September 2, 2026 3:30 p.m.

In the KQEN Cultural Spotlight:

The Elkton Community Education Center invites visitors to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary at Fort Umpqua Days, on Saturday and Sunday, September 5th and 6th.

A release from ECEC said at the heart of the celebration is Fort Umpqua, where volunteer interpreters bring the Hudson’s Bay Company fur trade era of 1836 through 1851 to life through blacksmithing, woodworking, traditional crafts, and living history demonstrations.

Elkton Community Education Center Executive Director Deb Gritton said, “As our nation celebrates its 250th Anniversary, Fort Umpqua Days are a wonderful way to celebrate both our country’s history and the unique heritage of the Umpqua Valley.” Gritton said, “Whether visitors come for the living history, the music, the butterfly habitat, or simply to enjoy a great weekend with family and friends, we hope they leave with a deeper appreciation for this community and the stories that helped shape it.”

Saturday’s events include the “Celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the USA” Parade at 10 a.m., chicken bingo and live music by Cover Culture, at 1 p.m.

On Sunday, events feature the Thomas Batterman Mental Health Project 5K, performances by Vine Katz and Elk Creek Ramble, another round of chicken bingo, and all the weekend’s favorite history, food, vendors, and family fun.

Admission is free. Festival hours are 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day, with the Echoes of the Umpqua Pageant taking place at 5:00 p.m.

More information about Fort Umpqua Days is available at: www.elktonbutterflies.com or by phone at (541) 584-2692.