Photos & Video by Don Backman for the Tillamook County Pioneer
(Pacific City, OR – July 22, 2024) – The 65th Annual Dory Days event in Pacific City has once again proven to be a monumental success, reflecting the community’s enduring dedication to celebrating its rich dory heritage. As one of Oregon’s 27 Heritage Traditions, Dory Days stands as a testament to the event’s longevity and the unwavering spirit of those who cherish the unique dory culture of Pacific City.
Organized entirely by dedicated volunteers from the Pacific City Nestucca Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Pacific City Dorymen’s Association, and community members passionate about preserving local traditions, the event’s proceeds benefited both aforementioned organizations.
Event Highlights:
- Parade and Marching Band: The streets of Pacific City were vibrant with 52 parade entries and the impressive performance of The Beat Goes On marching band, adding rhythm and excitement to the festivities.
- Parade Entry Competition: Awards were given in several categories for the most creatively decorated floats, including:
Sponsor’s Choice: The Larkins Family
Dorymen’s Choice: Vaughn Family and Friends
People’s Choice: Kellow Family
Best Use of Humor: Roberts Family
Best Use of Theme: Watkins Family
Landlubber’s Award: Special Olympics Tillamook County
- Fish Fry: A remarkable 389 meals were served at the fish fry, featuring fish provided by the local commercial dory boat, the SeaQ. The fish fry remains a beloved staple of the event.
- Pancake Breakfast: The Nestucca Rural Fire Protection District hosted a pancake breakfast, serving 350 meals. Proceeds from the breakfast support the fire district’s essential services.
- Friday Night Live Music: Attendees enjoyed a lively performance by Radio Riot on Friday night, with food provided by The Oar House, enhancing the evening’s festivities.
- Traditional Dory Display: Saturday’s traditional dory display featured six unique dories. Owners were on hand to answer questions about the boats, the dory fleet, and the rich history of dory fishing in Pacific City.
- “Launching through the Surf: The Dory Fleet of Pacific City” Traveling Exhibit. The display is a collaborative presentation by Linfield University and the Pacific City Dorymen’s Association. The 2024 exhibit included a variety of new displays focused on the 2024 Dory Days theme, “Decades of Dories.” It also featured a special display of photographs from the collection of Sandy Weedman, aka the “PC Photo Lady.”
- Artisan Market: The artisan market showcased the talents of 15 local vendors, offering a variety of handcrafted goods and artwork.
- Community Support: The event was made possible by the generosity of 26 sponsors and 5 community sponsors, reflecting the strong community support for this cherished tradition.
- Volunteer Efforts: The dedication of 55 volunteers, who devoted ten months to planning and organizing, ensured the success of Dory Days 2024.
The 65th Annual Dory Days has once again demonstrated the deep-rooted community spirit and commitment to preserving the unique heritage of Pacific City. The success of the event underscores the importance of volunteerism and local support in maintaining our cherished traditions.
About the Pacific City Dorymen’s Association: The Pacific City Dorymen’s Association is dedicated to preserving the unique dory fishing heritage of Pacific City, promoting sustainable fishing practices, and supporting the local community through various initiatives and events.
About the Pacific City Nestucca Valley Chamber of Commerce: The Pacific City Nestucca Valley Chamber of Commerce works to enhance the economic vitality of Pacific City and the surrounding areas by supporting local businesses, promoting tourism, and organizing community events.
