Get ready to sail through time as Pacific City gears up for the annual Dory Days Festival from July 19-21, 2024! This year’s theme, “Decades of Dories,” promises a nostalgic journey through the rich history of the dory fleet, celebrating the evolution of these iconic boats and the resilient spirit of the community that has kept this tradition alive.
On Saturday, July 20, at 11 AM, the festival will feature a spectacular parade of boats, cars, horses, and music, winding its way through the streets of Pacific City. Floats, decorated according to the theme “Decades of Dories,” will compete for trophies in six different categories, adding an element of friendly competition to the festivities.
Festival-goers will have the unique opportunity to chat directly with dorymen about their distinctive boats and the specific purposes behind their builds. These traditional dory boat displays, located at the Dorymen’s Lot next to Chester’s Market, will showcase the features that have enabled these vessels to brave the Pacific waters for over a century.
A culinary highlight of the event is the fish fry, where visitors can taste the history of the Pacific with fresh-caught dory fish from the SeaQ dory boat, expertly fried by the Sportsman Pub and Grub. This delectable treat will be available at the Kiawanda Community Center from Noon to 5 PM on July 20th.
Music lovers can look forward to an array of live performances and entertainment. The 90s rock band, The Radio Riots, will kick off the festivities on Friday night at the KCC from 7 PM to 9 PM. Tickets are $15 per person, and the event is open to all ages. During the parade on Saturday cheer on “The Beat Goes on Marching Band, which features a high-energy, brassy, rock and roll style. On Saturday night, attendees can enjoy line dancing at 7 PM, with no prior experience necessary. Tickets for the line dancing event are $10 per person.
For those interested in the historical aspects of the dory fleet, the “Launching Through the Surf: The Dory Fleet of Pacific City” traveling exhibit is a must-see. This collaborative presentation by Linfield University and the Pacific City Dorymen’s Association will be open to the public for free on July 20th from 7 AM to 5 PM.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can explore the artisan market at the Dorymen’s Lot next to Chester’s Market. This market will feature a range of unique souvenirs, vintage-inspired jewelry, artwork, and more, offering a delightful shopping experience in a picturesque setting.
All events will take place in and around Pacific City, providing a stunning backdrop of ocean views and a picturesque setting for this beloved community festival.
For more information, please visit the Pacific City Dory Days website at https://pacificcitydorydays.com/ or contact the event coordinator, Arica Sears, at aricasears@gmail.com.
About the Pacific City Dorymen’s Association: The Pacific City Dorymen’s Association is dedicated to preserving the heritage and traditions of the local dory fishing fleet. Established in 1935, the association supports sustainable fishing practices and fosters community engagement through various events and educational programs.
About the Pacific City – Nestucca Valley Chamber: The Chamber is an organization of business and professional people and citizens working together to stimulate a prosperous business environment as well as civic, social, cultural and educational aspects for a more vibrant community.