Not everyone likes to make set plans for holidays, so for those who like to have a little spontaneity in life, here are a few events around Eugene today in case you forgot to make plans. Admission ranges from free to around $20.
Put on by the Eugene Active 20-30 Club, the Freedom Festival in Alton Baker Park opens to the public at 11 a.m. and is an event for all ages. At the 67th annual festival there will be a multitude of entertaining activities such as live music, food booths, family activities and even a pie eating contest. Those who are of age can try the local beer and wine and once the sun sets, the fireworks begin. The cost of the event is $7 for adults, $1 for children 6-11 and kids 5 and under are free.
For those who like to hold tight to the stereotypical definition of America, what better way to do it than with America’s favorite pastime and see some baseball games at the 36th Annual Papa’s Pizza Invitational American Legion Baseball Tournament. There you can grab a brew, a hot dog, relax and watch the Eugene Challengers at work. The tournament extends through the seventh, so any baseball fan can watch games each day. Tickets are $10 for adults.
Working together with the Freedom Festival, Art and the Vineyard provides a larger range of attractions to the people who attend. The event brings international food, local wines and beers, arts and crafts, live music as well as a marketplace for local artists. No matter the age or occupation, Art and the Vineyard is sure to have something for you, and if that’s not enough they advertise the Freedom Festival’s fireworks at dusk. The cost of the event is $7 for adults, $1 for children 6-11 and kids 5 and under are free.
If you enjoy supporting local artists, vendors and farmers, then the Lane County Farmer’s Market is for you. Located in downtown Eugene on 5th street you can get a whiff of the freshly baked pastries, bread and organically grown fruits and produce. Many vendors boast organic and locally grown ingredients in their products and have reasonable prices as well. At the farmer’s market you can also expect local artists displaying their works for sale ranging from jewelry to painting. Admission is free, but be prepared to spend a few dollars on some great tasting food and drink.
Although the Eugene Rodeo goes on from July 3 to July 6, the Fourth has just as many attractions. Open to the public at 4 p.m., there you can sample local food and beer vendors until the pre-show at 5:45 and the motorcycle show at 6. The rodeo itself starts at 7:30 and is followed by a fireworks show at 9:50. During the rodeo, kids of all ages can try their hand at being a pro rider by chasing young calves in a spectacle entertaining for all. Tickets for Adults cost $14 in advance and $16 at the gate, kids (6-12) tickets cost $8 in advance $10 at the gate while children 5 and under are free.