Florence, Oregon is marking the 56th anniversary of the 1970 exploding whale incident with a weekend of film, music, art, museum exhibits, a memorial celebration, and appearances by reporter Paul Linnman, with the main public event taking place Sunday, Nov. 15 at Bridgeport Market.
FLORENCE, Ore. - Florence is celebrating the 56th anniversary of the infamous exploding whale incident with a weekend of film screenings, live music and marine-inspired art.
On Nov. 12, 1970, officials attempted to remove a beached whale from Florence's shores by blowing it up. The blast sent whale parts flying and created a spectacle that became legendary around the world.
The celebration kicks off Saturday at City Lights Cinemas with a screening of the award-winning documentary "Oh Whale." Paul Linnman, the anchorman whose report helped turn the exploding whale story into a sensation, will attend to meet fans and answer questions.
The main event happens Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. at Bridgeport Market, 75 Harbor St., in historic Old Town Florence. The free, family-friendly gathering features representatives from the American Cetacean Society, marine-focused artisans and live music from Portland-based band The Exploding Whales.
Visitors can bring small mementos to add to a community memorial art installation honoring the whale. The celebration ends with a toast to the whale at 3:45 p.m.
The Siuslaw Pioneer Museum at 278 Maple St. is open from noon to 4 p.m. and features an exhibit with actual whale bones from the incident. Florence also has a park dedicated to the event.