Slug Queen

Sequins, slime and a distinctly Eugene brand of pageantry will take center stage on Friday, August 14, when contestants compete for one of the city’s most unusual crowns – the title of SLUG Queen.

The 2026 SLUG Queen Competition & Coronation begins at 6 p.m. at the Eugene Saturday Market Stage, where hopefuls will rely on elaborate costumes, performances, humor and even good-natured bribery of the judges in their quest for the crown.

During the yearlong “rain,” the Queen makes appearances at community celebrations and other events, bringing a combination of humor, flamboyant costumes and civic spirit along the way.

The coronation itself is part talent show, part costume competition and part comedy. Contestants take the stage with songs, dances and other performances designed to win over former SLUG Queens and celebrity judges. Bribing the judges – creatively and openly – is part of the tradition.

People are encouraged to bring a chair, water or another beverage, and an appreciation for the quirky glamour that has made the SLUG Queen one of Eugene’s more enduring traditions.

Gong Bath

An evening of relaxation, community and live gong-based sound therapy will be offered at FourLeafs, 56343 Hall Road, in the McKenzie River Valley.

The outdoor gathering will give participants an opportunity to experience a guided meditation and live gong bath beneath the trees. No previous meditation or sound therapy experience is necessary.

Guests may arrive any time after 5 p.m., allowing time to settle in, visit with others and learn more about sound therapy before the program begins. Light fruit and infused water will be available, and participants may bring their own beverages.

The sound journey begins at 6 p.m. with a brief guided meditation and introductory sound session, followed by an approximately 45-minute live gong bath. The full sound experience is expected to last about an hour, with participants welcome to remain afterward.

Organizers encourage participants to bring whatever they need to relax comfortably outdoors, including a yoga mat, blanket, pillow, camp pad or zero-gravity chair. A limited number of shared mats, blankets and pillows will be available.

People are also encouraged to arrive well hydrated and dress appropriately for evening temperatures.

The community rate is $35 per person.

FourLeafs is located at 56343 Hall Road, Blue River. For additional information, call or text 541-505-1340.

WIND

Mole, Ratty, Badger and the irrepressible Mr. Toad will take to the stage when Roving Park Players presents its adaptation of the classic children’s tale The Wind in the Willows at Island Park in Springfield.

Free performances are scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, August 20-21, at 200 West B St.

First published in 1908, Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows follows the adventures of a group of animal friends along an idyllic English riverbank. What begins with picnics, new friendships and leisurely days “messing about in boats” soon turns into a much bigger adventure.

Mole longs to venture into the mysterious Wild Wood to meet Badger, while the flamboyant Mr. Toad becomes hopelessly obsessed with motorcars. Toad’s reckless driving eventually lands him in serious trouble, leaving his friends to come to his rescue.

Audience members are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for the outdoor free performances.