Summer in the Northwest is all about festivals that take advantage of the long, warm days. Some are large and some are smaller, but all are a great way to get in touch with the region and enjoy some time outside. A great family festival taking place this weekend is Rhubarb Days in Sumner, which is all about - you guessed it - rhubarb.

"Sumner is officially the rhubarb pie capital, so focusing on the city's agricultural history was a natural," said Kim Straight, a board member of the festival. "Combining that with our annual Arts and Crafts Festival is a way to showcase all that the city of Sumner can offer."

The two-day festival is filled with family fun and lots of delicious food. On Saturday, join in by signing up for the rhubarb bake-off, where you can compete for not only the best rhubarb pies and cakes, but also salad dressings, chutneys, sauces, jams and more. On Sunday, there's a pie eating contest if you prefer to consume rather than cook.

Other things to do include a photo contest, enjoy kids' games and activities and watch live entertainment by Elvis impersonator Danny Vernon - always one of the highlights of this summery happening. Alternately, cruise the farmers market or check out more than 30 arts, crafts and vendor booths.

Food vendors at Rhubarb Days feature a variety of treats, from hamburgers to kettle corn to Fisher scones.

RHUBARB DAYS FESTIVAL, Saturday, July 18, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, July 19, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., downtown Sumner, http://sumnerdowntown.com/rhubarb_days.html