3. Issaquah Salmon Days Festival

The Buzz -- Fish and fishing have played major roles in the development of the Northwest, and this popular event celebrates a key catch: salmon. Held annually on the first weekend in October, the festival draws more than 150,000 people for salmon bakes, hatchery tours, craft exhibitions, a grand parade, and three stages of ongoing live entertainment. Roundtrip shuttle rides from satellite parking lots are $1 per person (free for kids 5 and under).