Jefferson County is putting on a full celebration for the Fourth of July — but with fire danger at extreme levels and a countywide burn ban in effect since May, officials are urging residents to celebrate smart.

Here is everything happening across the county this July 4th weekend, along with essential fire safety information.

July 3 — Kick Off Early at Crooked River Ranch

  • Barn Dance — Social hour starts before the live band kicks off at 7 p.m. at Mac Park, 5195 Clubhouse Rd. Food by Central Oregon Barbecue Company; drinks from Black Goat Winery.

July 4 — Full Day of Events

Morning

  • 8:30 a.m. — 30th Annual Todd Beamer Memorial Run, Sahalee Park, Madras. A beloved community tradition now in its third decade.
  • 9 a.m. — Vendor and Craft Fair, Mac Park, Crooked River Ranch. Runs until 3 p.m., with a new Kids Zone this year.
  • 9 a.m. — Canyon Quilters Show, Ranch Chapel Family Center, 5060 Clubhouse Rd., Crooked River Ranch. Runs until 2 p.m.

Midday

  • 10 a.m. — Crooked River Ranch Parade. Led by the Ladies of Harley, the parade begins at the Trading Post and winds through Canyon Village and the RV park. Theme: "250 Years of the Red, White and Blue."
  • 10 a.m. — Madras Fourth of July Parade. Starts on 10th Street between D and E, heads up to B Street, turns onto Seventh Street, and finishes at the Jefferson County Library.
  • 11 a.m. — Lions Pride Barbecue, Mac Park Pavilion, Crooked River Ranch. Kid-friendly booths, local artisans, and food.

Evening

  • 7–10 p.m. — Bring Your Fireworks, Crooked River Ranch Fire & Rescue. A community fireworks event in the parking lot across from Ranch Chapel. Firefighters on site to help ensure a safe, legal show.
  • 10 p.m. — Madras Sparklers Fireworks Show, Madras High School, 390 Tenth St. A 30-minute professional display funded by community donations. This tradition dates back to 1981, organized this year by Mike Ahern.

Fire Safety: This Year Is Different

Jefferson County Fire & EMS and Interim Fire Chief Kasey Skaar are asking residents to take fire risk seriously this holiday. Key points:

  • Open burning is banned countywide — this includes backyard fires and campfires outside designated facilities.
  • Consumer fireworks, while legal, should only be used in clear, open areas, at least 25–50 feet from people and structures.
  • Always have water nearby — a hose, bucket, or fire extinguisher.
  • Soak used fireworks fully in water before disposing of them.
  • If a firework fails to fire, do not try to relight it. Soak it immediately.
  • Keep grass mowed short, clear dry vegetation from around your home, and ensure emergency vehicles can access your driveway.

Jefferson County ranked in the top 50 most wildfire-impacted counties in the United States in 2025. This year’s near-record-low snowpack and early drought declaration make conditions even more volatile.

For those who prefer fire-free fun, alternatives include glow sticks, noise makers, silly string, outdoor movies, and patriotic parties with cake and crafts.

For current fire conditions: centraloregonfire.org | Oregon State Fire Marshal: oregon.gov/osfm