The Bay Area Fun Festival returns to Coos Bay on September 19 and 20, 2026, bringing one of the Oregon Coast’s liveliest late-summer weekends. The event fills downtown with food vendors, craft booths, live music, a parade, a classic car cruise, and running events for different ages and ability levels.
For families, runners, and car enthusiasts, the Bay Area Fun Festival in Coos Bay offers an easy way to enjoy a full weekend without driving between several destinations. Most events take place downtown or close by, so you can walk between activities, grab a snack, and find a place to watch the action.
2026 Festival Highlights
Event times can change, so check the official festival schedule before leaving for Coos Bay. You can also explore other Oregon Coast events and activities when planning the rest of your visit.
Event
Date and Time
Best For
Vendor market
Saturday, September 19, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Families, shoppers, food lovers
Prefontaine Memorial Run
Saturday, September 19, around 10 a.m.
Runners and spectators
BAFF Parade
Saturday, September 19, 1 p.m.
Families and first-time visitors
Cruz the Coos
Saturday, September 19, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Car enthusiasts
Live music and food vendors
Saturday and Sunday
All ages
Family activities
Sunday, September 20
Families with children
Start With the Vendor Market
The Saturday vendor market is a natural place to begin. Central Avenue fills with local makers, food stands, craft sellers, and small businesses. You can browse handmade goods, pick up snacks, and get a feel for the community before the bigger events begin.
Families may want to arrive early. Morning hours are usually easier for parking and walking, and children can enjoy the market before the downtown crowds grow. For more local shopping and coastal discoveries, explore these hidden gems on the Oregon Coast.
Bring a reusable bag for purchases and keep some cash available, even though many vendors accept cards. A light rain jacket is also useful because coastal weather can shift during the day.
Watch the Prefontaine Memorial Run
The Prefontaine Memorial Run honors Coos Bay native Steve Prefontaine, one of America’s best-known distance runners. The 2026 event includes a 10K and a two-mile walk or fun run. The course starts near Fourth and Anderson in downtown Coos Bay and finishes at Marshfield High School’s Prefontaine Track.
Runners need to register, while spectators can watch along the route at no cost. The course is rolling and challenging, so runners should prepare for hills and changing coastal conditions. Those interested in more outdoor activities can also explore family-friendly hikes along the Oregon Coast.
If you plan to participate, collect your race materials early and allow time for parking. Spectators can make the event part of a full festival morning by watching the start, visiting the market, and staying downtown for the parade.
Find a Good Spot for the Parade
The BAFF Parade begins at 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 19. It brings floats, local groups, music, and plenty of community energy through downtown Coos Bay.
Families should arrive before the start time to choose a comfortable viewing spot. Sit near the edge of the route, keep children close to adults, and bring water for the afternoon.
The parade is also a convenient break between the morning run and the evening car cruise. After it ends, you can enjoy lunch, browse more vendor booths, or return to your rental for a short rest. If you’re planning a coastal trip around other community celebrations, the Astoria-Warrenton Crab, Seafood and Wine Festival is another event to consider for a future visit.
See Cruz the Coos
Cruz the Coos is one of the festival’s biggest attractions. Nearly 500 vintage automobiles are expected to take part in the classic car cruise through downtown Coos Bay. The 2026 cruise is scheduled for Saturday evening from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Car lovers can see restored classics, custom vehicles, and familiar models from different decades. Children often enjoy choosing their favorite car, while photographers can find plenty of colorful details, polished chrome, and old-fashioned design.
Arrive early if you want a clear viewing position. Downtown streets may be busy, and some areas can fill quickly before the cruise begins. If fireworks are also on your South Coast wish list, learn more about Blast by the Bay in Coos Bay, a separate Independence Day celebration.
Enjoy Sunday at a Slower Pace
Sunday offers another chance to hear live music, visit vendors, and enjoy family activities without the same rush as Saturday’s main schedule. Use it as a flexible day.
You might return to a favorite food stand, pick up gifts, or explore more of Coos Bay at an easy pace. For additional ideas, browse these top things to do on the Oregon Coast.
If you want time away from downtown, nearby parks, beaches, and scenic viewpoints give you room to enjoy the South Coast. You can also plan an outdoor stop at Sunset Bay State Park and explore the surrounding Charleston area.
The festival is free to attend, but the Prefontaine Memorial Run requires registration. Check the current event information before making plans.
Tips for a Comfortable Festival Weekend
Book your Coos Bay vacation rental early for the September 19 to 20 weekend.
Arrive early for the run, parade, and Cruz the Coos.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking downtown.
Bring layers for cool mornings and mild afternoons.
Carry water, sunscreen, and a small day bag.
Check parking signs before leaving your vehicle.
Confirm event times through the official festival page.
Plan a quiet break between Saturday activities.
September on the South Coast often brings comfortable daytime weather, but coastal wind and light rain are still possible. A flexible plan helps you enjoy the festival without worrying about every hour. Pack a few commonly forgotten vacation items to make your weekend more comfortable.
Stay Near the Festival
A vacation rental gives families and groups more room during a busy event weekend. You can prepare breakfast before the race, store purchases safely, and return for a break between the parade and evening car cruise.
Answer: Yes. Most festival activities, including the parade, car cruise, vendor market, and live entertainment, are free. The Prefontaine Memorial Run requires registration and may involve a participation fee.
Where should I park for the Bay Area Fun Festival in Coos Bay?
Answer: Downtown parking may become busy during the parade and car cruise. Arrive early, follow posted parking signs, and consider walking from your vacation rental if it is nearby.
Can children attend the Bay Area Fun Festival?
Answer: Yes. The festival offers family-friendly activities, including the parade, vendor market, live music, classic cars, and food booths. Families can also explore nearby parks and beaches during their stay.
Should runners register for the Prefontaine Memorial Run before arriving?
Answer: Register ahead of time if possible. Race registration details, fees, and late registration hours can change. Check the official race information before traveling and allow extra time to collect race materials on event day.
What can visitors do in Coos Bay besides attending the festival?
Answer: Visitors can explore the waterfront, enjoy nearby beaches, visit scenic viewpoints, and discover South Coast attractions. The surrounding area offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and coastal sightseeing, making it easy to extend a festival weekend into a longer vacation.
Where should visitors stay for the Bay Area Fun Festival?
Answer: A vacation rental in or near Coos Bay provides a convenient base for festival activities and nearby attractions. Browse Oregon Beach Vacations properties to find accommodations that suit your group size and travel plans.
