Good morning, Bend.

The Bend Polar Plunge and 5K is set for today at Riverbend Park as registration opens at 9:00 a.m., the 5K begins at 10:00 a.m., and the plunge follows at 11:00 a.m. Participants must raise $60 for one event or $100 for both to support Special Olympics Oregon.

A community survey commissioned by Bend Park and Recreation District shows 93% of residents rated life as 'good' or 'very good' and gave parks 89% satisfaction.

Seventy-two percent support a bond measure for future improvements, paving the way for projects (like an aquatics facility) as Bend grows.

Four Central Oregon resorts including Bend's Oxford Hotel and Brasada Ranch appear on U.S. News & World Report's 2026 top 10 hotels list.

The rankings are based on expert reviews and traveler ratings as spring nears.

Bend-based composer Paula Dreyer earned national recognition by taking third place in the American Prize competition for her piano album that reflects Central Oregon nature and community spirit.

She now is working on an album for her daughter, Dreaming & Sounds, designed to evoke relaxation and comfort.

Seed to Table launches a six-part adult gardening workshop series on March 28 that offers hands-on lessons in soil prep, crop planning, and plant care (at its farm in Sisters) to help growers succeed (addressing common local gardening questions).

Think Wild lost $16,000 in grant funding over the past two weeks and now faces canceling its free weekly wildlife classes at Title I schools in Central Oregon — the organization is planning community fundraising to make up the shortfall.

OHSU in Bend received a 5-year, $3.3 million federal grant to study psilocybin’s impact on mental health and addiction — the study will include broader patient groups with results expected by 2031.

Hoodoo Ski and Recreation Area reopened Friday after heavy rain and flooding forced its closure, with visitors enjoying early season conditions including a 25-inch snow base and sunny skies (vigilance is advised for hidden hazards).

Not'cho Grandma's Bingo Fundraiser

9:30 a.m. — Silver Moon Brewing — $13 per person — Experience high-energy bingo while supporting the community and enjoying a fun atmosphere.

Pest to Prize: Porcupines in the Deschutes Watershed

7-8 p.m. — McMenamins Old St. Francis School — Sold out — Discover the significance of North American porcupines and ongoing conservation efforts in Central Oregon.

Central Oregon Sportsmen's Show

12:00 – 3:00 p.m. — Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center — Admission details not specified — The largest hunting and fishing show in the region featuring numerous outdoor recreation products and services.

Kids Night Out Fundraiser for Camp Fire Central Oregon

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Amity Creek Magnet at Thompson School — Fun for kids ages 4-11 — Enjoy an evening of games, crafts, activities, and a meal while supporting teen programs.

Dad Bods Live

8-10 p.m. — The Commonwealth Pub — Free entry — Enjoy a high-energy night of 80's hits with the lively Dad Bods ready to make you dance.

Raging Writers Spoken Words

2-4 p.m. — Spork — Free entry — Ignite your creativity with writing prompts followed by an open mic for passionate performers.

KIDS Center 101

5:30-6:30 p.m. — Deschutes Children's Foundation - Rosie Bareis Community Campus — Free entry — Discover the essential programs and services offered by KIDS Center for children and families.

Trivia Night at Wonderland Chicken and Worthy Brewing

7-9 p.m. — Wonderland Chicken Co X Worthy Brewing — Free to play — Join a lively trivia competition with food and drinks and win prizes.

Art & Health: Scalehouse x Health Care for All Oregon

Free and open to all, with food, drink, artwork, and conversation included. Join Scalehouse and Health Care for All Oregon (HCAO) on Friday, March 13, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, for an Open House to learn about Oregon's universal healthcare legislation and what it means for all of us. Also experience the new art exhibition, “Seeds of Abundance: Limits, Loss & Regeneration.” Donations from the night will support HCAO and Scalehouse.

OHA Bend Chapter Banquet

4-10 p.m. — Riverhouse Lodge — Pre-registration required — Enjoy a festive evening of raffles and auctions including a State-Wide Elk tag highlight.