When I first attended the Sisters Folk Festival over a decade ago, I was immediately smitten. The festival in the western-themed Central Oregon town seemed to have it all figured out. The laid-back, small-town vibe of Sisters — with a population of roughly 3,000 people — paired perfectly with the nearby outdoor adventures. Venues were close together, the early fall weather beautiful and the tight-knit community together created a warm, inviting atmosphere for music lovers.
The festival quickly became one of my favorites and I’ve been a half-dozen times. I’ve discovered there’s so much more to Sisters, whether you love music, the outdoors, art or simply the charm of a Western-inspired town in the mountains. Here are some recommendations for the festival itself and more to see and do while you’re in town.
All the Town’s a Stage
With over 25 years under its belt and seven venues spread throughout the town, the festival held in late September has an intimate yet dynamic feel. That’s thanks in part to the community that supports it. This collaborative attitude is reflected in the festival’s tagline, “All the Town’s a Stage.”
“From city government to business owners — everyone here embraces it,” says Crista Munro, executive director of SFF Presents. “You can’t help but feel like something special is happening.”
Don’t let the “folk” in the festival fool you — the music is wide ranging and diverse, encompassing world music and other genres. Though it sometimes gets pigeonholed as just guitar and vocals, at its heart folk music is a reflection of cultural storytelling, capturing the essence of community and human condition. As Joni Mitchell once said, “Folk music is a bunch of little snapshots of life, and that’s what makes it powerful.”
Munro recommends going into the festival with an open mind and open ears. “Don’t go into it expecting to see all 33 artists,” she says. “Instead, have the ones you really want to see, but also talk to people, listen to what others are saying. There is really good music that you may not have heard of, but a lot that you’re sure to love.”
Enjoy Art, Books and Coffee
Music is not the only medium of art in which Sisters shines. Visit the town in mid-October to experience the Sisters Harvest Faire, a more-than-40-year annual tradition that supports artists and craftspeople producing quality handcrafted goods and artwork.
On any given day, you can peruse the more than dozen galleries and art shops in the center of town. Artist co-op Hood Avenue Art Gallery and the Cindy & Duncan Campbell Gallery showcase Central Oregon artists. Don’t miss Raven Makes Gallery, featuring collectable and wearable works by Hopi, Zuni and Navajo artisans.
To create your own art, stop into the Space in Common to grab supplies and materials before being inspired by the landscapes of the surrounding areas. The Rickards Gallery features painting, ceramics, jewelry and more. Time your visit around noon for a delightful lunch of seasonal pasta or grilled seafood at the adjacent Open Door restaurant, owned by the same people. For a great overview of the region’s art, check out Fourth Friday Artwalks, which happen every month from March to December.
No vacation is complete without a good book or game, so stop in to Paulina Springs Books, with its wide range of well-curated books across all genres, as well as an expansive kids’ section and a game room where patrons can get competitive with board games. Across the street, settle in to your new novel with a latte at the Sisters Coffee Co., which also serves tasty treats in its cabin-themed flagship cafe.
Head Outdoors for Hiking, Fishing and Cycling
For the outdoor adventurers, Sisters also makes a great base camp. Situated a stone’s throw from the Cascades, it’s the perfect starting point for a myriad of activities. The Metolius River has some of the best fly-fishing in the state, beautiful riverside hiking trails and the Wizard Falls Hatchery — a kid favorite where you can spy rainbow trout, kokanee, spring chinook and summer steelhead.
If you’re staying in Sisters and want to skip the drive, rent bikes from Eurosports or Blazin Saddles, and cycle the short distance to the Peterson Ridge Trail network on the western edge of town. The trail network is a nicely planned ladder system with plenty of mountain bike loop options for various distances. Also nearby is the Whychus Creek Trail, an out-and-back hiking trail filled with wildflowers, waterfalls and crystal-clear waters located just 4 miles west of Sisters.
On a warm fall day, grab the stand-up paddle boards and head west on highway 20 to Suttle Lake — you can put in at the public beach just west of the lodge. Grab food and a drink after at The Suttle Lodge, or stay the night in one the chic lodge rooms or rustic cabins.
For those who want a view, hop in the car and drive up Highway 242 to the summit of McKenzie Pass. Along the way, visit Dee Wright Observatory, a Civilian Conservation Corps project built in 1935 out of black lava rock. The tower offers expansive views of the Cascades, including North, Middle and South Sisters, Mt. Jefferson, Three Fingered Jack and Mt. Washington, among others.
Where to Eat and Stay
Much like the rest of Sisters, the food scene also shines. The Sisters Bakery is a must for fans of breakfast pastries, doughnuts and breads; and Angeline’s Bakery & Café specializes in gluten–free and vegan bakery fare, soups, salads and lunch entrées. For a lively community atmosphere, visit The Barn and the town’s best food carts, including Central Oregon’s delectable wood-fired pizza at Boone Dog Pizza.
The town of Sisters has a number of great options for lodging, but be sure to book early, especially during the Folk Festival. The Ski Inn Taphouse and Hotel is right in the thick of it on Main Street, for those who like to be in the action. The Scout, a contemporary inn featuring six private cottages, is located a few blocks away and could be a welcome refuge after a full day of music and crowds. For those looking for budget options and camping, the Creekside Campground is located on the edge of town and within walking distance of both Main Street and all the festival venues.
