EUGENE, Ore. – The city of Eugene is poised to host its fifth annual Founded Fest, an event that has grown into a significant convergence of vintage fashion enthusiasts, local artists, and community members dedicated to sustainable practices. Co-hosted in part by the City of Eugene’s sustainability department, the festival is scheduled to unfold on June 8th at the vibrant Farmers Market Pavilion in Eugene, promising a day steeped in unique style, creative expression, and practical environmental action.
Celebrating Vintage Style and Local Creativity
At the heart of Founded Fest is a celebration of vintage fashion. This year’s iteration is set to feature a robust lineup of over 35 vintage clothing vendors from across Oregon, offering a curated selection of pre-loved garments and accessories, each with its own history and character. Complementing the vintage offerings, approximately a dozen local artists will be on hand, showcasing their original clothing creations, providing a platform for homegrown talent and innovative design.
A central highlight of the festival remains the fashion show, which provides a dynamic showcase for both the vintage treasures available and the unique pieces crafted by local designers. This visual spectacle underscores the event’s mission to elevate sustainable style and individual expression.
The growth of Founded Fest since its inception reflects the increasing interest in vintage and sustainable fashion within the community. The event began modestly with 26 vendors in its first year and has expanded considerably to feature 57 vendors plus food booths this year, illustrating its burgeoning popularity and impact. The festival is primarily hosted by the Founded vintage store in downtown Eugene, a local business championing vintage culture and community engagement.
The Practical Side: The Free Fix-It Fair
Integrated seamlessly with Founded Fest is the free Fix-It Fair, a practical initiative co-hosted by the City of Eugene’s sustainability department. This crucial component of the event addresses the environmental impact of fast fashion by encouraging repair and reuse.
At the Fix-It Fair, skilled volunteers will generously offer their time and expertise to help attendees mend and restore cherished items. Participants can bring in clothing items, leather goods, and jewelry for repair. Services are provided on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of one item per participant to ensure as many people as possible can benefit from the volunteers’ assistance. This hands-on approach to sustainability empowers individuals to extend the life of their belongings, reducing waste and promoting a more circular economy.
A Fusion of Fashion, Sustainability, and Community
The convergence of a vintage fashion marketplace, local artist showcase, and a repair workshop creates a unique synergy. It highlights how style and environmental consciousness can go hand-in-hand, offering alternatives to mass-produced, disposable clothing.
The event not only provides an economic boost to local vintage businesses and artists but also serves as a vital community gathering. It brings together people with shared values – an appreciation for quality craftsmanship, a love for unique aesthetics, and a commitment to reducing their environmental footprint. The Farmers Market Pavilion, a central and accessible community space, provides an ideal backdrop for this multifaceted celebration.
Looking Ahead
The continued expansion and success of Founded Fest and the Fix-It Fair signal a growing appetite within the Eugene-Springfield area for events that combine commerce, culture, and sustainability. As the fifth annual event approaches, organizers and participants alike anticipate a day filled with discovery, creativity, and community connection, reinforcing Eugene’s reputation as a city that values both style and sustainability.
The festival on June 8th is expected to draw a diverse crowd, eager to explore the vintage racks, admire local artistry, learn repair skills, and connect with fellow community members who share a passion for a more sustainable and stylish future.
