UFO Festival in McMinnville, Oregon

On May 11, 1950, Evelyn Trent was in the backyard of her family farm in Dayton, Oregon (approximately 11 miles from McMinnville) and saw a metallic, saucer shaped object in the sky. She yelled towards the house to her husband Paul, who grabbed a camera and ran outside to get a picture. The result was a photo of one of the most famous UFO sightings in history. 50 plus years later, it has also given birth to the now world famous “UFO Festival” hosted by McMenamins Hotel each May in McMinnville.

Whether you are a serious student of UFO’s or you just like to party with people dressed in alien costumes and tin foil hats, this festival has it all. I listened to UFO experts head up discussions and witnessed alien marching bands parade down the main drag in McMinnville’s historic district. Unfortunately I missed Willamette Radio Workshop's free performance of "The War of the Worlds," recreated at the Mack Theater across from McMennamin’s Hotel.

The 8^th Annual UFO Festival is already in the planning stages and will be held on May 18 on 19, 2007. For more information call (503) 472-8427 or visit www.ufofest.com.