It's only a week away: The 22nd Annual Wenatchee River Salmon Festival, starting on Saturday, September 22. This is absolutely the best event for families in the region. There is so much to see and do here that many families make it a weekend.

One of the first things you see when you enter the grounds at the National Fish Hatchery in Leavenworth is the gyotaku activity, which means fish painting, and the kids love it. Their art is hung and dried so they take it home. That's just one of over 20 activities in the Salmon Fest "edutainment" area.

There are outdoor-active things that they can try in the Outdoor Recreation Area, that include shooting a bow and arrow, casting a fly and tying a fly, paddle a kayak and more. On the stage again this year will be the ever popular Reptile Man, and authentic native American dancers. A very special aspect of Salmon Fest this year is the Native American Village, with a new long house, dancers, drummers and crafts. Be sure to try the smoked salmon made the traditional way.

I have just touched on a few of things that families can do this year, and I suggest that you log onto salmonfest.org to learn more. I never miss Salmon Fest and I hope your family can come this year.