The 2025 Oregon Shakespeare Festival Lineup, Best Eats, and Premier Stay in Ashland!

team9958
Apr 17
4 min read

The Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF) has been enchanting audiences for over eight decades, and the 2025 season promises to be one of its most captivating yet! They are celebrating their 90th season this year with a thrilling lineup of performances. With mouthwatering dining options and charming attractions nearby, Ashland is the perfect spot for a weekend retreat. Get ready to explore must-see shows, fantastic eateries, and great shopping while enjoying this vibrant festival!

2025 OSF Season Highlights

The 2025 OSF lineup features a diverse array of plays for everyone to find a show they will enjoy. Whether you're drawn to classics or modern twists, there’s something for everyone.

Classic Performances:

This season includes a poignant rendition of Shakespeare’s tragic masterpiece "Hamlet," called "Fat Ham," which delves into profound themes of loss and identity. Additionally, expect to see a lively interpretation of "As You Like It," where love will find a way.

Modern Works:

This year, OSF continues to innovate with gripping modern narratives. Among them is August Wilson's "Jitney," this classic American play, written by two-time Pulitzer Prize winner August Wilson as part of his Century Cycle, provides a look into Pittsburgh in the 1970s.

Emerging Voices:

"Into The Woods," Amanda Dehnert’s production of this smash-hit musical thrilled audiences in 2014, and OSF is bringing its hilarity, menace, irreverence—and eminently singable score—back to their theatre under the stars, where it will delight audiences of all ages during this season’s celebration of their 90th anniversary.

No matter whether you're a Shakespeare enthusiast or eager to encounter fresh narratives, OSF’s 2025 lineup guarantees an unforgettable experience.

Recommended Weekend Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Evening Show

Morning: Arrive in Ashland and check into your Premier Reservation Management stay. It is your cozy retreat during the festival, offering fantastic amenities that make it a perfect spot to unwind after your journey.
Lunch: Delight in a meal in downtown Ashland, offering many local favorites known for their fresh, locally sourced dishes. Expect to enjoy seasonal salads and hearty sandwiches that give you a taste of the region's best produce.
Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll through Ashland’s charming streets. Visit the nearby shops, where you can discover unique clothing, art and books.
Evening: Attend your first performance at OSF! Arrive early to enjoy insightful pre-show commentary, setting the stage for an exciting evening of theater.

Day 2: Exploring Culture and Cuisine

Morning: After a filling breakfast at your lodging, explore the OSF gift shop which features exhibits that highlight the fascinating stories of OSF and it's rich history in Ashland.
Afternoon: Spend a relaxing time at Lithia Park. This beautiful park boasts lush gardens and meandering pathways. Enjoy the serene surroundings, perfect for a calming afternoon retreat.
Evening: Return to OSF for a show, perhaps the thought-provoking “Quixote Nuevo” Be prepared for a performance that will ignite discussion about its relevant themes long after the curtain falls.

Day 3: Grand Finale and Departure

Morning: Treat yourself to a hearty brunch at Maia’s Kitchen, where farm-to-table ingredients shine. Enjoy favorites like avocado toast and local pastries for a delightful start to your day.
Early Afternoon: Before heading out, visit the Oregon Shakespeare Festival Gift Shop. You can find unique memorabilia such as mugs, t-shirts, and play scripts, perfect keepsakes to remember your trip.
Departure: Leave Ashland with a heart full of memories, having experienced entertaining performances and delicious meals.

Dining Recommendations

Food enhances your OSF experience, making your trip even more enjoyable. Here are additional dining spots that you should not miss:

Luna Cafe: Renowned for its breakfast offerings, Luna Cafe is a cozy place with vegan-friendly options and fluffy pancakes. It’s the ideal start to your festival day!
Ashland Food Co-op: This charming market and bistro serves gourmet sandwiches and fresh salads. Enjoy a quick and delicious lunch as you recharge for more theater.
Louie's: For dinner, indulge in exquisite global cuisines. Their menu changes regularly, so there’s always something new and exciting to try, like their famous black truffle parmesan fries.

Other Ashland Attractions

When you’re not at the festival, Ashland has plenty of memorable attractions to enjoy:

Southern Oregon University: Visit the campus, where you can often find art exhibits and performances that showcase local talent.
Rogue River: Outdoor enthusiasts will love the opportunities for fishing and white-water rafting along the Rogue River. Each season provides beautiful scenery, from spring blooms to autumn foliage.
Local Breweries and Wineries: Do not overlook the thriving breweries and vineyards in Southern Oregon, where you can sample delicious drinks that highlight the region's rich beverage culture.

Perfect Place for Accommodation

When searching for the best place to stay during your Ashland visit, look no further than Premier Reservation Management. With a variety of properties available, there's something to meet every budget and preference.

Conveniently located close to downtown, you will enjoy easy access to OSF and all local attractions, giving you more time to immerse yourself in the vibrant experience.