Before we jump headfirst into 2019, we’re taking some time to reflect on the past year.

Specifically, we’re looking at what were our most popular blog posts in 2018. What were folks most curious about when they wanted to see what was going on in Bend and the Old Mill District?

Well, we dove deep into the inter-webs and this is what we found. Spoiler alert, ya’ll really like floating the river.

1: Float the Deschutes with Bend Park & Float: With Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe launching a new float station this year, we were stoked to get the word out about how to best float the Deschutes. We apparently hit the nail on the head as people read more about Tumalo’s tube rental station near The Pavilion ice rink than any other blog post of 2018. And we don’t blame ’em! The Bend Park & Float station had tons of parking, changing rooms, snacks, sunscreen and more. It’s pretty sweet.

2: Les Schwab Amphitheater lineup heating up: What a great reminder how awesome the summer concert series was in 2018. The Les Schwab Amphitheater hosted a venue-record 17 shows this past year, including comedic geniuses Steve Martin and Martin Short; mega-group Dave Matthews Band; living legends Willie Nelson, Peter Frampton and The Steve Miller Band; and rockers Pixies, Primus and Mastodon.

3: Summer movies for just $1 at the Old Mill District: Massive thank you to Regal Cinemas for continuing to offer one of the best deals of the summer. During the summer months, Regal hosts screenings of late run or classic kids movies on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings for just $1 a ticket. Last summer’s Regal Summer Movie Express lineup included Despicable Me 2, How to Train Your Dragon 2, The Lego Movie, Ferdinand, Trolls and more. Look for an announcement on the 2019 Summer Movie Express lineup soon!

4: Win a Bend Winter Adventure Getaway: Wow, we forgot how sweet this adventure pack giveaway we did last was. In partnership with the Hampton Inn & Suites, Mt. Bachelor, Wanderlust Tours, Strictly Organic and Va Piano Vineyards, we gave away one phenomenal weekend getaway!

5: U.S. Capitol Tree headed to Bend: Remember that awesome party we threw for the U.S. Capitol Tree on Nov. 12? It was the largest welcoming event the tree folks had ever seen. Father Christmas flew in. Savory Spice and Strictly Organic donated hot drinks. Deschutes Brewery served up adult beverages. There was even a couple of Yeti/Abominable Snowman sightings. Good day. The ball got rolling with this announcement on our blog.