EVENT DETAILS

The Sunriver Festival of Cars has been a hugely successful event, recognized by many as their favorite car event of the year. The opportunity came to take it to a higher level, and we just couldn't say no. So now it's the Oregon Festival of Cars, and it will be held in the Les Schwab Amphitheater in the Old Mill District of Bend.

About our Move
       This is one of the most exciting venues in Oregon. The Old Mill District is the newest, hippest area in Bend. It sits on the Deschutes River with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. You cross an attractive foot bridge over the river to enter the three-acre amphitheater that is the site of numerous concerts, festivals and other events throughout the year. It's a vibrant, high energy location that sets the pulse for Central Oregon entertainment. The owners didn't know it right off, but it's also a fabulous site for a car show. Check it out for yourself at http://www.theoldmill.com.
       The immediate advantage is space. We have three acres of grass to fill with beautiful cars, sponsors, vendors and other attractions. We also have additional space surrounding the facility for additional attractions. This lets us do most anything we want.
       But most important, we have already been amazed by the level of interest and support we have received from the community. The eagerness displayed by the Old Mill District and its merchants is not all that surprising, but excited support is coming from all over Bend and the surrounding area. The Bend Visitors Association is so excited about the event that they relocated a mountain bike race to be sure it didn't interfere with the Festival. The Chamber of Commerce, local media, local charities, local businesses and a host of other organizations are enthusiastic about the potential. We are totally confident that we will have a successful event, and expect several thousand spectators to come through the gates.

Our Unique Atmosphere
       Started 17 years ago as the Sunriver Exotic Car Show, this has become a must-do annual event for an increasing number of car enthusiasts. Over 200 enthusiast cars are expected to participate in this fantastic event. During its 17-year history, this event has developed a unique atmosphere of being relaxed and fun with participants being able to get to know other like-minded enthusiasts.
       Every element of the Festival is geared toward fun and designed to keep competitive energies in check, allowing just enough to make things interesting but still safe and enjoyable.

The Festival Car Show
       Imagine your car parked on the lush green grass of the amphitheater, along with the other fantastic cars attending the event. All marques are invited to attend this laid back, no Q-tips required car show. So wash and wax your special car or go crazy detailing it, your choice. If your car needs a little sprucing up, there will be car wash area Friday afternoon (at a location to be announced) near the amphitheater.
       We are going to award more prizes this year, along withe the Jay Audia People's Choice Award, but don't worry, no one is going to be rewarded for having the biggest Q-tips. It's still going to be a shine and show type of event, and you will be very comfortable showing the car you drove to Bend, rock chips and all.
      The Festival emcee this year will be Keith Martin, publisher of Sports Car Market and American Car Collector magazines, star of the "What's My Car Worth?" TV series. He is sure to keep us entertained with stories from car owners.
       Got a wish list? Check out the 2012 "Center Field" Display: "British Sports Cars," as well as all the other magnificent cars in attendance to see if any are on the list.
       Tired or hungry? Stop by any of the Festival food and drink vendors, then relax and listen to the festival's live music provided by Dan Balmer, Click here to listen to his music and download a song!
       Feeling recharged? Check out the many vendor display booths featuring automotive concepts as well as the many non-auto related concepts that fit any car enthusiast’s lifestyle.

Friday Night No-host Registration Reception 
       We'll be kicking off the whole shebang with a registration and welcome reception Friday evening at Club Carrera. We'll have Barbara and the registrars nestled among the cars and the food from Tate & Tate, the same award-winning caterers as last year.

The Festival Banquet 
       Enjoy a fun-filled evening at the Convention Center at the Riverhouse, nestled among the cars, designed to let you mingle with all your old friends, newly acquired friends and just like-minded car enthusiasts.

The Sunday Dash
       Sunday morning starts with a hosted continental breakfast. Then it's the infamous Sunday Dash, a two-hour-or-so romp through the Central Oregon countryside on interesting, lightly traveled roads. It's the perfect opportunity to stretch your car's legs, but participation is limited to avoid traffic jams, so register early.
       The Sunday Dash and weekend end up with a grand finale lunch. Then you're on your own to find your way home. We guarantee the topic of discussion will be doing this again next year.