The Chehalis Flying Saucer Party returns September 13–14, 2025! The weekend promises more fun than ever, with free family activities, fascinating speakers, films, music, and plenty of small-town charm.

The celebration traces back to June 1947, when pilot Kenneth Arnold took off from the Chehalis Airport and reported seeing nine “flying discs” over Mineral, Washington. His story introduced the phrase flying saucer to the world and launched decades of fascination with UFOs. That historic event inspired the first Flying Saucer Party in 2019, and today it continues to draw visitors eager to celebrate this unusual piece of Pacific Northwest history.

Throughout the weekend, the Lewis County Historical Museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with free admission. Inside, visitors can explore the Kenneth Arnold exhibit, craft their own upcycled flying saucers, and browse the vendor fair. On Saturday afternoon, the excitement spills into the streets with the all-new Alien Invasion Parade on Front Street at 1 p.m., where costumes and creativity are encouraged. Immediately afterward, the popular Saucer Drop returns, as flying discs are tossed from the gazebo for kids and adults alike to catch and win prizes.

Just steps away, downtown businesses will join the fun. McFiler’s will host live music, while Mint City Coffee Roasters transforms into an out-of-this-world art space. Families won’t want to miss Timberland Regional Library’s Flying Saucer Storytime at Mint City on Saturday at 4 p.m., which pairs perfectly with a specialty coffee for parents.

Those looking for something more active can sign up for the Dash for Disclosure 5K, starting Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m. in front of the museum. Costumes are encouraged, and registration is available through director@lewiscountymuseum.org. In the evening, McFiler’s becomes the stage for the always-entertaining Karaoke Costume Contest at 7 p.m.

The festival also brings an impressive lineup of speakers to McFiler’s Chehalis Theater with sessions scheduled throughout Saturday and capped by a 5:30 p.m. speaker panel. Tickets start at $15 per session, or guests can enjoy full access with a VIP package.

Film lovers will want to kick off the weekend at the Northwest Flying Saucer Film Fest, which opens Friday evening, September 12, at 6 p.m. at the theater. The cinematic fun continues Saturday night with a showing of Men in Black at 7:30 p.m.

Whether you’re a UFOlogist, a curious skeptic, or simply looking for family fun, the Flying Saucer Party offers history, discovery, and plenty of laughter. For the full experience, VIP packages include access to speakers and films, special merchandise, and downtown goodie bags. All proceeds benefit the Lewis County Historical Museum, helping preserve and share the region’s unique history. Memberships to the museum are also available online at lewiscountymuseum.org.