Good morning, Bend.

Bend Fire Pipes and Drums will host their 15th annual St. Patrick's Day Bar Crawl on Monday, March 17th, filling local bars with traditional Celtic music.

The event starts at 1 p.m. at Midtown Yacht Club, moves to Boneyard Brewery by 4, marches downtown at 4:45, and finishes at Sidelines Sportsbar — where a festive atmosphere is expected.

Registration for summer programs at Bend Park and Recreation District will begin on Monday, March 17th at 6:00 a.m. for camps, art, sports and other recreational activities while swim lessons and aquatic classes open Tuesday, March 18th at 6:00 a.m.—the district is testing a payment plan for five day camps.

Brian Thomas Roberts, an expert skier from Bend, died in an avalanche on Thursday while skiing near Mt. Bailey when his group encountered unstable conditions—his family shared photos and a statement asking for prayers as they grieve this unimaginable loss.

Teachers at Bear Creek Elementary have started an environmental learning project funded by a $2,000 grant from OnPoint Community Credit Union’s Excellence in Education Community Builder Award where students plant tulips and learn about soil.

Local Rotary Club, OSU Master Gardeners and businesses donated soil, lumber and tools to expand the garden with hoop houses, pollinator areas and an outdoor reading nook—plans that will help all students connect with nature.

Starting March 16, crews will replace the Hamehook Road Bridge in Bend while keeping a one-lane closure in place that may delay traffic by up to 20 minutes—detours are planned for Pioneer Loop and other routes.

Additional work on NE Wilcox Avenue, U.S. 97, and Knott Road will cause more delays, while Cascade Lakes Highway and Paulina Lake Road stay closed until Memorial Day.

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office is hosting a free shred event at its main office in Bend from 10am to 12pm (March 15th) where residents can dispose of documents, medications, and worn American flags while food donations benefit a local foodbank.

Central Oregon has been the state’s growth engine as the Bend Metropolitan Statistical Area grew nearly 7%—to 264,407 residents—since the April 2020 Census, with the region accounting for 47% of Oregon’s overall population increase.

The U.S. Census Bureau’s July 2024 estimates show steady gains for Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties.

Federal land management agencies in Oregon plan further staffing cuts that could reduce vital support roles during wildfire suppression later this year—raising concerns after last summer's record wildfire season.

Gov. Tina Kotek warned that lower numbers of non-fire personnel may hinder pre-season fire mitigation and put communities at risk during the upcoming fire season.

Crews are finalizing a $15 million renovation to transform Bend's historic post office into The Westman — a boutique hotel set to open in fall 2025 — on the corner of Franklin and Wall.

The project will preserve historic features like large lofted windows while adding a modern public lobby bar.

McMenamins St. Patrick's Weekend Celebration

The Vibeshiftas will perform two sets in Father Luke's Room at McMenamins Old St. Francis School during St. Patrick's Weekend.

Preschool Story Time at Downtown Bend Library

A story time event for children aged 3-5 featuring stories, songs, and rhymes designed to develop early literacy skills.

Community Innovation Fund Info Session

This info session provides details on the application process for projects aimed at reducing waste in Deschutes County, offering potential funding of up to $5,000.

Oliver Hazard Live Concert

Oliver Hazard will perform live at the Midtown Ballroom/Domino Room/Annex in Bend, Oregon.

Free Community Tour of KIDS Center

A one-hour tour of KIDS Center focused on educating the community about efforts to end child abuse and support children’s healing journeys.

Thrive Central Oregon Drop-In Consultations

This event offers drop-in social services assistance, connecting attendees with resources for housing, medical access, mental health, and veterans services.

Robert Neary Live in Concert

Experience a live performance by Robert Neary at the Tower Theatre in Bend, Oregon.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend Spring Break Program

The Spring Break Program offers children engaging activities from March 24-27, 2025, at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend.

Quiet Writing Time

9:30-11:00 a.m. | Downtown Bend Library | Free entry | Enjoy the focus of a quiet space with the benefit of others' company.

Dungeons and Dragons: Spring Break One-Shot

12-3 p.m. | Downtown Bend Library | Free entry | Engage in a fun one-shot D&D adventure with other teens during spring break.