We are pleased to announce that we will have all new entertainment for both the Festival and the Beer Garden in 2012.  Joining us this year for the first time will be the Black Hawk Performance Group and the Been Nah Un Den Nah Drum Group.  This group is the oldest American Indian dance company in Chicago and members of the group speak five Native languages. Their performance will include oral history, storytelling, flute playing and traditional as well as modern music and dance.

The Cowboy arena will be set with a rumble tumble cowboy, and his faithful horse.  Visitors will be intrigued by the rope tricks and gun slinging as well as a little old fashion Cowboy humor.

One of the highlights of the Oregon Trail Days Festival is a spectacular gathering of Native American tipis. It is said to be the largest gathering of tipis east of the Mississippi River. Families are able to have an experience of a lifetime by camping overnight in one.  Reservations may be made on-line by clicking the tipi reservation tab to the right.

The festival will begin with a Native American blessing ceremony at the Black Hawk Statue on Saturday morning presented by Black Hawks descendant, Jessica Patterson. Another popular event at the statue will be tours of the inside of the historic giant. Many a legend has been told about people climbing up inside and looking out through the statue’s eyes. This is a rare opportunity for people to find out for themselves because other than this festival, the inside of the statue has never been open to the public. There is a small charge and all proceeds from the tours go toward the restoration project.

Additional activities during the event include a raptor show and children’s crafts.  Vendors display their western and Native American jewelry, art, hides, and clothing.  Food vendors also cater to the theme, and will be serving up an array of delicious foods including Indian fry bread, buffalo burgers and even buffalo chips.  Fully costumed demonstrators explain how to make rope and arrowheads as well as show beading and other works.

On Saturday evening downtown Oregon is host to The Outdoor Eatery and Saloon.  This bigger than life beer garden offers great music by country bands including  Jamie Campbell & The Redneck Romeos and a Tim McGraw tribute performed by Adam Tucker.  Great food, cold beer, great fun!

Sunday will feature expanded activities this year including the ever popular  ‘Run-a-Muck’ a zany 8K run where participants run to a city park and then jump into an innertube and float back down the Rock River from where they commenced! The Lion’s Club pancake breakfast and canoe rally, an ice cream social, tug across the Rock, children’s activities and more.

FEE

$5.00 PER PERSON ENTRY FEE – INCLUDES PARKING

CHILDREN 12 AND UNDER FREE