What’s in a date? Well, the city of Astoria will tell you – lots.
Astoria, Oregon, turns 200 this year, unquestionably making it not only the oldest settlement west of the Rockies, but the coolest place to experience a summer festival and a cruise.
Clatsop County Fair in Astoria
Entertainment started off this week on August 2, 2011, with the Clatsop County Fair, a yearly tradition that blends Western-style entertainment with music and local attractions. The entertainment includes a logging show, displays and races on Saturday. There will be music and entertainment all week, with the Jon Koonce Band wrapping up the attractions Saturday night at 7:30.
The Astoria Regatta and Salmon Barbecue
Maritime festivals are a popular feature in Oregon, especially in Astoria. Spectacular scenery, a vibrant art scene, endless views and comfortable summer weather combine to make the North Oregon Coast a great place for taking in a celebration. Astoria’s 117-year-old Regatta festival will be the heart of the city’s bicentennial celebrations and include sail and jet-ski races, a salmon barbecue (a Northwest must), the Admiral’s Bicentennial Ball and, of course, the coronation of the Regatta queen (August 11). It starts with the Kiddies' Parade on August 10 at 6:30 p.m., and continues through the week to August 14.
Pacific Spirit Cruise and Fireworks
On August 13, the Portland Spirit pays a visit to Astoria for its popular scenic cruise of the Columbia River. The cruise departs from Astoria at 6:30 p.m. for a four-hour tour of some of Oregon’s most dramatic riverfront. The Mayor’s Ball, which takes place during the cruise, will be accompanied by live music by the String of Pearls big band and fireworks over the harbor. Dinner is included, and black tie is optional. Seating is limited to 450 guests. This is a specially arranged cruise in conjunction with the bicentennial celebrations, so interested individuals should contact the Astoria Bicentennial Celebration office for reservations and information.
Performance by Reba McEntire
Astoria’s headlining weekend wraps up on Sunday, August 14, with a performance by Grammy Award winner Reba McEntire at 1 p.m. The party will move to Camp Rilea in Warrenton for the musical event, which offers adequate seating and amenities for 1,200 guests. That may seem like a small number compared to previous Reba events, which have housed crowds in the thousands, but it offers just the right atmosphere for a truly memorable performance.
Reba McEntire has sold more than 50 million albums, garnered 15 American Music awards and sold more than 60 Top-10 hits. Tickets can be purchased by following the information link on the Bicentennial events page. The performance promises to be one of the highlights of the city’s celebrations.
Astoria’s summer-long bicentennial celebrations began in May with visits from the Tall Ships Lady Washington and the Hawaiian Chieftain, simulated ocean battle scenes and search and rescue demonstrations by the U.S. Coast Guard. This week’s cruise by the flagship Portland Spirit will offer yet another venue to experience Astoria’s remarkable success as the Northwest’s oldest settlement, and the timeless beauty of Oregon’s Northwest Coast.
Jan Lee - Jan Lee has been writing for online and print publications for more than 20 years and have been published in five countries.
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