Willamette River Festival facts for kids

The Willamette River Festival is a super fun yearly event that happens in Albany, Oregon, in the United States. It's a big party right by the Willamette River! Imagine a day filled with delicious BBQ, exciting contests, and even pirates!

This festival brings together people of all ages for a great time. It usually takes place every year around the end of July or the start of August. A company called Bi-Mart helps make the festival possible.

What Happens at the Festival?

The Willamette River Festival is packed with exciting things to see and do. It's known for its unique mix of food, entertainment, and pirate adventures.

Delicious Food and Eating Contests

If you love food, this festival is for you! There's a big BBQ cook-off where chefs compete to make the best barbecue. You can smell the yummy food all over the festival grounds.

• BBQ Cook-Off: Local chefs show off their grilling skills. They compete to see who can make the most delicious BBQ.
• Pie Eating Contest: Get ready for some messy fun! People race to eat pies without using their hands. It's always a big laugh for everyone watching.
• Rib Eating Contest: Another popular food challenge where contestants try to eat ribs as fast as they can.

Exciting Entertainment and Shows

The festival always has lots of live entertainment. You can enjoy music, watch cool demonstrations, and even see pirates!

• Live Music: Bands and performers play music throughout the day. It creates a lively and festive atmosphere.
• Jetski Demonstrations: Skilled riders perform amazing tricks on jetskis in the Willamette River. It's a thrilling show to watch from the riverbanks.
• Pirate Fun: You might see people dressed as pirates roaming around! They add a special, adventurous touch to the festival.

Fun Games and Activities

Besides the food and shows, there are plenty of games and activities, especially for younger visitors. Many of them have a pirate theme!

• Carnival Games: Play classic carnival games to win prizes.
• Pirate-Themed Activities: Look for games and activities inspired by pirates. You might even get to walk the plank (a safe, fun version!).
• River Activities: Since the festival is by the river, there are often ways to enjoy the water, like watching boats or just enjoying the view.

When and Where is the Festival?

The Willamette River Festival happens every year in the summer. It's a perfect way to enjoy the warm weather and the beautiful river.

Where is Albany, Oregon?

Albany is a city in Oregon, a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It's located in the Willamette Valley, which is known for its beautiful scenery and rivers. The festival takes place right along the Willamette River, which flows through the city.

When Does It Happen?

The festival is an annual event. This means it happens once every year. It's usually scheduled for the very end of July or the beginning of August. This timing makes it a great summer event for families and friends.

Who Sponsors the Festival?

The festival gets support from different groups to make it happen. One of the main sponsors is Bi-Mart.

What is Bi-Mart?

Bi-Mart is a chain of retail stores that are popular in the Pacific Northwest. They often support local community events like the Willamette River Festival. Their sponsorship helps cover the costs of putting on such a big event, making it enjoyable for everyone.