Madras will not hold its annual Veterans Day parade this year, and the longtime tradition — which ran for more than two decades — is now on indefinite hiatus. But a meaningful day of local observance is still planned across Jefferson County on November 11, with events honoring veterans in Madras, Warm Springs, and beyond.

The Parade Is Over — For Now

Michael Williams, Commander of VFW Post 12141 and Adjutant of American Legion Post 125, made the announcement that the parade will not be held for the foreseeable future. The Madras Veterans Day parade began in 2004 and ran for over twenty years before being cancelled for the first time in 2025.

"Our newly returning and future veterans may rekindle a parade for Madras; however, for today, thank you, one and all," Williams said.

Williams left open the possibility that a future generation of veterans might choose to revive the tradition — but for now, the march through downtown Madras is on hold.

What's Still Happening in Madras

The absence of a parade doesn't mean the holiday goes unobserved. Here's what's planned in Madras on November 11:

  • 7 a.m. — Local scouts will place 100 U.S. flags at Mt. Jefferson Cemetery to honor veterans buried there, a tradition that continues regardless of the parade's status.
  • 10 a.m. — Doors open at the Jefferson County Community & Senior Center, 860 SW Madison St., for a 10:30 a.m. observance program. A guest speaker will share the story of his grandfather, a prisoner of war during World War II. A community lunch follows at noon.
  • 4 p.m. — A Veterans Day dinner at the Madras Elks Lodge. Veterans and children under 5 attend and eat free. Other adults pay $12; children older than 5 pay $6.

Warm Springs: Parade, Lunch, and Powwow

The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs will host a full day of Veterans Day celebration honoring tribal veterans, who have served in the U.S. military at notably high rates relative to the tribe's population.

A parade will form with the lineup beginning at 9 a.m. Following the parade, lunch will be held at the Old School Cafeteria. A powwow will follow the lunch, bringing together community members in a cultural celebration of service and sacrifice.

On Thursday, November 13, the Warm Springs K-8 Academy will host a 7:30 a.m. veterans breakfast, with Veterans Day assemblies held throughout the school day to honor those who served.

Thank a Veteran

Jefferson County has deep roots in military service, with families from Madras, Culver, Metolius, Warm Springs, and across the county represented in every branch of the armed forces. Veterans with questions about local benefits and services can contact the Jefferson County Veterans' Service Office inside the Community Center at 860 SW Madison Street, Madras.