Summer in Wine Country: Events, Adventures & Hidden Gems Around Dundee, Newberg & McMinnville
Summer is one of the most magical times to visit the Willamette Valley. The vineyards are lush and green, lavender fields are beginning to bloom, outdoor patios are buzzing with life, and nearly every weekend brings a new festival, concert, market, or adventure. Whether you're planning a day trip or a long weekend, here are some of our favorite things happening around Dundee, Newberg, McMinnville, and beyond this June and July.
Lavender, Art & Summer Color: Willamette Valley Lavender Festival & Plein Air Art Show | July 10–12
Few experiences capture the beauty of summer in wine country quite like the Willamette Valley Lavender Festival in Newberg. Wander among fragrant lavender displays, browse local artisan booths, enjoy live music, lavender-inspired food and drinks, and watch artists create paintings inspired by the surrounding countryside. It’s a feast for all the senses and one of the most picturesque events of the summer.
Explore the Lavender Trail Map to discover an array of amazing activities at various lavender farms in the area. Time to schedule a lavender field photoshoot!
Explore Dundee's Vineyard Roads: Fueled by Fine Wine | July 12
This beloved race and wine festival takes participants through private vineyards and some of the most stunning views in the Dundee Hills. Whether you're running the half marathon, quarter marathon, or 5K—or simply cheering from the sidelines—the post-race celebration includes tastings from numerous local wineries and a festive atmosphere that showcases the best of Dundee.
Small-Town Summer at Its Best: Newberg Old-Fashioned Festival | July 23–26
One of Newberg's longest-running traditions, this four-day community celebration brings together a grand parade, classic Cruise-In Car Show, carnival rides, fireworks, live music, food vendors, and plenty of family-friendly fun. It's exactly the kind of event that reminds you why small-town Oregon summers are so special.
Markets Worth Planning Your Trip Around
Newberg Wednesday Market
One of the best ways to experience the Willamette Valley like a local is by strolling through the Newberg Wednesday Market. Running every Wednesday from May through September, the market fills downtown Newberg with local farmers, flower growers, artisans, baked goods, live music, and plenty of opportunities to meet the people behind the products. It's the perfect place to pick up seasonal produce before heading out for an afternoon of wine tasting.
The Hills Sunday Farmers Market: Exciting News - Dundee's Sunday Market Has Arrived!
We're especially excited to share that Dundee now has its very own Sunday farmers market. Beginning in June and running throughout the summer at tipsu palach Park, The Hills Sunday Farmers Market brings together local farmers, makers, artists, and food producers right in the heart of Dundee. It's a wonderful new way for visitors and locals alike to connect with the community while supporting small businesses and local agriculture.
Take to the Skies with Vista Baloon Adventures: Hot Air Balloon Rides Over Wine Country
Few experiences compare to floating quietly above the Dundee Hills at sunrise. Vista Balloon Adventures offers unforgettable flights over vineyards, rolling farmland, and the iconic red Jory soils that define the Willamette Valley landscape. It's a bucket-list experience for visitors looking to see wine country from a completely different perspective.
Evegreen Aviation & Space Museum / Wings & Waves Waterpark
While you're in Dundee / McMinnville area, make time to visit the remarkable Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum, home to the legendary Spruce Goose and more than 150 aviation and space exhibits. Aviation enthusiasts could easily spend an entire day exploring the museum's collection of historic aircraft, spacecraft, and interactive exhibits.
Traveling with kids (or simply young at heart)? Just next door, Wings & Waves Waterpark offers one of Oregon's most unique attractions: an indoor, aviation-themed waterpark where several waterslides begin inside a real Boeing 747 mounted on the roof. With a wave pool, water slides, and hands-on science exhibits, it's a perfect way to turn an air show weekend into a memorable family getaway.
Looking Ahead to Air Show Season: Oregon International Air Show | August 14th-16th
If you're planning a late-summer visit, mark your calendar for the Oregon International Air Show in McMinnville. The event features spectacular aerial performances, military aircraft demonstrations, vintage warbirds, and family-friendly activities, all set against the backdrop of Oregon wine country.
Make Trellis Part of Your Summer Adventure
After a day of exploring lavender fields, wandering local markets, tasting wine, hiking vineyard trails, or floating above the valley in a hot air balloon, we would love to serve you a great meal at Trellis to top the day.
Join us on the patio surrounded by blooming flowers, local artwork, and the relaxed pace of wine country life. Enjoy farm-fresh ingredients sourced from local growers, thoughtfully crafted dishes, Oregon wines by the glass, our Steward's Choice selections, and one of the best Happy Hours in the Valley.
Because summer in the Willamette Valley isn't just about checking activities off a list—it's about slowing down, savoring the moment, and creating memories that stay with you long after the season ends.