Downtown Pendleton steps back in time once again as the Pendleton Street Fair plans its triumphant return on Saturday, May 16th! Founded in 1907, the Pendleton Street Fair was a regular annual event into the 1950s, when it evolved into the Umatilla County Fair. Last year saw the festival’s resurrection, bringing several hundred people downtown despite cloudy skies.
This years event promises to be bigger, better and even more awesome, running from noon to six on Saturday, May 16. The festival will feature music, local vendors, food, shopping and games. Expect Main Street to once again be transformed into a pedestrian-friendly marketplace – the street will be closed all day to cars. Vendors will sell wares and food in the middle of the street and bands are scheduled to play on a portable stage. It’s free to attend and, of course, highly family friendly.
Historical Preservation, Historical Reenactment
Last year’s revival was a collaboration of local groups including the Umatilla County Historical Society, Pendleton’s Historical Preservation
Commission, and the Pendleton Downtown Association.
Shannon Gruenhagen, executive director of Heritage Station Museum and chair of the Historic Preservation Commission, emphasized the fair’s community focus and history. “The fair originated in 1907 and was a popular tradition. The town flocked to the fair for special sales,
parades and music. We are thrilled to bring back an event that builds community pride.”
This year’s entertainment sponsor is Wildhorse Resort & Casino, who are graciously covering the cost of live music performances.
Stephanie Huffman, City of Pendleton planning technician, emphasized the collaborative nature of the event. “Reviving a historic fair takes a lot of planning. Thankfully the community has stepped up. From the Pendleton Main Street Cowboys providing a stage, benches and advice to a team of volunteers who came to lend a hand, we are grateful that the community enthusiastically supported the fair and joined us in celebrating our town.”
The Pendleton Downtown Association is excited to see this community spirit return for 2026. “This year we’ll have more vendors, a train and more games,” Mark Preslar, board president, shared. “We are leaning into the fun, carnival atmosphere.”
As of this writing, there’s still space for additional vendors. Click here for more information about the Pendleton Street Fair
For questions or to inquire about volunteer opportunities, please email [email protected] or call Stephanie Huffman at 541-966-0239.
