February 2011

Take on the Season’s Best

Visions of warmer weather and blooming flowers may have you wishing for spring to hurry up and get here, but don’t miss the chance to take advantage of the great winter activities Oregon has to offer before they are gone. There are festivals dedicated to winter sports for outdoor enthusiasts, as well as festivals for those who prefer to spend the cold weather cozily inside. Also, be sure not to miss the amazing wildlife that hangs out in Oregon this time of year.
 
The Bend Winterfest, a popular annual event that brings in crowds from all over the Northwest, is taking over the Old Mill District from February 18 through 20, 2011. Certain aspects of this festival, like snow sculptures, ice carving and winter sports, happen daily, but make sure to check out the events schedule to note the events that differ each day. You won’t go hungry; there will be a huge selection of some of the finest local foods and wines at the daily marketplace. If you plan to attend the festival on Friday, you can improve upon your wine expertise at the Winterfest Wine Walk. The Winterfest website, www.bendwinterfest.com, has all the information you need.
 
Although snow sports are definitely hallmarks of winter, many of us spend more time getting cozy in front of a good movie than hitting the slopes during the cold weather. Celebrate the movie industry from February 10 to 26, 2011 at the 34th annual Portland International Film Festival. Touting attendance numbers of over 35,000, this is the biggest film event in the state. To see the schedule of film showings, parties and other events that make up the festival, head to www.nwfilm.org/festivals/piff.
 
Portland is hosting another great film event from March 9 through 13, 2011 featuring women directors. The Portland Women’s Film Festival includes Oscar- and other award-winning filmmakers, and also attempts to focus on new local talent. This event is a great way to experience something new and to support Oregonian artists. For information about the films being shown, visit www.powfest.com.
 
While you may dream of hopping a plane and flying somewhere warm this winter, there are some birds that think Oregon is the place to be this time of year. The 32nd annual Winter Wings Festival takes place in the Klamath Basin, which is essentially a pit stop for 80 percent of the migratory birds that use the high-traffic path dubbed the Pacific Flyway. From February 18 to 20, 2011, there will be talks by expert speakers, guided bird watching and photography events. Even if you haven’t gone birding before, the fact that this is the most concentrated area of wintering Bald Eagles in the continental United States should be enough to interest anyone. The festival’s website is located at www.winterwingsfest.org.
 
If you feel like you haven’t gotten in enough skiing or snowboarding yet this winter, plan a weekend trip to Mount Hood to breathe in the clean mountain air, take in the stunning views and increase your adrenaline levels while speeding down the slopes. Keep in mind that there is year-round snow on Mount Hood, so don’t fret if you can’t make it out there before the winter is over. Check out www.skihood.com or www.cooperspur.com for your pick of winter activity options.
 
So, before you begin to plan your spring and summer gardens and searching for your next summer getaway, be sure to embrace some of the fantastic winter events Oregon has to offer.