celebrate the longest day of the year at the Come As You Are Music Festival, a citywide event honoring World Music Day. Running June 20 to 22, 2025, and presented by Make Music Aberdeen, The Music Project, and the Downtown Aberdeen Association, this free, all-ages festival transforms Aberdeen into a living soundtrack.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Come As You Are offers the perfect excuse to explore Aberdeen’s historic architecture, independent shops, thriving food scene, and its deep connection to music history, including its status as the hometown of Kurt Cobain.
“This is our third official year, and the vibe downtown has been welcoming and festive while being surrounded with music,” says Wil Russoul, director of the Downtown Aberdeen Association. “In 2023, we had 40 street musicians. In 2024, we had 156. This year, we hope to break that record.”
Expect a diverse range of performances from rock and blues to jazz, metal, country, original music, Christian, and grunge. With music clinics, open mics, vendor markets, and community art activities, the festival invites seasoned musicians and newcomers alike to share the stage.
Spotlight: The Music Project
Unplugged at The Music Project is a nonprofit based in Aberdeen that’s dedicated to preserving local music history, amplifying unheard voices, and connecting community through the power of music.
This year, The Music Project unveils the AMP LAB, a youth focused, mentored media learning studio where Rick Moyer of Moyer Multimedia will broadcast live event coverage in real time, while warming up the mics for special guests, visitors and spotlight happenings of the event.
A major highlight of the weekend for all fans and music enthusiasts, iconic photographer Charles Peterson, who captured the raw visual identity of grunge, will appear for a live Q&A and book signing of his latest release, “Charles Peterson’s Nirvana,” on The Music Project’s inside stage. Hear from the man who defined a movement one frame at a time.
This is a rare opportunity to hear the stories behind the most iconic images of the movement.
The Music Project Main Stage and Highlights
The Music Project Main Stage on South K Street will feature standout acts like One Way Sky (presented by Indie Groove Records), Foovana, The Generals, and River City Ruin, among others.
“Guitars will be given away, books will be signed, and the energy will be live and electric all day long,” says Lee Bacon, cofounder of The Music Project. “This is a day for everyone to feel the pulse of the music scene, loud, local, and alive.”
“We’re grateful to the local businesses who open their doors to host musicians,” says Russoul. “Volunteers, organizations, and partners like the Lions Beer Garden bring this community festival to life using local products and local pride.”
Additional performance venues include:
- Aberdeen Arts Center, 200 W Market Street, featuring The Salmonberry Band
- Mount Olympus Brewing Outdoor Stage, 105 Heron Street, hosting HellaGurl, Anolomy, The Red Doors, and The Hogue & Moore Band
- Driftwood Players Theatre, 120 E Third Street, with live simulcasts of “Hamlet” and “The Importance of Being Earnest”
- Grays Harbor Historical Seaport, with performances including Three For Silver
- Game Freaks, where Call of Duty designer James Portnow will make a special appearance
This is just a preview. More performers and partner venues are being added weekly as the event approaches.
Travel and Lodging Information for Aberdeen Music Festival
Plan ahead and expect to walk between venues throughout downtown Aberdeen. Be prepared for coastal weather and dress accordingly. For lodging, visit Grays Harbor Tourism and Greater Grays Harbor Inc. for listings of hotels, inns, and local accommodations.
Grays Harbor Transit offers local transportation and taxi service.
Beyond Aberdeen: Regional Music Events in Grays Harbor
You can also explore remote festival happenings in nearby coastal towns, including Westport, Ocean Shores, and Seabrook. Events include performances at the Sea Glass Grill at Westport Winery Garden Resort, additional shows at the Grays Harbor Historical Seaport, a multi-day Art Studio Tour, and a MusicFest in Cosmopolis at the refreshed Mill Creek Pond.
Grays Harbor is a beautiful place to visit. So come as you are to Make Music Aberdeen on June 21 for a weekend of unforgettable music, art, and community energy that celebrates the creative spirit of the Pacific Northwest. For more information on schedules, participation, events, and activities, visit the Downtown Aberdeen Association website.
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