We had a great turnout we had for our annual Welcome the Whales celebration! This past weekend, Whidbey Island turned into a celebration zone, complete with sea creatures, flower wreaths, and a healthy dose of our coastal charm. The annual Welcome the Whales festivities brought locals and visitors together to honor the return of our beloved gray whales. If you missed it, don’t worry—we’ve got the highlights right here.

Kid-Friendly Fun and Creative Costumes

The weekend kicked off with a buzz of activity at Langley United Methodist Church, where kids (and more than a few enthusiastic adults) got their craft on. Glue, glitter, and giggles were in abundant supply as families designed everything from jellyfish hats to orca-inspired capes. The creativity on display was nothing short of inspiring—turns out, Langley might be harboring the next great costume designer!

Parade of Pure Joy

Saturday’s parade was a sight to behold. Families, business owners, and local groups transformed into an oceanic wonderland, with costumes ranging from elegant sea turtles to playful crabs. The procession started on Camano Avenue and made its way down to First Street, where locals and tourists lined the route, cheering on the colorful cast of characters.

The grand finale took us to Seawall Park, where the Welcome the Whales Grand Marshal Lori Christopher of Hat Island, spoke a few heartfelt words of our island comradery. Local musician Eric Arnold serenaded us with a classic tune that brought the underwater world to life. His lyrics painted vivid pictures of Puget Sound’s marine wonders, creating a moment of connection between the human and aquatic realms.

Fun fact: A camera crew from Atlas Obscura was in town all weekend to capture the magic of this uniquely Whidbey event. Who knows? Their piece on South Whidbey is aptly called: Small Town Big Story. Keep an eye out for its release!

A Heartfelt Welcome Ceremony

The parade’s conclusion wasn’t the end of the fun—it was just the beginning. At Seawall Park, participants gathered for a poignant ceremony to truly welcome our massive marine friends. Flower wreaths were released into the sea, carried by the tide as swimmers and divers joined the chilly waters in solidarity. A moment of prayer tied it all together, reminding us of the importance of these majestic creatures and the ecosystem they call home.

Sunday: Science and Sea Voyages

The weekend’s celebration continued on Sunday with a fascinating presentation by researchers Jim Darling and John Calambokidis. Hosted at the Langley Whale Center (and accessible online for those cozying up at home), their talk delved into the history of gray whale research and offered an incredible glimpse into the lives of these gentle giants.

To cap it all off, a special whale-watching fundraiser set sail from Langley Marina. From 3 to 5 PM, attendees embarked on a guided tour of the local waters, enjoying close encounters with the marine life that makes Whidbey Island so extraordinary.

Until Next Year…

Welcome the Whales was a weekend to remember, blending education, entertainment, and heartfelt community spirit. As we bid farewell to this year’s festivities, we’re already counting down to next year’s celebration. Whether you donned a costume, sent a wreath into the waves, or cheered from the sidelines, thank you for being part of this uniquely Whidbey tradition.