Jefferson County is ready to celebrate the nation's 250th birthday in style. From Madras to Crooked River Ranch, communities across the county have planned full days of parades, live music, family activities, and fireworks to mark Independence Day 2026.
Madras: A Full Day at Sahalee Park
The heart of the Madras celebration is Sahalee Park, where organizers have planned a jam-packed Fourth of July under the theme "Red, White and Blue — 250 Years With You."
"I think for us, it's really just about being together with family and friends," said Debbie Taylor, executive director of the Madras/Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce. "When we looked at what our theme would be for this year, we decided it was going to be red, white and blue 250 years with you. And that's really what it is, just to have that time for people to come together."
The day includes:
- Todd Beamer Memorial Run — an early-morning community run to start the day
- Fourth of July Parade — through downtown Madras
- Splash Park at Sahalee Park — perfect for the July heat
- Concert with the Bad Cats — live music at the park
- Fireworks at 10 p.m. — launched from Madras High School, visible from most of the city. Paid for by community donations through Sparklers 501(c)(3). Contact Mike Ahern at 541-420-9000 for information.
Crooked River Ranch: Barn Dance and Big Fireworks
Crooked River Ranch is rolling out what organizers are calling one of the largest semi-quincentennial events in Central Oregon. Highlights include thousands of free hot dogs, red, white, and blue snow cones, and a $20,000 fireworks show.
The Crooked River Ranch Barn Dance kicks off with a social hour before the live band begins at 7 p.m. at Mac Park, 5195 SW Clubhouse Rd. The Central Oregon Barbecue Company will be providing food, and Black Goat Winery will be on hand with drinks.
Fireworks Rules and Fire Safety
With extreme fire danger across Central Oregon, residents are reminded that fireworks are never allowed on federal lands. Even in areas where consumer fireworks are permitted by local ordinance, fire officials are urging extreme caution. Hot, dry summer conditions mean even a small spark can start a significant wildfire.
See our fire safety story for the full rundown on what's allowed and what's not this weekend.
What to Expect This Weekend
Whether you're heading to the parade in Madras, catching fireworks at Crooked River Ranch, or watching the show from your back porch, this Fourth of July marks something bigger than most. Two hundred and fifty years of American independence — and Jefferson County is celebrating it the way it always has: together.