The Oregon Country Fair began in 1969 near Eugene as a fundraiser for the Children's Community School, a local alternative school. In 1972 and 1982, the Grateful Dead headlined the event, and the fair took to the sky. Over half a century later, it is an Oregon Heritage Festival attracting 45,000 people every year. This three-day celebration set in the forest is filled with a variety of music, art, entertainment, costumes, food, philanthropy, and frivolity. The mission of the Oregon Country Fair is to create experiences that nourish the spirit, explore living artfully and authentically on earth, and transform culture in magical, joyous, and healthy ways. Archivist Terry Baxter tells the history of the fair and its continuing influence today.  

Terry Baxter has been an archivist for 40 years, currently with Multnomah County and the Oregon Country Fair. He is a past president of the Society of American Archivists and a founding member of the Association of Tribal Archives, Libraries, and Museums. 

Enjoy 15% off your hotel stay on History Pub nights! Show your ticket at check-in.

These events are open to everyone interested in Pacific Northwest history, and beyond! Often co-sponsored by local or state historical and civic organizations, we bring you experts, scholars, first-person experiencers, historians and documentaries expounding on topics from indigenous history to the birth of Portland, early explorers to hop growing, and on and on! It's like being back in the classroom - except this time you get to settle into comfortable seats and enjoy a drink or two with dinner while you listen and learn.

This event is eligible for a History Pub Stamp