Long Live the Kings (LLTK) is hosting our annual Return of the Kings Celebration to welcome our iconic Chinook salmon back as they return home to spawn at Glenwood Springs on Orcas Island. The free community event will run from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm. Take in the scenic beauty of Eastsound Bay while enjoying guided tours of our hatchery and fish ladder, fish dissection demonstrations, a beer garden, delicious food, live music, local vendors, and family-friendly activities. LLTK welcomes attendees of all ages to the celebration. This year the event will have a dedicated area for children’s activities. We’re excited to introduce young salmon stewards to the wonder of salmon returns and to inspire guests of every generation to connect with our region’s keystone species. "Every year when the Chinook come back to Glenwood Springs, it's a good day," said Mike O'Connell, Facility Manager at the Glenwood Springs Field Station. "These fish matter twice over. They keep local fishing going, and they're food the Southern Resident orcas need to survive." Multiple food vendors will be on-site providing lunch and snack options for purchase. Additionally, a 21+ beer garden will be available with pours from local breweries and wineries. A shuttle will be available to take guests to and from the ferry (seating is limited). To guarantee a spot on the shuttle, please RSVP to the event. For more information about the Return of the Kings Event or to RSVP, please visit: www.lltk.org/return-of-the-kings/.
Date and Time
Saturday Sep 12, 2026
11:30 AM - 3:00 PM PDT
September 12, 2026; 11:30 am to 3:00 pm.
Location
Glenwood Springs Hatchery 1649 Olga Road, Eastsound
Fees/Admission
Free
Contact Information
Kevin Cody
Communications Coordinator
Long Live the Kings
kcody@lltk.org
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