The U.S. Track and Field Olympic Team Trials in Eugene, Ore. is halfway over (June 27 to July 6), but Track Town USA has a whole lot of celebrating left to do. While the athletes tear up Hayward Field, the Eugene 08 Festival will broadcast the races on a jumbo screen and host a weeklong celebration on bordering Agate Street and 15th Street on the University of Oregon campus. The entirely free festival features live music, sports-inspired art, food, interviews with athletes, a 4th of July Fireworks display and activities like tree climbing with the Pacific Tree Climbing Institute. Find a full festival schedule at www.eugene08.com.
As a UO graduate, Eugene has a special place in my heart, and I can assure you: Eugenians rock the outdoor festivals. If you do visit Eugene 08, also be aware of a few other galas going on. The Oregon Bach Festival runs from June 23 to July 13 and features a myriad of city-wide musical events, including a Bach remix with hip-hop artists at the Eugene 08 festival at 4 p.m. on July3.
The beloved Oregon Country Fair, runs from July 11-July 13. The fair promotes community, peace, and sustainability, and features local and world music, arts and crafts, belly dancing, kids shows, and more in a Midsummer Night’s Dream-like wooded maze about a 15-minute drive west of Eugene.
Pick up a free copy of the alternative magazine, Eugene Weekly or go to www.eugeneweekly.com for a full calendar listing of Eugene music events and activities.
