Spring in Oregon brings sunlight over vineyard-covered hills, the morning air warming and blossoms filling the Willamette Valley with fresh color. Festivals and events take full advantage of the season, celebrating everything from tulips to UFOs. McMinnville and the surrounding areas offer plenty to explore, whether you are drawn to the wine or the scenery.
Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival
If you're looking for a classic spring experience near McMinnville, don't miss the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival. The festival showcases our area's spring colors with row after row of tulips stretching across the fields. This scene also offers the perfect backdrop for local wine tastings and gorgeous keepsake photos.
Hot air balloon rides, tractor tours, and a market featuring local artisans add to the charm while giving you plenty to see and do. The festival is about an hour from McMinnville, making it a great day trip to explore fields, sip wine, and take home a bouquet.
Amity Daffodil Festival
For a more intimate experience, the Amity Daffodil Festival delivers. Thousands of daffodils bloom across this small town, and local crafts and live music fill the air. This event has marked Oregon's early spring for over a century.
After enjoying the sights, stop by a nearby winery to enjoy the region's wine offerings. The daffodil festival is a true reflection of Oregon's community spirit. Local artisans showcase their crafts and invite visitors to participate in hands-on workshops. So, you can create art pieces to take home as mementos.
UFO Festival
McMinnville's UFO history takes center stage during the annual UFO Festival. You can expect costume contests, expert panels, art installations, and themed cocktails.
The UFO festival is a quirky, fun event for everyone. It's also a fresh way to celebrate the season and unwind at one of McMinnville's top wineries after experiencing extraterrestrial fun.
The festival's history stems from a famous 1950s UFO sighting. Over the years, it has become a celebration of all things space and sci-fi. So, naturally, there are plenty of opportunities to meet UFO researchers and hear captivating stories about the unknown.
Yamhill-Carlton Spring Tasting
Wine lovers won't want to miss the Yamhill-Carlton Spring Tasting. Sample some of the finest Pinot Noir in the Willamette Valley at this wine-tasting event. Swirl and sip exclusive wines not found elsewhere. Hosted at Abbey Road Farm, the event lets you sample wines, enjoy gourmet bites, and tour local vineyards. This festival is a chance to experience Oregon's wine culture up close.
Of course, if you want to deepen your wine knowledge, guided vineyard tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process. This spring tasting is where the Willamette Wine Valley shines brighter. These wine tours allow guests like you to learn about sustainable farming practices and meet the talented winemakers who craft each bottle.
Oregon Thespians State Festival
For theater fans, the Oregon Thespians State Festival brings together talented high school performers. There are workshops with industry experts to give you insight into stagecraft, acting, and storytelling.
The Thespians Festival energizes McMinnville's arts scene with public performances and art exhibits around town. It's an excellent opportunity for young performers to gain valuable exposure while networking with professionals. Additionally, you'll experience an impromptu taste of our thriving arts scene. Pop-up performances occur throughout the weekend, bringing out local talent for fun, intrigue, and something unique to your McMinnville getaway.
Big Red Fest
If you enjoy bold wines, the Big Red Fest is unmissable. The event highlights full-bodied wines like Cabernet and Syrah and unique blends, offering tasting flights paired with gourmet cheese and charcuterie. You'll have the chance to learn about wine blending and aging directly from the winemakers.
This event occurs in one of Oregon's most scenic vineyard settings, so bring your phones and cameras. You'll want to capture the moment as a souvenir of your visit.
The festival gives you sweeping views of the valley while you enjoy expertly curated wine and food pairings. However, for a truly immersive experience, some wineries offer barrel tastings. So, get ready to sample wine straight from the barrel like a connoisseur.
Other Things to Do in McMinnville
McMinnville isn't just about festivals. There's plenty to do and experience beyond festivals.
Savor a meal at one of its farm-to-table restaurants; there are many to choose from, and each offers a unique take on local fare. Wine in McMinnville is a must-have experience for anyone. So, feel free to enjoy wine tastings at cozy tasting rooms. Tour the vineyards and bring back a bottle or two of your favorites to enjoy at A' Tuscan Estate.
Do you love shopping? Browse unique boutiques and vintage shops for unique treasures. There are plenty of antique shops to explore, and you never know what you might find.
Better yet? Explore scenic cycling tours through the valley's vineyards; it's another way to discover McMinnville while staying active and enjoying time together during your romantic Oregon getaway.
History buffs will love the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, which is a must-visit. Its collection of aircraft, including the famous Spruce Goose, and fascinating exhibits on space exploration are worth the visit.
Explore McMinnville — Your Spring Adventure Awaits
McMinnville is a destination worth visiting this spring. The town's festivals and events, as well as the food, wine, and art, make it the perfect getaway. Reserve your stay at A' Tuscan Estate and get ready for your McMinnville spring adventure.
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