Summerfest

Sat, Jun 20 2026, 10am - 1pm

Posterized image of the river overlook at Sharon Nesbit Heritage Park in Troutdale.

Celebrate Troutdale's Past, Present, and Future!

Date: June 20, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Sharon Nesbit Heritage Park & Harlow House Park

Join the City of Troutdale and Troutdale Historical Society for Summerfest — a free community celebration featuring the grand opening of Sharon Nesbit Heritage Park, family-friendly activities, local history, museum exhibits, and fun throughout Downtown Troutdale

The day begins with a festive strolling parade through downtown and continues with activities at Sharon Nesbit Heritage Park before moving to Harlow House Park for an afternoon of history, exploration, and community celebration.

Located along the banks of the Sandy River, Sharon Nesbit Heritage Park is a beautiful new park that honors Troutdale's history and opens new opportunities for recreation and connection to the river. Come enjoy strolling the trail in a community parade, free treats, lawn games, and more as we officially welcome this special space to our community. All activities are free and open to the public. Bring the whole family!

Sharon Nesbit Heritage Park stretches along the Sandy River, offering a paved trail connecting the Gateway to the Gorge Visitor Center to the I-84 Trail. The park features a raised walkway, a river viewing platform, scenic overlooks, and interpretive signs celebrating Troutdale's history. Visitors can take in stunning views of the Sandy River, Broughton Bluff, Beaver Creek, and the historic Sandy River Bridge. Dogs are welcome in the park but must remain on leash at all times.

The park is named for Sharon Nesbit, a longtime resident, local legend, founder of the Troutdale Historical Society, and longtime columnist for The Outlook. Sharon’s life's work has been to preserve the stories that make Troutdale unique.

The celebration continues with the Troutdale Historical Society. Admission is free at all three Troutdale museums throughout the afternoon. Make your way to Harlow House Park to enjoy a photo booth, gem mining, games, the unveiling of new exhibits at the museums.

Parking is available at the Gateway to the Gorge Visitor Center, Troutdale Art Center, Downtown Troutdale, and behind the Gorge Outlets on NW 257th Way.

The fun doesn't end there! As things start to wind down on the riverfront, , you can join the Troutdale Historical Society for an afternoon of family-friendly fun, local history, and community celebration at the Barn Exhibit Hall and Harlow House Museums from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.

They will unveil the newly named Mershon Legacy Wing at the Barn Exhibit Hall Museum with a special historical presentation exploring the lives, legacy, and impact of Clarence and Colleen Mershon on Troutdale's history.

Visitors of all ages can enjoy a variety of free activities throughout the afternoon, including:

Free admission to all three Troutdale museums
The community Yarn Bomb installation
Reusable water balloon games for children
A free photo booth featuring costumes and props for kids
The debut of a new exhibit at the Harlow House Museum
The grand opening of Meger's Trading Post, a new exhibit and gift shop experience
Popcorn, snacks, and refreshments
The Troutdale Treasure Trail, a community-wide treasure hunt with prizes for both children and adults
The drawing of the winner of the popular "Unlock Troutdale" raffle experience

10:00 a.m. — Strolling Parade from Mayor's Square Join us for a festive walk from Mayor’s Square to Sharon Nesbit Heritage Park as we kick off the celebration with a drum corps band, folklore dancers, baton twirlers, and a pair of friendly llamas leading the way.

10:20 a.m. — Grand Opening Program at the Overlook Gather at the park’s river overlook for a brief dedication ceremony celebrating the park and honoring the legacy of Sharon Nesbit — historian, journalist, and beloved Troutdale storyteller.

10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Lawn Games Test your skills with cornhole, giant Connect Four, and more throughout the event. Budding artists can also decorate the path with sidewalk chalk.

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. — Llamas! Meet some special four-legged guests up close. Perfect for kids of all ages.

10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Music and dancing Enjoy outdoor music as you explore the park and soak in the views of the Sandy River and Broughton Bluff.

10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Face Painting

12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. — Face Painting

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. — Free Churros Warm, fresh churros — while supplies last!

10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Free Popcorn & Refreshments Grab free popcorn, coffee, and water at our refreshment station throughout the event.

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Free Snow Cones Cool off with a complimentary snow cone to wrap up the festivities — while supplies last!

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Address

302 NW 257th Way
Troutdale, OR 97060

Summerfest

Celebrate Troutdale's Past, Present, and Future!

After Party at THS

Schedule of Events

Refreshments

Directions