Visiting Kelsey Creek Farm in Bellevue for the annual Sheep Shearing event is a classic Pacific Northwest spring tradition, drawing thousands of visitors eager to experience farm life up close. If you’re considering a family-friendly outing that blends education, history, and hands-on fun, this event is a must-see[1][3][5].
What Makes the Event Special
The sheep shearing festival at Kelsey Creek Farm is one of the community’s most unique and well-attended events, with over 4,000 people gathering each year to watch professional shearers give the resident sheep their much-needed “haircuts” in preparation for warmer weather[1][3][5]. The shearing is not just for show-domesticated sheep require regular shearing for their health and comfort, as their wool doesn’t naturally shed and can become uncomfortably heavy or hot if left untrimmed[2].
Highlights of the Day
- Sheep Shearing Demonstrations: Watch skilled shearers remove the thick winter coats from the sheep, while learning about the importance and history of shearing. Each sheep can produce between six to ten pounds of wool annually[7].
- Fiber Arts & Wool Spinning: See local artisans demonstrate spinning and other fiber arts, showing how raw fleece is transformed into yarn and textiles[4][7].
- Hands-On Activities: Kids can get creative with crafts, bouncy animals, hand tattoos, and garden play in the Country Lane Play Area[5][7].
- Farm Animal Encounters: Meet not only sheep but also other farm animals, and enjoy pony rides (tickets required, sold on-site)[5][7].
- Tractor-Pulled Wagon Rides: Take a nostalgic ride around the farm, courtesy of the Northwest Vintage Iron Tractor Club[7].
- Step Back in Time: The Fraser Cabin offers a glimpse into 1880s pioneer life, with heritage demonstrations by the Eastside Heritage Center[1][7].
- Food and Refreshments: Food is available for purchase, but remember to bring cash as there’s no ATM on site[4][5][7].
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- Admission and Parking: Entry and many activities are free, but some (like pony rides) require tickets. Parking is limited at the farm, but shuttle service is available from Wilburton Park and Ride and Bannerwood Sports Park[5][6][7].
- No Pets: For the safety of the animals, pets are not allowed in the barnyard or on the shuttle[1][6][7].
- Event Timing: The event typically runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on a Saturday in late April-this year, it was held on April 26, 2025[1][5].
Why Sheep Shearing Matters
Sheep shearing is more than just a spectacle-it’s an essential part of animal care. As explained during the demonstrations, domesticated sheep have been bred over thousands of years to grow thick wool that doesn’t naturally shed. Regular shearing keeps them healthy, comfortable, and ready for the changing seasons[2]. The event also connects visitors to the deep agricultural roots of the region and highlights traditional skills still practiced today.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a local or visiting the Seattle area, the Kelsey Creek Farm Sheep Shearing event offers a memorable, educational, and fun-filled day for all ages. From the excitement of the shearing itself to the array of hands-on activities and historical demonstrations, it’s a celebration of both community and the rhythms of farm life[1][3][5][7].
What part of the Kelsey Creek Farm Sheep Shearing event are you most excited to experience-watching the live sheep shearing, trying out hands-on crafts, meeting the farm animals, or exploring the historic Fraser Cabin?
Citations:
[1] https://bellevuewa.gov/sheep-shearing
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4bcz8LJjl4
[3] https://bellevuewa.gov/city-government/departments/parks/community-centers/kelsey-creek-farm/events/sheep-shearing
[4] http://bellevue.com/happening.php?id=1036
[5] https://www.parentmap.com/calendar/sheep-shearing-kelsey-creek-farm-1
[6] https://www.bellevuedowntown.com/do/sheep-shearing-at-kelsey-creek-farm-2
[7] https://www.seattleschild.com/events/sheep-shearing-at-kelsey-creek-farm/
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