Clatskanie Festival lets the light shine

The heart of the Clatskanie community will be shining with family, remembrance, and celebration from Friday through Sunday, Aug. 8–10, as the 2025 Clatskanie Festival returns to Clatskanie City Park. Hosted by ALA Unit 68, and with the support of Piercing Arrow Private School, this beloved annual event promises family-friendly fun, live entertainment, and free activities for all ages.

This year's theme, "Let the light shine," reflects the festival's mission to bring people together in a spirit of unity and hope. The entire weekend is packed with something for everyone, from puppet shows and skateboarding contests to candlelight memorials and baptisms.

The festivities begin Friday, Aug. 8, with the Rainier Oregon Skate Park Project taking over the Clatskanie Skate Park (300 NE Park St.) from noon to 8 p.m. Meanwhile, the Clatskanie City Library (11 Lillich St.) will hold a book sale on both Friday and Saturday Aug. 8-9, offering readers a chance to discover new favorites while supporting the local library.

On Saturday, Aug. 9, the city park will come alive with vendors from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and will include a farmers market and a puppet show for the whole family. Local talent will take the stage for live music from noon to 3 p.m. at the city park stage. Families can enjoy a free swim at the local pool (346 NE 5th St.) from 1 to 4 p.m., followed by a lively cake walk in the afternoon. Later that evening, the community is invited to the event "United in Prayer" at Clatskanie City Park from 5 to 7 p.m., before gathering at Clatskanie Grade School (815 S. Nehalem St.) at 8 p.m. for the Evening Light Parade Registration. The parade itself will begin along Nehalem Street at 9:15 p.m. The parade's heartfelt theme, "Gone but Not Forgotten," is to honor loved ones lost. Come and honor your loved one by walking or riding in a car or on our float. We will also be celebrating Bernice Hobbs' 95th birthday as well. The grand marshals for the parade will be Lisa Johnson and her son, Christopher. Please note no side parking will be allowed down Nehalem Street after 6 p.m. in order to allow for the parade and its procession.

Sunday brings the weekend to a joyful close with the Froggy Races at 2 p.m. at the city park's river area, followed by the Best Trick Skateboard Contest at the skate park at 3 p.m., as skaters will compete for prizes and bragging rights. The evening includes a Candlelight Memorial at 5:30 p.m. at the city park and baptisms at the Clatskanie River Inn (600 E. Columbia River Highway) at 6:30 p.m.

"We're proud to offer a festival that reflects the heart of Clatskanie; hope, family, and fun," said organizer Lori Sherman. "There's something here for everyone, and every event is free." A special thanks goes out to event sponsors Colvin's Pub & Grill, Clatskanie Mobil, Clatskanie Mini Storage, Stuffy's, Safeway, Presbyterian church, Clatskanie River Inn, Ark Real Estate, Farmhouse Coffee, Big Guy's, Hi-School Pharmacy, Napa Auto Supply. For a full schedule or more information, contact Lori Sherman at 360-431-7910. Come one, come all, and let your light shine.