Playground of
Entertainment
in Skagit Valley

Art & Entertainment in Skagit Valley

Immersing yourself in a region’s cultural activities provides an unparalleled opportunity to get to know the locals and truly understand the heart and soul of a community. With its sweeping agrarian landscape, entertainment in Skagit Valley is a richer experience than many realize. In fact, some of it is world-renowned, and let’s not forget the beautiful show of those tulip fields that are put on in spring.

A lively cultural scene thrives in Skagit County, encompassing live theatre, diverse concert venues, a dedicated Celtic arts foundation, and retro-style recreational outlets like bowling alleys to transport you back to “those good ole days” while having some multi-generational family fun.

Take a look at these varied entertainment options to fully appreciate Skagit’s offerings. There is sure to be something for everyone.

Theater is Alive and Well

Who doesn’t love the excitement of an opening night? Or the thrill of live theater? There was a reason Shakespeare appealed to the masses. And options for entertainment in Skagit Valley has it all, from world premieres to award-winning shows. The breadth of live theatre in Skagit County is characteristic of this region’s artistic spirit.

The ACT Theater in Anacortes stands as a cornerstone of local performing arts, presenting a diverse season of plays and musicals all year long. From murder mysteries to Christmas musicals, this quaint venue fosters a strong, interactive connection between performers and audience, creating one-of-a-kind theatrical experiences. With the dedication it takes to put on a show, local actors, directors, and playwrights shine their talents center stage, offering a genuine glimpse into this community’s creativity and artistic flair.

Only a short distance away, the historic Lincoln Theatre, located in Mount Vernon, adds another layer to the theatrical landscape. While Mount Vernon is the county seat and largest city in Skagit, it plays a central role in the artistic and musical endeavors found here. Beginning with the Lincoln Theatre.

Opening its doors to this community in 1926, this historic building became renowned as a vaudeville and silent movie house. Imagine sitting in the plush, red velvet seats watching a black-and-white action film starring Harold Lloyd while dramatic music flowed from the Wurlitzer Organ. In fact, you can! The Lincoln Theatre, a 501c(3) non-profit, presents a year-round schedule of concerts, current and classic films- including black-and-whites, Metropolitan Opera, and community events like live theater! They support local school drama and music clubs and community-sponsored children’s productions. Stepping out for an evening at the Lincoln is a class act.

McIntyre Hall

If you love choirs and musical performances, add McIntyre Hall to your list. This premier performing arts center, located on the Skagit Valley College campus, is an exciting complement to the region’s cultural arts. McIntyre Hall is a modern facility attracting a diverse range of regional, national, and international acts, from symphony orchestras and ballet companies to touring productions and world-class musicians.

McIntyre Hall’s spacious auditorium and state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems provide an exceptional experience for both performers and audiences. The hall’s programming is carefully curated to offer a broad entertainment spectrum, ensuring something to appeal to every taste. Whether you’re seeking the elegance of a choral concert, the energy of a contemporary dance performance, or the spectacle of a large-scale theatrical production, McIntyre Hall delivers high-caliber experiences for all audiences. Serving as a vital hub for the local arts community, it attracts visitors from across the county and beyond.

Entertainment Beyond the Stage

Moving beyond the stage, Skagit County’s concert scene offers a variety of musical experiences.

For anyone partial to a good jig and reel and the rich heritage of Celtic culture, the Celtic Arts Foundation (CAF), located in downtown Mount Vernon, offers many enriching experiences, from concerts to ceileighs.

Dedicated to preserving and promoting Celtic music, dance, and culture, the foundation hosts various events and workshops throughout the year. Want to swing your partner at a Scottish Highland dance? Or sit back and listen to Robert Burns’s poetry while sipping a whiskey shot? Or get a little jiggy with one of the many Irish bands touring the area? You can do all of the above at the CAF.

Skagit Highland Games

The Celtic Arts Foundation’s signature event, the Skagit Highland Games, runs over a full weekend in July and attracts bagpipe bands, musicians, storytellers, and Celtic enthusiasts worldwide.

CAF’s beautiful concert hall is worth visiting, and its consistent line-up of music throughout the year provides a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the many Celtic traditions, from Robert Burns Night to St.Patrick’s Day to New Year’s Eve.

Good Ol’ Family Fun

On the recreational front, bowling alleys provide a classic and enjoyable form of entertainment for the whole family. Think of balls rolling down the lane, pins crashing, the whir of the balls returning in the machine, and family groups laughing together.

Riverside Lanes in Mount Vernon is a modern bowling alley perfect for a night out with the family and some friendly competition. The lively atmosphere and state-of-the-art facilities make it a popular destination for all ages. Plus, you get to wear some really cool shoes. There’s no need to play video games when you can enjoy a game night in real time.

And speaking of game night, how about a round of Cribbage? This British board game becomes a rousing affair every Thursday night at Terramar Brewstillery in Edison. Order one of their homemade pizzas, grab a pint, and try your skill. Winner takes all.

Skagit County is recognized as residing on the ancestral lands of the Coast Salish Peoples, specifically the Swinomish, Samish, Upper Skagit, Sauk-Suiattle, and Lower Skagit tribes.

For a full cultural experience to this area’s indigenous people, the All My Relations Pow Wow is held annually at Skagit Valley College every May. Enjoy the traditions and celebrations of Native American tribes through traditional drumming, dancing, crafts, and food like hot, yummy fry bread.

By immersing yourself in these cultural activities, you gain a deeper understanding of the magical Skagit Valley, or as we fondly say-the Magic Skagit. From the theatrical performances at the ACT and Lincoln Theatres to the musical rhythms of local venues, the Celtic traditions celebrated by the Celtic Arts Foundation, and the recreational fun of bowling alleys, Skagit County provides a plethora of experiences that will leave a lasting impression.