If you’re going to the Oregon Country Fair, there are some items you will undoubtedly need to bring. A camera, because the entire festival is a photo opportunity. A reusable water bottle, because walking through the forest in the hot summer sun will leave you parched (and because bottled water is an unsustainable product). One thing to leave at home, however, is your close-mindedness.

Held annually on the second weekend of July, the Oregon Country Fair creates a quirky community in a field about 15 miles away from urban Eugene. To the unfamiliar, OCF seems like nothing more than a three-day hippie party in the middle of the woods. Stilt-walkers, gypsy marching bands and ladies with painted chests are all common – and expected – sights to see. But those who’ve experienced OCF know it’s much more than a gawkfest; it is a rare opportunity to escape societal restrictions and live another life… at least for the day.

The chance to ditch one’s everyday persona is why so many return to the Fair every year. The underlying message OCF volunteers and attendees emphasize is one of tolerance and acceptance of others’ lifestyles. That guy greeting you at the gate? He’s leading the eco-conscious revolution at the University of Oregon. That scantily-clad woman swaying in the breeze? She’s a volunteer projects coordinator at Goodwill. It won’t take long to realize that these free spirits are just that: individuals freed from social conformity, expressing themselves in a safe, open environment.

Aside from the almost-obligatory act of people-watching, an endless amount of activities await fairgoers. After dropping off the kids at the childcare facility, browse the dozens of craft booths that line the paths. From folk to hip-hop, enjoy entertainment of all genres on any of OCF’s 18 stages. And with more than 80 food vendors, satisfy even the strangest of cravings – hemp ‘n buffalo burger, anyone? 

So go ahead, wear those fairy wings. Paint your body. And when people ask to take pictures, pose proudly. At the Oregon Country Fair, you never have to apologize for being who you are. 

Oregon Country Fair is from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. on July 9, 10 and 11 in Veneta, Oregon. Advance admission for adults is $20 for Friday, $23 for Saturday and $20 for Sunday. Tickets can be purchased at any TicketsWest outlet; no tickets will be sold at the venue. Visit www.oregoncountryfair.org for more information.

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