This Memorial Day weekend will commemorate a very special part of our city.
May 23-25 will consist of several events for, “Remembering the End of the Civil War,” a tribute to those who rest at the Eugene Masonic Cemetery and the history they represent.
“This is an opportunity to step outside of yourself, and to reflect on what others have done. We mark the veterans’ graves with flags, so we can really notice and think about these people,” said Sally Dietrich, the cemetery administrator. “Some wars seem so distant, and some so fresh. We may not always agree with them in concept, but we realize that we can’t discount the individuals who took a stand and did something that was difficult.”
Not only does the Masonic Cemetery hold about 35 Civil War veterans, it is also the final resting place to many founders of the city, including Eugene and Mary Skinner, John Whiteaker (the first governor of Oregon) and the very first presidents of both the University of Oregon and Northwest Christian University. Other familiar names include: Friendly, Chambers, Condon, Luckey and Kerns.
“It’s an operating cemetery, as well as a historical site, with a historic mausoleum. It’s just kind of a cool place,” Dietrich said.
Special events include: A display of Civil War artifacts, Civil War era dress-ups and music, self-guided tours and maps of the cemetery and a presentation from UO history professor Jack Maddex.
Eugene Masonic Cemetery is located at 25th Avenue & University Street.
Eugene:
May 21 — Spring Drag Show
The first annual Eugene drag show will be held at the Campbell Club.
The Campbell Club, 1670 Alder St., 9 p.m.–12 a.m.
May 22 — Residence Hall Association Block Party
Rain or shine, we still like free food. Also, enjoy an inflatable slide, obstacle course, jousting and booths with games and prizes!
Memorial Quad, 3–6 p.m.
May 23 — Blues, Brews & BBQ’s
This Eugene festival offers delicious barbeque and cooking competitions, live entertainment and local beer tastings. Proceeds from the event will go to Oregon Supported Living Program, so you’re eating for a good cause.
Cornerstone Tailgates, 1002 W. 2nd Ave., 11 a.m.–10 p.m., $15.
Portland:
May 22 — The Waterboys
With a folky, rock ‘n’ roll sound, the band celebrates the release of their LP of original songs, Modern Blues. Their show was praised in London and has now made its way to the U.S.
Aladdin Theater, 7 p.m., $35.
May 22-25 — Portland Rose Festival
Opening night includes a firework show, a dance party and live music. Enjoy brand new thrill-seeking rides or a relaxing glowing Ferris Wheel trip for a fantastic view of downtown city lights.
Waterfront Park, kickoff at 5 p.m. Admission: $5 advanced, $7 at gate; Unlimited Ride Bands: $35 advanced, $50 at gate.
May 23 — Radical 80s Dance Cruise
Take a cruise through the Portland waterfront, wearing your best ’80s attire and jamming to the decade’s best hits.
Waterfront Park, 11 p.m. – 1 a.m., $20 or $10 for groups of 8 or more.
May 23 — The Dinner Detective 
The largest murder-mystery dinner show in the country. You’ll attempt to solve a hilarious murder investigation while enjoying a four-course meal. As the invitation states, “In this show, everyone is a suspect, even you, and the killer might just be at your table!”
Crowne Plaza Hotel, 6:15 p.m., $59.95.