Friday, January 24th and Saturday, January 25th
Look forward to sQuatch Fest, every January on the last Friday and Saturday of the month. A HUGE hit for Bigfoot fans and anyone else packed into two-days at the Cowlitz County Event Center. With presentations by renowned speakers and experts in the study of Sasquatch, along with a host of vendors and a place to swap Bigfoot tales over a specialty craft ale. Plus there's popular Kids Cave for young explorers.
sQuatch Fest in Longview, WA is an annual celebration dedicated to all things Bigfoot. Held in the picturesque city of Longview, nestled in the lush greenery of Washington state, this festival brings together enthusiasts, researchers, and curious visitors alike to revel in the mystery of the legendary creature.
At sQuatch Fest, you can expect a range of activities and attractions designed to entertain and educate attendees about Bigfoot and its cultural significance. From expert speakers sharing their latest research findings to documentary screenings exploring sightings and encounters, there's plenty to satisfy both the curious and the dedicated Sasquatch enthusiast.
Of course, no festival would be complete without food and entertainment, and sQuatch Fest delivers on both fronts. Local vendors serve up delicious fare, ranging from classic festival favorites to Pacific Northwest specialties, while live music and performances keep the atmosphere lively in the beer and wine tent known as Brew Mountain.
Whether you're a skeptic, a true believer, or simply looking for a fun and quirky experience, sQuatch Fest in Longview, WA offers something for everyone. So, grab your camera, keep an eye out for footprints in the forest, and join in the hunt for Bigfoot at this one-of-a-kind festival. Who knows, you might just catch a glimpse of the elusive creature yourself!
For more information: 360.423.8400 | info@kelsolongviewchamber.org
Contact our accommodation partners to plan your stay:
Sleep Inn
360.423.8880 or Register Online
250 S Kelso Dr, Kelso, WA 98626
GuestHouse
360.414.5953 or Register Online
501 Three Rivers Dr, Kelso, WA, 98626
Comfort Inn
360.425.4600 or Register Online
440 Three Rivers Dr, Kelso, WA, 98626
Host: Tyler Bounds
Raised in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in Northwest Washington, deep in the heart of “Bigfootland,” which undoubtedly fueled his fascination with the Sasquatch phenomenon from a young age. At the age of 4 or 5, Tyler had an encounter with two apparent Bigfoots, sparking a lifelong passion for the subject. His solo “expedition” to Bluff Creek, California, in 1992 further solidified his interest in Bigfoot research.
In 2007, Tyler embarked on his first BFRO (Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization) expedition and soon became an Investigator, Researcher, and Expedition Organizer with the group. He has since organized and facilitated numerous Bigfoot expeditions across the country, with a special focus on the Pacific Northwest, covering Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and Northern California.
Tyler's expertise and enthusiasm for Bigfoot research led him to join the production crew of the hit cable television show Finding Bigfoot during its inaugural season. Over the years, he traveled extensively, camping in remote areas, interviewing witnesses, and searching for evidence of Bigfoot while working on the show. After the conclusion of his time with Finding Bigfoot in late 2014, Tyler shifted his creative energy to a new project.
He became a co-creator of Pacific Northweird, an investigative paranormal-comedy-art series that delves into the eccentricities of the Pacific Northwest. This unique show, available on YouTube, highlights the region’s mysteries and oddities. Tyler continues to spend a significant amount of time exploring the forests, valleys, coasts, and mountains of the Pacific Northwest, deepening his understanding of the natural world and its unexplained phenomena.
Social Bio: Tyler Bounds, raised in Washington’s Cascade Mountains, has been passionate about Bigfoot since a childhood encounter. He joined the BFRO in 2007, leading Bigfoot expeditions across the Pacific Northwest. Tyler also worked on Finding Bigfoot and co-created Pacific Northweird, a series exploring regional mysteries.
Co-host: Amy Bue - Bigfoot Researcher and Educator
A passionate Bigfoot researcher, writer, and educator based in Northeast Ohio. She co-founded Project Zoobook, a groundbreaking collaboration that brings together Bigfoot investigators and scientists, including primatologists, wildlife biologists, and anthropologists, to legitimize the study of Sasquatch. As a member of the Olympic Project Bigfoot Research Team, Amy’s fieldwork focuses on Pennsylvania’s Allegheny National Forest, but she has traveled across the U.S., investigating high-interest areas and following up on Bigfoot sightings.
Her dedication has earned her notable recognition, including the 2018 International Bigfoot Conference’s Dedicated Researcher Award and the 2020 Bigfoot Community Choice Female Researcher of the Year Award. Amy’s work has also been featured in media outlets such as The Wall Street Journal. Beyond her research, she is currently writing a book about Tom Page, an influential figure who financially backed the historic Bigfoot expeditions of Roger Patterson and Peter Byrne.
With her unique blend of scientific collaboration and hands-on investigation, Amy is a leading voice in Bigfoot research and a tireless advocate for destigmatizing the subject in the scientific community.
Social Bio: Amy Bue, a Bigfoot researcher from Ohio, co-founded Project Zoobook to legitimize Sasquatch study through collaboration with scientists. She conducts fieldwork with the Olympic Project and has earned several awards for her work. Amy is also writing a book on Tom Page, a key figure in historic Bigfoot expeditions.
Expert: Ken Gerhard
A world-renowned cryptozoologist, author, and lecturer who has dedicated his career to investigating the existence of mysterious creatures across the globe. His extensive research has taken him on expeditions in search of legends like Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, the Chupacabra, Mothman, and the infamous Beast of Gevaudan.
With six books to his name, Ken’s expertise in the field of unknown animals has been featured on major television networks, including the Travel Channel, Science Channel, National Geographic, Syfy, and Animal Planet. His work has appeared on popular programs such as MonsterQuest, Ancient Aliens, Missing in Alaska, America Unearthed, Legend Hunters, and The UnXplained with William Shatner.
Currently, Ken can be seen on the History Channel’s hit series The Proof Is Out There, where he continues his search for definitive evidence of the world's greatest mysteries. His wealth of experience and fascinating discoveries make him one of the foremost voices in cryptozoology today.
Social Bio: Ken Gerhard is a renowned cryptozoologist, author, and lecturer who has investigated creatures like Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, and Chupacabra worldwide. His research has been featured on networks such as the Travel Channel, National Geographic, and History Channel. Ken is currently on The Proof Is Out There and has authored six books, making him a leading voice in cryptozoology.
Expert: Matt Pruitt
A Sasquatch Expert With over two decades dedicated to investigating the Sasquatch phenomenon, Matt Pruitt has become a leading authority on the subject. Combining in-depth conceptual analysis with practical fieldwork, Matt has developed an unparalleled understanding of the elusive creature known as Bigfoot. In 2023, he published The Phenomenal Sasquatch: Seeking the Natural Origins of a Cultural Icon, a groundbreaking book that reflects his unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth behind one of the world's most intriguing mysteries.
Matt's engaging public speaking has made him a sought-after guest on various media platforms, where he shares his insights and expertise. In addition to his investigative work, he is the producer and editor of the popular podcast Bigfoot & Beyond with Cliff and Bobo, further cementing his role as a key figure in the Sasquatch research community.
Join us to hear Matt Pruitt dive deep into his experiences and findings in the fascinating world of cryptozoology!
Social Bio: Matt Pruitt is a leading Sasquatch researcher with over 20 years of experience. His 2023 book, The Phenomenal Sasquatch, explores the natural origins of the Bigfoot phenomenon. A sought-after speaker, Matt also produces and edits the podcast Bigfoot & Beyond with Cliff and Bobo, solidifying his influence in Sasquatch research.
Expert: Cliff Barackman
Veteran Bigfoot Field Researcher and Evidence Expert Since 1994, Cliff Barackman has been at the forefront of Bigfoot research, dedicating three decades to uncovering the truth behind undiscovered hominoids. His extensive expeditions have taken him across 46 states and five continents, making him one of the most experienced Bigfoot field researchers in the world. As the evidence analyst on Animal Planet’s hit television show Finding Bigfoot, Cliff has used his expertise to analyze and interpret photographic, video, film, and sound evidence related to Sasquatch encounters.
Specializing in footprint and handprint evidence, Cliff is regarded as a leading authority on Sasquatch track analysis. He curates one of the largest and most significant collections of cast evidence in existence, documenting unique and rare impressions. His knowledge of this physical evidence has been critical in advancing the understanding of Bigfoot’s existence.
Cliff is also the co-owner and curator of the North American Bigfoot Center in Oregon, where he shares his findings and educates the public on the ongoing search for Sasquatch. An accomplished musician and outdoorsman, Cliff lives in the heart of Bigfoot territory, on the western slopes of Oregon’s Cascade Mountain range, where he continues his field research and quiet life among nature.
Social Bio: Cliff Barackman has been a leading figure in Bigfoot research since 1994, conducting expeditions across 46 states and five continents. As the evidence analyst on Finding Bigfoot, he specializes in footprint and handprint analysis, curating a significant collection of cast evidence. Cliff co-owns the North American Bigfoot Center in Oregon, where he educates the public about Sasquatch. An accomplished musician and outdoorsman, he lives in Oregon's Cascade Mountains, continuing his field research.
Expert: Kathy Strain
Serving as the Heritage Resource and Tribal Relations Programs Manager for the Stanislaus National Forest in Sonora, California. With a Master’s degree in Anthropology, she is a distinguished researcher specializing in the intersection of indigenous cultures and their traditional beliefs regarding Bigfoot. Her highly regarded book, Giants, Cannibals & Monsters: Bigfoot in Native Culture, provides a comprehensive exploration of 154 stories from 57 tribes across North America, offering rare insight into the ancient narratives surrounding this cryptid. Kathy holds leadership positions as a Board Member of the non-profit Alliance of Independent Bigfoot Researchers and as a member of the North American Wood Ape Conservancy. Her expertise has led to appearances in numerous documentaries, television shows, and radio programs, where she illuminates the intersection of folklore, history, and cryptozoology. Currently, she is a featured expert on the History Channel’s The Proof Is Out There.
Social Bio: Kathy Strain is the Heritage Resource and Tribal Relations Programs Manager for the Stanislaus National Forest in California. With a Master’s in Anthropology, she specializes in indigenous cultures and their beliefs about Bigfoot. Her book, Giants, Cannibals & Monsters, explores 154 stories from 57 Native American tribes. A Board Member of the Alliance of Independent Bigfoot Researchers and a member of the North American Wood Ape Conservancy, Kathy frequently appears in documentaries and is a featured expert on the History Channel’s The Proof Is Out There.
Joseph Granda - “The Sasquatchologist” Writer and Movie Director
A versatile figure in the entertainment industry with a career spanning film, stage, and visual arts. Trained in New York City under William Alderson, he has made significant contributions as an actor, writer, director, and producer. He is the Founder and CEO of Defenestration Films. Joseph has been involved in projects like The Shape of Shadows and The Sasqualogist, which he wrote, directed, and starred in for Merkel Media. He has worked alongside Hollywood stars such as Keanu Reeves, James Marsden, and Mira Sorvino, and his stage performances, including Broadway’s Club House Madness, have been acclaimed. His writing credits include screenplays like The Healing Garden, for which he also directed, The Unicorn of St. Ignatius High, and his forthcoming film Gen-Z Werewolf. Joseph has also collaborated with renowned directors such as Abel Ferrara and Tony Scott, showcasing his broad experience in both indie and commercial production.
Social Bio: Joseph Granda is a versatile entertainment professional with a background in film, stage, and visual arts. He is the Founder and CEO of Defenestration Films and has written, directed, and starred in projects like The Shape of Shadows and The Sasqualogist. Joseph has worked with stars such as Keanu Reeves and has acclaimed stage performances, including Club House Madness. His writing includes The Healing Garden and the upcoming Gen-Z Werewolf.
Shane Corson - Tech & Footprint Casting Workshop Leader
Born in Scotland, Shane was interested in cryptozoology from a young age and moved to San Diego, California, as a teenager. An avid outdoorsman and adventurer, Shane has always been passionate about discovering new things. His interests include tracking, hiking, fishing, hunting, and testing survivalist skills. In 1997, he began field research on Sasquatch, interviewing eyewitnesses who had possible encounters, primarily in the San Bernardino Mountains, Yosemite, and Northern California. After moving to Oregon in 2008, Shane continued his research in the Pacific Northwest. His work became personal in 2011 when he had his own Sasquatch encounter. Shane’s dedication and methodical approach, along with his desire to advance Sasquatch research, led him to join the Olympic Project, where he currently serves as a co-leader. He is also a member of Project Zoobook and co-hosts the Monster X Radio podcast. Shane has participated in numerous Sasquatch-related documentaries, television programs, radio shows, and podcasts.
Social Bio: Born in Scotland and raised in San Diego, Shane has pursued cryptozoology since childhood. He began researching Sasquatch in 1997, focusing on California and later Oregon, where he had a personal encounter in 2011. Shane is a co-leader of the Olympic Project, a member of Project Zoobook, and co-host of Monster X Radio, appearing in various Sasquatch documentaries and shows.
Craig Yahne: Leading the Townhalls’ & sQuatch Calling Competition
A professional freelance Cameraman, Editor, Drone Pilot, and documentary filmmaker, currently working with CBS-Sports and Fox Sports on live sporting events with the Seattle Seahawks, Mariners, Reign soccer, Silvertips Hockey, NHL Kraken, and local feature films.
Craig is a spiritual person interested in learning and gaining sacred knowledge, studying quantum physics, the laws of time travel, and unexplained phenomena.
He is the founder of the Pacific Northwest Sasquatch Research Group and an active investigative researcher using hi-tech equipment such as F.L.I.R.S., Ultra 4k cameras, audio-video archival data collections, game cams, and professional 4k drones. Craig has been passionate about the Sasquatch phenomenon for over 35 years.
Social Bio: Craig Yahne is a freelance cameraman, editor, drone pilot, and documentary filmmaker, currently working with CBS Sports and Fox Sports on live events for teams like the Seahawks and Kraken. He is also the founder of the Pacific Northwest Sasquatch Research Group, using advanced technology for research. With over 35 years of passion for Sasquatch, Craig is interested in spiritual knowledge, quantum physics, and unexplained phenomena.
