Ashland OR Arts, Culture & Entertainment

Ashland OR Arts, Culture & Entertainment

Halfway between San Francisco and Portland, nestled in the lush green foothills of Southern Oregon, you’ll find the charming town of Ashland, Oregon. A vibrant and creative community, Ashland has a well-deserved reputation as an artistic enclave. It was even named one of the “Best Small Towns in America” by Smithsonian Magazine in 2012.

The town takes great pride in its dedication to the arts, which is evident on the first Friday evening of every month, when many residents and visitors can be found strolling the boulevard, popping in and out of galleries. Between the nationally renowned theatre scene, dozens of art galleries and year-round festivals, you certainly won’t find Ashland OR arts, culture & entertainment lacking.

Ashland is first and foremost a theatre town, and it is primarily the quality and solid reputation of its theater scene that draws about 300,000 tourists every year. There are many different productions and venues to choose from, which offer everything from traditional to contemporary performances.

You can catch a show 365 days a year, but the unofficial season runs from February to November and peaks in the summer months. Take advantage of the fantastic Southern Oregon climate, and spend a summer evening under the stars with Shakespeare; it’s not Broadway – it’s better.

In addition to theatre, Ashland is also bursting with art galleries and museums. The town is home to more than three dozen galleries, display spaces and working studios. The First Friday Art Walk is a great way to take it all in, and stretches from the main boulevard all the way to A Street in the Railroad District. The galleries stay open late and offer free food, wine and some great live music. Ashland also boasts several museums, including one – ScienceWorks – dedicated specifically to children.

Ashland knows how to party, too; for a small town, its celebrations and festivals are actually pretty big time. Overindulge on chocolate at the Oregon Chocolate Festival in the spring, and binge on gourmet delicacies and local wine at the Ashland Culinary Festival in the fall. Check out the downtown farmer’s market in the summer for the best locally grown veggies and unique, handcrafted items.

And whatever you do, don’t miss the Fourth of July celebration. Over 100 years old, the festivities begin with a morning run and parade, followed by all day food and entertainment in Lithia Park, and end with fireworks after nightfall. The whole town turns out for this daylong celebration, so smear on some sunscreen and revel in the jubilant chaos of Ashland’s favorite holiday.

No matter what, you’ll never find yourself bored in Ashland. With more culture and local flavor than many bigger cities, it’s no wonder that so many visitors come back year after year. Whether you’re a theater buff, an art lover or just looking for a fun place to spend a few days, this beautiful and lively little town is sure to win you over.

Green Show

Schneider Museum of Art

An Ashland Restaurant

Ashland Art Gallery

Ashland OR Arts, Culture and Entertainment

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