/ Events
Port Lecture Series is back for 2026!
Our popular public lecture series is back! Engaging speakers are invited to present on a specific topic related to the Port of Vancouver USA. Each season we cover several subjects from the maritime industry to global trade, tourism and more. It's a great way to learn more about your port and what we do for Vancouver.
Lectures are FREE and open to the public, and are held at the Kiggins Theater, 1011 Main Street, Vancouver. Concessions are available for purchase (the popcorn is excellent!), including alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Note that parking is free downtown after 6:00 p.m.
When asked if she would recommend the lectures to others, one attendee last year responded: "Yes! It's an opportunity to see the great things happening here. You learn to appreciate how everyday lives are affected by trade and all the different work being done at the port."
“From Commodities to Community: How the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association Keeps Maritime Thriving”
Neil Maunu, Executive Director – Pacific Northwest Waterways Association
Wednesday, March 18, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
The Columbia River is our region’s “liquid highway”–what makes it one of North America’s most reliable waterways? Learn about the vital role the Pacific Northwest Waterways Association (PNWA) plays in keeping the Columbia River and our other waterways open, efficient and competitive. Founded in 1934, PNWA has more than 150 members including ports, businesses, labor organizations and other entities, working hand-in-hand with federal agencies and policymakers to ensure our working waterways benefit our region. Neil Maunu, PNWA’s Executive Director, will dive into the successes and challenges of advocating for river maintenance, environmental stewardship, trade and more.
"Reliability by River: Tidewater Barge Lines on the Columbia-Snake River System"
Jennifer Riddle, Corporate Communications & Marketing Manager, PIO – Tidewater
Wednesday, April 15, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Tidewater is the largest inland marine transportation company west of the Mississippi River. Its operating area extends 465 miles from the Port of Astoria, Oregon to the inland Port of Lewiston, Idaho. Discover how this Vancouver-headquartered business moves vital cargo up and down our river system. Tidewater’s Jennifer Riddle will detail the complex and integral work carried out by Tidewater’s tugs, barges, terminals and people.
"Collaboration is Key: Why the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma formed The Northwest Seaport Alliance"
John Wolfe, CEO and Tong Zhu, Chief Commercial & Strategy Officer – The Northwest Seaport Alliance
Wednesday, April 29, 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Hear the story behind one of the Pacific Northwest’s most impactful partnerships – The Northwest Seaport Alliance. With two of every five jobs in Washington tied to international trade, the Ports of Tacoma and Seattle created this unique partnership over a decade ago to strengthen our region’s ability to move goods, support jobs and compete in the global economy. The Northwest Seaport Alliance’s CEO, John Wolfe, and Chief Commercial and Strategy Officer, Tong Zhu, will detail the decision to build this partnership between Washington’s two largest container ports and provide insight into how and why Washington excels at trade.
Community Events
One of the ways the Port of Vancouver USA fosters community engagement is through our sponsorship and attendance of various community events. In 2025 we supported several local groups and events in Vancouver:
- National Night Out
- Free Friday Night Movies: Fruit Valley Park
- Vancouver Farmers Market
- Math & Science Night: Fruit Valley Community Center
Public Tours
Ever been curious about what goes on at the Port of Vancouver USA? Ever wonder how nearly 75,000 Subarus get from ship to land every year? If so, join us for a free port tour. We’re always excited to welcome guests to the port and show our neighbors around. Tour season runs from May through September with several dates and times provided.
Port Report
Each year, the Port of Vancouver USA produces the "Port Report" video. This annual report looks back at the highlights and challenges of the previous year and gives an update on current and future projects.
