Only in Florence, Oregon, could an infamous exploding whale become a beloved local tradition.

Exploding Whale Day, recognized each year around November 12, commemorates one of the strangest moments in Oregon Coast history: the 1970 explosion of a beached sperm whale near Florence.

Today, Florence embraces the story with its signature sense of humor. Depending on the year, celebrations may include whale-themed activities, local business specials, community art, music, food and drinks, history, marine education and plenty of wonderfully weird Florence fun.

Because November 12 doesn't always fall on a weekend, public festivities may take place on an adjacent weekend. Check the current year's event information before planning your visit.

A Whale of a Celebration

Exploding Whale Day isn't a conventional festival and that's exactly the point.

Florence residents and visitors gather to remember the famous whale with a decidedly tongue-in-cheek sense of humor.

Past celebrations have included community art and memorial displays, whale-themed merchandise, food and drink specials, music, educational activities and promotions at participating Florence businesses.

Activities change from year to year, giving visitors another reason to come back and see what Florence has dreamed up next.

You might even see someone dressed as a whale.

Visit Exploding Whale Memorial Park

Yes, Florence really has an Exploding Whale Memorial Park.

The riverfront park received its memorable name in 2020, the 50th anniversary year of the explosion, after Florence residents voted on the designation. Today, its whimsical whale sign has become a popular Florence photo opportunity.

Stop for a photo, then continue exploring nearby Historic Old Town Florence and the Siuslaw River waterfront.

Follow the Whale Trail

Exploding Whale Day is also an opportunity to discover Florence's local businesses.

Participating businesses on the annual Whale Trail may offer whale-themed art, special menus and drinks, merchandise, exhibits, promotions or other surprises.

Participants and activities can change each year, so check the current Exploding Whale Day schedule for the latest Whale Trail information.

What Happened to the Exploding Whale?

The story began in November 1970, when a roughly 45-foot sperm whale washed ashore near Florence.

Officials with the Oregon State Highway Division needed to dispose of the carcass and ultimately decided to use dynamite. On November 12, approximately half a ton of explosives detonated beneath the whale with the expectation that the blast would break the carcass into pieces small enough for scavengers to remove.

Things did not go exactly according to plan.

Pieces of the whale were sent flying through the air, including a large piece of blubber that landed on a nearby automobile. Fortunately, no one was injured.

KATU reporter Paul Linnman and cameraman Doug Brazil captured the event on film. The footage eventually became famous around the world, turning one unusual day on the Oregon Coast into a story that has endured for generations.

More than five decades later, Florence has transformed the mishap into something much more positive: a celebration of local history, humor, creativity and community.

Make It a Florence Getaway

Exploding Whale Day is a great excuse to experience Florence during one of the quieter times of year on the Oregon Coast.

While you're here:

• Explore Historic Old Town Florence
• Visit the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum and learn more about the exploding whale story
• Walk along the Siuslaw River waterfront
• Browse local shops, galleries and restaurants
• Explore the Oregon Dunes
• Head to the beach for a fall walk or storm watching
• Spend a night or two and experience the quieter side of the Oregon Coast

Come for the whale. Stay for Florence.

Plan Your Exploding Whale Day Visit

Exploding Whale Day: November 12 annually
Public celebration: Dates and activities may vary each year

Check the current year's Florence event information for celebration dates, schedules, participating businesses and Whale Trail details before planning your visit.

Plan Your Florence Getaway

Explore more resources to plan your trip:

Come experience one of the Oregon Coast's strangest true stories and one of Florence's most uniquely fun traditions.