The National Lentil Festival is gearing up for its 23rd year .... so be in Pullman, Washington from August 19 to 20 for this free event that offers something for the entire family.
Meet in downtown Pullman on Friday, August 19, for the Friday Night Street Fair. Come at 5pm to get in line for a bowl of free lentil chili from the giant 350 gallon bowl. Peruse arts and crafts vendors, hit the bouncy castle, describe why you love lentils on the painting wall, and get something to eat from one of the many vendors who offer lentil themed dishes.
Then get out your dancing shoes and dance the night away to live music from ColdRail Blues Band and The Whiskey River Band. Those 21 or over can participate in the Microbrew Tasting Tent that will feature local microbrewers.
Saturday, August 20 offers events all day long. Start your day right with a lentil pancake breakfast before heading up the hill for the Tase T. Lentil 5K Fun Run. After the Grand Parade follow the festival’s mascot Tase T. Lentil to Reaney Park for more live music and vendors. Join the 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, Boards & Blades Skateboard Competition, Co-ed Softball Tournament, or the 100K Tour de Lentil Bike Ride that takes participants on a challenging ride through the scenic Palouse hills. If you would rather take it slow in the shade, hit the Farm Tent to see the history of how lentils are grown on the Palouse to become the producer of 97% of all the lentils in America.
Stick around because at 2pm, 400 people will have the chance to sample the top six recipes from the Lentil Cook-off and vote for who will win the grand prize of $1,000. While you are judging, listen in on the Little Lentil King & Queen Contest to see who loves lentils the most.
For more information on Pullman’s National Lentil Festival visit www.lentilfest.com.
For more information about top events in Washington State take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Washington.