Table of Contents

About the Chamber 8

Board of Directors 10

Visitor Information Center 12

Community Statistics 14

Industry 16

Transportation 18

Healthcare 22

Map 26

Government Leadership 28

Anacortes Community Services 30

Senior Living 32

Education 34

Explore Anacortes 36

Annual Events 40

Business Directory 44

Member Searrch 53

ABOUT THE ANACORTES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Anacortes Chamber of Commerce, serving the region since 1911, has a profound focus on fostering economic development in Anacortes. With an unwavering dedication to innovative leadership, advocacy and collaborative community engagement, the Chamber’s mission revolves around promoting economic prosperity. As steadfast
ambassadors for Anacortes’ businesses, the Chamber operates with an impassioned commitment to serving not only the local businesses but also the citizens, guests and the broader community encompassing Fidalgo Island.

Functioning as a member-driven non-profit organization, the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce unites businesses, professionals and community-minded individuals. Their collective vision centers on transforming Anacortes into the most livable and economically vibrant waterfront community across the Pacific Northwest. Achieving this ambitious vision relies on the concerted efforts of both volunteers and staff. They cultivate an environment where both commerce and community flourish, underpinned by qualities like effective leadership, ethical business practices, economic development, government relations and comprehensive member services.

While the Chamber passionately
advocates for Anacortes’ cohesive business community, members enjoy a host of supplementary benefits and opportunities:

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• • Participation in shaping the growth and advancement of the Anacortes community.
  
• • Membership in a unified representation of the business community, influencing local and statewide matters. The Chamber maintains positive ties with elected and appointed officials to spotlight and address issues vital to members and the community.
  
• • Access to Visitor Information Centers to showcase brochures and receive referrals from staff, aiding in answering guest queries.
  
• • Visibility on Anacortes.org, a platform with nearly 1 million annual page views. Moreover, garnering publicity through Chamber activities, publications and events amplifies exposure.
  
• • Participation in monthly networking events like Business After Hours and membership luncheons and even volunteering at Chamber events. Opportunities to host or sponsor events enhance visibility further.
  
• • Active involvement in committees like Ambassadors, Beautification, DEI, Events, Government Affairs and Tourism. This facilitates deeper
  engagement with the community and business owners while exploring diverse issues.
  

Beyond its economic pursuits, the Chamber places considerable emphasis on community stewardship. Recognizing the intricate interconnectedness of the community’s facets, the Chamber is committed to fostering holistic development. This approach ensures not only the prosperity of local businesses but also the general well-being of the residents. As the Chamber remains ardently engaged in the betterment of the city and its surroundings, it solidifies its role in making Anacortes an optimal place to live, work and conduct business, all while contributing to sustainable growth.

Board of Directors

Mary Trester

Chair

Anacortes Waterfront

Mark Lione

Chair-Elect

Individual

Jesica Kiser

President/CEO

Anacortes Chamber of Commerce

Taby Perron

Secretary

Groesbeck Group/Compass

Reid Meyers

Legal Counsel

Attorney at Law

Therese Rudzis

Past Chair

Skyline Moorage Sales

Kimberlee Anderson

Board Member

Samish Tribe

Michele Aulday

Board Member

ABS

Bookkeeping Solutions

Lynette Brower

Board Member

Northwest Career & Technical Academy

Luke Currier

Board Member

Land Title and Escrow

Wendy Drake

Board Member

Peoples Bank

Matt Gill

Ex-officio

Marathon

Darren Greeno

Board Member

Skagit Valley College

Brett Greenwood

Ex-officio

Port of Anacortes

Dr. Justin Irish

Ex-officio

Anacortes School District #103

Heather Ladd

Board Member

State Farm

Amanda Lovecchio

Board Member

Wellness for Life

Svenja Marshall

Board Member

Senior Activity Center Foundation

Racheal Meloche

Board Member

Banner Bank

Matt Miller

Ex-officio

City of Anacortes

Laura Moroney

Ex-officio

Island Health

Andrea Petrich

Ex-officio

H.F. Sinclair

John Sternlicht

Ex-officio

EDASC

Visitor Information Center

Prior to the arrival of European and American settlers, Anacortes was occupied for thousands of years by the people of the Samish Tribe. In the 1850s, white settlers started arriving, and Anacortes was officially founded soon after in 1879. Originally promoted as the “New York of the West,” Anacortes turned from that projection and has grown into the vital and unique small All-American city it is today, where every day feels like a vacation.

Visitors and residents are treated to its year-round music scene. You can soak up a range of tunes from rock to bluegrass to jazz at outside venues during the summer and restaurants and bars throughout the year. The culinary scene is ever-growing, and you’ll find a variety of restaurants with farm-to-table menus, locally-sourced and homemade ingredients and their specialties like BBQ, fusion and rustic scratch.

For excursionists, Anacortes, the crown jewel of Fidalgo Island, is conveniently situated halfway between Seattle and Vancouver BC and is the destination point for the San Juan Islands and ferry runs. The island is known for its historic waterfront, 50 miles of hiking trails and a mix of annual festivals.

No matter what time of year, there is plenty to do. Spring introduces whale watching season as well as kayaking, stand-up paddle-boarding and boat tours under Deception Pass Bridge. In summer, the Saturday Anacortes Farmers Market is the place to be for everything local like farm-fresh fruit and veggies, cheeses, handmade bread, gourmet nuts, jewelry and more. Afterward, hike one of the many trails and feast on a picnic lunch with a view of the islands. In the fall, Anacortes invites you to explore its vibrant downtown, indulge in seasonal treats at local restaurants, and join in on the fun at the annual Bier on the Pier event. Winters are mild and perfect for hiking or exploring the town’s history on a self-guided walking tour. Or, for an experience that keeps on giving, set out on a fishing charter to stock your freezer with fresh-caught fish from the Salish Sea.

A favorite year-round activity is to explore downtown boutiques, antique shops, enjoy a drink, eat a savory bite, and then drive up to Cap Sante to watch the sunset over historic downtown and the San Juan Islands.

Come for a visit – stay for a while!

Visitor Information Center 360-293-3832.

Community Statistics

Normal Weather Averages

Temp. High/Low Precipitation Inches Snow Inches

January 47°F/37°F 3.58 0.0

February 50°F/36°F 2.34 1.0

March 54°F/39°F 2.31 0.0

April 58°F/43°F 1.93 0.0

May 64°F/47°F 1.88 0.0

June 69°F/51°F 1.50 0.0

July 73°F/54°F 0.86 0.0

August 74°F/54°F 1.03 0.0

September 69°F/51°F 1.53 0.0

October 60°F/45°F 2.76 0.0

November 51°F/40°F 4.67 1.0

December 46°F/35°F 3.44 1.0

Yearly 59°F/44°F 2.32 0.3

Population 2022 18,009

Population 2023 18,150

Population 2024 18,270

Median Household Income

Anacortes $71,282

Skagit County $86,830

Whatcom County $81,432

Island County $85,484

Statewide $94,308

Miles from Anacortes

Deception Pass 10

Friday Harbor 23

Mount St. Helens 228

Mount Baker 85

North Cascade Pass 67

Olympia 141

Orcas Island 22

Seattle 80

Industry

Largest Employers Industry

Island Health Healthcare

HF Sinclair Oil & Gas

Swinomish Casino

Marathon Oil & Gas

Dakota Creek Maritime

City of Anacortes Public

Prominent industries in Anacortes are fishing, shipbuilding, oil and gas refining, and healthcare.

Healthcare

Providing care to the residents of Anacortes and larger Fidalgo Island, healthcare consistently ranks as the largest employing industry in Anacortes. The quality of care available brings in people from San Juan County, Island County, greater Skagit County and more. Aside from the award-winning hospital and specialists, Anacortes is also home to six skilled nursing facilities, ranging in care from rehabilitation, assisted living and long-term care.

Fishing

Stretching back to pre-recorded history, fishing has been a fundamental part of life in Anacortes. Samish and Swinomish tribes harvested the seafood in and around the waters of Fidalgo Island long before the arrival of European and American settlers. During the late 19th century, the fishing industry experienced rapid growth after the establishment of canneries were built to process cod, clams and salmon. Today, with industry leaders such as Trident Seafoods operating in Anacortes, the fish and produce of the area are now feeding the world.

Maritime

Shipbuilding and repair have been an integral part of Anacortes’s relationship with the sea. In 1977, Dakota Creek Industries relocated to the city. With them, they brought expertise in manufacturing fishing vessels, tugboats and commercial as well as government vessels. Since that time, DCI has steadily grown into a shipyard that is well known locally and internationally for its quality and craftsmanship. Other maritime businesses provide the same benefit, contributing to the prominence of Anacortes as a worldwide destination in casual boating.

Oil & Gas

Thanks to its strategic location, Anacortes is home to two major oil refineries operated by HF Sinclair and Marathon Petroleum. Receiving crude oil via pipeline from Canada, Alaska, North Dakota and other central states, as well as tanker deliveries from foreign providers, these refineries produce over 250,000 barrels of oil per day. This puts Anacortes as a major energy provider for the western United States. With the global attention shifting to environmental consciousness, the refineries of Anacortes and the entities that govern them are investing heavily in innovation and sustainability for the future, ensuring greener contributions to the industry as well as promising a future for its businesses, employees. the communities they serve.

Transportation

Home to 18,009 residents and over 2 million visitors per year, Anacortes depends on its sound and reliable infrastructure to efficiently move people, freight and produce through and around its borders. Aside from roadways and three iconic bridges, Anacortes is home to an airport, two ferry terminals, four marinas and a seaport.

Via Road

Connecting Fidalgo with LaConner is Rainbow Bridge, gaining its name from its iconic curved shape. A fashionable photo is to catch Rainbow Bridge’s unique charm with Mt Baker as a backdrop. Crossing the Swinomish Channel on Hwy. 20 is the Brentsen Bridge, referred to by locals as “Twin Bridges”. With breathtaking views of Padilla Bay behind Swinomish Lodge, the bridge also includes a 6-foot sidewalk, popular among cyclists. Funded in part by the New Deal during the Great Depression, Deception Pass is an icon of Deception Pass State Park, the most visited park in Washington. Connecting Fidalgo with Whidbey Island, Deception Pass Bridge is a collection of two bridges connected on tiny Pass Island. Visitors may recognize these bridges from film, television and ad campaigns.

Via Bus

Public transportation is operated by Skagit Transit, which provides dependable service seven days a week to Island Health, Fidalgo Pool, the Senior Center and more on two Routes with 10 stops on routes 409 and 410. Additional routes connect Anacortes with Oak Harbor, LaConner, Mount Vernon and Burlington. Connector services expand availability to Bellingham, Everett and southern Whidbey Island. For more information, please visit
www.skagittransit.org.

Via Ferry

Taking WSDOT ferries from Anacortes connects you with the San Juan Islands. Current service between Anacortes and Sidney, British Columbia is expected to be on hold until 2035. These connections are operated by Washington State Department of Transportation, and reservations are recommended. For wait times, video feeds, schedule and reservation information, please visit www.wsdot.com. A separate terminal operated by Skagit County connects you to Guemes Island. For schedule and pricing information, please visit guemesislandferry.com.

HEALTHCARE

Anacortes is home to award-winning healthcare, Island Health. For over 60 years, Island Health has been caring courageously for the community.

With 43 beds, 180 physicians and 750 employees, caregivers take time to build relationships with patients who are often neighbors, friends and family. Staff work cohesively as a team across all clinics and departments to ensure a positive healthcare experience and always strive to challenge themselves to bring the best health and wellness services to the community. Our primary care clinics in Anacortes and on Orcas Island serve patients across Skagit Island and San Juan counties. Our extensive specialty services are rapidly adapting to meet the needs of our community.

As a 5-star rated Medicare facility — three years in a row — and one of the top 100 rural hospitals in the United States, you can expect the highest quality of care where you actively participate in your healthcare planning and goal-setting.

Island Health Emergency Services Project progress: Island Health is relocating the helicopter pad from the north parking lot to the roof of our Acute Care Unit, closer to the Emergency Department (ED). This project also includes updates to the Emergency Department (ED) and Main Entrance (off of 24th Street) to improve patient flow, safety and security.

Government Leadership

Hello Anacortes Business Community,

It is my great honor to serve this wonderful community as your mayor. Prior to my current position I served on City Council for eight years, owned a small book/toy store in town, and was a career military officer – flying for the U.S. Navy for 22 years. I am also a commercial/instrument rated pilot, a husband of 35 years, and the proud father to two Anacortes-raised children who are now gainfully employed, productive citizens.

Anacortes is known for its industrious, creative and resilient business community. My commitment to you is to make smart decisions for our future, ensuring we have a safe, fiscally strong, welcoming hometown for all.

As we look forward, I remain focused on the following priorities:

• Enhancing public safety by strengthening the capability of police and fire departments and improving leadership and regional cooperation

• Smart growth with a clear vision that supports downtown businesses, provides a variety of housing options, enhances access to waterfront and protects our natural resources

• Focus on Infrastructure fixing our streets as the infrastructure priority and the completion and success of our fiber project

• Fiscal accountability that prioritizes must haves vs. nice to haves, taxing only what we need and a commitment to transparency

• Quality of Life by continuing to offer extraordinary services through City programming – services that support healthy, vibrant citizens and a healthy, vibrant business community

But what does “quality of life” mean to our business community?

It means maintaining our small-town charm while making smart choices for the future. It means a focus on local economy and protecting our hometown businesses. It means thoughtful, forward-thinking decisions around infrastructure. It means supporting community events – ensuring multiple opportunities to welcome visitors and to bring our community together.

It means always making decisions with the people of Anacortes in mind. Together, in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and each of you, I look forward to having these conversations and moving our local business community forward while holding on to what matters most: a safe, thriving local economy and deepening our connections with each other.

All the best,
Mayor Matt Miller

Anacortes

Mayor (360) 299-1950 www.cityofanacortes.org

Clerk (360) 293-1906 www.cityofanacortes.org

Planning Commission (360) 293-1901 www.cityofanacortes.org

Treasurer (360) 293-1906 www.cityofanacortes.org

Skagit County

Commissioners Office (360) 416-1300 www.skagitcounty.net

Assessor (360) 416-1780 www.skagitcounty.net

Auditor (360) 416-1700 www.skagitcounty.net

Clerk (360) 416-1800 www.skagitcounty.net

Planning Commission (360) 416-1338 www.skagitcounty.net

Treasurer (360) 416-1750 www.skagitcounty.net

Hello Anacortes Business Community,

As Port of Anacortes Commission President, I have the privilege of witnessing firsthand how the Port, alongside local agencies, works tirelessly to strengthen our region’s economic vitality. We are proud to play a key role in supporting jobs, industry and the local economy, contributing to the vibrancy of the community we serve.

For nearly 100 years, our mission has been steadfast: to create jobs and drive commerce while protecting the quality of life for everyone who calls Anacortes home. We honor that mission through thoughtful investments and responsible stewardship of public resources. We understand the importance of our role and take our responsibilities seriously — across all areas of the Port’s work.

Today, we support over 1,100 local jobs and more than 60 small businesses. Whether it’s supporting the fishing and manufacturing industries, promoting tourism or completing critical environmental cleanups, we remain committed to serving our community. This focus has guided us for the past century, and it will continue to drive us forward for the next 100 years.

Thank you,

Jon Ronngren , Port of Anacortes Commission President, 2024

Anacortes Community Services Phone Numbers

Business Resources

Economic Development Council (360) 725-4000 www.commerce.wa.gov

Small Business Administration (206) 553-7310 www.sba.gov

Small Business Development Center (360) 336-6114 www.wsbdc.org

Anacortes Planning Department (360) 299-1984 www.anacorteswa.gov

Skagit County Planning & Development (360) 416-1320 www.skagitcounty.net

Anacortes Public Library (360) 293-1910 www.anacorteswa.gov

Licensing

Business Licenses (360) 705-6741 secure.dor.wa.gov

Driver’s Licenses (360) 902-3900 www.dol.wa.gov

Motor Vehicle Licenses or Titles (360) 293-5533 www.anacortes.org

Utilities

Access Fiber Internet (360) 588-8300 www.cityofanacortes.org

Puget Sound Energy (888) 225-5773 www.pse.com

Water, Sewage, Garbage (360) 293-1909 www.cityofanacortes.org

Waste Management (800) 592-9995 www.wmnorthwest.com

Transportation

Anacortes Ferries (888) 808-7977 wsdot.wa.gov/travel/washington-state-ferries

Port of Anacortes (360) 293-3134 www.portofanacortes.com

Anacortes Airport (360) 299-1810 www.portofanacortes.com/airport

Skagit Transit (360) 757-4433 www.skagittransit.org

Island Transporter (360) 941-6060 www.island-transporter.com

Emergency Services

In case of an emergency, please dial 911

Police Department (360) 293-4684 www.anacorteswa.gov

Animal Control (360) 293-4684 www.anacorteswa.gov

Poison Control (800) 222-1222 www.anacorteswa.gov

Fire Department (360) 293-1925 www.anacorteswa.gov

Streets & Utilities (360) 293-1921 www.anacorteswa.gov

Senior Living

Senior Activity Center

The Anacortes Senior Activity Center acts as a focal point for the senior community through its wide array of activities, support and service opportunities. Events span from technology, games, exercise, intergenerational activities, educational discussions, health & wellness and so much more. The center strives to provide a safe and welcoming place for seniors and to be a solace for all.

Long Term Care

Also available on the island are several long term care, assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. Whether you are recovering after a hospital visit or in need of on-going medical support, there are multiple choices to receive care from skilled nurses, therapists and licensed care professionals.

Education

Anacortes School District

Located on beautiful Fidalgo Island, Anacortes is a leader in public education, with a strong vision for teaching and learning. The Pillars anchoring the District’s Strategic Plan are

• Partnerships

• Social-Emotional Learning

• Stewardship

Equity serves as the base of these pillars, guiding our work and decisions. We rely on the district’s Equity Policy to guide this work for our students.

All the goals for the district and schools support these pillars. Our work together allows us to remain competitive with the best districts in the state and to achieve our Vision: that all Anacortes students rise to their fullest potential, embrace the future and make a difference.

District profile:

• 2500 students

• 7 schools

• Non-boundary elementary schools allows for family choice

• 90% on-time graduation rate

• Highly skilled teachers andadministrators

• Strong arts, music, athletics and electives

• Learning opportunities for all: highly capable, special
education programs, English Learners, Career & Technical Education and more!

Anacortes School District prides itself on being a welcoming environment for staff, students and families. In addition to high-quality teaching and learning, a range of social-emotional supports are available depending on needs.

Our school district board of directors and staff believe it is both a moral and ethical responsibility to provide access and opportunity for every student. Schools have a responsibility to equip students to be inquisitive, thoughtful, engaged members of a diverse and evolving world.

Additional Education

Additional education options are available and bountiful on Fidalgo. Aside from top notch public education, there are also Montessori schools, special education options and continued education. Also available are an assortment of vocational training programs, ranging from flight training, maritime education and industrial building. For additional information, please see the directory listing portion of this publication.

Explore Anacortes: Romantic Getaway

Celebrate love on island time

Anacortes is a picturesque destination for couples, a perfect getaway for a honeymoon or an anniversary. Stay for a week and explore what the island has to offer – the amazing restaurants, the shopping in our historic downtown, the nature viewing out on the water and the relaxing spas.

Dinner for two

With plenty of eateries to choose from, creating a special moment for two all depends on your choice of palate – Seafood? Thai? Steak? Anacortes has it all!

Take a bit of Anacortes home with you

Find some one-of-a-kind, original art pieces at our galleries. Local galleries offer a new group of artists each month and also have permanent displays featuring a wide selection of jewelry, glasswork, sculptures and tables. There are also several antique stores available, so enjoy a treasure hunt to find that something special.

Enjoy some quality time with your partner

At one of our many spas in Anacortes, enjoy a side-by-side couples massage in a relaxed, peaceful setting. You’ll both be in the same room for that feeling of closeness and togetherness that you have been looking for. Work out all the kinks of the day and prepare for the rest of your evening together. Consider it a mini-vacation together as the long, flowing massage strokes melt your tension and perk your senses.

Explore

Want to get out on the water, but aren’t comfortable behind the wheel of a boat? Let someone else show you around on a guided tour!

Cozy up at a romantic hotel

If the plan is to impress your sweetie with amenities like a lavish room with a view or a Jacuzzi tub, or to spend some time in the solitude and outdoors, check out our hotel listings.

Public Art

Public art in Anacortes, Washington, offers a dynamic window into the city’s culture, history, and creativity. Designated as a Creative Arts District, Anacortes is now an even more engaging destination for art enthusiasts and visitors. From waterfront sculptures honoring the city’s maritime heritage to vibrant murals brightening downtown, the public art experience is accessible and interactive. Self-guided art tours feature QR codes at installations, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the stories behind each piece as they explore, making Anacortes’ art scene a unique and immersive adventure..

Family Weekend
The Anacortes Farmers Market

Every Saturday from early May through late October – it’s a great place to go for fun, farm produce and value-added local goodness, fabulous foods and incredible art. Enjoy live music every week and educational workshops in the Depot every other week.

Step Back Into Time

Explore nooks and crannies inside the W.T. Preston, an original stern-wheeler snag boat that once kept the Skagit River free of log jams and open to boat traffic. The W.T. Preston was placed on the National Register for Historic Places in 1979. In 1981, the Corps retired her from duty and solicited proposals to preserve the snag boat. Impressed with the plan offered by the city of Anacortes, the Corps transferred title to Anacortes in March 1983. She was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1989, serving as an important reminder of Puget Sound maritime history. Click here to learn more and check hours of operation.

Experience Wildlife

Explore the tide pools! Some of Anacortes’s most valuable treasures aren’t found on Commercial Avenue or in the Anacortes Museum. Rather, look to the island’s perimeter to discover natural wonders hiding under rocks, buried in sand and clinging to kelp in fascinating yet fragile ecosystems called tide pools. It’s here you’ll find essential links in the interdependent food web on which all life depends — including our own.

Get the family on the water

Experience the water around Deception Pass, the Bridge and the surrounding area on an amazing tour aboard any one of the charters available. Perfect for any family wanting a quick adventure on the water. Also, look for wildlife such as bald eagles, seals, porpoises and maybe an occasional whale.

Get some air!

While you’re at Deception Pass State Park, go Canopy Climbing! Recreational tree climbing, also known as canopy climbing, is an unforgettable amazing experience and a fast-growing sport. Open to almost anyone, this is something everyone should experience as a fun family activity.

Outdoor Adventure
Make nature your enclave

Anacortes is a scenic enclave rife with outdoor activities on both land and water. From exploring the forest on your own to booking a whale watching tour, there’s no shortage of possibilities for enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you’re dreaming of heading to Anacortes for a day trip or for a longer excursion, it’s never too early to start planning so your itinerary is in hand when it’s time to travel.

Hikes

Anacortes boasts 50 miles of woodlands and many hiking trails of varying difficulty. At just under 3 miles, the Heart Lake Trail winds through gorgeous cedar and hemlock forests. This is a favorite hike for families, and so is the lake itself where there are opportunities to go fishing and kayaking. It’s only 2.6 miles, but the Sharpe Park and Montgomery-Duban Headlands Trail offers more rugged terrain if you’re looking for a challenge. With Anacortes’ 3,000-acre community forest lands provide an expansive natural playground for hiking, biking and exploration amidst scenic Pacific Northwest landscapes.

Beaches

There’s access to beaches from all sides of Anacortes. Sunset Beach offers a play area complete with a playground, making it ideal for families. Located in Washington Park, West Beach is the place to go if you’re looking for sea life; on the rocky beachfront you’ll find sea urchins and starfish. If you have your own kayak, head over to Bowman Bay — it’s one of the best beaches for kayaking.

Whale watching

Anacortes is also known for being a whale-watching destination. Orcas are likely to be seen in the spring months whereas humpbacks are more common in the summertime. With several businesses offering charters to meet our maritime finned friends closer to their comfort zone, rest assured that each experience is assured to come with thrills.

Charters/Tours/Kayaking

Anacortes offers a diverse range of tours, charters and fishing experiences. Visitors can explore the San Juan Islands on wildlife-watching tours, embark on whale-watching excursions, or go kayaking in scenic waters. The city’s fishing charters provide thrilling opportunities to catch salmon, halibut and other Pacific Northwest species.

Cycling/Mountain Biking

The city offers a network of picturesque trails, including the Tommy Thompson Trail, which winds along the shoreline. This provides cyclists with breathtaking views of the San Juan Islands and Fidalgo Bay as well as an opportunity to bike in the forest lands of Anacortes, which will offer an exhilarating adventure. The city’s lush and diverse forests provide a natural playground for riders, with a variety of trails, from beginner-friendly to advanced, all amidst the serene beauty of the Pacific Northwest wilderness.

Golf

Anacortes golf is a golfer’s paradise. With the picturesque Swinomish Golf Links, players enjoy stunning waterfront views and a challenging course. This scenic destination caters to golf enthusiasts, offering a relaxing and rewarding experience in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.

Rock climbing

If climbing is your thing, Anacortes is your destination! Mount Erie boasts some of the best climbing cliffs in the state. With highly textured diorite, mountain faces are excellent to climb on sport, moderate and mixed climbing routes.

Explore Viewpoints

Anacortes boasts captivating viewpoints that showcase the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Cap Sante Park offers panoramic vistas of the San Juan Islands and rugged coastlines. Mount Erie presents breathtaking overlooks of forested islands and Fidalgo Bay. Washington Park and Sunset Beach offer you a serene coastal escape with lush forests, hiking trails and a tranquil beach, perfect for relaxation and sunsets. These viewpoints make Anacortes a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Annual Events

JANUARY

See Recurring Events For Things To Do In January

FEBRUARY

Dine & Shop | Dine or shop at any participating business all day and a portion of the proceeds will support Anacortes Family Center’s life changing mission to serve homeless women, children and families in crisis.

Uncorked | A wine and food pairing infused with effervescence, coastal charm and of course, delicious wine from across the Pacific Northwest and hors d’oeuvres from local favorites. Grab your friends, choose a time slot and let your taste buds lead the way!

MARCH

See Recurring Events For Things To Do In March

APRIL

Anacortes Nautical Treasure Hunt | Mark your calendars! Treasure hunters will set out to explore the island in search of prize balls hidden throughout Anacortes.

MAY

Anacortes Boat & Yacht Show | Stop by and walk the docks, where you can browse boats and yachts of all sizes from your favorite brands, dealers, brokers and exhibitors in one place.

JUNE

Anacortes Pride Parade | A parade celebrating our LGBTQIA+ community and the people who love them!

Bark in the Park | This dog lovers event is hosted at Storvik Park each year. Enjoy community dog walks, silly dog competitions, adoptions, K-9 demonstrations and dog vendors! For all ages. Friendly, well-behaved and leashed dogs welcome!

Race Week Anacortes | The regatta is open to one design keelboats, PHRF, ORC, multihulls and cruising classes.

Waterfront Festival | The Anacortes Waterfront Festival is a free two-day event that showcases the best of waterfront activities for all ages including building wooden sailboats for kids, a channel of discovery, live music, food vendors, art along Commercial Ave and a beer garden.

JULY

Fireworks Show| Come enjoy the community firework show celebrating the fourth of July – starting at dusk….
Between 10 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.

Fourth of July Parade | Event will start at 3rd and Commercial, head south to 10th street, turn right on 10th Street and then right on N Avenue to complete the parade route. Event starts at 10:30 a.m.

Pirate Fun Run | Trade-in your pirate boots for running shoes and be a part of the Puget Sound’s largest gathering of Pirates for the Anacortes Pirate Run! All runners receive a free eye patch and race bandana!

Rock The Dock | Sponsored by the Port of Anacortes, celebrate the Fourth of July with free live music and fireworks at dusk! Located at Seafarers Memorial Park.

Shipwreck Fest | The event technically starts at 8 a.m., but there are usually some businesses and booths that get started right at first light, just like the old time fishermen used to. This event features over 200 vendors set up in booths along Commercial Ave. Each booth brings something new and usually very eclectic, and you are sure to find something that you can’t live without. There are also some food stands set up that serve a variety of different and delicious treats.

AUGUST

Anacortes Arts Festival | The Festival stretches down Commercial Ave. from 10th Street all the way to the Port dock on the Guemes Channel waterfront. Along that route, you’ll get to experience booth artisans, jazz and main stages, two beer and wine gardens, food trucks and vendors, a Kids Discovery area, artists demonstrating their craft AND arts at the Port Fine Art Show on the dock. And it’s free…

Anacortes Ready to Learn Fair | The annual Ready to Learn Fair helps kids start the year feeling proud. ASF and community partners provide FREE back-to-school essentials including backpacks and supplies, books, gently used clothing, resources and information.

SEPTEMBER

AMP Fest| Anacortes Music Project presents a celebration of original music! AMP’s yearly festival of local music, featuring bands, food trucks, beer garden, juggling and bubbles.

Oyster Run | Motorcycle Rally with food & merch vendors plus live music and Cossacks drill team. Event to be held on Commercial Avenue and side streets 1 block east and 1 block west from 3rd to 10th Streets.

OCTOBER

Bier Near The Pier | With breweries, cideries, food trucks, and live music – you’re in for a hoppin’ good time! Experience tastes ranging from spicy and peppery to the citrusy and piney hops of the Pacific Northwest, all with the beautiful views of the Guemes Channel.

Downtown Halloween | Come one come all, dress up and bring a bag! Candy provided by the local merchants and from donations given to and by the Chamber of Commerce.

Haunted Forest | Wind your way through the haunted Forest at Washington Park! Your journey will be filled with suspense, dark corners and creatures lurking through the trees. This walk is recommended for adults and older children. Tickets are required.

NOVEMBER

See Recurring Events For Things To Do In November

DECEMBER

Coastal Christmas Tree Lighting | Jingle all the way down to the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce for the Coastal Christmas Tree Lighting featuring music, guest appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus, hot cocoa and festive cheer. The Anacortes Coastal Christmas Tree will shine brightly all month long.

Holiday Parade | The Anacortes Lions Club presents the Holiday Parade! Community groups decorate trucks, floats, cars or walk in groups in fun holiday garb to parade up Commercial Avenue to start the joy for the season.

Lighted Boat Parade | Sailing from the tip of Cap Sante, to the end of Guemes, then across to the north end of Anacortes, enjoy the sea parade! Be sure to bring flashlights so the boaters and sailors know you’re watching.

Santa Run | The merriest 5k around! Watch or participate as hundreds of people dressed as Santa run through the community of Anacortes! Registration includes a Santa suit.

Wonderland Walk | Come enjoy the spirit of the holidays at the Wonderland Walk at Washington Park. As the title of the event implies walking will be involved and the event takes place outdoors so dress accordingly. We recommend you bring a flashlight to guide yourself through the event. The campground will be decorated with holiday cheer by local groups and organizations, and there will be live music, campfires and hot chocolate.

Recurring Events:

Anacortes Farmers Market | A trip to the market is like a drive around Skagit County. There are vegetables right out of the ground, hand-crafted cheeses, freshly caught fish, grass-fed meat, dazzling jewelry, beautiful linens, delicious bakery items and so much more. Food vendors cook up savory dishes and musicians bring their creative vibe. Open every Saturday from July through October.

Art Walk | Enjoy local artists while getting out and about around town! The First Friday of each month, local artists set up in locations throughout Downtown, enjoy a walk to several historic buildings, meet local artists and see their art.

Free Summer Concert Series | Free Summer Concert Series at Seafarers Memorial Park in Anacortes featuring local big bands on Wednesdays and Fridays in July and August presented by the Port of Anacortes.

Friends of the ACFL Community Hike | Friends of the ACFL organize monthly hikes to expand understanding of the Anacortes Community Forestlands. Hike difficulties range from novice to expert.

The Heart of Anacortes Free Summer Concert Series | In partnership with the City of Anacortes, the Heart of Anacortes hosts a free summer concert series every year. “What is the heart of a town? The heart of a town is the people. Our vision is to bring people together through art and music. We want people to come, to make friends and understand what we are as a community.”

For more information on events, please visit Anacortes.org/events