Strolling through fields full of beautiful blooming dahlias is one of the most exceptional summer experiences in the Portland area. Their peak bloom is marked by Dahlia Festival that is held at Swan Island Dahlias Farm in Canby, Oregon, on Labor Day weekend and the weekend before. Visitors can see over 400 stunning flower arrangements and over 15,000 cut blooms on display at three indoor pavilions.
In addition to flower arranging demonstrations, the festival features lectures about dahlia and discussions at 1 p.m. Every day, there are several dahlia tuber dividing demonstration. There is also live music: jazz and blues, as well as wine and food. The festival runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
If you cannot make it to the festival, there is still a chance to visit stunning blooming fields that are generally open from the beginning of August through the end of the blooming season in late September or even early October. 16 ha (40 acres) is the largest dahlia growing farm in the country. Fields are located in the Swan Island area, above the mouth of the Willamette River. Visitors can have a picnic overlooking blooming fields or take some cut flowers home.
For the tickets and latest updates, please check with the official website (see External Resources below).
