HOOD RIVER, Ore. - April 6, 2010 - More than 15,000 acres of fruit trees in Oregon's scenic Hood River Valley burst into bloom in April, just in time for the 56th Annual Hood River Valley Blossom Festival.
The scenic and fertile Hood River Valley, spanning from the north slope of Mount Hood to the south shore of the Columbia River Gorge, is the largest pear-growing region in Oregon, producing 50% of the nation's winter pear crop. The Hood River Valley Blossom Festival, which is now in its 56th year, celebrates the arrival of Spring and the beginning of a new growing season for this important agricultural area.
The Blossom Festival a perfect opportunity for winter-weary Oregonians to hit the road for a major dose of Oregon's springtime glory and sunshine. A 47-mile loop drive along the Hood River County Scenic Tour Route is the centerpiece of the longtime celebration, as it takes you to the Festival's entire flurry of activities.
"Blossom Festival is so big, we couldn't fit it all in one place," says Mary Closson, executive director for the Hood River County Chamber of Commerce. "There are almost 20 different venues along the loop drive celebrating the Festival this year and all are worth the trip - it's a beautiful drive."
| Cheerful volunteers are stationed at exits #62 and #64 to provide maps & info |
This year's festival features all the traditional favorites that Blossom Festival go-ers have enjoyed through the years. The Blossom Craft Show, the Blossom Fest Quilt Show, Rasmussen Farms' Pansy Party, Parkdale Grange Blossom Dinner, and West Side Fire Department's All You Can Eat Breakfast are all back this year, much to the delight of families that have made Blossom Festival part of their spring-season family traditions. Visitors can also sample a real taste of the Gorge in a glass with several wine and beer tasting events.
| The Pastoral Beauty of the Farming Way of Life in the Hood River Valley |
The festival's main stars - the beautiful pink and white fruit tree blossoms - are best viewed from the comfort of your car. The Blossom Festival tour route is 47 miles long and averages about 1.25 hours, without stops. Most of the Hood River Fruit Loop member farms are located on the route, most offering special blossom-time activities during the weekend. Pick up a Blossom Festival map brochure at the Hood River County Chamber of Commerce Visitors Information Center (800-366-3530) at 720 E Port Marina Drive (Exit #64 off Interstate 84, then turn north and follow the Visitor Information signs) or download it ahead of time. Chamber Ambassadors and volunteers will also be stationed at I-84 exits #62 and #64 throughout the weekend, and will offer drive-up help with maps, directions, and a friendly smile.
| Blossom Festival abounds with celebrations of fine arts and crafts. |
This year's Blossom Festival Special Event Guide is now available for viewing and download! You may also call us at 1-800-366-3530, or
email us and request a free copy of the guide be sent to you in the mail.
Click here to download the event guide brochure.
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