The Galaxy Courtyard is one half of the iconic Galaxy Neighborhood (alongside the legendary Galaxy Barn) and offers a dynamic, ever-shifting space where music, movement, and connection collide.

From late-night DJ dance parties to morning yoga, from communal fire pit hangouts to a vibrant bar and meet-up zone, the Courtyard is built for discovery at every hour. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in installation-scale art architecture and lose themselves on the vinyl-fueled dance floor, where some of Pickathon’s most beloved DJs spin deep into the night.

Now in its fourth year, the Courtyard is brought to life by Blackbird Public Arts, with lead designers Matthew Thomas and Christopher Cardoza. Their 2025 design, Gravity Pool, celebrates Pickathon’s 25th anniversary with a sculptural tribute to the festival’s Steelhead mascot. This “Moon Guide” swims through the site, blending recognizable anatomy with fluid movement—its glowing eye drawing dancers beneath its arch into an unforgettable nighttime experience.

The build process is part of Pickathon’s Mentorship / Non-Profit Platform, partnering with both Blackbird Public Arts and the Guild of Oregon Woodworkers. Through these collaborations, volunteers gain hands-on experience with design and construction, while learning valuable skills from seasoned builders and artists. Donated materials and labor support both the festival vision and broader access to creative opportunity.

This commitment to Community Impact continues long after the music stops. Every element of the Galaxy Courtyard build is repurposed—supporting woodworking classes, public art, and future Blackbird installations like the Portland Winter Lights Festival.

At its core, the Galaxy Courtyard is more than just a place to dance—it’s a living, glowing example of how art, community, and celebration can come together to shape something bigger than the moment.