Clover’s Day is udderly delightful

For 44 years, the small town of Cloverdale has shut down Highway 101 for one day in early summer. Vendors line the street with food, crafts and local goods. The Lions Club grills hotdogs. The Senior Center scoops ice cream. There's a milk-chugging contest, a petting zoo, live music and at the center of it all, a cow named Clover. It's the kind of small-town celebration most places don't have anymore.

The Cloverdale community will come together to celebrate small-town spirit, local traditions and Independence Day festivities when Clover's Day returns this Friday, July 3.

Held annually in the heart of the charming town, the event showcases the community's unique character while bringing residents and visitors together for a day of family-friendly fun. This year's theme, "Red, White & Moo!" pays tribute to the area's agricultural roots and rural heritage.

The celebration begins at 8:30 am with a fun run featuring a two-mile walk and 5K and 8K courses starting at the Cloverdale Bridge. At 10 am, vendor booths will open along the highway while local shops welcome visitors throughout town. Live music by The Radio Riots will begin at the same time and continue through the afternoon.

The day's highlight arrives at 11 am when the Clover's Day Parade moo-ves through town. Parade participants will gather at Nestucca High School before making their way through Cloverdale. The parade route is a celebration like no other, full of energy and enthusiasm and led by a cow.

Located along the Nestucca River in south Tillamook County, Cloverdale serves as a gateway to the Three Capes Scenic Loop and the communities of Pacific City and Neskowin. The Clover's Day celebration has become a tradition for many families looking to kick off the Independence Day holiday weekend.

Friday’s fun kicks off with the fun run at 8:30 am. The parade rolls through at 11 am. Music and vendors will continue until 2 pm. For more information, go to cloverdaleoregon.com.