Inside Eugene

In this episode of Inside Eugene, we sit down with Alicia Longoria and Marcela Williams to talk about the annual celebration of Latinx heritage that brings art, music, dance, and community pride to Eugene. Together, they discuss what’s new for this year’s event, the planning that brings it all to life, and how the Fiesta Cultural advisory team and Cultural Services are navigating safety concerns in today’s social and political climate. This episode will appeal to both English and Spanish listeners -- stay until the end to hear the discussion in Spanish.

Graphic novels aren’t just for kids anymore—and they’ve never been just superheroes. In this episode of Inside Eugene, we sit down with Henry Christopher and Dante Buccieri to talk about the growing world of comics and graphic novels at Eugene Public Library. Henry shares how events like Teen Comic-Con help teens express themselves and build community, while Dante talks about the rise in adult readers discovering the power of this visual storytelling format. We explore what the library offers in print and online (including free access to thousands of titles through ComicsPlus), common misconceptions about graphic novels, and why these books are more than just a gateway to reading—they’re a way to connect, reflect, and imagine new worlds.

City of Eugene events and happenings.

Alison Willis from Eugene Rec tells us all about the Youth Empowerment Program — a teen-focused initiative creating safe, inclusive spaces for connection, leadership and growth. From community events to hands-on support, learn how this program is helping teens thrive and why it’s such a vital part of building a stronger, safer Eugene.

Youth Empowerment Program

Cultural Services staff Jessica Watson and David Dickinson explore the Downtown Program Fund and Art in the Parks grants that help local artists and organizations bring free, creative events to public spaces across Eugene. From live performances to community art, discover how these grants are building connection and culture—one program at a time. ⁠City of Eugene events calendar.⁠

School’s out, but the stories are just getting started! Dive into the Eugene Public Library’s beloved Summer Reading program — a community favorite that brings families, teens, and readers of all ages together for a season full of fun, learning and imagination. Martha Sutherland shares what’s new this year, the impact of summer reading on youth and families, and how the program continues to inspire curiosity across our community. ⁠City of Eugene events calendar.⁠

In this episode, River House Outdoor Center instructor Anne Borland shares how she's helping create welcoming, confidence-building spaces for women in outdoor recreation. From sailing to rock climbing, we explore what happens when women are empowered to take the lead. ⁠City of Eugene events calendar.⁠

Take your lunch break outside! In this episode, we sit down with Eric Brown and Dan Hinman from the Planning & Development department to talk about Picnic at the Pavilion — a new weekly event bringing food trucks, casual seating and community connection to downtown Eugene every Wednesday.⁠City of Eugene events calendar.⁠

Get ready to move! In this episode, learn how to celebrate National Dance Week with Jana Meszaros, Farmers Market Pavilion Steward for the Cultural Services division. From public performances to community dance parties, this weeklong celebration showcases the creativity, inclusivity, and talent of Eugene’s vibrant dance community. Jana shares what it takes to bring this event to life, how it connects people across cultures and generations, and what you can expect if you join the fun this April.⁠City of Eugene events calendar.⁠

Join us as we chat with Phaedra Salcedo and Beth Schenderlein, two volunteers for the Talk Time program at Eugene Public Library. Talk Time provides a welcoming space for speakers of other languages to practice conversational English, meet new people, and build confidence—all in a fun and low-stress environment. This free program is perfect for anyone looking to improve their English skills while connecting with the community.

City of Eugene events calendar.