The Corvallis-Benton County Public Library will be pulling ALL the big words out of the dictionary for Sip & Spell: A Spelling Bee for Adults. And yes, participants need to be 18 or older, but audience members can be any age.
We should however caution, this is a free event, and it’s a popular event. So we suggest booking your ticket now. Set for Saturday, January 17, 2026, 7 pm at the The Majestic Theatre, you can click here for tickets.
“Come and show off your intellectual prowess or cheer on all of the brave contestants while enjoying a tasty beverage,” said Public Services Librarian Bonnie Brzozowski in an email. She also said, a “prize” will be awarded to the 1st place winner, but she didn’t say what that prize might be. And, really, isn’t this about the bragging rights, isn’t that the prize.
How to register as a contestant
Contestants in the Bee may register on the day of the event at the Majestic Theatre between 6 and 6:45 pm. BUT, Registration to be a contestant is limited to the first 60 registrants. Contestants must be 18 years or older. Contestants, reserve your tickets now and then register to spell at 6 p.m. on the day of event.
The official rules for Sip & Spell can be found here.
Note to contestants and audience members alike: The library says there will be no late seating for this event. Please be seated by 7 pm or your seat may be released to another spectator. This event is co-sponsored by the Majestic Theatre and the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library.
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