July 10, 2026 2:50 a.m. 

Umpqua Watersheds invites the community to celebrate the 40th annual Day of River Appreciation on Saturday, July 18th at River Forks Park, where the North and South Umpqua rivers come together.

A Watersheds release said the festival will feature live music, local food, environmental education, family activities, art and opportunities to connect with the rivers that have shaped southwest Oregon’s history, economy and way of life.

The event will run from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and admission is free.

The first local celebration helped inspire broader statewide recognition. In 1989, Oregon officially proclaimed River Appreciation Day, and the annual event has ever since as a reminder that heathy rivers require both celebration and stewardship.

Organizations, nonprofits, agencies and community groups are invited to participate by hosting informational or interactive booths that encourage visitors to discover, appreciate and care for the Umpqua watershed. For vendor information or to reserve an informational booth, contact Julie Lowe at Umpqua Watersheds at 672-7065 or via email at: julie@umpquarivers.org