Statewide Media

Classes & Activities: Magnetism: Defending Our Planet, Defining the Cosmos

Sat, 26 Sep 2026 21:00:00 GMT

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Hermiston Melon Fest: Summer’s Sweetest Event!

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 07:06:00 GMT

The Hermiston Melon Fest is an annual summer celebration of the eastern Oregon city’s world-famous watermelons, featuring free melon slices, live music and the festival’s unique high-energy bathtub races. This year’s festival will take place on Saturday, Aug. 22, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in downtown Hermiston. The highlight of the festival is the fresh farm-grown melon slices provided free by local growers.

Start the day at the $5 Rotary breakfast from 7 to 9 a.m. while supporting Rotary Club charities. Then watch or compete in the wheeled bathtub races starting in the early afternoon. Teams of three — one rider and two pushers — race wheeled bathtubs down Festival Street to the cheers and laughter of fans.

Other popular events include the Watermelon Costume Contest with cash prizes, plus the Seed-Spitting Showdown and the Watermelon Eating Contest.

This year’s festival will be bigger, better, and more “melony” than ever. You can browse local craft and food vendors, view a classic car and hot-rod show, and enjoy live music performances.

For details, schedules, and links to contest and vendor registration, visit the Hermiston Parks and Recreation website, hermiston.gov/parksrec/page/melon-fest .

Bring your friends and your appetite to Hermiston. You may come for the melons, but you’ll surely stay for the fun!

Hells Canyon Mule Days Celebrates its 45th Anniversary

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 07:02:00 GMT

The 45th annual Hells Canyon Mule Days, Sept. 11-13 in Enterprise, Ore., will be three full days of events that include classes for every age group and skill level. It’s always a fun family weekend.

The gates open at 8 a.m. on Friday with a line-up of Halter & Showmanship. The afternoon events include the Log Pull for singles and teams and the Timed Trail Class in the main arena. Other highlights include the Classic Jump-Off Challenge and events such as pole-bending, barrel racing, and the Fast Ass Express.

Don’t miss the free mule clinic at 9 a.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. Sunday for tips on training your mule. Before the Grand Entry on Saturday, the popular Kids Stick Mule and Boot Scramble Races are scheduled for kids ages 4 to 9 who are spectators. Everyone wins a blue ribbon, and special awards go to winners of each heat. There will also be a contest for the oldest spectator and the one who has traveled the farthest to attend.

The weekend is packed with mule-related happenings. You can enjoy strolling the Green and visiting with vendors, exhibitors and Western artists. Buy your ticket for the Mule Days Raffle that includes items such as a buffalo skull from Stangel Buffalo Ranch, a complete Dutch oven cooking setup for beginners, a Mule Days belt buckle and a signed copy of a book about Tennessee mule artist Bonnie Shields.

Other events include the Max Walker Memorial Cowboy Poetry Gathering at 7 p.m. Friday, the non-motorized parade on Saturday and the Saturday-evening Memorial Scholarship Barbecue Dinner on the Green at 5 p.m. The Saturday-night concert at 7 p.m. will feature Old West Trio, an outstanding group that performs Western music in the silver-screen tradition. Sunday events include a Cowboy Church, breakfast served by JD’s BBQ & Catering and the Dutch Oven Cook-Off at 9 a.m.

For prices, schedules and details, visit hellscanyonmuledays.com .

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Autumn Colors Highlight Fall Train Rides

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 06:57:00 GMT

A ride on Oregon’s Eagle Cap Excursion Train in September or October is all about the scenery. After a hot, dry summer, the train’s volunteers are anxious for the shorter days and cooler nights of fall.

As the train follows the curves of the Grande Ronde and Wallowa rivers, scarlet and golden foliage hugs the track and is reflected in the water. Deep green pine trees and an endless blue sky complete the picture-perfect scene outside the window. It’s time to breathe the mountain air, relax and enjoy the view.

Get the details on each ride and book online at eaglecaptrainrides.com/ridethetrain or call (541) 437-3652.

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Deutschesfest: Beers, Brats and Chicken Dance

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 06:54:00 GMT

For the 55th year, the Odessa community is hosting Deutschesfest, a festival tribute to the small town’s German heritage. With German music wafting down the streets of this eastern Washington farming town, the delicious scent of homemade German staples fills the air, drawing folks from all over for a taste of Germany. This year’s Deutschesfest will be held Thursday night through Sunday afternoon, Sept. 17-20.

You may come for the food but will likely stay for the fun. Many activities are for the whole family to enjoy, ranging from trike races and the annual fun run to live music in the Biergarten or on the outdoor stage. Grab a spot along the main street for the community parade Saturday morning, and explore crafts and street vendors all weekend long.

Deutschesfest is hosted by descendants of German Russians who settled in Odessa at the beginning of the 20th century. An appreciation of good food, drink and music has been passed down through generations to showcase hometown pride with this festival. It’s the perfect time to break out your lederhosen and dirndls, load up the motorhome and bring the family to Odessa for a weekend of fun!

For more information and a full schedule of events, visit deutschesfest.com .

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Local Corvette Show is All About the Children

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 06:49:00 GMT

The 3 Rivers Corvette Club of the Tri-Cities has staged the largest Corvette car show in the Pacific Northwest for the past 16 years, with corporate sponsorship from the McCurley dealerships and other local businesses. This year’s event will be held from Sept. 10 to 12 in Kennewick. The Saturday Show & Shine in Columbia Park is free to the public.

The purpose of the show is fundraising for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The annual event has raised nearly $1.6 million since it began, and those proceeds have provided wishes for 250 sick children and their families.

Corvettes will be coming to the Tri-Cities from nine states for the show — mostly owned by members of Corvette clubs, although you do not have to be a club member or own a “show” car to participate. Corvette owners will meet for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights at the Three Rivers Convention Center.

On Saturday, the Corvettes arrive in the park at 8 a.m., and the Show & Shine begins at 9 and concludes at 2 p.m. There’ll be food vendors, raffles, a Corvette “store” and much more.

For more information, including sponsorship opportunities and registration of your Corvette for the show, visit the local Corvette Club online at 3riverscorvetteclub.net .

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Dayton Hosts Old-Fashioned Small-Town Fair

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 06:42:00 GMT

Few county fairs in the West have been going as long as the Columbia County Fair in Dayton, which has been held for more than 135 years. Livestock and agriculture have always been mainstays of this small-town fair, but the live entertainment, food and vendor booths give it a modern appeal.

The fair kicks off on Friday, Sept. 11, and runs through Sept. 13 with the theme “From Wagon Wheels to Ferris Wheels.” It will include livestock exhibits and 4H projects plus the Jackpot Rodeo, a demolition derby, and a Fruit Muffin Madness baking contest in addition to food and commercial vendors. And there’ll be daily entertainment and a carnival.

The Jackpot Rodeo is on Friday, beginning with mutton-bustin’ at 5 p.m. On Saturday evening, enjoy the demolition derby, also starting at 5. The Beer Garden is open starting at noon on both days.

There’s a livestock sale on Sunday morning, followed by stick-horse races and the Farmer Olympics in the arena.

Single-day admission is $13 for adults and teens ages 13 and over, and $8 for senior citizens and kids ages 7-12. Children 6 and under are admitted free. You can save by buying three-day all-event passes.

For information and updates, visit the Columbia County Fair Facebook page.

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Capitol Theatre Announces 2026-27 Season

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 06:39:00 GMT

There’s no reason to wait to get tickets for the Capitol Theatre’s 2026-27 season in Yakima. Subscriptions are still available for the Capitol Best Series, and tickets can be purchased now for any single show.

The Capitol Best Series includes four amazing musicals, and additional shows are scheduled in the Capitol Extras and Capitol Edge Series.

The season kicks off with the 25th-anniversary tour of Menopause the Musical. This single performance in the Capitol Extras Series is set for Saturday, Sept. 19, at 2 p.m. Also in the fall, the first three exciting Capitol Best musicals will take the stage — Elf the Musical, The Music Man, and The Wiz.

In February and March, Capitol Extras and Capitol Edge will highlight some exciting events in the 4th Street Theatre. The International Guitar Night is Feb. 4; The Simon & Garfunkel Story performance is on Feb. 21; actors from the London Stage will present King Lear on March 12 and 13; and Batsu! will entertain with live comedy on March 26.

The final Capitol Best musical is Mystic Pizza on March 4 and 5.

If you can’t attend them all, secure the best seats for your choices now at the best prices. Visit capitoltheatre.org or call 509-853-ARTS (2787).

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It’s Almost Time for the 78th Best Week of Summer!

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 06:36:00 GMT

The Benton Franklin Fair is almost here, bringing five days of agriculture, entertainment, hometown traditions and community celebration to the Tri-Cities Aug. 25-29. From demolition derby and rodeo action to concerts, carnival rides, local food and youth exhibits, the Best Week of Summer offers something for every generation. Where else can you cheer racing pigs while eating an elephant ear and supporting two nonprofits in the process?

As an independent nonprofit, the Benton Franklin Fair exists to develop young leaders through hands-on agricultural experiences while creating opportunities for our community to come together. Every ticket purchased supports youth development, agricultural education, scholarships, and programs that benefit the region year-round.

Economic Advantages
The fair also delivers a significant economic impact, generating more than $30.5 million annually for Benton County. Visitors from more than 40 states travel here for the fair and the nationally recognized Horse Heaven Round-Up Rodeo, helping support local hotels, restaurants, retailers and other businesses.

At the heart of the fair are the hundreds of local youth who spend the year raising livestock, creating exhibits, and building lifelong skills. Their hard work is showcased through livestock shows, photography, baking, crafts, agriculture and more. The Market Stock Sale remains one of the fair’s proudest traditions, with exhibitors earning more than $1.5 million for their livestock projects in 2025 through the support of local buyers. The fair also awards $10,000 in scholarships each year to graduating high-school seniors.

Making the fair accessible for everyone remains a priority. Thanks to Central Plateau Cleanup Company, guests can ride the bus free from six Tri-Cities park-and-ride locations with service running until at least 11:30 p.m. Sensory kits and wheelchairs are available for loan at the Fair’s information booths, thanks to Tri-Cities Community Health.

Endless Fun
The excitement begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 22, with the Grand Parade presented by Gesa Credit Union, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, and the Port of Kennewick. That evening, the Demolition Derby presented by Meyers Auto Tech takes over the arena with hard-hitting action, a Power Wheels Derby for kids, and plenty of fair food.

Beginning on Tuesday, August 25, the Horse Heaven Round-Up Rodeo returns nightly at 7 p.m., followed by the Hayden Homes Summer Concert Series on the ICCU Stage at 7:45 p.m.
General fair admission tickets include access to the concert lawn and bleacher seating, making live entertainment part of every fair visit.

Food lovers can enjoy one of fair week’s best deals from 2 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 27, when every food vendor offers at least one item for just $3. Throughout fair week, several food booths will also provide value-meal options, clearly marked with special signage. The Hometown Marketplace will feature local makers, artists and entrepreneurs along with live demonstrations from a professional pumpkin carver, muralist and metal artist.

Wednesday, Aug. 26, is Educator Appreciation Day presented by STCU, with free admission for K-12 and college employees with valid identification. It’s also Pizza Hut Little Buckaroos Day, when children ages 6-12 receive admission for just $2.

The week wraps up on Saturday night with Dancin’ in the Dirt after the rodeo, featuring the band Stompin’ Ground performing live in the arena, bringing fair week to a fun and fitting close.

Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or visiting for the first time, the Benton Franklin Fair offers something for everyone. Plan your visit and purchase tickets at BentonFranklinFair.com or call (509) 222-3749 for more information.

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Josephy Center for Arts & Culture is Expanding

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 00:03:00 GMT

The Josephy Center for Arts and Culture in Joseph, Ore., has announced the September opening of its expanded facility, the culmination of a project set in motion when the center’s board purchased the building in 2020.

The first floor will feature a state-of-the-art ceramics studio offering memberships, day passes and classes for all skill levels. Visit josephy.org for studio hours and class schedules.

A new elevator will provide ADA-compliant access to the second floor, home to the center’s permanent Nez Perce and Alvin Josephy exhibit, the Josephy Library of Western History, and a new multi-purpose room for additional exhibits, movement classes and art workshops.

The center will celebrate this milestone along with the 43rd Annual Wallowa Valley Festival of the Arts. The opening reception takes place Friday, Sept. 18, at 7 p.m. Enjoy live music, wine and hors d’oeuvres as you mingle with exhibiting artists and be the first to view this year’s juried exhibition. On Saturday, the gallery opens with live music, followed by the Quick Draw at 1 p.m. in the Joseph Lodge’s garden across the street. During this two-hour event you can watch artists paint live and bid on finished works, while enjoying music by the Local Yokels.

For tickets and information, visit josephy.org.

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Morrow County Fair Celebrates 113 years

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 22:39:19 GMT

The 113th annual Morrow County Fair continues its small-town-fair traditions in Heppner, Ore., from Tuesday, Aug. 18, through Saturday, Aug. 22, under the theme, “250 Years of Patriotic Dreams Come True.” Gate admission is free.

Activities each day include browsing the exhibits, observing the 4-H and FFA livestock, and dedicated kids’ attractions. Classic fair treats, face painting, caricature drawing and musical entertainment are featured every day of the week.

Week-night entertainment begins on Wednesday with Olivia Harms performing at the Queen’s Welcome and Sponsor Appreciation Dinner at 6:30 p.m. All are invited to attend, and tickets for the dinner will be available.

Other artists featured are Cody Bartels on Thursday afternoon and Musically Unstable and Zac Grooms on Thursday evening during the Livestock Growers’ Dinner. Luke Basile, a Heppner native, will perform on Friday afternoon, Corey Peterson & Band will play on Friday night, and Austin Miller will wrap it up on Saturday evening.

On Thursday the fair will honor our veterans, and you’re encouraged to wear red. On Saturday morning, the fair parade will move through the downtown. And the legendary Oregon Trail Pro Rodeo & Morrow County Jackpot Rodeo will take place the following weekend, Aug. 27-30.

For schedules, forms and vendor information, visit morrowcountyor.gov/fair .

Farm-City Pro Rodeo

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 22:39:18 GMT

The 2026 Farm-City Pro Rodeo returns to Hermiston Aug. 12–15, delivering four nights of world-class rodeo action, bigger payouts and plenty of Western entertainment. Recognized as one of the top events on the PRCA circuit, Farm-City attracts elite cowboys and cowgirls from across the nation to compete in fan-favorite events including bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, bareback riding and saddle bronc riding.

This year’s rodeo raises the stakes with $60,000 in added prize money per event, drawing even more top-tier talent and intensifying the competition inside the arena. You can look forward to high-energy performances, premier stock contractors, and the unforgettable atmosphere that has made Farm-City a celebrated tradition in Eastern Oregon.

The excitement extends beyond the rodeo grounds with the popular Chute 8 After Party, food vendors, shopping booths, and community celebrations throughout the week. First Responders Friday will once again honor those who serve, with a dollar from every ticket sold benefiting the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

Held in conjunction with the Umatilla County Fair, the Farm-City Pro Rodeo continues to celebrate the region’s deep agricultural roots while bringing together rural traditions, Western heritage and community spirit.

For tickets, schedules, sponsorship opportunities and additional event information, visit farmcityprorodeo.com .

Summer’s Ultimate Destination: Umatilla County Fair

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 06:18:00 GMT

Pack your bags and clear your calendars! From August 12 to 15, Hermiston, Ore., will transform into the region’s absolute capital of entertainment. For generations, the Umatilla County Fair has stood as a beacon of summer fun, but the 2026 lineup is raising the bar to unprecedented heights. Whether you’re coming from the rugged mountains of Montana, the expansive valleys of Idaho, the bustling hubs of Washington, or here in beautiful Oregon, this year’s fair is an absolute must-visit event.

Under the vibrant, community-focused theme of “Sew It, Grow It, Show It,” the 2026 fair celebrates the absolute best of our regional heritage. From carefully crafted textiles and blue-ribbon livestock to stunning agricultural displays, the heart of the community will be on full display. But when the sun begins to set over the fairgrounds, the energy shifts to the crown jewel — the Wildhorse Resort & Casino Main Stage. Thanks to the title sponsor, a legendary, multi-genre concert series is coming straight to Eastern Oregon.

Wednesday: The party kicks off on Wednesday, Aug. 12, with a massive double-header starting at 7 p.m. Best of all, Wednesday night is an exclusive free-concert night, for which entry to the main stage is completely free with your general fair admission. First, get ready for the soaring horns and infectious energy of the Brass Fire Band. Northeast Oregon’s premier 10-piece powerhouse will be delivering a masterclass in classic blues, jazz, rock and pop. Directly following them, the storytelling tradition of the West takes center stage with Tylor & The Train Robbers. This Idaho-based outfit delivers gritty, authentic Americana and country-roots music that will have the entire crowd singing along under the summer sky.

Thursday: On Thursday, Aug. 13, prepare for a brilliant genre shift as the fair welcomes multi-platinum hip-hop icon Chingy to the main stage. Get ready to bring your best dance moves and relive the golden era of the 2000s radio waves as Chingy performs smash hits including “Right Thurr” and “Holidae In.” It’ll be a high-energy, nostalgic throwback night that promises to be one of the most talked-about concerts of the entire summer, with reserved seating tickets available online now.

Friday: The star power keeps rolling on Friday, Aug. 14, with the multi-award-winning, chart-topping country sensations, the Eli Young Band. Renowned for their powerhouse vocals and signature hits like “Crazy Girl” and “Even If It Breaks Your Heart,” these country-music titans are set to deliver an emotional stadium-grade performance right in our backyard. Be sure to lock in your concert tickets ahead of time, as this powerhouse night is expected to sell out fast.

Saturday: Finally, the fair culminates on Saturday, Aug. 15, with the highly anticipated Latino Night. This colorful celebration of culture, rhythm and community brings electric choreography, brilliant traditional outfits and standard-setting musical talent to the stage. It is a festive, high-octane finale that perfectly embodies eastern Oregon’s vibrant community spirit.

The 2026 Umatilla County Fair is more than just a local weekend outing; it is a cross-regional convergence of great music, world-class carnival rides, delicious fair food, and historic agricultural traditions. Why stay home when a premier Pacific Northwest vacation is waiting for you in Hermiston? Grab your family, text your favorite road-trip buddies, and secure your gate admission and concert tickets online. Celebrate the heart of the West, experience Hermiston’s incredible hospitality, and see exactly what it means to Sew It, Grow It, Show It!

For information and tickets, visit umatillacountyfair.com .

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Adventure Awaits at Morrow County Parks

Mon, 04 May 2026 22:39:17 GMT

Looking for the perfect outdoor escape? Morrow County parks offer scenic beauty, fresh mountain air and unforgettable recreation in the heart of eastern Oregon. From peaceful hikes to thrilling off-road adventures, there’s something for everyone.

Enjoy quiet family time with camping and hiking at Anson Wright Park, nestled in the Blue Mountains where cool forests and peaceful trails create the perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature.

Take in scenic views and wildlife watching at Cutsforth Park, a favorite destination for campers and nature lovers looking to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the Blue Mountains.

Adventure seekers will find their playground at Morrow County OHV Park, which spans nearly 9,000 acres of wide-open terrain. With miles of trails ranging from gentle paths to challenging off-road routes, it’s a premier destination for ATV and off-road riders of all skill levels.

Morrow County parks open for the season on May 8, welcoming campers, riders, and nature lovers to experience all the beauty and adventure the Blue Mountains have to offer. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended outdoor adventure, these parks provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation, exploration, and creating lasting memories.

For details, visit MorrowCountyParks.org or follow Morrow County Parks and Campgrounds on Facebook.

Clover Island Summer Concerts

Mon, 04 May 2026 22:39:15 GMT

Emerald Spark Events has announced the schedule for the 2026 Clover Island Concert Series, returning this summer to the Columbia River waterfront at Clover Island in Kennewick.

The new season brings back a mix of free Wednesday community shows and ticketed Sunday concerts, continuing a tradition that has become part of summer life in the Tri-Cities. This year’s series places added emphasis on the free Wednesday nights, along with food trucks, a simpler Eventbrite ticketing process, and the return of audience favorites including Fastlane, Catch A Wave (Beach Boys Tribute), and Hell’s Belles.

Wednesday shows are designed to feel welcoming for families, groups of friends, and anyone looking for a night out. Sunday concerts offer a more planned live music experience, with reserved tables and featured performances in the Clover Island setting audiences have come to love.

“We wanted this season to keep the spirit people already love about Clover Island,” said Alicia Cullison of Emerald Spark Events. “That meant bringing back some of our audiences’ favorite artists, putting real energy into the free community nights, and making it even easier for people to come out and enjoy the summer with us.”

Tickets and series information are available at cloverislandconcertseries.com . For sponsorship, media or partnership inquiries, contact info@emeraldsparkevents.com Clover Island Summer Concerts .