58th Annual Hood River Valley Blossom Festival

Date: Saturday and Sundays, April 14-29, 2012 with the traditional events occurring on April 21st and 22nd.

Time: Blossom Fest Kiosks are open from 10am-4pm. April 14th & 15th April 21st & 22nd-Traditional Blossom Fest Weekend April 28th & 29th Nothing compares to spring in the Hood River Valley, where the abundance of fruit trees produce spectacular blossoms of pink, white, and peach. The Hood River Blossom Fest, now over 50 years old, celebrates the arrival of spring with events and attractions throughout the Gorge over these three special weeks in April. Hood River Valley, which spans the north slope of Mt. Hood to the South shore of the Columbia River Gorge, is the largest pear-growing region in Oregon, producing 50% of the nations’ winter pear crop—with an abundance of cherry and apples as well. These beautiful orchards come to life in spring when they bloom. Visitors to Blossom Fest will want to drive the world-famous 35-mile-long Fruit Loop, where farm stands, alpaca ranches, and wineries  share the best of the rural lifestyle. This gorgeous drive is the showpiece of Blossom Fest and winds through the Festival’s activities at over 20 different venues. Craft and quilt shows, pancake breakfasts, a pansy party, a grange blossom dinner, wine and beer tasting are all part of the festivities. Baked goods, preserves, yarn, fresh produce—it’s a festival for the whole family. Come visit! Here are some examples of Blossom Fest Activities that you won’t want to miss: Columbia Gorge Fiber Festival[br]The Hood River Inn Best Western Plus[br]1108 E. Marina Way[br]Admission: Free Sat April 21 9am-5pm[br]Sun April 22 9am-2pm This annual includes 40 local fiber and yarn-related vendors. Workshops are available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Earth Day promotions, book signings, and demonstrations throughout the weekend. Rasmussen Farms Pansy Party[br]3020 Thomsen Road[br]Admission: Free Every Fri 9am-5:30pm[br]Every Sat 9am-5:30pm Featuring all kinds of pansies! Frost-hardy perennials, herbs, annuals, and accent plants, singles or flats. Beautiful and blooming deck and patio planters, hanging baskets. Oregon food products. Crisp apples and pears. Sampling of all products. All areas under cover. Lots of parking. Blossom Craft Show[br]Hood River County Fairgrounds[br]3020 Wy’east Road[br]www.hoodriverfair.com[br]Admission: Free Sat April 21 10am-5pm[br]Sun April 22 10am-5pm Blossom Craft Show features a wide variety of crafters from around the Northwest. Crafts, food, baked goods, wine tasting, plant sales, and much more. Quilt show with over 100 quilts on display and some for sale. Odell Garden Club’s annual plant sale on Saturday only. FFA barbeque and nursery rhodie and shrub plant sale on both days. Free admission and parking all weekend. Annual Art of the Gorge[br]Columbia Gorge Hotel[br]4000 Westcliff Drive[br]www.columbiagorgehotel.com[br]Admission: Free Sat April 21 1-5pm show[br]Sat April 21 5-7pm reception[br]Sun April 22 9am-2pm show The Columbia Gorge Hotel is partnering with local Gorge artists to display and sell their magnificent works. There will also be an opportunity to meet and greet the artists at a reception held Saturday evening.

Download a copy of the 2012 Blossom Fest Activities & Route here.

Directions:

Coming East on I-84, take exit 64, take a left under the overpass toward Hwy 35.  The Hood River County Chamber of Commerce road-side stand will be on your right near Tum-A-Lum Lumber Company. Coming West on I-84, take exit 62, take a right.  You will see the Hood River County Chamber of Commerce road-side stand on your right near The Red Carpet Inn.