HERMISTON — A recent online survey reveals a strong desire for more live music events at Hermiston’s Eastern Oregon Trade and Event Center (EOTEC). Out of 96 respondents, about 65% expressed a keen interest in attending more concerts. Following closely, 39% favored having food-related events like farmers markets or food trucks.
Cultural festivals, along with craft fairs, were the third most popular choice at 34%. Other preferences included trade shows (30%), sports tournaments (21%), and rodeos (17%). Car shows received 14%, while conferences and seminars garnered 6.5%.
Al Davis, the EOTEC general manager, initiated this survey. “I was just curious about what people really want,” he said. The enthusiasm for concerts didn’t catch him off guard; however, he acknowledged the financial challenges. “Bringing in big-name artists requires a budget of around $75,000. You must sell enough tickets to cover that expense,” he noted.
### Aiming for Six Major Events Annually
Davis hopes to host six premier events each year. By “premier,” he means events that fill the parking lot—a total of 538 spaces. Currently, EOTEC hosts two significant events: the Umatilla County Fair and the Farm-City Pro Rodeo, both happening simultaneously.
Some survey findings surprised Davis, especially the interest in craft shows. “I expected others would perform better in that area,” he said. He also noted that cultural events had a stronger showing than anticipated, pointing to past free events like Pride Fest and Cinco de Mayo.
### Using Data to Shape Future Events
Davis plans to use this survey data to guide future event planning. “We need to know where to focus our resources and who we can team up with for bigger events,” he explained. EOTEC hosts over 250 events annually, from small meetings to large livestock shows that draw in 1,500 people.
Past events have also seen good attendance. The survey highlighted that 87% attended the last fair, while 65% went to the rodeo. The Land of Lights holiday display attracted 57%, and trade shows brought in 35%.
### High Satisfaction Among Visitors
Feedback from visitors is overwhelmingly positive. More than 75% reported a positive experience at events, with just 4% expressing dissatisfaction.
Davis recognizes EOTEC is still finding its footing. The facility opened in 2017 and faced setbacks due to COVID-19 in 2020. “We’re fairly new in the event space,” he said, but he remains optimistic about EOTEC’s future.
Excitement is building for an upcoming event on June 12-13: the Cartunes Music Festival, featuring classic rock cover bands alongside a car show from the Eastern Oregon Cruisers. “I believe we’ll see more big names coming to EOTEC soon,” Davis said.
### A Community Center Growth
The desire for more live music and community events reflects a wider trend. A recent study from the National Endowment for the Arts found arts attendance—including concerts—has surged in the past five years. More people are seeking out experiences that foster community and connection.
EOTEC is positioned to be a vital part of this trend, adapting to the community’s needs while enhancing the cultural landscape of Hermiston.
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