Rhododendron Festival
As the month of May progresses the city is preparing for an onslaught of visitors for the 116th annual Rhododendron Festival that features a carnival, car show, 5k and 10k runs, street vendor fair, car cruise, art and a parade. City Hall has a full slate of meetings this week and next and will also have a yard debris collection this Saturday, one week earlier than normal, due to the festival weekend. The Rhododendron Festival also includes the crowning of Queen Rhododendra and the King of the Coast. That event will also happen earlier this year. The coronation will be at the Florence Events Center this Saturday evening. Organizers say the Saturday date will hopefully bring out more people while also making it easier for the court. The event usually takes place mid week on Rhody Week. A list of all the Rhododendron festivities visit florencechamber.com.
Budget Season
The City of Florence Budget committee will put the finishing touches on the biennium budget this week. There will also be a FURA Budget meeting this evening at 5:30 followed by the City’s budget meeting. the Public hearing on the FURA budget will be on May 24th and the city’s budget public hearing will be on June 5th.
SOS Golf Tourney
This Saturday the Siuslaw Outreach Services will hold its annual golf tournament at Florence golf Links. The tournament proceeds will benefit SOS to help provide critical services for victims of domestic and sexual violence, elder abuse, homelessness and human trafficking as well as other crisis events. For information on the event you can call 997-2816.
Farmer’s Market
Another popular summer event is getting a new location. The Florence Farmer’s Market will open for its first Tuesday on May the 23rd after Rhody Week. The event will take its place on the grassy area at the Port of Siuslaw Boardwalk. It will feature local and regionally grown produce, locally sourced meats, breads, cheeses, honey and more as well as classes on gardening.
Local Artists Featured at Visitor’s Center
A pair of local artists whose art has been featured at Silver Linings Boutique for the past decade will be showcased this month at the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s center. The exhibit can be viewed during the center’s business hours 10 am til 4 pm Monday through Saturday.