10 Can’t-Miss Events in Bend, Oregon

© Dave Liedman

Relocating to Bend, Oregon is an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in a city brimming with art, culture, and a variety of local events. As you settle into your new life in Bend, it’s essential to engage with the community and truly experience what living in Bend has to offer. One of the best ways to do this is by attending the numerous events in Bend Oregon. From music and art to sports and festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and make lasting connections.

Bend’s Art and Music Scene

When moving to Bend, you will quickly discover the city’s vibrant art and music scene. Bend is known for its lively music atmosphere, featuring small and upcoming bands of all genres. This diverse and thriving culture has helped establish Bend as a hub for art and music enthusiasts.

Several venues in Bend showcase the best of the local music scene, including the Tower Theatre, Volcanic Theatre Pub, and Cascades Theater. These establishments provide a platform for emerging and established artists to perform, giving audiences a chance to experience an array of musical styles and genres.

Living in Bend offers ample opportunities for individuals to get involved in the music and arts scene. From starting your own band to participating in local performances and events, you can actively engage with the vibrant artistic community. Bend’s art and culture scene is an essential aspect of the city’s identity, making it an ideal destination for those looking to relocate and immerse themselves in a creative environment.

First Friday Art Walk

One of the most popular events in Bend is the downtown First Friday Art Walk. This monthly event showcases the art and culture of Bend, making it an excellent opportunity for those moving to Bend or considering Bend relocation to immerse themselves in the local scene. As the name suggests, the event takes place on the first Friday of every month and is a must-visit for anyone living in Bend.

During the First Friday Art Walk, galleries and shops in Bend open their doors to welcome visitors. This creates a lively atmosphere with bands playing in the street, local artists displaying their work, and people from all walks of life coming together to appreciate the vibrant art scene in Bend. In addition to the visual arts on display, visitors can also enjoy live music performances by local bands, showcasing the diverse range of musical talents in the city.

As you stroll through the streets of downtown Bend during the First Friday Art Walk, you will also come across food and libation carts offering delicious treats to keep you fueled throughout the evening. These carts are a great way to sample local cuisine and beverages, further adding to the charm of the event.

First Friday Art Walk is a fantastic way to experience the art and culture in Bend while also enjoying a fun and engaging evening with friends and family. Whether you are new to the city or a long-time resident, this event is not to be missed.

Festivals in Bend

When moving to Bend, you’ll quickly discover that the city is brimming with art and culture, especially when it comes to festivals. With various events held throughout the year, there is always something to look forward to. In this section, we’ll provide an overview of some popular festivals in Bend that you won’t want to miss.

Two of the most anticipated festivals in downtown Bend are Oktoberfest and Winterfest. Both events transform the city center into a vibrant street party, featuring art, hand-crafted products, food, live music, and activities for the whole family. These festivals are perfect for immersing yourself in the local culture while enjoying the company of fellow Bend residents and visitors alike.

Bend also boasts a variety of art-focused festivals, such as Art in the High Desert, 4 Peaks Music Festival, and the Munch & Music series. Art in the High Desert is an annual event that showcases the work of talented artists from across the country, offering a chance to purchase unique pieces and interact with the artists themselves. The 4 Peaks Music Festival is a multi-day event that celebrates diverse musical genres, featuring both local and international acts. Lastly, the Munch & Music series is a beloved summer tradition, combining delicious food with live music in a scenic outdoor setting.

As you settle into living in Bend, make sure to take advantage of these fantastic local events. They offer a wonderful opportunity to experience the art and culture that make Bend a truly unique and vibrant community.

Family-friendly Events

When moving to Bend, you’ll find that the city has a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year, making it an ideal place for families who love to engage in art and culture. Some of the most popular family-oriented events in Bend include the following:

Bend Fall Festival: Held annually, this festival celebrates the arrival of autumn with a weekend full of activities for all ages. There’s live music, a pumpkin patch, food vendors, arts and crafts booths, and plenty of activities for kids to enjoy.

Bend Christmas Parade: A beloved holiday tradition, the Bend Christmas Parade brings the community together to celebrate the season. Enjoy watching festive floats, marching bands, and local organizations as they make their way through downtown Bend.

July 4th Pet Parade & Old-Fashioned Festival: This event combines a pet parade with an old-fashioned festival to celebrate Independence Day. Families can watch as pets and their owners march through the streets, and then enjoy a variety of games, food, and entertainment at the festival.

Bite of Bend and Balloons Over Bend: Two events that showcase the best of living in Bend – the Bite of Bend celebrates the city’s culinary scene with food vendors, cooking demonstrations, and live music, while Balloons Over Bend is a weekend-long hot air balloon festival featuring balloon launches, tethered rides, and a night glow event.

These family-friendly events are just a small taste of the art and culture in Bend, making it a wonderful place for families to call home. As you plan your Bend relocation, be sure to explore these events and others, and immerse yourself in the vibrant community that awaits you.

Night Glow

One of the most enchanting events is the Night Glow during Balloons Over Bend. This magical event, perfect for families moving to Central Oregon or those already living in the area, showcases the art and culture in Bend while providing fun activities for children and families alike.

About the Event

The Night Glow features a mesmerizing display of hot air balloons that light up the night sky. As the sun sets, the balloons are inflated and illuminated, creating a breathtaking spectacle of colors and shapes. The festival takes place annually and attracts visitors from all over the region, making it a must-see event for those new to Bend or considering Bend relocation.

Activities for Children and Families

Aside from the awe-inspiring Night Glow, the festival also offers a wide range of activities designed for children and families. These may include arts and crafts, face painting, games, and live performances by local musicians and entertainers. The event is an excellent opportunity for families to spend quality time together while exploring the vibrant art and culture in Bend.

Night Glow is a can’t-miss local event that showcases the beauty and creativity of Bend. If you’re moving to Bend or already living in the area, be sure to attend this magical event and experience the art, culture, and family-friendly fun that Bend has to offer. To learn more about relocating to Bend and other exciting events in the area, visit MovingToBend.com.