Save the date for Spring events

Jim Gullo

Spring will soon return to McMinnville, and the trees and flowers will be blooming all over town. For those of us who live here it means that it’s time to dust off our antennae and spaceships, find the wicker baskets in the back of the closet and otherwise prepare for the many events and festivals that are happening over the next few months. Quick, save the dates for these don’t-miss events coming our way.

UFO FESTIVAL, May 18 & 19
The annual event that puts the whack in Mac. This over-the-top fest celebrates the sighting of UFOs near McMinnville back in the ‘60s with a parade, speakers, music, food and general merriment centered around the Hotel Oregon on Third Street. Don’t miss the Alien Costume Parade on Saturday, beginning at 1 p.m.; it really is one of the funniest, freakiest processions you’re likely to see anywhere, with people dressed up in full alien regalia and parading down Third.

FARMERS’ MARKET, Thursdays beginning May 24
There is nothing that announces spring for us like our beloved Farmers’ Market, which is held Thursday afternoons between the hours of 1:00 and 6:00 p.m. on Cowls Street between Second and Third Streets. It’s a great place to pick up fresh produce and food items from local farms, taste local wines and beers and mingle with the locals. Bring your basket and stock up on the freshest veggies and fruits of the season. Runs this year to October 11.

BROWN BAG CONCERTS, Thursdays beginning June 7
Concurrent with the Farmers’ Market are the free concerts held every Thursday from noon to 1:30 p.m. (starting June 7 and running through August 16) at the U.S. Bank Plaza on Davis Street & Third Street. Favorite performers include locals like Mike Strickland, the Pan Gypsies, and the Rainbirds, who will be joined by new artists performing jazz, folk and bluegrass music. Bring a lunch and come out to the plaza to enjoy the shows.