Fragarant Fête

At this year's Oregon Lavender Festival, more than 20 separate aromatic destinations will open their doors to the public for visitors who wish to experience the herb firsthand by touring farms, nurseries and regional lavender festivals.

July 10-11, tour lavender farms and nurseries, each with its own selection of different varieties of lavender, and each with its own activities arranged for the festival. At the farms, you can cut your own bouquets, and at many sites, you can purchase specialty plants and products, and speak to experts on growing and cultivating lavender.

Many of the sites feature lavender-centric booths with fine arts, crafts, local lavender products for sale, lavender oil distillation demonstrations, live music, craft classes, lavender food, activities for kids, master gardeners to provide gardening advice, and much more. 

At the Yamhill Festival, don't miss the art show and sale of plein air paintings of Oregon lavender farms. Photographers will have the opportunity to submit lavender-themed photographs to the first annual OLA Photo Contest. Winning photographs will be displayed at Helvetia Lavender Farm. Check it out at www.oregonlavenderphotocontest.com.

Plan your day by visiting www.oregonlavenderfestival.org for a complete listing of participating farms, activities and destination maps. 

Every year, a portion of the proceeds from the festival is donated to charitable and community organizations. This cooperative event brings together local growers and community volunteers to educate the public about the delightful and beneficial uses of lavender. 

The Oregon Lavender Association is a nonprofit organization designed to support and promote lavender as a viable, thriving agribusiness in Oregon.

For more information, visit www.oregonlavenderfestival.org or call 971-533-7753.