Slip, slime, and slugs — it’s the most unusual Northwest festival ever, and it’s back for its 42nd year! Slug Fest at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is happening June 28 and 29, and families can expect a two-day event full of silly, slimy fun, crafts, and a deeper appreciation for one of the forest’s most important creatures: the banana slug.
What is Slug Fest at Northwest Trek?
Slug Fest is an event near Tacoma where kids and adults alike celebrate all things slug. It’s goofy, it’s muddy, and it’s surprisingly educational. It’s easily one of Northwest Trek’s most popular events! The weekend includes crafts, live animal chats, scavenger hunts, and of course, the iconic human slug races. It’s a perfect excuse to get outdoors, learn about Pacific Northwest wildlife, and enjoy a little silliness.
Did You Say … Slug Races?
The highlight of the weekend is always the human slug races. Participants don waterproof costumes and inch their way, much like their animal counterparts, along a soapy and slimy water track on their bellies. It’s a hilarious and memorable tradition that draws a crowd every year.
Race registration happens 15 minutes before each race at the Picnic Pavilion, and guests will be grouped by age (4–6, 7–9, 10–12, 13–17, and 18+).
- Race times: 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.
- Pro tip: Get there early—races fill fast!
Win or lose, you’ll leave with bragging rights — and the ability to say you totally “snailed it.”
Snail mail, incoming! (Image: Katie Cotterill, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park)
Slug Fest Activities for Kids and Families
In addition to races, guests can:
- Craft and wear your own pipe-cleaner tentacle headbands
- Enjoy messy mud painting
- Write a postcard at the “Snail Mail” station
- Join the “Slug Tots” area near the main entry, with cornhole, bubbles, and activities just for little ones
- Visit the Cheney Discovery Center to see a real banana slug up close
- Try a self-guided scavenger hunt along the nature trails — how many slugs can you spot?
Learn About Banana Slugs and PNW Ecology
Why celebrate slugs? It’s more than just the slime. Banana slugs play a crucial role in our forest ecosystem. As decomposers, they break down organic matter — like fallen leaves and dead plants — and return nutrients to the soil. Without them, our beautiful forests wouldn’t thrive.
All weekend, kids and families can learn more during Keeper Chats and talks at Slug School, hosted by real slug experts at the Baker Cabin. These live presentations include fun banana slug facts and show why these gentle, yellow-green giants are ecological heroes.
Event Details: Times, Dates, and Admission Info
- Dates: Saturday, June 28 & Sunday, June 29, 2025
- Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days
- Cost: Free with park admission or membership
- Location: Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Eatonville (35 miles southeast of Tacoma off Highway 161)
Northwest Trek is a 723-acre zoological park featuring Northwest wildlife in their natural habitats. It is 35 miles southeast of Tacoma off Highway 161 in Eatonville.
Looking for more unique outdoor fun? Try one of these kid-friendly animal encounters near Seattle.
