Summer in the Oregon Countryside

We’re in “deep summer” here in the Willamette Valley in Oregon.  For the most part temperatures are the “perfect” summer weather.  Hot enough for sunning and a dip in the pool and cool enough for morning garden work or enjoying an evening hike or a sunset horseback ride.  But even during our couple of weeks with temperatures in the 90’s, eventually, unlike my growing up years in the Midwest, we have cooler temperatures in the late evening and at night.  Relief with temperatures in the 50’s arrives in the darkness, and unlike the Midwest of my childhood, the humidity hovers in the low percentiles. 

Riding the vineyard is great in summer

And, we’re green, flowers are blooming, vegetables are growing, County Fairs and music festivals are underway, wine tasting rooms are busy (serving lots of chilled white wine), and life is good. 

Basil growing for delicious salads and pasta

So, what to see and do in the Oregon Summer?  Here at The Farm, we are in Lane County within 30 minutes of the City of Eugene.  To the north of us, we are also just minutes from the Benton County line, and just over 30 minutes from the City of Corvallis.  Both counties and both communities offer an abundance of charm and activities, and of course both communities are University towns with nationally acclaimed sports action. 

If you’re planning a visit to Oregon, or even if you already live here, a great place to check out all our area has to offer is to look up information on the local tourism websites.  For Lane County, the events calendar for Travel Lane County:  Eugene, Cascades,and Coast is the place start.  For Benton County, and the City of Corvallis, look up Visit Corvallis for all the latest information on that adjoining area. 

Pfeiffer Winery with great wine in a beautiful setting, just four miles away

Here are a few highlights of summer and fall fun to the NORTH of us:

June 21 to September 22:  Heart of Willamette Wineries Summertime Wine Tour.  Pick up a passport for $20 at the Visit Corvallis Office or at designated wineries enjoy free wine tastings and an opportunity to win a free night at a bed and breakfast. 

All Summer Long: Mid-Valley Sip Trip offers great choices of hand crafted beverages, including beer, cider, and mead.  Download a map and take a beverage tour.

August 1 -3:  Benton County Fair and NPRA Rodeo.  Enjoy the fun of a county fair with food, music, and rides, as well as an opportunity to watch professional rodeo. 

 And to the SOUTH of us, here are some options:

Weekend Winery Fun:  Wineries in the area are bustling on summer weekends with tastings from about noon to late afternoon.  Many of the wineries are open Friday nights with twilight tastings, live music, and delicious food.  Check out the Eugene, Cascades, and Coast Events Calendar for some options.  Visit the South Willamette Wineries Association website for a list of wineries in the area and a map to find.

August 5, 7:30 pm:  Catch LyleLovett and his Large Band at the Silva Concert Hall in Eugene

Summer and Early Fall Markets:  The area has many outdoor and farmers’ markets with everything from crafts to produce to food stands to entertainment.  The Eugene, Cascades and Coast EventsCalendar lists many options for great family entertainment and shopping.