Waldport — For decades, the Beachcomber has been Waldport’s signature summer tradition. But city officials say the group still operating as “Beachcomber Days” is no longer the authorized host of the longtime local event.

“We want to keep the memories alive by carrying forward 70 years of tradition and bringing the nostalgia back.”

— Pattie Deitrick

President, Waldport Beachcomber Festival

City officials have directed residents and visitors to support the Waldport Beachcomber Festival, a new volunteer-led celebration organized with the Waldport Chamber of Commerce.

“The citizens of Waldport deserve to have their traditions carried out by an upfront & responsible group,” a Waldport city official said.

The city has publicly addressed confusion over the old group’s claims. Officials state that the assertion of running the event continuously for nearly 70 years is inaccurate; current board members joined the 13-year-old nonprofit only around the COVID period. The organization has since rebranded as Lincoln County Beachcombers and reportedly explored moving the event outside Waldport, including to the Port of Newport.

After reviewing conflicting budget documents and scholarship figures submitted for permits, the city required an independent accounting review and consulted state authorities. City leaders cited their responsibility to protect public resources and ensure transparency for any event using city property.

New Festival Carries the Tradition Forward

A fresh group of local volunteers has stepped in to preserve the Beachcomber celebration. The Waldport Beachcomber Festival is set for June 19–21, 2026, and is already promoted on official Chamber and visitor sites as the family-friendly event featuring vendors, live music, a kids’ zone, food, and coastal heritage activities.

“We want to keep the memories alive by carrying forward 70 years of tradition and bringing the nostalgia back,” said Waldport Beachcomber Festival President Pattie Deitrick.

Boiler Bay Beacon made repeated attempts to reach representatives of the former Beachcomber Days organization for comment. None were received by press time.

City officials have made clear: the Beachcomber tradition belongs to Waldport. Supporting the new Festival through the Chamber ensures the event remains transparent, volunteer-driven, and truly local.

The old group continues to promote events under the Beachcomber Days name, but the City of Waldport has drawn a firm line in favor of the Festival.

What you can do:

• Follow official updates from the Waldport Chamber of Commerce and Waldport Beachcomber Festival channels.
• Volunteer, sponsor, or attend the June 19–21, 2026 event.
• Share this story to help clear up confusion and keep Waldport’s summer tradition strong.

The Beacon will continue to track developments and will be combing the beach in Waldport in June.