Port Orford's Winter Waters Fest Returns Feb 27 - 28 with Oregon Coast Seafood, Science, Art

Published 02/23/26 at 6:55 p.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Port Orford, Oregon) - Port Orford Main Street will bring back Winter Waters for its second annual celebration of seaweed, sustainable seafood, and Oregon’s coastal food systems on February 27–28, 2026. (Photo ODOT)

The event was created by seaweed advocates Alanna Kieffer and Rachelle Hacmac in partnership with Oregon Coast food systems value chain coordinator Kristen Penner. Winter Waters was founded to help introduce regenerative seaweed and locally sourced seafood into everyday diets.

“The Oregon Coast boasts some of the most sustainable fisheries in the world, yet much of our seafood is exported while nearly 90% of seafood consumed in the United States is imported,” said organizers. “Winter Waters aims to bridge that disconnect through education, direct connection to fishermen, and delicious and unique culinary experiences.”

This year’s programming highlights Port Orford’s leadership in supporting its working waterfront, local artisans, historic preservation, and restoration of that beloved and sustaining marine ecosystem along the Oregon coast.

Port Orford Lifeboat Station Museum

Winter Waters Weekend Events:

Winter Waters Art & Craft Show, Friday and Saturday, February 27–28 ( 9 am – 3 pm). Local artisans get to show off. On display will be ocean-inspired artwork and crafts at the newly renovated Port Orford Community Center. Admission is free.

Hope in the Water Movie Night, Friday, February 27 ( 7 pm – 9 pm)
A free screening of the PBS docu-series “Hope in the Water” will be held at the OSU Field Station. Seating is limited.

Port of Port Orford Tour, Saturday, February 28 ( 10 am – 1 pm)
Visitors can explore one of the nation’s most distinctive working ports, which operates directly in the open ocean without a breakwater.

“Guests will meet local fishermen, hear about research and sustainable practices at the port, and enjoy a locally-sourced seafood lunch prepared by Port Orford Sustainable Seafood,” said organizers.

The tour includes a look at the historic dolly dock system. Participants will also learn about kelp forest restoration efforts led by the Oregon Kelp Alliance, the event’s nonprofit beneficiary. Tickets are available at www.winterwaterspnw.com.

Historic Port Orford Lifeboat Station Museum Open House, Saturday, February 28 (10am–3:30pm)

The community is invited to explore the historic Lifeboat Station and its maritime history. It remains the only Forge River–type station on the West Coast.

Second Annual SeaFest Community Celebration, Saturday, February 28 (2pm–6pm)

This free, family-friendly event at Mr. Ed’s Underground Pub will feature seaweed and urchin tastings, sustainable seafood demonstrations, hands-on learning about coastal ecosystems, and live music.

Why Seaweed Is a Superfood:

Seaweed is nutrient-dense, regenerative, and requires no freshwater, fertilizer, or farmland. Supporting seaweed cultivation and kelp restoration strengthens marine biodiversity, improves habitat, and contributes to climate resilience. The Oregon Kelp Alliance is currently restoring kelp forests along the South Coast, including areas near Port Orford such as Nellie’s Cove. A portion of Winter Waters proceeds supports this work.

Supporting Local, Strengthening Community:

Winter Waters is designed to reinforce the connection between local fishermen and families, producers and consumers, and the community and its coastline. By encouraging residents and visitors to source seafood locally and explore seaweed as a staple ingredient, the event helps bolster Port Orford’s working waterfront economy during the winter season.

Tickets are required for the Port Tour, while several events - including SeaFest and the art show - are free and open to the public.

For the full schedule and ticket information, visit www.winterwaterspnw.com.

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