Top 30 Festivals In Oregon, USA

1. Pickathon

Since August 1999, Pickathon has been taking place in Oregon. It’s a three-day music festival that features a diverse set of artists and genres, ranging from indie and rock to rap and bluegrass, among others. What separates Pickathon Music Festival from other festivals is its consistent promotion for sustainable practices such as the elimination of the plastic use and being a champion for eco-friendly transportation - they encourage guests to bike to the festival by creating a special bike route! Pickathon is also known for its success despite the absence of corporate sponsors. If you love music, be sure to check out this event.

Pickathon

Address: Pendarvis Farm, 16581 SE Hagen Rd., Happy Valley, Oregon 97086

Website: Pickathon

Takes place: July to August

2. Portland Rose Festival

Portland Rose Festival is an annual festival that happens in June, which celebrates and promotes the city of Portland. In 2010, it was recognized as Portland’s official festival, making it one of the most prestigious and most awaited events in the region. Numerous activities take place here, and awards are also given away to participants. The lively atmosphere never fails to tap into the hearts of many locals and bring smiles to the faces of visitors, since it’s an event that perfectly encapsulates the joyful setting of Portland. The three-day event hosts concerts and parades and is so special that those from out of town will have fond memories of how beautiful the city is. And if you’re a local, there is no excuse for you not to attend this event!

Portland Rose Festival

Address: Memorial Coliseum to Downtown Portland

Website: Portland Rose Festival

Takes place: Usually held in June

Price: from 15 USD

3. Oregon State Fair

“With so many awesome attractions, it’s easy to find your fun.” This is what Oregon State Fair upholds in its annual event. Taking place from August to September, it’s true that many things really do happen at once at this festival - it offers a diverse exhibition of the arts, showcases livestock, and opens food booths that serve tasty delights. There are also competitions such as horse racing, animal competitions, talent search, and a homebrew contest, among others. A mini-carnival and concert are also often held at this state fair. Find your version of fun at this event, and be sure not to miss out on it. You can bring your friends and family as well.

Oregon State Fair

Address: 2330 17th St NE, Salem, Oregon 97301

Website: Oregon State Fair

Takes place: August to September

4. Oregon Chocolate Festival

Do you like chocolate cake? Or perhaps a bar of chocolate is your go-to treat? If you answered “yes” to all these questions, then you should probably make time to visit Oregon Chocolate Festival, which takes place annually. Get your sweet tooth ready, because this event never fails to feature delicious creations by top chocolatiers and pastry chefs. It offers a variety of sweets that are made to satisfy the dessert junkie in you. Attendees of the festival never go down to 1,500, and it’s sure to be more packed in the coming years. Oregon Chocolate Festival is a dream come true for chocolate lovers. It would be a pity if you miss this!

Oregon Chocolate Festival

Address: Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites, 2525 Ashland St. Ashland, OR

Website: Oregon Chocolate Festival

Takes place: March

Price: 20 - 30 USD

5. Oregon's Alpenfest

A Swiss-Bavarian festival, you can expect lots of polka music and dancing, alphorns, yodeling, a wide variety of Swiss and German cuisine, lots of beer, wine, arts, antiques, and gift shopping. Enjoy taking on this four-day celebration of Alpine culture and immerse yourself in something new. For those who are interested, members of Oregon’s Alpenfest encourage people to volunteer. If you decide to volunteer, you get a free pass to see the performance.

Oregon's Alpenfest

Address: Enterprise, Joseph and Wallowa Lake (south end), 72214 Marina Lane

Website: Oregon’s Alpenfest

Takes place: September to October

6. Oregon Shakespeare Festival

Oregon Shakespeare Festival is one of the oldest and largest professional non-profit theatres in the world. Headed by Angus L. Bowmer, his enthusiasm and direction led to the construction of the stage and the improvement of the theater grounds. Its official launch happened on July 2, 1935, with Twelfth Night as its first production. To this day, you can catch brilliant plays being held every March to October each year. Celebrate classical works by the respectable William Shakespeare and support the actors in their craft by attending one of their shows!

Oregon Shakespeare Festival

Address: 15 S. Pioneer St. Ashland, OR 97520

Website: Oregon Shakespeare Festival

Takes place: April to December

Price: from 40 USD

7. Summer Kite Festival

Each year, Summer Kite Festival attracts numerous kite-fliers to take part in an enjoyable and family-friendly tradition. This event is held every June at D River State Recreation Site and lasts for two days. The whole event is typically filled with kite-flying activities. This coming Summer Kite Festival, other enjoyable activities will take place that will surely be fun, especially for the children - you can let the young ones participate in the kite-making workshop. Else, you can join the parade on the beach and watch a performance that features excellent kite fliers!

Summer Kite Festival

Address: D River Beach Wayside, Lincoln City, Oregon, United States

Takes place: June

8. Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta (@portlandcincodemayo)

All sorts of fun happens at Portland’s Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. There’s live entertainment by famous musicians, local acts, and an exclusive performance by Mariachi Ciudad de Guadalajara. Dance with performers in beautiful costumes and dresses and stomp your feet together with Ballet Folklorico Mexico En La Piel. This festival is all about celebration and feeling alive. If you’re looking for something exciting and high-energy, you should not miss out on this event.

Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Address: 98 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204, United States

Website: Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Takes place: May

9. Portland Jazz Festival

In the United States, it’s not a secret that jazz is a huge deal. In fact, according to former jazz musician Russel Roth, it can be considered America’s classical music. Spread out across different venues in Portland, Oregon celebrates the history of jazz through Portland Jazz Festival. Started in 2003, this event aims to engage and educate the surrounding communities through live performances. It doesn’t matter if you’re a music lover or a lover of jazz in particular, you should attend this one-of-a-kind event because it can accommodate any kind of audience.

Portland Jazz Festival

Address: Portland, Oregon

Website: Portland Jazz Festival

Takes place: February

10. Waterfront Blues Festival

If there’s a celebration of jazz, there’s also a celebration of blues in Oregon. Waterfront Blues Festival is an event that pays homage to the history of blues music and its birth in Oregon. Expect to bask in this music genre throughout the festival. There will be four stages that feature spectacular performances, and delicious food will be sold at the venue to fill your rumbling stomachs. Everything about this festival will surely keep your energy levels high. Waterfront Blues Festival is relatively strict compared to other music festivals in Oregon, so make sure to check out their website to know more about their rules and regulations before heading to the event.

Waterfront Blues Festival

Address: Tom McCall Waterfront Park, 1301 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97258

Website: Waterfront Blues Festival

Takes place: July

Price: from 40 USD

11. Newport Seafood & Wine Festival

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Two Sisters Drink Wine! (@twosistersdrinkwine)

Like many locals would say, winter won’t be complete without Newport Seafood & Wine Festival. This event is a quintessential winter gathering in the city of Newport, and it’s considered one of the most enjoyable events to participate in when visiting Oregon. It happens every February, and it’s best to go here with close friends. This is the ultimate social event, where you can meet new people and try wine and scrumptious seafood all in one place. This festival showcases about 150 premier wines and brings professionals in the culinary world together to serve visitors some of the best seafood in the state. Swing by for an evening filled with conversations and a well-deserved buzz!

Newport Seafood & Wine Festival

Address: Newport, Oregon 97365

Website: Newport Seafood & Wine Festival

Takes place: February

12. Midsummer Scandinavian Festival

For over 50 years, Midsummer Scandinavian Festival has been an established tradition in Oregon. It’s three days worth of music, dancing, and theater performances. Held in Astoria, this is the city’s way of paying homage to the Scandinavians who made this place their home during the 1800s and to introduce this rich heritage to the younger generations. At the festival, there will be vendors selling delicious food and gifts that you can take home. This festival also aims to promote the heritage and culture of Scandinavia. Wear a flower crown and put on your dancing shoes because Midsummer Scandinavian Festival in Oregon is something you don’t want to miss.

Midsummer Scandinavian Festival

Address: 92937 Walluski Loop, Astoria, OR 97103, USA

Website: Midsummer Scandinavian Festival

Takes place: June

13. Astoria Warrenton Crab and Seafood Festival

Are you a seafood lover? If you are, then Astoria Warrenton Crab and Seafood Festival is an event that you should add to your calendar! Come to this festival to enjoy a weekend full of delicious seafood and fancy wine. These come from the surrounding seas and vineyards of Oregon, so all their products are proudly local. There are many activities to choose from, such as an adults-only wine and beer tasting activity and shopping at the booths of vendors showcasing their crafts - all perfect for a relaxed weekend in Astoria.

Astoria Warrenton Crab and Seafood Festival

Address: Clatsop County Fair & Expo Center, 92937 Walluski Loop, Astoria, OR 97103, United States

Website: Astoria Warrenton Crab and Seafood Festival

Takes place: April

14. Ashland Independent Film Festival

What started out as an all-volunteer organization, Ashland Independent Film Festival has now grown to more than 370 members. It’s the largest independent film festival in Oregon and was even described as “Sundance, only warmer.” What takes place in this festival is an intimate setup where filmmakers, film enthusiasts, and other representatives gather to watch movies, host programs, and have conversations that connects everyone through the love of film. Budding filmmakers should definitely venture to this event because you will be able to gain numerous insights on the industry.

Ashland Independent Film Festival

Address: Ashland, Oregon

Website: Ashland Independent Film Festival

Takes place: April

15. Oregon Brewers Fest

Art Lawrence, the head of Oregon Brewers Festival, went to events like Oktoberfest in Munich. After he participated in that, he was inspired to bring the same kind of fun to Oregon. Now, almost 50,000 visitors and counting visit Portland in July just to take part in this event! It offers a wide range of craft brews, and this festival actually contributes a hefty sum to the local economy.

Oregon Brewers Fest

Address: Tom McCall Waterfront Park, 300 SW Naito Parkway, Portland, Oregon 97204

Website: Oregon Brewers Fest

Takes place: July

16. Christmas Festival of Lights

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by cheritart (@cheritart)

Feel the holiday spirit at Christmas Festival of Lights. It’s the largest Christmas festival in the world, where different choirs perform their best pieces. Concerts are held at Chapel of Mary at the Grotto, and there are food vendors and souvenir stalls for your shopping and gastronomic needs. Go here and enjoy an evening filled with holiday cheer with your family and friends.

Christmas Festival of Lights

Address: 8501 NE Skidmore St, Portland, OR 97220, United States

Takes place: November to December

17. Vanport Jazz Festival

The prominence of jazz in Portland has led to events being held over the course of the year to celebrate it exclusively. Portland, for example, has another kind of jazz festival. The goal of this music fest is to promote musicians who have contributed to Oregon’s jazz scene. The event also aims to pay homage to the legacy of jazz and showcase it to a wider audience. Come to Vanport Jazz Festival for a day full of celebration and to enjoy the colorful history of jazz music in Portland!

Vanport Jazz Festival

Address: Colwood Golf Course, 7313 NE Columbia Blvd, Portland, OR 97218, United States

Website: Vanport Jazz Festival

Takes place: August

18. Lincoln City Fall Kite Festival

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Inn at Wecoma (@innatwecoma)

It’s not everyday that you get to witness colorful kites flying high up in the sky. But at Lincoln City Fall Kite Festival, you get to see this beautiful and rare sight and maybe participate in it too. This is a longstanding family tradition in Oregon and a great way to enjoy kite-flying activities. It’s two days worth of kite-flying, perfect for the whole family. In case you missed the summer version of this event, you can make up for it here. There will also be kite-making activities, parades, and a whole lot more!

Lincoln City Fall Kite Festival

Address: D River Beach Wayside, Lincoln City, Oregon, United States

Takes place: October

19. Mt. Angel Oktoberfest

Headed by a nonprofit organization, Mt. Angel Oktoberfest aims to bring the Bavarian celebration that happens in Germany to the city of Mt. Angel every autumn. Attendees of this Oktoberfest come in their best Bavarian-inspired outfits. All the food stalls and businesses here serve traditional goods from different Alpine regions. Though the biergarten area is adults-only, this fest is still family-friendly since there are activities like dancing and sporting competitions available to children.

Mt. Angel Oktoberfest

Address: Downtown Mt. Angel

Website: Mt. Angel Oktoberfest

Takes place: September

20. World Beat Festival

Salem Multicultural Institute aims to create an environment of peace and openness through the space at World Beat Gallery. All of the activities that take place during this event are geared towards all kinds of visitors since its aim is to celebrate different cultures. The 2020 festival will include a children’s parade and the celebrations will last until the end of the weekend. With a belief that Oregon will be culturally rich by welcoming different communities and being open to different cultures, World Beat Festival gathers everyone to celebrate diversity.

World Beat Festival

Address: Riverfront City Park, Salem, Oregon, United States

Website: World Beat Festival

Takes place: June

21. Sisters Folk Festival

Another music festival, Sisters Folk Festival is a three-day event filled with bluegrass, blues, and many more! The festival includes 11 stages and takes place at different venues across the city of Sisters, including The Belfry, Village Green Park, and Oliver Lemon’s, among others. There are also open-air venues that are perfect for the festival because it’s surrounded by natural beauty, an ideal environment to enjoy the soulful music of Oregon’s excellent talents.

Sisters Folk Festival

Address: Sisters, Oregon

Website: Sisters Folk Festival

Takes place: September to October

22. Pendleton Round-Up

Pendleton Round-Up is an annual rodeo that happens every September. There are many activities that circle around the actual rodeo, such as a dress-up parade and a kick-off concert, among others. All of these happen during the round-up week. Many look forward to this since it’s one of the most exciting events that takes place in Oregon.

Pendleton Round-Up

Address: 1205 SW Court Ave, Pendleton, OR 97801, United States

Website: Pendleton Round-Up

Takes place: September

Price: from 20 USD

23. Walnut City Music Festival [Lasst event in 2019]

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Walnut City Music Fest (@walnutcitymusicfest)

Looking for something to do during Labor Day weekend? Spend it at Walnut City Music Festival! This is a two-day outdoor music festival that takes place at the heart of McMinnville in Oregon. It offers a unique festival experience because the venue boasts an intimate setup and gives participants an unforgettable music experience. Also, get a taste of the best festival food and snacks by checking out the food stalls at the venue.

Walnut City Music Festival

Address: Lower City Park, McMinnville, Oregon

Website: Walnut City Music Festival

Takes place: August

Price: from 20 USD

24. Tigard Festival of Balloons

The spotlight is on the hot air balloons at Tigard Festival of Balloons, but this event is so much more than that! It’s a must-visit event in Oregon for families since it’s a great way to gather and enjoy fun-filled activities. The festival includes food booths, carnival rides, games, arts and crafts booths, and even live music! There’s so much happening at this event so be sure not to miss out.

Tigard Festival of Balloons

Address: Cook Park, 17005 SW 92nd Ave, Tigard, OR 97224, United States

Website: Tigard Festival of Balloons

Takes place: June

25. Portland Greek Festival [Last event in 2019]

Every year, Portland Greek Festival receives about 15,000 guests who come to celebrate Greek faith and culture. This festival happens at the heart of Oregon every October. What’s great about this event is that other than a celebration of culture, it also contributes proceeds to numerous philanthropic endeavors in Portland - so it’s basically a festival with a cause. Expect a lot of Greek pastries and food, and get ready to be educated about Greek traditions.

Portland Greek Festival

Address: Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 3131 NE Glisan St, Portland, OR 97232, United States

Website: Portland Greek Festival

Takes place: October

26. Airshow of the Cascades

Bringing out the kid in everyone is Airshow of the Cascades. This event is partnered with Erickson Aircraft Collection, allowing visitors to enter their museum for free. This museum is home to privately owned warbirds as well as vintage aircraft. Also, feast your eyes on the motorcycle show, the aircraft fly-in show, and the car show to fully enjoy the event’s luxurious displays. You can also expect food, live music, and many more here!

Airshow of the Cascades

Address: Erickson Aircraft Collection at Madras Municipal Airport-S33, 2408 NW Berg Dr, Madras, OR 97741, United States

Website: Airshow of the Cascades

Takes place: August

27. Holiday Ale Festival [Last event in 2019]

In celebration of the holidays, Holiday Ale Festival is a five-day event that is proud to host over 14,000 guests every year. Attendees enjoy the Christmas atmosphere here since a large Christmas tree is set up and there are activities like beer and cider tasting. You can expect food vendors and stalls selling vintage knickknacks that you can shop for and take home. If you’re the type of visitor who likes doing a lot of shopping during the holidays, then this is the place to do it since you will encounter a lot of finds that make for perfect Christmas gifts. Spread the holiday cheer by taking part in Holiday Ale Festival!

Holiday Ale Festival

Address: Pioneer Courthouse Square, 701 SW 6th Ave, Portland, OR 97205, United States

Website: Holiday Ale Festival

Takes place: December

28. Oregon Jamboree

Music and camping go together at Oregon Jamboree! It’s held every August, and it’s the place for entertainment, RV/tent camping, food booths, activities for the kids, and more. Aside from bringing music and fun to its audience, this event is a champion for sustainability since it implements environmentally friendly practices. At Oregon Jamboree, you not only get to have fun by listening to live music and camping under the stars, but you do it in a way that doesn’t harm the environment. What a combo!

Oregon Jamboree

Address: Sweet Home, Oregon

Website: Oregon Jamboree

Takes place: July

Price: from 160 USD

29. MusicfestNW [Event has passed]

Founded by Willamette Week in 2001, MuscfestNW became one of the largest music festivals in the United States. This event hosts around 150 bands in different venues across Portland. Some of these include Doug Fir Lounge and McMenamins Crystal Ballroom. MusicfestNW is often praised for the reputable bands it brings to the festival. Some of these bands include The National, Passion Pit, Dinosaur Jr., and a whole lot more. Bask in both music and culture at MusicfestNW. After all, there’s nothing like seeing your favorite bands live on stage!

MusicfestNW

Address: Portland, Oregon

Website: MusicfestNW

Takes place: August

Price: from 18 USD

30. Portland Pirate Festival [Event has passed]

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Andy Beach (@andybeach)

Portland Pirate Festival aims to promote education through historical re-enactments by way of music, dance, and theatrical performances. Feast on food, enjoy games fit for all ages, line up at the face painting booth, and listen to live music on one of the three stages set up. Don’t miss out on this two-day-long family event in Portland!

Portland Pirate Festival

Address: Portland, Oregon, United States

Takes place: September

A festival for everyone!

Attending festivals is one of the best ways to unwind and take a quick break from fast-paced routines. Not only are festivals fun and exciting, but they’re also a way to learn new things and enjoy exposure to different traditions and cultures. These events feature different kinds of entertainment because they’re usually celebrated with a community that shares the same interest. Head to Oregon to enjoy some of the world’s best festivals. Whether you like beer, celebrating a unique culture, or flying kites, this place has something to offer everyone!