56 Years: Annual Exploding Whale Celebration Again Blows Up In Oregon Coast Town

Published 10/29/2026 at 7:55 p.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Florence, Oregon) – It's the kind of event that you could say – well....it'll blow you away.

Some 56 years later that poor behemoth whose remains were sent high by explosives is once again on a return engagement to the central Oregon coast burgh of Florence. The legend continues in regional history, as residents and visitors gather November 14-15 for the 56th anniversary of the infamous exploding whale incident: Florence's Exploding Whale Celebration.

The event honors the November 12, 1970, beaching of a whale near Florence and the now-famous attempt to remove it with explosives. https://www.instagram.com/theexplodingwhales/

“Fifty-six years ago, the well-intentioned attempt to deal with a beached whale on the shores of Florence resulted in a spectacle that became legendary,” said organizers. “What followed was a blast of blubber, flying whale parts, and a story that has lived on in the hearts, minds, and video collections of people around the world. If you haven’t seen the historic news report, prepare to be amazed!” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPuaSY0cMK8

At the Exploding Whale Celebration, you'll find film screenings, tunes, interesting art, guest appearances and community activities centered around the unusual and truly wacky Oregon coast event.

“This year, Florence is celebrating with an entire weekend of whale-sized fun, featuring the award-winning documentary, a special guest appearance, live music, marine-inspired art, and a heartfelt toast to the whale that made our little coastal town famous for something truly unforgettable,” said organizers.

Saturday, November 14: Movie Night With A Legend

The weekend begins at City Lights Cinemas in Florence with a screening of the award-winning short documentary "Oh Whale," a film that explores Florence's connection to the historic incident.

Special guest Paul Linnman, the television reporter whose coverage helped make the exploding whale story famous, is expected to attend the event. Linnman will meet visitors, sign autographs and participate in a question-and-answer session following the screening.

Organizers said screening times are still being finalized. Updates will be available through the theater and event websites.

Sunday, Nov. 15: 56th Anniversary Exploding Whale Memorial Celebration
Noon To 4 P.M. | Free And Open To The Public

This year's celebration is moving to Bridgeport Market, located at 75 Harbor St. along the Siuslaw River in Florence's historic Old Town district.

The family-friendly event will feature representatives from the American Cetacean Society, marine-themed artists and vendors, and live music from Portland-based band The Exploding Whales. Linnman is also scheduled to return Sunday for additional autograph sessions and conversations with attendees.

Everyone is encouraged to bring small mementos to contribute to a community memorial art installation honoring the whale. Organizers say the display will continue to evolve throughout the day, culminating with a ceremonial toast to the whale at 3:45 p.m.

EXPLODING WHALE EXHIBIT AT SIUSLAW PIONEER MUSEUM

While in Florence, visitors can stop by the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum at 278 Maple St., where the Exploding Whale Exhibit includes whale bones from the original animal as well as displays highlighting local history. The museum will be open from noon to 4 p.m.

Visit Exploding Whale Memorial Park
Noon to 4 p.m. | Free and open to the public

Attendees can also visit Exploding Whale Memorial Park, which commemorates one of the most unusual and enduring chapters in Florence history.

Additional information, event updates and announcements are available through the celebration's website and social media channels.

Oregon Coast Hotels for this event - South Coast Hotels - Oregon Coast Vacation Rentals - Where to eat - Maps - Virtual Tours

 

 

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