Road Trip: Port Townsend Boat Show and Film Festival
Why a trip to Port Townsend for September's Boat Show and Film festival is a must
By Madeline Lootens August 3, 2015
This article originally appeared in the September 2015 issue of Seattle magazine.
WHERE:Port Townsend, a picturesque maritime city on the Olympic Peninsula.
WHY: Because Port Townsend is great anytime, but even better when there’s a boat show or film fest.
WHAT, PART 1: Since 1979, the Wooden Boat Festival (9/11–9/13; Point Hudson; nwmaritime.org) has celebrated Port Townsend’s historic past as a thriving seaport. This year, the party features hundreds of elegant old-school vessels, workshops on everything from sail making to varnishing, tales of epic sea journeys, beer, bands and chances to hit the water in style. Join the crew aboard a replica of Captain George Vancouver’s longboat, perhaps? Keep the kids busy with costumed treasure hunts, crafts and rides (the carousel is free all weekend). WHAT, PART 2: Return two weeks later for the Port Townsend Film Festival (9/25–9/27; various locations; 360.379.1333; ptfilmfest.com).
This year, more than 80 films will be shown in theaters around Port Townsend’s National Historical District. Kick back and relax on straw bales when Taylor Street becomes a “theater,” and catch special guests Beau Bridges and Chris Cooper as they bring some Hollywood stories and prestige to this small-town fest.
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