Celebrating Eugene

One weekend a year the people of Eugene barricade the main drags in town and showcase their local flavors at the annual Eugene Celebration. The local food shatters the image of any stereotypical fair food: from marinated tempeh over veggies to organic muffins and hand dipped chocolate bananas. Microbreweries and local wineries tempt the will power of all those possessing a valid driver's license. A broad pallet of local music fills the air from four open air stages and five indoor venues. Jazz, Blues, Punk, Bluegrass, Rock, Hip Hop, Folk. Local vendors offering everything from local threads and jewelery to massage and reiki. It bears a strong resemblence to our beloved Saturday Market, it's just a lot bigger......and there's a parade! My neighbor, Lindsey, and I went down to the market in search of the season's last offerings of berries and were able to enjoy the parade from beginning to end.
Belly Dancers, a Magic School Bus, a Marching Drum Circle, Tae Kwan-Do Tikes and Presidential candidate look-alikes, all followed by the newly crowned Slug Queen, who would give Santa Clause a run for his money in any parade. It was truly a celebration of all things Eugene. The pride of the people and their politics, their creativity, their diversity and their ingenuity were in full display for three sun-filled days. It was fun to imagine next year's celebration and introducing our little one to such a vibrant community of unabashedly colorful locals.