are scheduled at Langley, WA Marina. Call 360-221-6765 for additional information and reservations.

April 25-26, 2008
Burning Word Poetry Festival, Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
The 5th Annual Festival is a celebration of poetry, music, performance and educational workshops. For fees and more information contact the Washington Poets Association at their website: www.burningword.org.

April 25-27, 2008
Holland Happening, Oak Harbor, WA
Annual three-day celebration that honors the unique Dutch Heritage of Oak Harbor, including parade, carnival and special events. See http://www.oakharborchamber.org/hollandhappening.aspx 

May 2008

First Fridays at Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Start your weekend off right with First Fridays at the Farm! Meet friends and come enjoy the community spirit at Greenbank Farm. The Wine Shop and Tasting Room will offer a new wine maker (TBD) for an exciting evening of wine discussion and cheese pairings. Peruse the shops and new art, taste a new wine while contemplating the next antique purchase and treat your self to dinner out at Whidbey Pies Cafe. Shops will remain open until 8pm and the cafe, which closes at 4pm, will re-open from 5:30-8:30pm to serve a 4-course dinner featuring a new local chef every month, be sure to save room for pie! Call the wine Shop for information at 360/678.7700

Continuing through Mid-May
Meerkerk Gardens in Bloom
The Gardens enter their peak blooming season in April, with the exact dates set by Mother Nature. Tens of thousands of daffodils, delicate cherry trees, magnificent magnolias and early rhododendrons provide a symphony of color throughout the ten acre gardens. The crescendo of rhododendron bloom begins in late April and continues through mid-May. Enter the Secret Garden and envelop yourself in the Bluebell Wood. Magical! Open Daily, 9am-4pm Peak Bloom Season. http://www.meerkerkgardens.org

May 2-11, 2008
Whidbey Children's Theatre, Langley, WA - There's a Boy in the Bathroom
Tickets: $12 (adults)/$8 (students/seniors)
Family Friday Nights $6 all seats!
Call 360.221.2282 for information

May 3, 2008
AAUW Student Art and Appetizer Show, Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
American Association of University Women's (AAUW) annual juried student art show. Proceeds from admission go toward scholarships. 1-4 pm for information: 360/678-6610

May 10, 2008
Harborside Parade, Freeland, WA
Freeland's second-annual Harborside Parade is ready to march down Main street Saturday May 10th. Join the fun and catch the Whidbey Sea-Tac Shuttle at 10 a.m. and head downtown. The parade will start at Newman and Scott Road and proceed down Main ending at the Skagit Farmer's Parking Lot. This year's parade promises to be larger than last year's inagural event and features Our Navy Color Guard and flyovers along with the 95 member Meridian Middle and High School Marching band. See www.freeland-wa.org/pages/newsfile/parade08.html 

May 11, 2008
Mother's Day Concert on the Lawn, Meerkerk Gardens, Greenbank, WA
Harper Tasche performs our traditional Mother's Day Concert weaving songs and tales on his collection of exquisite and exotic harps and stringed instruments. Visitors may bring a quilt or chair and enjoy the concert on the green, surrounded by rhododendrons in full bloom. Stroll through the Gardens and breathe in the fragrance and beauty. Light refreshments are available. Guests are welcome to bring their own picnic lunches. The Meerkerk Nursery is open with a fine selection of gift plants as well. Noon-4pm 
Admission: $12 per adult; Children over 5 years old: $3
Children under 5 years old, accompanied by an adult, admitted free. Tickets are available at the gate. http://www.meerkerkgardens.org

May 17-18, 2008
Penn Cove Water Festival, Coupeville, WA Waterfront
The Penn Cove Water Festival features annual tribal canoe races, Native arts and crafts, demonstrations, storytelling, dance performances, artist demonstrations, authentic Native foods, children's activities, and environmental exhibits and displays. www.penncovewaterfestival.com

May 24-26, 2008
Spring Wine Tasting and Market, Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Join the fun at Greenbank Farm over Memorial Day Weekend. Local painters, photographers, handcrafters, growers and producers bring the creativity of Whidbey and the region to this market. Our barn will be filled with wonderful vendors, local artists and wines from the Puget Sound area. Taste, Nibble and enjoy gourmet food or stay for lunch. Sample wines from our Whidbey Island wineries and the farms own Loganberry Wine. Enjoy the hidden pleasures of wineries from Marysville to the San Juan Islands. More information and/or vendor sign-up call 360/678-7710 or events@greenbankfarm.com

June 2008

First Fridays at Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Start your weekend off right with First Fridays at the Farm! Meet friends and come enjoy the community spirit at Greenbank Farm. The Wine Shop and Tasting Room will offer a new wine maker (TBD) for an exciting evening of wine discussion and cheese pairings. Peruse the shops and new art, taste a new wine while contemplating the next antique purchase and treat your self to dinner out at Whidbey Pies Cafe. Shops will remain open until 8pm and the cafe, which closes at 4pm, will re-open from 5:30-8:30pm to serve a 4-course dinner featuring a new local chef every month, be sure to save room for pie! Call the wine Shop for information at 360/678.7700

June 14, 2008
Greenbank Car Show, Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Treat Dad to a Car Show on Saturday for this Father's Day and bring along the whole family. The cars will be on display from 9:00am - 5:00pm. Admission: $5 adults, $3 seniors and students, children under 12 are free. Come see the street rods, antiques, customs, classics, racecars and trucks. Choose your favorite for the People's Choice Award! For more info call ph. # 360/929-1609 or visit www.greenbankcarshow.com

June 27-29, 2008
Greenbank Artists Show and Sale, Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Central Whidbey's longest running art group's annual show and sale. Support an artist and enjoy selecting local art to have in your home. For information: 360/678-5558

June 28-29, 2008
Wharf Festival, Coupeville, WA
Celebrate Coupeville's seafaring past. Free admission and free children's activities. Music, vintage boats and pirates. Begins each day at 11AM. Contact ed-ichs@whidbey.net.

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July 2008

First Fridays at Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Start your weekend off right with First Fridays at the Farm! Meet friends and come enjoy the community spirit at Greenbank Farm. The Wine Shop and Tasting Room will offer a new wine maker (TBD) for an exciting evening of wine discussion and cheese pairings. Peruse the shops and new art, taste a new wine while contemplating the next antique purchase and treat your self to dinner out at Whidbey Pies Cafe. Shops will remain open until 8pm and the cafe, which closes at 4pm, will re-open from 5:30-8:30pm to serve a 4-course dinner featuring a new local chef every month, be sure to save room for pie! Call the wine Shop for information at 360/678.7700

July 1-4, 2008
Dan Karvasek Photo Show, Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Local photographer's annual 4th of July show in the barn. All four days, he will feature his new and old favorite images. Show hours are from 10:00am - 5:00pm. Info: 360/331-3540 or www.dankarvasek.com

July 3, 2008
Celebrate America Event and Professional Fireworks Show, Freeland, WA
Events beginning at 4PM thru evening fireworks display. Sponsored by the South Whidbey Assembly of God. Contact 360 221-1656 for info.

July 4, 2008
Oak Harbor Old Fashioned 4th of July, Oak Harbor, WA
Oak Harbor’s old-fashioned Fourth of July Celebration at Windjammer Park is true community effort. The day blends community spirit, a beach-side carnival and a grand parade in a fun-filled display of patriotism. The streets are lined with American Flags thanks to the efforts of the local Lions Club followed closely by a thunderous fly-over of Navy aircraft to kick-off the red, white and blue filled parade. See http://www.oakharborchamber.org/4thofjuly.aspx 

July 12-13, 2008
Choochokam Arts Festival, Langley, WA
Celebration of Whidbey Island's rich arts heritage as Langley streets are lined with displays from premier area artists. Features live music, Children's Arts Area, and traditional Saturday night Street Dance. See www.choochokamarts.org for details.

July 26-27, 2008
Loganberry Festival, Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
The Farm's annual wine tasting, music and art extravaganza! The field is filled with artists, artisans, and craftspeople while local musicians entertain. There are food booths by local folks and a play area for the children. Check each day's schedule for the loganberry pie-eating contest! This community party is the Greenbank Farm's gift back to the community for all their support. Join us 10:00am - 5:00pm both days. Admission is free. For information: 360/678-7700 or 360/222-3151. To be a vendor 360/678-7171 or director@greenbankfarm.com

July 27, 2008
10th Annual Freeland Open Golf Classic & Silent Auction, Useless Bay Golf & Country Club
Get ready for a fabulous day of golf! Join a foursome or start one yourself! Registration starts at Noon, with events ending in evening dinner. See www.freeland-wa.org/pages/newsfile/08Golf_01.html 

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August 2008

First Fridays at Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Start your weekend off right with First Fridays at the Farm! Meet friends and come enjoy the community spirit at Greenbank Farm. The Wine Shop and Tasting Room will offer a new wine maker (TBD) for an exciting evening of wine discussion and cheese pairings. Peruse the shops and new art, taste a new wine while contemplating the next antique purchase and treat your self to dinner out at Whidbey Pies Cafe. Shops will remain open until 8pm and the cafe, which closes at 4pm, will re-open from 5:30-8:30pm to serve a 4-course dinner featuring a new local chef every month, be sure to save room for pie! Call the wine Shop for information at 360/678.7700

August 2, 2008
Meerkerk Medley, Meerkerk Gardens, Greenbank, WA
The eighth annual Meerkerk Medley is an evening of fun, friends and fantastic cuisine from 5-9pm. Guests are invited to dine in private homes. New in 2008: All Meerkerk Medley guests and hosts will be invited to a Prelude to Medley Garden Party during spring to enjoy desserts, wine, coffee and tea among the gardens dressed in floral attire! This fund-raiser for Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens, a charitable organization, is tax deductible. For information regarding hosting a dinner or attending, please contact Kristi O'Donnell, 360-678-1912, or meerkerk@whidbey.net.

August 2-3, 2008
Lavender & Wind Art Festival with a Taste of Provence, Coupeville, WA
In an outdoor setting many visual artists will be showing their work amidst lavender, sunflowers and spectacular view. Musicians will be performing during each day and wine tent will include Provencal wines and gourmet foods with a lavender Provencal theme. This is a perfect opportunity to see local art in a relaxed setting with a stunning view of the Olympic Strait of Juan de Fuca and of course lavender. Some of the artists' work will include subjects of lavender and/or wind. A variety of media will be represented. Work will be available for purchase. See www.lavenderwind.com

August 9, 2008
Highland Games, Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Whidbey Island Celtic Society's annual celebration of all that is Scottish. Pipe bands, pipers, dancers and athletic events with food and fun to spare. 9:00am - 6:00pm. For information call the Tartan Thistle at 360/331-4688

August 9-10, 2008
Coupeville Arts & Crafts Festival, Coupeville, WA
On August 8th there is an Art Gallery Show and Wine reception. The gallery of juried art is open from 7pm-10pm at the Coupeville Recreation Hall. Tickets for the reception are $12 in advance, $15 at the door.
On August 9th and 10th, stroll waterfront district to purchase unique, hand-crafted items from 200 artisans, see a dozen Artists-in-Action demonstrating their crafts, partake of vendor concessions, and enjoy live bands. Children's activities tent for crafts to take home or face painting. Coupeville boasts a scenic water view and there is convenient parking. See www.coupevilleartsandcraftsfestival.org

August 14-17, 2008
Island County Fair, Island County Fairgrounds, Langley, WA 
Held 9:30 AM - 10:00 PM daily. Events, live entertainment, exhibits, concessions. See www.islandcountyfair.com 

August 24, 2008
Artist Studio Tour  
Free self guided tour 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. featuring over 25 Whidbey artists in their studios located from Deception Pass to Greenbank. See www.WhidbeyWorkingArtists.com

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September 2008

First Fridays at Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Start your weekend off right with First Fridays at the Farm! Meet friends and come enjoy the community spirit at Greenbank Farm. The Wine Shop and Tasting Room will offer a new wine maker (TBD) for an exciting evening of wine discussion and cheese pairings. Peruse the shops and new art, taste a new wine while contemplating the next antique purchase and treat your self to dinner out at Whidbey Pies Cafe. Shops will remain open until 8pm and the cafe, which closes at 4pm, will re-open from 5:30-8:30pm to serve a 4-course dinner featuring a new local chef every month, be sure to save room for pie! Call the wine Shop for information at 360/678.7700

September 13, 2008
Old Timey Bluegrass Pickers Festival, Meerkerk Gardens, Greenbank, WA
Featuring: Swords into Plowshares; Chickweed; The Rural Characters; Down the Road; Deadwood Revival and more... all day long!  http://www.meerkerkgardens.org

September 20, 2008
Greenbank Garden Club Plant Sale, Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Plant lovers start lining up early for this popular sale. The door opens at 10am Saturday morning and by 2PM in the afternoon the plants are usually sold and on their way home. No calls please, just come to buy!

September 24-28, 2008
Djangofest Northwest 2008
DjangoFest returns to Whidbey Island for a five-day festival celebrating the music and spirit of the great French/Belgian Gypsy guitarist, Django Reinhardt. Additional Information

September 27, 2008
Tour d' Whidbey Bicycle Event
Whidbey Hospital Foundation's annual bicycle event that brings out bicyclists from all over. 50 and 100 mile routes through some of the most beautiful island scenery. For more information: 360/678-7656 xt.4020 or blankl@whidbeygen.org

September 27-28, 2008
Whidbey Island Kite Festival, Camp Casey Conference Center
Set against the majestic backdrop of the Olympic Mountains and the Puget Sound while featuring ground and air displays of color and imagination. Activities include kid's kitemaking, sportkite lessons, sport kite demonstrations and the Whidbey Island Sport Kite Championships, one of the premier sportkite competitions in the Pacific Northwest. Individual, pairs, and team events are included. See whidbeykites.org

September 28, 2008
Whidbey AIDS Walk & Pancake Breakfast, Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
WASF Whidbey AIDS Support Fund sponsors the annual walk and breakfast. Funds raised are for financial assistance to people with HIV/AIDS in Island County. Check in begins at 9:00am. The walkers use the farm trail for a morning hike and return to the barn for their pancakes.

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October 2008

First Fridays at Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Start your weekend off right with First Fridays at the Farm! Meet friends and come enjoy the community spirit at Greenbank Farm. The Wine Shop and Tasting Room will offer a new wine maker (TBD) for an exciting evening of wine discussion and cheese pairings. Peruse the shops and new art, taste a new wine while contemplating the next antique purchase and treat your self to dinner out at Whidbey Pies Cafe. Shops will remain open until 8pm and the cafe, which closes at 4pm, will re-open from 5:30-8:30pm to serve a 4-course dinner featuring a new local chef every month, be sure to save room for pie! Call the wine Shop for information at 360/678.7700

October 11, 2008
Oktoberfest at Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
PROST! PROST! PROST! Come and support the Farm at the 2nd Annual Oktoberfest fundraiser. Enjoy "wünderbar" German Bier and Wine with German fare including authentic bratwurst and pretzels. Top notch entertainment will be rocking the Old Red Barn! Dance, eat, drink and be merry with German Polkas, genuine Paulaner Bier Steins, accordion music, family fun and an adult beer tent. Greenbank Farm staff, board and volunteers will be donning their lederhosen and dirndls' at this event which will raise funds for the continued preservation of the Farm.

October 26, 2008
Halloween Party & Costume Parade, Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Family fun and costume parade from 1pm - 3pm. Trick or treat at the Farm during the Sunday Farmer's Market in the big red barn! Pumpkin carving, kettle corn, cider and apples will be available along with market goods. All monsters, ghoul friends and families are welcome! For info: 360/678-7710 events@greenbankfarm.com

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November 2008

First Fridays at Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Start your weekend off right with First Fridays at the Farm! Meet friends and come enjoy the community spirit at Greenbank Farm. The Wine Shop and Tasting Room will offer a new wine maker (TBD) for an exciting evening of wine discussion and cheese pairings. Peruse the shops and new art, taste a new wine while contemplating the next antique purchase and treat your self to dinner out at Whidbey Pies Cafe. Shops will remain open until 8pm and the cafe, which closes at 4pm, will re-open from 5:30-8:30pm to serve a 4-course dinner featuring a new local chef every month, be sure to save room for pie! Call the wine Shop for information at 360/678.7700

November 7-8, 2008
Ebey's Landing 30th Anniversary Celebration
Nation’s first National Historical Reserve Celebrates 30 years of protecting what is timeless while accommodating change, November 8, 2008, Whidbey Island, Washington. Be a part of this nationally significant cultural landscape during the 30th Anniversary Celebration featuring hands on farming and historic preservation workshops, walking tours, homegrown and homemade foods and goods, music, children’s programming, a traditional barn dance, and other cultural tourism activities. See www.nps.gov/ebla

November 15-16, 2008
Festive Fall Wine Market, Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Fall is in the air and the holidays are just around the corner. Taste and select local and regional wines for your holiday celebrations from North Puget Sound wineries. We have created a gourmet gift market that will entice the senses. Shop for special items, unique gifts, all while tasting your favorite wines. This is a weekend you don't want to miss! Information and vendor sign-up, contact 360/678-7710 or events@greenbankfarm.com

November 21-23, 29-30, 2008
Holiday Gift Market at Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Greenbank Farm's Annual Holiday Market. Tree-lighting ceremony held on beginning date, November 21. Local artisans bring their wonderful talents to the Main Barn from 10am - 5pm creating a festive marketplace to kick off the holiday season. Visit Santa at the Jim Davis House. Shop these three days to stay ahead of the rush. For more information or to sign-up as a vendor, contact Market Manager: 360/678-7710 or events@greenbankfarm.com

November 22-23, 2008 
Home for the Holidays, Langley, WA
Begins on Thanksgiving weekend with Tree Lighting and caroling in Langley Park at 4:30 p.m. and continues throughout the month of December. Each weekend offers photos with Santa, wagon rides, shopping specials and overall cheer.

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December 2008

First Fridays at Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Start your weekend off right with First Fridays at the Farm! Meet friends and come enjoy the community spirit at Greenbank Farm. The Wine Shop and Tasting Room will offer a new wine maker (TBD) for an exciting evening of wine discussion and cheese pairings. Peruse the shops and new art, taste a new wine while contemplating the next antique purchase and treat your self to dinner out at Whidbey Pies Cafe. Shops will remain open until 8pm and the cafe, which closes at 4pm, will re-open from 5:30-8:30pm to serve a 4-course dinner featuring a new local chef every month, be sure to save room for pie! Call the wine Shop for information at 360/678.7700

December Through Christmas 
Home for the Holidays, Langley, WA
Begins on Thanksgiving weekend with Tree Lighting and caroling in Langley Park at 4:30 p.m. and continues throughout the month of December. Each weekend offers photos with Santa, wagon rides, shopping specials and overall cheer.

December 6, 2008
Greening of Coupeville and Christmas Parade, Coupeville, WA
Community Groups walk in the Christmas Parade, carolers sing from the porch or the Anchorage Inn, and all the businesses show thier seasonal decorations. Front St. shops open late. Begins at 4PM.

December 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 2008
Holiday Gift Market at Greenbank Farm, Greenbank, WA
Three more weekends of Greenbank Farm's Holiday Market continue into December so you can complete your gift shopping in time for your festivities. New vendors each weekend join in with returning vendors to bring a wide variety of art, photography, handmade crafts and gourmet foods to fill the barn, loft and annex! Visit Santa at the Holiday Market Annex in the Jim Davis House. Hours are from 10am - 5pm. Local musicians provide music throughout the market dates. Meet with friends to catch the holiday spirit inside Greenbank's historic barn or and bring the kids to meet Santa!! For info: 360/678-7710 or events@greenbankfarm.com 

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