Crowds Sizzle During Umatilla Landing Days

Heat hampered some of the spirits at Umatilla Landing Days this weekend, but the high temperatures didn’t keep the crowds away completely.

Umatilla Chamber Director Karen Hutchinson-Talaski said the event’s day-time numbers were comparable to past years and turnout was good considering the high temperatures.

“Despite the heat, a lot of people came for the evening’s performance by Blue Tattoo and to see the fireworks The daytime numbers were about the same, but people did not stay as long as they normally would because it was just too hot,” Hutchinson-Talaski said.

Celebrating the city’s history, Umatilla Landing Days is an annual event marked by a parade, vendors, and ferry re-enactments remembering the days when the city was a trade and transportation stop on the Columbia River.

Temperatures on Saturday climbed to 109 degrees Fahrenheit. Websites list the historic record as 104 degrees in 1937. Inflatable bounce houses closed early because of the temperatures.

Despite the heat, crowds enjoyed parade, live entertainment, vendors and food booths. The evening capped with performances by Blue Tattoo and fireworks over the Columbia River.

“Thanks to all the vendors and participants who braved the heat to come to Landing Days,” Hutchinson-Talaski said.