Seaside Museum Blooms with Historic Dahlia Show Returning to N. Oregon Coast

Published 08/02/2026 at 8:05 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Seaside, Oregon) - The Seaside Museum is bringing back one of the Oregon coast's oldest floral traditions later this month, renewing an event that first took root more than a century ago. (Above: Dahlia Parade, Seaside 1958 - Sweepstakes winners Griffith and Gustafson children as mother goose characters)

Seaside adopted the dahlia as its official flower in 1909, picking it for its striking appearance and reliable growth along the Oregon coast. That same year, the burgeoning tourist Mecca of Seaside launched its first Dahlia Show. By 1913, the Children’s Dahlia Parade had become part of the festivities, continuing annually until 1964.

“The Seaside Museum is honored (and excited) to revive this historical tradition for the enrichment of our community,” it said in a press release.

This year’s Seaside Dahlia Show, presented by the Seaside Museum, is scheduled for Saturday, August 22, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. at the museum, 570 Necanicum Drive.

York & Lancaster, introduced 1915 to the Oregon coast

Interest in dahlias has surged in recent years. The museum called it “blooming.” Growers are introducing new varieties bred for both appearance and durability - traits well suited to coastal weather. Many of the blooms in the museum’s Butterfield Garden are heirloom varieties dating to the late 1800s and early 1900s, though all types of dahlias may be entered.

The event is designed purely for fun and community participation. Bouquets and single-stem flowers will be available for purchase, with proceeds supporting the Butterfield Garden. Members of the Portland Dahlia Society will be on hand to offer cultivation advice.

White Aster, introduced 1879.

Registration is open through Aug. 20 at 4 p.m. There is no entry fee. Entry forms for blooms, bouquets, and floral arrangements are available at seasideoregonmuseum.com or at the museum during open hours. Participants may drop off their flowers on Friday, Aug. 21, from 2 to 7 p.m.

The Seaside Museum is open Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Dahlia (Pink) - Betty Ann, introduced 1928

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