Arts & Culture in Jackson County, Oregon
Jackson County, Oregon, offers far more than stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. It’s also a region rich in arts, history, live performances, and cultural experiences that rival much larger cities. From internationally recognized theater to intimate local galleries and music under the stars, culture is deeply woven into everyday life here.
Living in Jackson County means having access to world-class arts without the crowds or cost of a major metro area—a rare and rewarding balance.
Oregon Shakespeare Festival (Ashland): A Cultural Landmark
Ashland is internationally known for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival (OSF), one of the most respected theater institutions in the United States.
Official site:
https://www.osfashland.org
Why OSF matters to residents:
Season-long performances: OSF runs for much of the year, offering Shakespeare, modern classics, new plays, and diverse storytelling.
Multiple performance venues: From open-air theater to intimate indoor spaces, each venue creates a unique audience experience.
Global recognition: Actors, directors, and playwrights from around the world come to Ashland, bringing cultural diversity and prestige.
Education & outreach: OSF offers lectures, student programs, and community engagement initiatives that make theater accessible to all ages.
For locals, this isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s part of everyday life, enriching the community year after year.
Explore upcoming performances:
https://www.osfashland.org/en/season.aspx
Britt Music & Arts Festival: Iconic Summer Performances
Nestled in the hills of Jacksonville, the Britt Music & Arts Festival is one of Southern Oregon’s most beloved cultural traditions.
Official site:
https://www.britt.org
What makes Britt special:
Outdoor amphitheater setting: Concerts take place in a stunning natural environment, combining music with the beauty of the Rogue Valley.
Wide-ranging genres: Classical, jazz, folk, rock, pop, country, and world music all share the same stage.
National & international artists: Britt attracts well-known performers alongside emerging talent.
Community tradition: Picnics, blankets, and sunset concerts create a relaxed, social atmosphere unique to the region.
For many residents, summer in Jackson County simply isn’t complete without Britt.
View the current season lineup:
https://www.britt.org/concerts
Local Art Galleries & Creative Spaces
Jackson County’s arts scene thrives year-round thanks to its strong local artist community and accessible galleries.
Notable art destinations include:
Rogue Gallery & Art Center (Medford)
https://www.roguegallery.org
Exhibitions by regional artists
Art classes and workshops
Community events and youth programs
Schneider Museum of Art (Ashland)
https://sma.sou.edu
Contemporary and modern art exhibitions
Located on the Southern Oregon University campus
Rotating shows that keep the experience fresh
Art Presence (Jacksonville)
https://www.art-presence.org
Cooperative gallery featuring local artists
Monthly exhibitions and community events
Art walks, open studios, and seasonal exhibitions allow residents to interact directly with artists and support local creativity.
Discover regional art events:
https://www.southernoregon.org/things-to-do/arts-culture
Historic Jacksonville: Where Art & History Intersect
Jacksonville is a beautifully preserved historic town that blends culture, music, and heritage.
Explore Jacksonville culture:
https://www.jacksonvilleoregon.org
Highlights include:
Historic architecture & walking tours
Antique shops and cultural boutiques
Seasonal festivals and live performances
Close connection to Britt Festival events
Jacksonville proves that history doesn’t have to feel static—it can be vibrant, social, and creative.
Things to do in Jacksonville:
https://www.traveljacksoncounty.com/jacksonville
Live Music, Theater & Community Performances
Beyond large festivals, Jackson County supports a wide range of local performance spaces:
Community theaters
Small music venues
Outdoor summer concerts
Cultural celebrations and seasonal events
Regional events calendar:
https://www.southernoregon.com/events
From casual live music nights to full productions, there’s always something happening nearby.
Community Support for the Arts
Arts and culture in Jackson County are supported by organizations dedicated to long-term cultural growth.
Jackson County Cultural Coalition:
https://www.jacksoncountyculturalcoalition.org
This organization helps fund:
Local artists and performers
Heritage and humanities projects
Cultural education programs
Community-wide events
Their work ensures that creativity remains accessible and sustainable across the region.
Why Arts & Culture Enhance Life in Jackson County
Living in a culturally rich area offers benefits beyond entertainment:
Stronger sense of community
Support for local businesses and artists
Educational opportunities for all ages
A more vibrant, connected lifestyle
In Jackson County, culture isn’t something you visit—it’s something you live.
Thinking About Living in Jackson County, Oregon?
If access to theater, music, history, and creative communities matters to you, Jackson County offers a lifestyle that blends artistic richness with natural beauty and livability.
Explore homes in Jackson County with Act First Real Estate:
https://www.actfirstrealestate.com
Whether you want to live near Ashland’s theater scene, Jacksonville’s historic charm, or Medford’s creative hubs, our team can help you find the perfect place to call home.
