Known for its beaches, gorgeous natural scenery, and friendly locals, Oregon is a prominent year-round getaway destination. Nicknamed the “Beaver State,” this West Coast gem offers an abundance of lovely accommodations ranging from rustic cabins and quiet, spacious houses, to modern lofts and stunning villas overlooking the ocean. Book a stay at one of many unforgettable Oregon vacation rentals today. Moreover, during Independence Day, visitors can enjoy plenty of exciting festivals and events that are held all across the state. Without further ado, here are the top cities to spend the 4th of July in Oregon.
1. Yachats, Oregon
A seaside city on the Oregon Coast, Yachats goes all out with its Independence Day event. In the morning, swing by the Yachats Ladies Clubhouse to indulge in a pie and ice cream social. At noon, catch the whimsical annual Yachats la de da Parade, which comprises wacky people-powered floats. Following the parade, there are games and live music, as well as a duck race in the afternoon at the mouth of the Yachats River. A fireworks spectacular held over the Yachats Bay ends the 4th of July celebration.
2. Cannon Beach
Families who prefer low-key Independence Day commemorations without fireworks should consider visiting Cannon Beach. Due to the National Wildlife Reserve situated at the edge of the coast, fireworks are not allowed as they may disturb the nesting seabirds. Accordingly, to celebrate the holiday, the small city has a parade and puffin watch with spotting scopes available on the beach. This would be the perfect place for families bringing along pets.
3. Corbett, Oregon
The community of Corbett may be small in size, but its Independence Day celebration is quite the extravaganza. Beginning at 11 a.m., the festival features an abundance of food and local vendors, live music, a multi-generational queens court, and a wonderful parade. The night is rounded out with an unforgettable fireworks show.
4. Bend, Oregon
Nestled in the heart of the state in central Oregon, the charming city of Bend hosts annual fireworks spectacular to commemorate the 4th of July. Families can gather at Pilot Butte State Park at 10 p.m. to watch the brilliant display against the dark sky. Admission is free. During the day, visitors can have a picnic at one of many on-site facilities, embark on a hiking trail, and enjoy the scenic overlook.
5. Portland, Oregon
The state’s most beloved city boasts tons of fun on Independence Day weekend. Head over to Walker Stadium at Lents Park to catch a baseball game. Then venture to the waterfront to watch the awe-inspiring fireworks displays. Visitors hoping to catch a great view of the display should try watching from the Eastbank Esplanade, Hawthorne Bridge, or the top of the parking garage at the Portland State University. A vacation rental advantageously located near the water could also be a prime spot to appreciate the fireworks.
6. Estacada, Oregon
Estacada is situated about 30 miles southeast of the city of Portland. Famous for being the region’s logging industry hub, the city’s Independence Day festival is affectionately named the Estacada Timber Festival. The festivities begin at 10 a.m. with food vendors and art booths. At noon, there is a tournament involving timber such as the axe throw contest, log pond competition, horse pull demonstration, and chainsaw show-offs. A live band provides entertainment during the evening, and the sky lights up at 10 p.m. with breathtaking fireworks.
7. Seaside, Oregon
On the Oregon Coast, the small city of Seaside knows how to throw a good, old-fashioned Independence Day event. At 11 a.m. on the 4th of July, the city’s parade starts off at the historic Seaside Museum. Then make way to the beach for a bonfire or picnic in the afternoon, and admire the incredible fireworks display starting at 10 p.m. On the following day, visitors can partake in community service with the locals by cleaning up any litter on the beach.
8. Corvallis, OR
The city of Corvallis in the Willamette Valley hosts a two-day extravaganza at the downtown riverfront. Spanning from July 3 to Independence Day, the family-friendly festival offers live music performances and a skilled magician; a wide selection of food vendors; and arts and crafts booths. For parents, there are a variety of Oregon-based microbrews and wines. The fireworks conclude the event at dusk on the 4th of July.
9. Burns, Oregon
The quaint city of Burns in rural, eastern Oregon offers tons of fun for attendees of all ages on Independence Day. Kicking off at 10 a.m. in the morning, the festivities begin with a grand parade that ventures through downtown Burns. Afterward, head over to Hines Park to either participate in or simply watch the annual hot dog eating contest. When the sun goes down, the fireworks come out to round out a fantastic, fun-filled day.
10. Halfway, Oregon
Also tucked away in eastern Oregon is the small town of Halfway. Each year, the community hosts an Independence Day celebration that starts with a parade that marches down its Main Street. The event at Halfway also features a pie auction, as well as live entertainment and music. The unique part of this town’s fireworks display is that the bright, colorful lights are juxtaposed against the backdrop of the impressive Wallowa Mountains.