New in Waldport: Bike 'n Blues Lineup Announced, Central Oregon Coast Will Get New Park

Published 07/01/25 at 3:55 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Waldport, Oregon) - The central coast town of Waldport is rolling out two major attractions this summer and early fall, promising fresh experiences for locals and tourists alike. (Photo courtesy Waldport Chamber)

Slated to open later this summer, the highly anticipated Louis Southworth Park is poised to become a recreational hub of sorts. The Waldport Chamber of Commerce describes the site as the largest playground on the Oregon coast, featuring ball fields, walking trails, tennis and pickleball courts, picnic shelters, a dog park, and a community track. The park is ADA accessible and offers ample parking.

The park is named in tribute to Louis Southworth, a Black pioneer who once lived in Waldport and donated land for the city’s first school. A statue honoring Southworth has already been completed, drawing attention statewide and highlighting the historical significance of the site.

Meanwhile, festival season returns with the Beach, Bike and Blues Festival, set for Saturday, September 13, from noon to 7 p.m.

Held at the scenic Alsea Bay, the event has grown into a premier live music celebration along the Oregon coast, and the chamber recently announced its roster.

This year’s festival lineup is headlined by returning favorites Lisa Mann, Kelly Pierce, and Sonny Hess, a Cascade Blues Association “Muddy Award” recipient. Additional performances include Ronnie Jay Pirello’s Whole Lotta Louis and longtime crowd-pleaser Paul Schuytema, known for his old-school blues tributes. More artists are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Courtesy Waldport Chamber

Attendees can enjoy local cuisine from eateries such as Fishing Rock Eatery, Ray’s BBQ, Café Chill, and Chubby Lil’ Mermaid. Refreshments will be available through Bigfoot Beverages, offering Rogue Beer, wine, hard seltzers, and non-alcoholic options.

Courtesy Waldport Chamber

Bicycles take center stage thanks to the Green Bike Co-Op, which will host family-friendly activities including pedi-cab rides, a bike safety course for kids, a challenging obstacle course, and a stationary speed-bike competition.

The festival is free to attend, ADA accessible, and welcomes leashed dogs. Donations will be accepted at the gate to support the event and future community programming.

More on all this is at https://findyourselfinwaldport.com.

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