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Guest Author | 06/03/2024 | Archived

Find fun things to do with the family during OSU Graduation Weekend!

Celebrate a memorable weekend in Corvallis around OSU graduation with a blend of outdoor adventures and enriching cultural experiences. Whether you're looking to soak up the sunshine with outdoor dining and farm visits or delve into the city's vibrant arts scene, Corvallis promises a weekend brimming with activities for the whole family. From thrilling baseball games and captivating walking tours to immersive art exhibitions and live performances, there's something here to suit every taste and interest.

While hiking on one of our many wonderful trails is always an option, Corvallis offers so many more choices for exciting outdoor experiences.  Here are a few ideas:

Baseball - “Take me out to the ballpark!” Experience the thrill of baseball at the Corvallis Knights home games as they face off against the Port Angeles Lefties. Featuring players from 22 different schools across seven states, including ten returning champions, the Knights promise a grand slam of excitement. Don't miss Opening Night on Friday, where the first 1,000 fans get a Knights magnet schedule. Saturday celebrates their seven-time consecutive league win, with the first 500 fans receiving a commemorative replica of the 2023 championship ring. Check out our '7 Insider Tips' for an extra inning of fun for everyone.

Walking Tours - Uncover the secrets of Corvallis' downtown with captivating walking tours, each offering a unique blend of history and local flavor. From "Biographies and Beer," "Corvallis Placekeeping: a Walking Seminar," to "A Sip of History," delve into the stories of notable figures intertwined with the city's past. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about Corvallis, these tours promise an enriching experience that concludes with a refreshing beer at the Biere Library, the last historic building on the tours. Times and reservations at Engage Corvallis.

Outdoor Dining - Relax with laughter, stories, and unforgettable dining in the heart of Corvallis. Embrace the outdoors with al fresco dining at numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes! Whether you seek views of Riverfront Commemorative Park or Marys Peak, town overviews from a rooftop, or simply wish to unwind with a drink while watching the world go by in summer weather, Corvallis offers it all. We've compiled a list of places for you to explore, making your visit tasty and hassle-free: “Enjoy Dining Al Fresco at Corvallis Restaurants.”

Fun Farm Animals - A great way to put a smile on your face is to hang out with goats and alpacas!  No Regrets Farm & Sanctuary in Monroe, home of the Original Goat Yoga, offers options for glee with the goats - from yoga and happy hours to making beautiful bouquets. On the other side of Corvallis, near Lewisburg, you’ll find Terra Bella Farms, where you can delight in Farm Tours, Sunset and Cider (with goats or alpacas, oh my) or Picnic with the ’Pacas. Come for the goats and alpacas, and stay for the unforgettable moments, laughter, and stunning views that are baaa-rilliant!

Farmers Markets & Food Trails - Explore the vibrant local food scene in and around Corvallis through its diverse farmers markets and food trails. Start your weekend at the Corvallis Farmers Market on Saturday morning, where you can immerse yourself in fresh produce and artisanal crafts. Don’t miss the Solar Cooking Demo, offering insights into sustainable food practices.

On Sunday, head to the Philomath Farmers Market at the Philomath Community Library to stock up on snacks for a picnic at nearby Marys Peak. Lilliputopia Tiny Eco Farm in Monroe is open both Saturday and Sunday. It features a charming store filled with handmade items from local artisans and growers.

For a deeper dive into the farm-to-table experience, explore the Mid-Willamette Food Trail. This self-guided tour connects you with working farms and regional agricultural treasures, offering unique culinary insights and delightful local flavors. Plan your adventure and discover the best of Oregon’s food culture at your own pace.

Wineries, Breweries & Cideries - Indulge in the vibrant wine scene in Corvallis with exciting events at several local wineries. Benton-Lane Winery hosts “Sunnymount Sessions” featuring Rich Swanger & The Little-Known Band on Friday, June 14th. Head to Fullerton Wines in town for their unique “Winemaker for a Day” experience every Saturday (advance reservations required). Experience the melodic "Sounds of Summer Sundays" at Airlie Winery on June 16th with live jazz by Second Avenue Jazz.

Create your own tasting adventure on a beautiful drive, exploring wineries within 30 miles of Corvallis using the Heart of Willamette Wine Passport. Add on a stop if those in your party prefer one of our many breweries or cideries.

Mix some indoor time with your outdoor fun with these ideas that will thrill your soul with joyful culture.  Explore music through interactive history and live performances, or discover art that moves you in three different galleries.  With so many options, you’ll wish graduation was shorter so you have more time to play.

Music - Immerse yourself in pop music's evolution at PRAx's "Sonic Booms" exhibition. This ongoing showcase features historical artifacts like the mini-Moog synthesizer and interactive displays where you can mix records and create beats. Curated by Bob Santelli, University Director of Popular Music (and former Executive Director of the GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles), the exhibition invites all ages to explore how science and technology have shaped music over 150 years.

Groove to a diverse lineup of live music at Bombs Away Cafe or Old World Deli, including a drag night on Saturday.  Or catch performances of local bands the whole family will enjoy throughout the weekend with ‘Fields Fest 2024’ at Common Fields.

Theater - Revel in a dynamic evening of entertainment in Corvallis with two musical acts at The Whiteside Theater and an enchanting aerial arts performance at The Majestic Theater. On Friday, June 14 at 8 PM, The Whiteside presents Side Hustle, a local 6-piece band known for their funky soul-pop tunes and unique renditions of classic hits, promising an energetic and engaging show. Then, on Saturday at 8 PM, grab a seat for Veronicavon, a captivating duo blending dreamy lo-fi pop with hypnotic rhythms and enchanting vocals.

For a different kind of artistic expression, head to The Majestic Theatre on Saturday, June 15, at 7:30 PM for Majestic Aerial Arts' "Gods & Goddesses" showcase. This awe-inspiring performance features talented aerial artists embodying ancient deities' grace and mythical prowess, promising a mesmerizing evening of visual spectacle and artistic skill.

Art All Weekend - Start your weekend journey through diverse artistic expressions at The Arts Center, featuring the 2024 Artist Accelerator Exhibition showcasing the works of Camila Godoy Valdés and Marie McMahon, celebrating their residency achievements.

Then, head to the Philomath Museum's Moreland Gallery to explore "Bringing the World Together: Paintings and Prints by Betty LaDuke." This retrospective exhibition delves into social justice themes through LaDuke's vibrant totems and turtles, spanning creations from 1972 to 2023. LaDuke's art resonates deeply with themes of war, survival, and humanity's interconnectedness across borders.

Finish your exploration at the Corvallis Museum's Fred & Mary Brauti Gallery, immersing yourself in the exhibit "Spirit Coalescent," which illuminates the bond between human experience and nature. Featuring eight giant mixed-media-fusion visual art pieces by painter Karen Ellsbury and photographer Patrick Hazen, this exhibition is curated as part of a multi-sensory experience by innovative Indigenous artists.

Please note that event details are subject to change. Be sure to check the respective websites for the latest information and any necessary reservations. Keep updated with other happenings on our Events Page!

Article by Stacey Newman Weldon. Photo of the Class of 2019 Graduation courtesy of OSU. Keep up with Corvallis news, events and happenings by signing up for our email newsletter.

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