The beginning of summer in Portland can be reduced to two words: Rose Festival. This century-old event is as Portland as latte-stained clothing. This year it runs from May 29 through June 4.

It starts with Fleet Week, which brings navy ships to dock in the Willamette. This year we’ll also see the Lady Washington and Hawaiian Chieftain, two double-masted brigs that appeared in Pirates of the Caribbean.

Word is the brigs will host cruises on the river and take each other on in mock cannon battles. Nothing says summer like a cannon battle. I hope they’ve alerted the competitors in the dragon boat races…

And then there’s all the stuff on land, like the WaMu Waterfront Village with rides, food, and music; at least three parades; car races, though not at the same time as the parades; fireworks; concerts. It’s bona fide extravaganza.

Later,
Emily

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