Jefferson County is gearing up for a full Fourth of July holiday weekend, with events spread across Madras, Crooked River Ranch, and surrounding communities. This year’s celebration carries an important asterisk: fire danger in the region is at the extreme level, open burning has been banned since May 3, and officials are urging residents to use extra caution with fireworks.

What’s Happening and Where

July 3 — Crooked River Ranch Barn Dance

The fun starts a day early at Mac Park (5195 Clubhouse Rd.) in Crooked River Ranch. Doors open with an hour of social time before a live band takes the stage at 7 p.m. The Central Oregon Barbecue Company will be serving food and Black Goat Winery will have beverages on hand.

July 4 — Madras

  • 7:00 a.m. — 30th Annual Todd Beamer Memorial Run at Sahalee Park
  • 9:00 a.m. to noon — Vendors in the park; Elks breakfast
  • 9:45 a.m. — National anthem and flag raising
  • 10:00 a.m. — Parade starting at 10th Street between D and E, heading up to B Street, then down 7th to the Jefferson County Library
  • 10:00 p.m. — Madras Sparklers fireworks show at Madras High School (390 Tenth St.) — a community tradition since 1981, funded entirely by donations. No outside fireworks allowed on school property.

July 4 — Crooked River Ranch

  • 9 a.m.–3 p.m. — Vendor and Craft Fair at Mac Park, including a new Kids Zone
  • 9 a.m.–2 p.m. — Canyon Quilters’ “250 Years of the Red, White and Blue” show at the Ranch Chapel Family Center (5060 Clubhouse Rd.)
  • 10 a.m. — Parade led by the Ladies of Harley, starting at the Trading Post through Canyon Village
  • 11 a.m.–2 p.m. — Lions Pride Barbecue at the Mac Park pavilion
  • 7–10 p.m. — Crooked River Ranch Fire and Rescue’s “Bring Your Fireworks” event in the parking lot across from Ranch Chapel, with firefighters on hand

Fire Safety Is Not Optional This Year

Jefferson County Fire & EMS is asking residents to treat the holiday with extra care. “As we approach the Fourth of July holiday, we encourage everyone to take proactive steps to protect their homes and property by creating and maintaining defensible space,” said district administrative assistant LeeAnn Bowman.

Jefferson County was among the top 50 counties nationwide impacted by wildfire last year. With record-low snowpack and a drought declaration already in effect, fire behavior this summer is expected to be aggressive.

If you use fireworks:

  • Keep a water hose and bucket nearby at all times
  • Use fireworks only in clear, open areas, 25–50 feet from people and structures
  • Soak any duds in water before disposing of them — do not relight
  • Keep fireworks away from dry grass, vehicles, and brush

Looking for fire-free fun? Try glow sticks, noise makers, outdoor movies, or a patriotic backyard party. The Central Oregon Interagency Dispatch Center and centraloregonfire.org have up-to-date fire conditions. Call 9-1-1 immediately to report any fire.