Living Local in Florence: Events, Festivals, and Things to Do

Living in a coastal community means belonging to a place where every season brings something to celebrate. Florence is one of those special spots where neighbors become friends and the rhythm of the year is marked by festivals, markets, and traditions that have been bringing people together for generations.

Seasonal Celebrations and Events

Throughout the year, Florence comes alive with community events that celebrate the coastal lifestyle. From summer beach gatherings to winter holiday traditions, there is always something on the calendar. The rhythm of life here follows the seasons, and locals know exactly when to gather for the best celebrations.

Farmers Markets and Local Food

One of the great joys of coastal living is the access to fresh, local food. Farmers markets in Florence and the surrounding area bring together local growers, seafood purveyors, and artisans. It is the kind of place where you get to know the people who grow your food and the stories behind each product.

Things to Do Any Day

Beyond the special events, daily life in Florence is filled with simple pleasures. Here are some favorites:

• Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area: 40 miles of massive sand dunes for hiking, ATV riding, and photography
• Old Town Florence: historic riverfront district with shops, galleries, and dining
• Sea Lion Caves: America's largest sea cave, home to Steller sea lions, just north of town
• Siuslaw River Bridge: a stunning Art Deco bridge, the gateway to the south coast
• Florence Golf Links: oceanfront golf course with stunning views
• Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial Park: a stunning park with freshwater lakes and dunes access
• Siuslaw River: fishing, crabbing, and boat tours from Old Town
• Darlingtonia State Natural Site: a botanical area featuring the carnivorous cobra lily plant

Family-Friendly Fun

Florence is a wonderful place for families. The beach is the ultimate playground, and the community events are designed for all ages. Whether you are building sandcastles, exploring tide pools, or watching a holiday parade, there is a sense of safety and welcome here that makes raising a family special.

Places to Play Pickleball

Pickleball is growing quickly across Oregon,and it is always worth confirming court availability,and hours with the city,or facility,before heading out. Here's where to play in and near Florence:

• Rolling Dunes Park: between 35th,and Siano Loop,just outside town. Six outdoor courts. Free, open dawn-to-dusk. Drop-in open play often runs Monday,Wednesday,and Friday mornings. Confirm with the city.

What's Happening This Week

As of the week of October 13, 2026, here is what is on the Florence calendar:

• Chowder, Blues & Brews Festival, October dates posted by the chamber. The Events Center's fall tradition pairs chowder from local kitchens with live blues and craft brews, Florence's tastiest weekend of the season. Exact 2026 dates are posted by the Florence Area Chamber as the festival approaches.
• Coastal Canine Classic, October 16 to 18. The Events Center goes to the dogs for a weekend of dog shows, a vendor fair, and plenty of friendly faces in the aisles.
• Circles in the Sand, October 24 to 25. Free, large-scale beach art drawn at low tide on Florence's sands, a meditative tradition that is gone with the next wave.
• Scary Tales Haunted Maze, October 28 to 31. The Old Town haunted maze runs its spooky evenings with a special showing Wednesday, October 28, a fun fright for older kids and brave adults.
• Old Town Trick-or-Treat on Bay Street, Saturday, October 31, 4 p.m. Florence's downtown shops hand out treats along Bay Street for a warm, community-centered Halloween afternoon.

October pairs the last market days with the first storm-watch weekends, and Old Town Florence is beautiful in the soft autumn light.

Make It Your Home

The best way to experience Florence is to live here. If you are thinking about making the Oregon Coast your home, I would love to help you find your place in this beautiful community. Reach out anytime for a conversation with no pressure, just honest guidance.