Every July, for one extraordinary weekend, Vashon transforms into something more than just our home: It becomes a celebration of who we are as a community. This year’s Strawberry Festival delivered perfect weather, packed streets, joyful music, and that unmistakable Vashon spirit that had people smiling and saying “It just has a good vibe.”
But let’s be clear: that feeling doesn’t just happen. The Festival isn’t something handed to us. It’s not a show someone puts on for Vashon. It IS Vashon, built by neighbors, powered by volunteers, fueled by the energy and love this community gives year after year.
It takes an island.
This year’s highlights reflected that collective spirit: the return of the Festival Train weaving through crowds; the Children’s Parade overflowing with joy; and a classic and quirky Vashon lineup in the Main Parade, full of tractors, satire, and local pride. The new Artisans Place gave creators a platform, restaurants and vendors kept us happily fed, shops extended hours, nonprofits shared their missions, and every booth had someone behind it who cared.
Longstanding traditions kept their spark, like the beloved Unofficial Mayor race, where candidates raise funds and awareness for local nonprofits. We were thrilled to celebrate TK Rose, Vashon’s new (and human) Unofficial Mayor, whose campaign benefited the Blue Heron Education Center, supporting arts access for local kids.
The Kid Zone transformed to the Fun Zone with an emphasis on all ages, offering more activities in more locations, robust with energy and thrills, making it a highlight for families and a hub for connection.
The music scene deserves its own spotlight. The Main Stage featured a powerhouse mix of island favorites and standout bands from across the Pacific Northwest, curated to reflect both our roots and broader creative ties. Meanwhile, local businesses hosted their own unique lineups, giving even more artists a stage and festival goers a soundtrack at every turn.
And while the celebration was front and center, the real success came from the lift behind it: months of planning, permits, vendor coordination, safety strategy, and problem-solving. It’s mostly quiet work, but absolutely essential.
This year didn’t just feel like a return. It felt like a step forward. New ideas are taking root alongside beloved traditions. From reimagined favorites to fresh approaches to gathering, this Festival honored our past while shaping our future.
So here’s the ask: If you felt the magic this year, help make more of it next year. Volunteer. Join a committee. Share your ideas. Sponsor the Main Stage. Create an event. Organize a parade entry. Offer your talent. Whatever you loved, there’s a way to grow it.
The Strawberry Festival is a reflection of us. The more we show up, the more Vashon it becomes.
And we’re lucky it is ours.
Cheryl Lubbert, Connie Sorensen, Nichole Banducci and Lynann Politte are the Strawberry Festival Committee chairs of the Vashon Island Chamber of Commerce.
