The Florence Rhododendron Festival is a deeply rooted tradition in the coastal town of Florence, Oregon, and has been celebrated for more than a century. Also known as the Rhody Festival, this event is a vibrant testament to the community’s spirit of living on the naturally beautiful Oregon Coast, and a celebration of the rhododendrons that flourish in the region.
Origins and Growth
The festival began in 1908, making it the third-oldest flower festival on the West Coast, following the Portland Rose Festival and the Tournament of Roses in Pasadena, California [2]. The idea for the festival was conceived by local businessman George Miller, who saw the potential to promote Florence by capitalizing on the natural springtime bloom of wild rhododendrons in the surrounding hills and fields. Miller, along with other community leaders, developed the festival with the theme “Watch Florence Grow,” which resonated with the spirit of civic pride and progress [2].
The inaugural festival was a modest affair compared to the grand celebrations of today. Approximately 1,000 people attended to witness Laura Johnson being crowned the first Queen Rhododendra. She and her maids of honor made a memorable entrance, sailing down the Siuslaw River to the city dock [2].
Evolution of the Festival
Over the years, the Florence Rhododendron Festival has expanded significantly. From its humble beginnings with a population of around 500 people, Florence has grown to about 7,000 residents, and the festival now attracts up to 15,000 visitors annually [2]. The festival’s program has also evolved to include a wide array of events such as a 5k and 10k runs, floral displays, children’s activities, a junior parade, a classic car show, a motorcycle race, and an arts and crafts show [2].
The festival’s highlight remains the Grand Floral Parade, featuring floats, marching bands, and a celebration of the community’s pride and joy [2]. The parade travels through Historic Old Town Florence, bringing together residents and visitors alike in a colorful display of local culture and the region’s floral heritage [3].
Community Involvement and Legacy
The Florence Rhododendron Festival is a collaborative effort, with dozens of volunteers and the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce organizing the event [3]. Local businesses and community groups, such as the Florence Garden Club and the Siuslaw Chapter of the American Rhododendron Society, have played significant roles in supporting the festival’s activities, particularly the Rhododendron Flower Show [4].
The festival has become an integral part of Florence’s identity, with generations of families participating and creating lasting memories. It is not only a celebration of the rhododendrons’ beauty but also a reflection of the community’s resilience and unity [1].
Modern Celebrations
Today, the Florence Rhododendron Festival continues to be a major attraction, with a vendor’s fair, live music, art exhibitions, and a variety of festivities taking place throughout the town [1] [7]. The festival is held every third weekend in May, with the next celebration marking its 113th year [5]. It remains a family tradition and an Oregon institution, inviting people from all over to join in the biggest party of the year and enjoy all that Oregon’s Coastal Playground has to offer [1].
In summary, the Florence Rhododendron Festival is a historic event that has grown from a local celebration to a significant tourist attraction, bringing together the community and visitors to honor the natural splendor of the Oregon Coast and the enchanting rhododendrons that symbolize the region’s beauty.
RV Park/Marina with Airbnb Lodging
There are many quality choices for lodging in the area and they become quite congested during the festival. We recommend Maple Lane RV Park and Marina in Mapleton. The Park is only a 15 minute drive to the festival and is located along the Siuslaw River. Avoid the crowds and enjoy peaceful tranquility after a day of festival fun.
Citations:
[1] https://florencechamber.com/rhododendron-festival/
[2] http://memory.loc.gov/diglib/legacies/loc.afc.afc-legacies.200002929/
[3] https://www.beachconnection.net/news/rhodofest050319.php
[4] https://siuslawars.org/history.html
[5] https://riverhouseflorence.com/history-of-florence/
[6] https://www.eugenecascadescoast.org/event/florence-rhododendron-festival/55121/
[7] https://florencechamber.com/event/117th-annual-rhododendron-festival-rhody-days/189/
