Rich History & Diverse Culture
Pendleton is proud of our unique cultural heritage. See the far-reaching influence of Native American tribes & Western cultures that are integral to Pendleton’s identity.
Native American Influence:
The presence of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation has a profound impact on Pendleton’s culture. The Tribes’ traditions, including the Cayuse, Umatilla, & Walla Walla people, are woven into the fabric of the town’s identity. Pendleton’s annual Pendleton Round-Up rodeo, for instance, features a Native American Village showcasing tribal traditions, dance, & art.
Arts & Creativity:
Pendleton nurtures a vibrant arts community, evidenced by the Pendleton Center for the Arts & local galleries that showcase the work of both emerging & established artists. The First Friday Art Walk allows residents & visitors to explore galleries, studios, & boutiques while engaging with local artists.
Western Heritage:
The town’s Western heritage is palpable in its architecture, festivals, & community events. Pendleton’s Main Street retains the charm of its historic buildings, while Western-themed businesses & attractions pay homage to the cowboy culture that shaped the region.
Cultural Festivals:
Pendleton hosts various cultural events that celebrate its diverse heritage. From Native American powwows to multicultural festivals, these events provide a platform for sharing traditions, art, music, & cuisine from different cultures.
Educational & Historical Embrace:
Pendleton’s culture includes a dedication to preserving its history & educating the community. Museums, historical sites, & interpretive centers showcase the town’s past & provide insight into the lives of its early inhabitants.
Step into a world where the echoes of pioneers’ footsteps still resonate, & the stories of the past come to life. Join us in exploring a chapter of the American West that stands the test of time – a journey that embraces the past while celebrating the present.
![Round-Up & Happy Canyon Souvenir Store Round-Up & Happy Canyon Souvenir Store](https://travelpendleton.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Round-Up-Happy-Canyon-Souvenir-Store-1024x1024-500x500.png)
![Pendleton Air Museum Pendleton Air Museum](https://travelpendleton.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Pendleton-Air-Museum-1024x1024-500x500.png)
![The Studio The Studio](https://travelpendleton.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/The-Studio-500x500.png)
![Cultural Sights Cultural Sights](https://travelpendleton.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Cultural-Sights-1024x683-500x500.jpg)
![Wildhorse Resort & Casino Wildhorse Resort & Casino](https://travelpendleton.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Wildhorse-Resort-Casino-1024x1024-500x500.png)
![Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts Crow’s Shadow Institute of the Arts](https://travelpendleton.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Crows-Shadow-Institute-of-the-Arts-1024x1024-500x500.png)
![Heritage Station Museum Heritage Station Museum](https://travelpendleton.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Heritage-Station-Museum-1024x1024-500x500.png)
![Kinship Cafe Kinship Cafe](https://travelpendleton.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Kinship-Cafe-1024x1024-500x500.png)
![Children's Museum of Eastern Oregon Children's Museum of Eastern Oregon](https://travelpendleton.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Childrens-Museum-of-Eastern-Oregon-1024x1024-500x500.png)
![PUG PUG](https://travelpendleton.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/PUG-500x500.png)
![TRAP - Website Generic Image TRAP - Website Generic Image](https://travelpendleton.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/TRAP-Website-Generic-Image-1-1024x1024-500x500.png)
![Pendleton Round-Up & Happy Canyon Hall of Fame Pendleton Round-Up & Happy Canyon Hall of Fame](https://travelpendleton.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Pendleton-Round-Up-Happy-Canyon-Hall-of-Fame-1024x1024-500x500.png)
![Pendleton Center for the Arts Pendleton Center for the Arts](https://travelpendleton.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Pendleton-Center-for-the-Arts-1024x1024-500x500.png)