Every April, Astoria transforms into a hub of festivity and flavor, drawing crowds to the north Oregon coast with the promise of the Astoria Warrenton Crab, Seafood and Wine Festival. The event, a staple of the local calendar, fills the Clatsop County Fair & Expo Center with joyous laughter, the clinking of wine glasses, and a feast of regional delicacies. It's a scene that might remind one of a lively Viking gathering, reflecting Astoria's rich maritime heritage and its deep Scandinavian roots.

This year, from April 26 to 28, the festival is poised to offer an unparalleled celebration of the Pacific Northwest's culinary bounty on the last weekend of the month. Organized by the Astoria-Warrenton Area Chamber of Commerce, this festival serves as a vibrant platform for local and regional vendors, winemakers, brewers, and food artisans from both the Oregon and Washington coasts, as well as the inland areas. It’s a grand showcase that not only supports local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, but also brings together community organizations in a shared celebration of coastal culture.

With expectations to draw large crowds, the festival's atmosphere buzzes with anticipation, promising a weekend filled with discovery and delight. Fred Meyer joins as this year’s proud sponsor, underscoring the event's significance and its role in enriching the local community.

The culinary offerings are a testament to the region's diversity and abundance, with a wide array of dishes that cater to every palate. Festival-goers can indulge in everything from crab-centric dishes like garlic pasta with crab, crab mac 'n cheese, to fried oysters and seafood ramen. But the menu doesn't stop at seafood; smoked brisket, international cuisines, and a variety of treats ensure that there's something for everyone. Esteemed participants such as DJ Foods and Gifts, Brevin's Fudge, and Bell Buoy of Seaside are set to satisfy all cravings with their delicious fare.

The festival is also a celebration of Oregon's renowned winemaking tradition, featuring over 40 wineries that highlight the state's rich variety of vineyards and grape types. From the esteemed Paul O'Brien Winery to the delightful Buddha Kat Winery and J Wrigley Vineyards, wine lovers will have the opportunity to explore a multitude of flavors. Not to be overlooked, local breweries and distilleries, including Buoy Beer Co and Fort George Brewery, will offer their best brews and spirits, catering to all tastes.

Music plays a central role in the festival's vibrant energy, with two stages hosting a diverse lineup of performers. The eclectic musical offerings ensure that there’s something to keep everyone entertained, from local bands to artists across the Oregon coast and Washington, adding to the festival’s lively ambiance.

Moreover, the festival is a haven for art and craft enthusiasts, with over 100 booths showcasing local artists, northwest-made products, and artisan crafts. It’s an invitation to explore, engage, and perhaps take home a piece of the Pacific Northwest's rich artistic tradition.

Since its inception in 1982, the Astoria Warrenton Crab, Seafood and Wine Festival has grown into a much-anticipated annual event, celebrated for its blend of culinary excellence, cultural richness, and community spirit. As we approach this year’s festival, it stands as a vibrant symbol of Astoria’s enduring appeal and the shared joy of its people.

From the moment the gates swing open at 4 p.m. on Friday, April 26, until the last note fades into the afternoon of Sunday, April 28, the festival invites you to eat, drink, and be merry. Whether you're there to indulge in the culinary delights, raise a glass to Oregon's winemaking prowess, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere, the Astoria Seafood and Wine Festival is more than an event—it's a celebration of the coast's endless gifts.

Mark your calendars, for the Astoria Warrenton Crab, Seafood, and Wine Festival at the Clatsop County Fair & Expo Center is an experience you won’t want to miss. Details on ticketing and additional information can be found on the festival's website. This April, come be part of a tradition that continues to captivate hearts and taste buds in equal measure.