Chinook Fest: A Reel Good Music Festival
Who likes music in the woods? Most Pacific Northwesterners, last time we checked
By Brandon Taylor September 8, 2014
Perhaps the best way to introduce Chinook Fest–a Seattle-grown roots rock festival held in central Washington–is to explain that it currently occupies the desirable groove between fledgling production and overcrowded mobfest.
Founded by Seattle band Cody Beebe & the Crooks three years ago, Chinook Fest has grown from a collection of close musical friends performing in the forest to a weekend-long, 28-band blowout in the same location: the picturesque woods of Naches, Washington. This year’s lineup is the biggest yet, mixing Seattle staples like indie-soul group Pickwick and the oh-so funky McTuff (check them out if you haven’t; they play every Tuesday at the Seamonster Lounge) with national sensations like alt-country artist Sturgill Simpson, who just played on The Late Show with David Letterman and was recently featured in Rolling Stone magazine. These bands are supplemented by lots of Seattle talent and, of course, the concert founder himself.
Cody Beebe rocking out at Chinook Fest 2013
Though the three-day festival’s popularity has (happily) mandated negotiations for larger venue capacity, it rocks the same principles it started out with: intimacy, great music and a focus on regional charm. To this effect, local vendors such as the award-winning Bale Breaker Brewing and Naches Heights Vineyard will bring beer and wine from a-near, while a sophisticated recycling system adheres to Chinook’s additional goal of sustainability.
Sasquatch giving his sustainable seal of approval
Sasquatch sightings abound–reportedly a product of the festival’s friendliness–and the line between musicians and festival goers is pleasantly blurred. Last year’s show sold out, so if you’re looking to join the ranks of campers swaying under the trees (bring your tent and camping essentials!), you’ll want to snap up your tickets ASAP. All further questions can be answered at Chinookfest.com or by viewing the 2013 highlight reel below.
Times and prices vary September 12-14, Jim Sprick Community Park, 13680 WA Hwy 410
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