Adventure Guide

Explore Arts & Entertainment in Klamath Falls

All Roads Lead to
2024 Klamath Basin Oktoberfest

All Roads Lead to Oktoberfest

Welcome to the heart and soul of Southern Oregon! Find your path to your Klam-cation! As all roads in Klamath County lead to the Klamath Basin.

Presents 

Oktoberfest Weekend September 19th-22nd

Servus!

Welcome to the heart and soul of Southern Oregon! Now, it’s time to adorn your best Dirndl or Lederhosen! Prost our beautify night skies! And find your path to the am besten Klam-cation! As all roads in Klamath County lead to the 2024 Klamath Basin Oktoberfest…

Newsflash

Ross Ragland is hosting “An Evening with Steven Curtis Chapman” at 7 PM on Thursday, September 19th!

Morn of Oktoberfest

Early on September 21st, 2024

Farmers Market

Grab a Turkish coffee and a fresh baked pastry to start your day at Klamath Falls Farmers Market ~ 25 years strong!

All Roads Lead to 2024 Klamath Basin Oktoberfest

Unveiling the Cultural and Artistic Splendor of Klamath Falls

Downtown Klamath Falls, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Southern Oregon, is more than a scenic marvel; it's a pulsating heart of arts, culture, and history. This area, rich in artistic expression and community vibrancy, invites art lovers, history buffs, and those seeking enriching experiences to delve into its diverse cultural offerings. From historical landmarks to creative public art installations, Downtown Klamath Falls is a canvas where art and community spirit vividly come to life.

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A journey through art, history, and community spirit

The streets of Downtown Klamath Falls are a mosaic of historical and creative narratives. The journey begins at the Favell Museum, a treasure trove of Native American and Western art, and continues through the city's bronze sculptures that narrate stories of tradition and nature. The Klamath Piano Project adds a melodic layer to the city's ambiance, while the Ross Ragland Theater shines as a beacon of performing arts. Each corner of Downtown Klamath Falls is an invitation to explore and connect with the city's artistic soul.

Favell Museum

One of the finest collections of Native and western art

The Favell Museum stands as a profound tribute to the rich heritage of Native cultures and the artistic expression of the American West. Boasting over 100,000 artifacts, some dating back an astonishing 12,000 years, the museum offers an unparalleled journey through the lives and artistry of indigenous cultures from both North and South America. Its diverse collection, one of the finest assemblages of Native American artifacts anywhere, includes not only arrowheads, obsidian knives, spear points, and primitive stone tools but also showcases native clothing, intricate beadwork, basketry, and pottery. Each artifact, including the extraordinary fire opal arrowhead found in the Black Rock Desert in 1910, tells a unique story of the past, offering visitors a rare and intimate glimpse into the lives of these ancient cultures.

Complementing these ancient treasures, the museum also proudly displays a significant collection of historical and contemporary Western art. This includes original paintings by renowned artists such as Charles M. Russell, John Clymer, and Frank McCarthy. Their works, including Russell’s iconic “The Scouts,” vividly weave the narrative of the West with an artistic flair that is both striking and evocative. The Favell Museum, a vision brought to life by Gene and Winifred Favell, is more than just a repository of artifacts and art; it is a living celebration of the spirit and beauty of the West. It honors not only the land's original inhabitants but also those artists who have skillfully captured its essence, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to understand the rich tapestry of Western and Native American history and art.

Bronze Sculptures

Nature's elegance, larger-than-life

In Downtown Klamath Falls, bronze sculptures by local artist Stephan Savides add a larger-than-life layer of storytelling to the city's landscape, intertwining tradition with the elegance of nature. Notable among these is the "Freedom" Bronze Tribal Elder with Eagle, a collaborative creation by Stefan Savides and Garland Weeks. This life-size sculpture, a tribute to the Klamath, Modoc, and Yahooskin tribes, is prominently displayed outside the Favell Museum. It features a tribal elder in full regalia, performing the sacred act of taking a feather from a bald eagle, with details like historically accurate beadwork on the elder's moccasins adding depth and authenticity to the piece.

The city's streets and parks are dotted with Savides' sculptures, each capturing the essence of local wildlife through simplistic yet profound design. From the graceful herons at Sugarman’s Corner to the dynamic "Western Union" dancing grebes at Putnam Park, these sculptures, along with historical plaques, transform Downtown Klamath Falls into an open-air gallery. This artistic journey extends to vibrant pieces like the "Pelican on Parade" near Veterans Park and the serene steelhead sculptures in Sugarman’s Corner, each a testament to the artist's ability to bring avian beauty to life in bronze. These sculptures not only celebrate the region's natural and cultural heritage but also invite visitors to explore and connect with the artistic spirit of Klamath Falls.

Murals and Urban Art

A splash of expression and discovery

Downtown Klamath Falls offers a unique visual journey that intertwines the rich tapestry of local history and the beauty of nature. Historic murals within the city center vividly depict scenes from thousands of years of regional history, from Native American tribes along Lake Ewauna to the iconic landscapes of Crater Lake National Park. These artworks, along with the city's early 1900s Art Deco, Gothic Revival, and Chicago School architecture, narrate the evolution of Klamath County from a robust logging community to a cultural hub of theaters and performing arts. Don’t forget to snap a photo at the "Greetings from Klamath Falls" mural, which is a vibrant invitation for visitors to engage with the city's artistic spirit. And while you’re exploring downtown, make sure you check out the Alleyway Activation Project. These art panels lining alleyways showcase many of Klamath’s up-and-coming artists while beautifying traditionally forgotten spaces. These murals provide an immersive experience of the area's storied past, making the city a living canvas of history.

In addition to its historic murals, Klamath Falls showcases its commitment to art and environmental awareness through quirky and creatively painted utility boxes. These boxes, transformed by local artists and in collaboration with the Klamath Basin Audubon Society, feature a variety of bird species native to the Klamath Basin. This project, which has garnered accolades for downtown beautification, not only adds a splash of color to the urban landscape but also serves as an educational tool about the local avian population. With Klamath Falls' reputation as a birding paradise, supported by its numerous National Wildlife Refuges and celebrated birding festivals, these artistic installations resonate with the city's identity as the 'City of Birds,' blending art, history, and nature into a harmonious and enlightening experience for residents and visitors alike.

Klamath Piano Project

Striking a chord with community art

The Klamath Piano Project in downtown Klamath Falls is more than just a display of pianos; it's a creative canvas for local artists and a symbol of community engagement. These artistically adorned pianos are not just musical instruments but vibrant public art pieces. They offer a unique way for the community and visitors to interact, play, and connect in the heart of the city. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, these pianos, donated by locals and refurbished by artists, become focal points in public spaces, turning the streets of downtown Klamath Falls into an interactive art gallery.

Strategically placed in key locations like Sugarman’s Corner, Klamath Commons, and 9th Street Plaza, each piano is a testament to the creativity and spirit of Klamath Falls. This initiative enhances the city's aesthetic appeal and strengthens the community's bond, celebrating the unifying power of art and music.

Ross Ragland Theater

A stage for all ages

The Ross Ragland Theater, a beautifully renovated 1940s movie theater, is a vibrant arts center in Klamath Falls, serving south-central Oregon and northern California. Since its refurbishment in 1989, this multi-cultural, multi-disciplinary venue has hosted various performances, from Grammy Award winners to local productions, offering near-perfect acoustics and sight lines. The theater’s transformation from the Art Deco-styled Esquire Theater into a state-of-the-art performing arts center in 1989 marked a significant milestone in revitalizing the downtown area and promoting the arts within the community.

Beyond entertainment, the Ross Ragland Theater is deeply committed to educational outreach, annually serving over 10,000 children through its Arts Education programs. These programs, including student matinees and workshops with renowned artists, aim to enrich the cultural experiences of young audiences. The theater’s sustainable energy initiatives, like using geothermal heating and solar power, underscore its commitment to environmental stewardship. The Ross Ragland Theater, supported by a dedicated guild of volunteers and community contributions, continues to be a testament to the aspirations and dedication of the Klamath Basin residents, playing a pivotal role in making Klamath Falls a unique and culturally rich place to live and work.

Annual Events and Entertainment

Downtown comes alive with a vibrant events calendar

Downtown Klamath Falls comes alive with a series of annual events and entertainment that are not to be missed. During the summer months, the Third Thursdays street festivals transform the downtown area into a bustling hub of music, art, and community gatherings. Car enthusiasts will revel in the Kruise of Klamath auto show, an event that showcases a stunning array of classic and modern automobiles. The city's patriotic spirit shines bright during the 4th of July parade, while the Snowflake Parade offers a magical winter celebration. And don’t forget, Downtown is just one slice of the fun and entertaining events happening throughout Klamath annually; for a comprehensive guide to these events and more, be sure to read our "Top Events in Klamath Blog."

More to Explore

Art all throughout Klamath

While Downtown Klamath Falls is a treasure trove of artistic experiences, the surrounding communities of Klamath, Merrill, Malin, Tulelake, and Chiloquin also boast impressive murals and art installations. These artworks reflect the rich cultural heritage and creative spirit of the region.

In addition to public art, several art galleries in and around Downtown Klamath Falls offer a glimpse into the local art scene. The Klamath Art Gallery, located in the heart of downtown, showcases a diverse range of artworks from regional artists. Two Rivers Art Gallery in Chiloquin is another notable destination, offering a unique collection of local art.

The Klamath County Museum, also in Downtown Klamath Falls, provides historical insights and features works by local artists. Rob Tillberg Studios, another downtown gem, is a must-visit for enthusiasts exploring contemporary art in a vibrant setting.

Dive In to Klamath’s Natural Beauty

Your cultural journey in Downtown Klamath Falls doesn't have to end with the arts. Extend your exploration of the natural wonders that Klamath is famous for. After soaking in the artistic atmosphere, dive into some of Oregon's finest lakes: from tranquil lakeside settings to scenic hiking trails and birdwatching havens, Klamath's lakes splendors perfectly complement its artistic charm, offering a well-rounded experience that enriches your visit with diverse and unforgettable moments.

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