Seaside Museum Blooms with Historic Dahlia Show Returning to N. Oregon Coast

Published 08/02/2026 at 8:05 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Seaside, Oregon) - The Seaside Museum is bringing back one of the Oregon coast's oldest floral traditions later this month, renewing an event that first took root more than a century ago. (Above: Dahlia Parade, Seaside 1958 - Sweepstakes winners Griffith and Gustafson children as mother goose characters)

Seaside adopted the dahlia as its official flower in 1909, picking it for its striking appearance and reliable growth along the Oregon coast. That same year, the burgeoning tourist Mecca of Seaside launched its first Dahlia Show. By 1913, the Children’s Dahlia Parade had become part of the festivities, continuing annually until 1964.

“The Seaside Museum is honored (and excited) to revive this historical tradition for the enrichment of our community,” it said in a press release.

This year’s Seaside Dahlia Show, presented by the Seaside Museum, is scheduled for Saturday, August 22, 2026, from noon to 4 p.m. at the museum, 570 Necanicum Drive.

York & Lancaster, introduced 1915 to the Oregon coast

Interest in dahlias has surged in recent years. The museum called it “blooming.” Growers are introducing new varieties bred for both appearance and durability - traits well suited to coastal weather. Many of the blooms in the museum’s Butterfield Garden are heirloom varieties dating to the late 1800s and early 1900s, though all types of dahlias may be entered.

The event is designed purely for fun and community participation. Bouquets and single-stem flowers will be available for purchase, with proceeds supporting the Butterfield Garden. Members of the Portland Dahlia Society will be on hand to offer cultivation advice.

White Aster, introduced 1879.

Registration is open through Aug. 20 at 4 p.m. There is no entry fee. Entry forms for blooms, bouquets, and floral arrangements are available at seasideoregonmuseum.com or at the museum during open hours. Participants may drop off their flowers on Friday, Aug. 21, from 2 to 7 p.m.

The Seaside Museum is open Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Dahlia (Pink) - Betty Ann, introduced 1928

Hotels in Seaside - Where to eat - Seaside Maps and Virtual Tours

MORE PHOTOS BELOW

A 1940s Motor Lodge on the Oregon Coast With Thoroughly Modern Vibes
Nostalgia of the Oregon coast in the '60s and '70s. Newport hotel reviews. Agate Beach Motel

Lincoln City Openings for Sept (Including Holiday) Going for Less Than Much o...
One has openings on Labor Day Weekend - Sept normally summer prices. Lincoln City hotel reviews, availability

Amanda Mansfield recommends Keystone Vacation Rentals, Depoe Bay, Lincoln Cit...
3 Sep 2026 at 6:22pm
Very clean, friendly staff. Had a fantastic time. Spacious rooms. Near casino, D River, Roads End, Fogarty Beach, Spouting Horn, Whale Watch Center, NW 15th ramp

See Reviews of Ocean Inn Manzanita
7 Sep 2026 at 11:11pm
Visitors often rate this charming at the top because of its ocean views, quiet surroundings (with only beach sounds) and the way it partners with eco-friendly causes.

More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging.....

More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining.....

Washington Coast / Oregon Coast Articles (stories are random: hit reload to see different articles)

Back to Oregon Coast

Contact Advertise on Oregon Coast Beach Connection
All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright © Oregon Coast Beach Connection. Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted