Downtown Ontario Association

What is a community, anyway? It is a group of people with something in common. If you go downtown in your town, the community you will likely find is one of small business owners. When a downtown has a bustling small business district, it is usually said there is a strong community there, and conversely, when there are too many empty storefronts, it is bad for the community.

The function of the Downtown Ontario Business Association has been undergoing some discussion. The board has come to the conclusion that the purpose of our group is to plan events that draw our community to it's own downtown. Also, to promote downtown businesses, which in turn draws the community downtown. Right now we are operating on a very limited membership. Limited membership is tough on any organization, not only due to the lack of bodies to participate in activities but the lack of operating capital to support and promote the events that promote business.

Charming, historic downtown Ontario, Oregon is an enjoyable place to shop, dine and meet friends in the heart of the city.

Downtown will greet you with unexpected finds and uncommon treasures. The pedestrian-friendly, streets decorated with flowers contributed through our "Adopt a Pot" program offer a vibrant blend of open space and historic buildings, specialty shops, service businesses, fine dining and coffee shops.

Indeed, life in downtown Ontario, Oregon is a celebration. It is most evident during the festivals and events that bring our streets alive throughout the year. Enjoy an array of fine wines from the area as you explore the downtown at our "Downtown Thursday Nights". Join friends every Thursday night, June through September for our popular farmers market. Also, join us the first Saturday in October for October Fair and December's Downtown Santa's Stroll.