Eugene, Oregon is a smart, friendly city with a great appreciation for the outdoors. You may think these traits are a trademark Canada quality, but that's only because you've never been to Eugene. While exploring the city, you'll learn a lot about its people through the artwork and performance art created by local residents. So if you're new to the city or you're visiting, taking in an artistic attraction is the perfect way to get a feel for the city. Here are some activities you might consider.

Visit an Art Gallery

Walking along a downtown Eugene street will provide you with views of not just the local tray packers' shops and souvenir stores, but also of local artwork displayed through city programs. To view or purchase some of the more weather sensitive pieces, visit one of the city's art galleries. The DIVA center has exhibits from noon to 6pm, while at Studio West you can see glass blown before your eyes and Oregon Crafted sells crafts made by local hobbyists.

Attend a Festival

If you happen to be in town for one of the annual events, they're well worth a visit. Sell your jewelry for a ticket if you have to. The Eugene International Film Festival is held in October and features screenings of local and foreign films. There's the Oregon Festival of American Music, hosted by the Shedd Institute for the Arts in August and the Art and the Vineyard summer celebration at the amphitheater in Alton Baker Park. The Bach Festival is also in the summer as is the Pacific International Children's Choir Festival.

Participate in a Workshop

The Maude Kerns Arts Center hosts year-round art classes for all ages so if you dream of turning your old central heating boiler into an art project, drop in! There are also filmmaking workshops associated with the Eugene Film Festival in October and numerous classes taught at community centers across the city. The Campbell Community Center is one such place, but it's dedicated to seniors 50 and over. The John G. Shedd Institute for the Arts is the place to go for music classes and workshops.

See a Play or Concert

The Actor's Cabaret of Eugene is the place to go for musical or comedy dinner theater or more serious drama, as it has two theaters in one complex. You can also see the Browadway and Off-Broadway plays you saw while studying ESL Toronto there. Eugene also has its own ballet company, symphony and concert choir. They play out of the Hult Center for the Performing Arts.