Even with wildfires burning across Central Oregon, Jefferson County communities are coming together for a string of events designed to celebrate summer, support local businesses, and strengthen bonds between neighbors and first responders.

National Night Out — August 8 at Sahalee Park

Madras will host its annual National Night Out celebration on Saturday, August 8, beginning at 3 p.m. at Sahalee Park. The free, family-friendly event is part of a nationwide tradition held every first week of August to build community-police relationships and neighborhood spirit.

Local first responders will be on hand, and activities include food, face painting, water balloon fights, a dunk tank, and prizes. Families are encouraged to come out and meet the people who serve and protect Jefferson County every day.

National Night Out has been held across America since 1984, and Madras’s version has grown into one of the community’s most popular late-summer traditions.

Hot Summer Nights & Sip and Shop — August 6, Downtown Madras

First Thursday returns on August 6 with Hot Summer Nights, running from 5 to 8 p.m. along Fifth Street in downtown Madras. The event features local vendors, food, live music, a costume contest, and shopping at storefronts staying open late.

First Thursday events have helped revitalize foot traffic in downtown Madras throughout the summer, drawing residents from across the county for an evening out.

Art Adventure Gallery Opening — August 6, Warm Springs

Also on August 6, the Tananawit Warm Springs Artists gallery will host an opening reception from 5 to 7:30 p.m. showcasing the work of the Art Adventure program. The event celebrates Indigenous art and creativity from the Warm Springs community. River Ridge Gallery in Madras will also hold an opening reception the same evening from 5 to 7 p.m., featuring wildlife photography by Vincenzo Barraco.

Metolius Luau Party — August 9

The City of Metolius is going Hawaiian on Sunday, August 9, with a luau party beginning at 4 p.m. at Metolius City Park. The evening features live music, hula dancers, and Hawaiian barbecue. Tickets are limited at $20 per person and can be purchased at Metolius City Hall. It promises to be one of the more unique — and festive — community events in recent memory in the small farming community.

Madras Saturday Market Continues

The Madras Saturday Market runs every Saturday through September 5, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Sahalee Park. Shoppers will find artisan items, baked goods, handmade products, and local food vendors each week.

Looking Further Ahead

  • Youth Football Camp: August 11–13 at Madras High School, grades 3–8. Registration begins August 11 at 1:30 p.m. Cost is $50 per athlete.
  • Madras Munchies and Movies: August 13 at Sahalee Park featuring "The Sandlot" with Jefferson County Little League. Bring the family.
  • Free Youth Open Gym Basketball: Fridays, 6–9 p.m. at Bridges High School through the summer. Gym shoes required.

For more on local events, visit the Jefferson County-Madras Chamber of Commerce or follow the Madras Pioneer’s community calendar.