Good morning, Bend.

With four days until the Fourth, local firefighters remind residents that personal fireworks are banned in Bend, Sisters, and Sunriver while Redmond allows them (only on July 4), and advise soaking fireworks in water for several hours before disposal to prevent fires.

The Old Mill District has unveiled 15 new illustrated animals for visitors to find today, each with a QR code offering trivia on native species (in partnership with Mike Bennett Studios and Zooquarium).

Kids who complete the challenge can pick up a small prize at the Ticket Mill.

Bong Wizard, a psychedelic stoner metal band from Houston, will perform with Sandkrawler, Vacancy Floor and James G on Saturday, July 4 at Domino Room (51 NW Greenwood Ave) in Bend.

Doors open at 8 p.m. and the show starts at 8:30 p.m. with tickets costing $18.49.

The world’s oldest open-air quilt show returns July 11 in Sisters from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with over 1,000 quilts displayed on downtown streets.

Organizers advise arriving early — heavy turnout and limited parking may slow access.

A recent report from WorldAtlas highlights five Oregon areas with growing rattlesnake activity, including Smith Rock near Bend+where a hiker was bitten in 2024, and Deschutes River State Recreation Area, where sightings rise during warm summer mornings.

Visitors are advised to stay alert and keep a safe distance in these habitats.

Bend Fire officials remind residents to soak fireworks for at least 24 hours before disposal as Fourth of July approaches.

The city's 2021 restrictions on fireworks have reduced fire incidents.

The Oregon Health Authority downgraded the Lake Billy Chinook advisory to precaution levels after tests showed toxin levels dropped below recreational guidelines+ officials warn that visible blooms still make water risky for pets.

Applications are open for Nine Peaks, a new 45-unit workforce housing complex (rents from $915) on Northeast Connors Avenue near St. Charles Bend.

Eligibility is for those earning 50% or less of the median income, and the development is expected to be complete by the end of July.

Munch & Music Concert Series

5:30-9 p.m. — Drake Park — Free entry — Celebrate 35 years of community music, food, and fun at this beloved local concert series.

Fourth of July Open House

10 AM – 4 PM — Deschutes Historical Museum — Free admission — Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of independence with games, treats, and the new exhibit showcasing pivotal moments in local history.

Alpaca Piano Picnic

2-3:30 p.m. — Flying Dutchman Alpaca — Ticketed event — Experience a charming outdoor piano concert amidst friendly alpacas and delightful high tea.

Bend Elks & Boss Baseball Summer Camp Week 2

Mon-Fri — Vince Genna Stadium — $200 for the week or $50 per day — Develop baseball skills and enjoy camper activities with local coaches and players.

AJR Concert

6:30-8 p.m. — Hayden Homes Amphitheater — Tickets available online — Experience indie pop sensations AJR as they perform their hits and new tracks.

Munch & Music Concert Series

5:30-9 p.m. — Drake Park — Free entry — Celebrate 35 years of free live music, food vendors, and family fun in the heart of Central Oregon.

Screening of Without a Doubt

9:30 – 10:30 AM — Patagonia Bend — Free entry — Experience a behind-the-scenes look at Braydon Bringhurst’s new film with pastries and exclusive giveaways.

Second Sunday Market at Gathered Wares

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Old Iron Works District — Free entry — Celebrate vintage clothing and home goods with local vendors while enjoying live music on vinyl.

Beertown Comedy Open Mic Night

6:30-9 p.m. — Silver Moon Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy a night of laughs at Bend's top-rated open mic for comedy enthusiasts.

Badass Sound Bath

6:30-7:30 p.m. — CONTINUUM, A School of Shadow Yoga Bend Oregon — Cost varies — Experience an empowering sound bath with bold beats and relaxation.