The Fourth of July has looked a bit different the last couple years. Many of our favorite Oregon traditions have been cancelled this summer, but there are still plenty of ways to celebrate the fourth!
St.Paul Rodeo
The St.Paul Rodeo is back! If you’ve never been to the St.Paul rodeo, it’s a must. Located 30 miles south of Portland, St.Paul offers elite pro rodeo athletes and livestock, carnival rides, games and a fantastic fireworks show. This year’s St.Paul rodeo runs from June 30 – July 4. Buy tickets here.
Have a BBQ (duh)
You can’t go wrong with a BBQ on the fourth. Whether you’re serving burgers, brats and beers, or some marinated short ribs and merlot, a 4th of July BBQ is always a good idea. Order some grub online.
Blues Festival
Live music is back! The waterfront blues festival is running from July 2 to July 5 this summer. This year’s festival is at a new location upriver, at the Lot at Zidell Yards at the South Waterfront. Enjoy some music, cold beverages and waterfront views! Socially distanced pods are available. Buy tickets online.
Woodburn Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm Fireworks
The tulip festival has come to an end for the season – however, the wooden shoe tulip farm is hosting a free fireworks display on the fourth. The event starts at 7 PM, with fireworks beginning at 10:30. Food and nonalcoholic beverages will be available. The city of Woodburn is putting this event on for free, but you can snag your free ticket online to ensure your spot!
Grab a Beer (responsibly)
It’s no secret that Portland is full of great craft beer. Whether you grab an IPA on the rooftop of 10 Barrel, a fruity sour from Great Notion, a stout from Backwoods or a Kolsh from Gigantic, make sure you drink responsibly and stay hydrated. But let’s be honest, we could all use a beer after the year we’ve had.
Go on a Hike
Find a trail in the city, or head to the gorge to enjoy some scenery this Fourth of July! Hoyt Arboretum in Portland has some gorgeous walking trails and taking a trip down the Historic Columbia River Highway will lead you to tons of hiking trails along the gorge.
Pack a Picnic
Pack up your favorite charcuterie items, snacks + beverages and hit the park! Tom McCall Waterfront Park has beautiful views of the river. George Rogers park in Lake Oswego is also a fantastic picnic spot with access to the Willamette River. If you’re feeling adventurous, pack up some lunch, head to the lawn at the zoo and animal watch while you eat.
99W Drive-In Theater
Want a relaxing fourth? Head to wine country and catch a double feature at the drive-in theater! The theater has not yet announced what the Fourth of July movie lineup will be, but there’s nothing like a cozy drive-in movie night! Learn more.
Hit the Beach
Escape the heat and head to the west. Make it a weekend trip and grab an Airbnb in Manzanita, Lincoln City or Depoe Bay!
Whatever your Fourth of July plans may be, stay safe, hydrated and have fun!