The year is whizzing by, and before you know it, it’ll be July 4th. Where should you be celebrating this year? Nowhere other than Bend, Oregon! This is an area that’s off the beaten path, for a cozy Bend 4th of July celebration unlike any other.
Pet Parade & Festival
This is an old-fashioned Bend tradition that has been going on since 1932 and is hosted by the city. A truly family-friendly event, everyone will have fun watching the pet parade and all of its adorable critters, from dogs to farm animals. There are over 8,000 participants and spectators to this wacky parade! There’s also lots of live music and games to play. This festival lasts from 11 am to 4 pm, so it is a great way to fill up some daylight hours before you head elsewhere for the fireworks.
Deschutes Historical Museum
At the Deschutes Historical Museum, they’ll be offering not only free admission on the 4th, but even free ice cream! Hurry over there early to snag a cone before they run out. While there, you’ll love looking at the exhibits on display, that show the entire history of the greater Bend, Oregon area. You may find out things you’ve never known, even if you’ve lived here for years, and you’ll love getting to be up close and personal with antiques like wood-burning stoves from the Bend founder’s home, and a Holsman Car from 1907.
Pilot Butte
The fireworks display takes place from the top of Pilot Butte promptly at 10 pm, so you’ll want to make sure you’re in the perfect spot to take them in by then. You can get a lovely view of the display in any area that has sight of Pilot Butte; city parks are especially nice, since you can pop a blanket on the grass to picnic with friends while waiting for the show. If you’re up for it, there are countless open hiking trails to explore before night falls, so you can get an unforgettable view of the show, from a more private area. That’s a pretty great payoff to a long hike.
Bend 4th of July Party
In this quaint and rustic area, you wouldn’t expect its 4th of July to be as much of a blast as it is. Surrounded by the great outdoors, friendly folks, and tasty food wherever you look, head to Bend in 2019 to celebrate the birth of our nation right. This is the traditional Independence Day you and your family will love! Contact Bend Vacation Rentals today to book your vacation rental and be sure you’re ready for a Bend 4th of July.
