Media Advisory: BLM Celebrates Freedom 250 With Public Events Across Oregon - 05/20/26

What:

The Bureau of Land Management invites the public to commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence through three public events across Oregon in 2026. The events foster a deeper appreciation of our nation’s past, the beauty and value of public lands, and the work it takes to sustain the health and productivity of these lands for the use and enjoyment of generations to come.

The events are part of the national Freedom 250 commemoration and also recognize the BLM’s 80th anniversary of public land stewardship.

Media interviews and on-site visuals will be available at all three events.

Featured Freedom 250 Events:

1. Oregon Trail Days – Baker City, Ore.

When: Saturday, June 13, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT

Where: Geiser-Pollman Park, Baker City, Ore.

The signature Freedom 250 event for BLM Oregon/Washington, Oregon Trail Days transforms Geiser-Pollman Park into an immersive Oregon Trail experience featuring wagon rides, storytelling, live demonstrations, music, crafts, and games.
 

The free, family-friendly celebration highlights the role public lands play in preserving the landscapes and stories tied to America’s westward expansion. Additional programming will also take place at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center throughout the weekend.

2. Wood River Wetland Volunteer Day – Near Klamath Falls, Ore.

When: Saturday, June 20, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. PT

Where: Wood River Wetland, approximately 30 miles north of Klamath Falls, Ore.

This Freedom 250 volunteer event invites the community to assist with invasive weed removal and restoration work on public lands.

The event highlights the continued role Americans play in caring for public lands through volunteerism and stewardship.

3. Victorian Holiday Celebration – Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

When: Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT

Where: Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, near Newport, Ore.

This coastal Freedom 250 event connects visitors to Oregon’s maritime history through a Victorian-themed holiday celebration at the Yaquina Head Lighthouse.

Activities may include caroling, historical parlor games, ornament crafts, interpretive storytelling, and live music.

Why:

As a dedicated custodian of America’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage, the Bureau of Land Management in Oregon and Washington proudly celebrates the 250th anniversary of American independence with the nation.

From iconic landmarks like Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area to the historic Oregon Trail, BLM-administered public lands represent the spirit of the nation’s foundational principles. These events honor stories of exploration, resilience, stewardship, and public service woven throughout America’s history.

RSVP:

Media interested in attending any Freedom 250 event should contact Samantha Ducker at BLM_OR_WA_Press@blm.gov 

-BLM-

The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.