October is one of the richest months for community events in Jefferson County, and 2026 is delivering a solid lineup — from cultural traditions at Warm Springs to hands-on workshops in Madras. Here's a look at what's on tap this month.
FireFree Drop-Off Events
With residential burn season now open, Jefferson County Fire & EMS is hosting two FireFree collection events in October at the Box Canyon Transfer Station. Residents can drop off yard debris and other eligible materials for safe disposal — no permit, no fire, no fuss. Call 541-475-7274 for specific dates and drop-off hours.
Juice to Jelly Workshop — October 12
The Jefferson County Community and Senior Center is hosting a Juice to Jelly Workshop on Monday, October 12, from 4 to 6 p.m. The hands-on class walks participants through turning fresh juice into homemade jelly — a fitting activity for harvest season. Cost is $10 per person, with scholarships available upon request. Space is capped at 12 participants, and registration closed today — so if you're interested, call the Senior Center to check for late availability.
Museum at Warm Springs — 33rd Annual Tribal Member Exhibit
The Museum at Warm Springs is accepting entries for its 33rd Annual Tribal Member Art Exhibit through October 20. Confederated Tribes members working in any artistic medium — from traditional beadwork and weaving to painting and photography — are encouraged to submit their work. The exhibit is one of the most beloved annual traditions on the reservation and draws visitors from across the region when it opens. Contact the museum directly for submission details.
Community Belonging Focus Group — October 15, Warm Springs
The OHSU and OSU-Cascades Community Belonging Project is hosting a community focus group on Thursday, October 15, at the Old School Cafeteria in Warm Springs. The project, a collaboration between Oregon Health & Science University and OSU-Cascades, is studying community well-being and belonging across Oregon. Dinner is provided and participants receive a $10 gift card. All Warm Springs community members are welcome.
Historic Orchard Signs — Open for Visitors
New interpretive signs were recently unveiled at the historic McCoin and Cyrus Orchards, sharing the story of Central Oregon's pioneer-era fruit trees and the work underway to protect them. The orchards offer a quiet, self-guided look at the region's agricultural heritage — a good destination for a fall afternoon drive.
Ongoing: Burn Season & Free Permits
Residential open burning is now permitted through the fall season. Free burn permits are required and available at Jefferson County Fire & EMS, 765 S. Fifth St., Madras, weekdays 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Call the burn line at 541-475-1789 before burning on any given day.
Have an event to share?
The Madras Bulletin covers community events across all of Jefferson County — Madras, Metolius, Culver, Crooked River Ranch, Warm Springs, and beyond. Submit event details to be included in future round-ups.