Art, oysters and beer are back in Toledo, on the Central Oregon coast

Published on 21-07-24 at 07:25
By Andre’ GW Hagestedt, Oregon Coast Beach Connection

(Toledo, Oregon) – A small-town favorite is back again, as the tiny coastal town of Toledo announces the lineup and date for Art, Oysters & Brews, an event that has been a tradition for several years.

The event will once again take place on Main Street in the central Oregon coastal city and will run for a weekend from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, August 3 and 4. The event will feature local and regional artists, live music, a petting zoo, children’s activities, fresh oysters, and a beer and wine garden. It’s an event that continues to grow in popularity each year.

Art lovers will always find Art, Oysters & Brews and the revitalized Main Street an engaging experience for the soul and the stomach. It’s an immersive art scene for those two days.

Dive into Toledo’s vibrant art scene and discover inspired works from local and regional artists, including much of the Oregon Coast. From stunning paintings to captivating photography and mixed media, this event offers a diverse and dynamic display of creativity. Visitors can also enjoy the Yaquina River Museum of Art’s First Weekend Art Celebration, tour Toledo’s vibrant murals, and explore local art galleries.

This time around, Art, Oysters & Brews has expanded to two days, offering an even grander palette for the area’s artists, as well as brewers and musicians, according to Toledo Mayor Rod Cross.

“We look forward to expanding the event and bringing more to our beautiful Main Street and all that Toledo has to offer,” said Cross.

A highlight of the festival is always the live music performances, which give Art, Oysters & Brews a real energetic feel and atmosphere. Saturday’s line-up includes Ian Smith & Morgen Silverhorn, Whole Lotta Louis and Johnny Wheels. Sunday’s performances include Kathy Redwine & Friends, Wild Hog in the Woods and Ellen Whyte & Garry Meziere Duo.

For all Oregon Coast food lovers, the event features a beer and wine garden where attendees can enjoy a wide variety of craft beers, fine wines, and refreshing beverages. Treat your taste buds to fresh, locally sourced oysters prepared by the skilled culinary team at Timbers Restaurant & Lounge. Additionally, there will be a variety of food trucks and snow cones available to keep you coming back for more.

The public is invited to join in the art-driven fun. Families and individuals of all ages are invited to contribute to a beautiful new mural for Main Street. Last year’s community murals will be auctioned off during the event to make room for the 2024 murals. This gives attendees a chance to purchase their amazing artwork, family members to acquire a lasting memory of their child’s contribution, or anyone interested in taking home a unique piece of art.

Also this summer: check out the huge sand circle art project in Bandon.

Art, Oysters & Brews is a testament to Toledo’s thriving arts community and the ART Toledo Committee’s commitment to fostering creativity, community engagement, and cultural appreciation.

“This event would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors, volunteers and the entire Toledo community,” organizers said.

This year, Coos Bay is once again celebrating its 150th anniversary with a season-long celebration that culminates in the fall.

In 2021, Toledo launched the Arts Revitalization of Toledo initiative to support the economic development and rejuvenation of downtown Toledo. ART Toledo is a multi-sector collaboration focused on creating a thriving cultural district and celebrating our city’s industry and history. The ART Toledo committee is comprised of community members, nonprofits, artists, and local businesses all working together to revitalize Main Street and Toledo’s business district to meet the needs of current residents and revitalize the community. For more information, visit ArtToledo.com.