Oregon is one of the states that get to claim that old west history. Mining and pioneering are honored at the state’s festivals all summer long, but there is plenty to interest modern day attendees.
The PortlandRose Festival takes place May 31st through June 10th, and will honor one hundred years of “tradition, innovation, and celebration” in Portland. Fifty events all over the community will bring the heritage of the city alive, with history, culture, and the reviving of traditions. If you would like to know more, get the information at http://www.rosefestival.org/
Perhaps the most unique feature of the Children’s Festival in Jacksonville, OR is that they allow no commercial entities in. Besides the admission fee to the festival, the only thing available to spend money on is the food. For thirty five years, the festival has not permitted any sales or advertising booths. Sponsored by the Storytelling Fuild and Jackson County Library Services, the festivals purpose is to entertain, teach, and bring the arts to the children of Jacksonville. Wandering clowns, magicians, storytellers, and musicians all perform for free at Britt Park from June 15 – 17 this year. There may be no better place to take your children. They will learn art appreciation without being bombarded with merchandise.
The Salem World Beat Festival at River Front Park on the banks of the Willamette, June 30th through July 1st, is a family event, focusing on Oregon’s diversity. Showcasing the arts, music, food, and games of nations from every continent, Salem World Beat is a fun and educational event for the family. Get more information on the events and offerings at http://www.worldbeatfestival.org/.
The barbeque turkey packs people into Wortman Park in McMinnville, taking place from July 12 – 14, 2007 for Turkey Rama. An 8k run, an outdoor dance, and plenty of live music join carnival games and rides, merchandise, and arts and crafts to make this an exciting event for everyone. Check it out at http://www.mcminnville.org/turkeyrama/index.html
Bohemia Mining Days in Cottage Grove, happening on July 19th through 22nd, honors the heritage and history of the Bohemia gold mining district. An encampment brings to life the life of mountain men, mining exhibits recall the old days of panning and picking for gold, and a Native American exhibition pays tribute to the original inhabitants of the land. There are also antique air planes, a microbrew garden, and much, much more. If you would like to know more, check out the website at http://bohemiaminingdays.org/
One of the most respected small rodeos in the country Chief Joseph Days draws the sport’s top competitors and plenty of fans to cheer them on. Held at the Harley Tucker Memorial Arena in Joseph, OR from July 25th to 29th, there is more than just bull riding and calf roping. The best rodeo clowns, bullfighters, and other performance artists take to the ring as well. To learn more about the events, or find out where to purchase tickets, go to http://www.chiefjosephdays.com/
