The weekend of the Linn County Pioneer Picnic is full of activities, contests, great food, and wonderful company, but nothing is more anticipated that the Parade on Saturday morning. This anchor of the community brings together local clubs, organizations, businesses, and more for a classic small town parade with all the bells and whistles (literally). Each year, a theme is assigned to the entire weekend, and the parade always gets in character with intricately decorated floats, festive costumes, toe-tapping music, and sights to behold.
Leading the charge are the year’s Grand Marshalls, who are honored because of their community involvement and Linn County legacies. They are followed by school bands, old tractors, local clubs, dressed up horses… the works. People come from all over Linn County, Oregon, and beyond to witness the parade’s down-home charm and community spirit. Be sure to claim your spot early, bring the whole family, and have a ball! Afterward, head over to the Picnic and enjoy a day full of fun and surprises.
Are you a local club, organization, or business that would like to be in our parade this year? We would love to have you! Participation is free. Just show up, all dressed up and ready to go, at the parade start-point (the corner of Templeton and HWY 228) at 9 am sharp. Be sure that your attire, floats, vehicles, etc. are decked out per the theme and get ready for a great time!
PARADE
PICNIC
The Linn County Pioneer Picnic has been a local staple since 1887 when it was created as a reunion for the early homesteaders. Since the first event, the annual event has never been cancelled, which makes it the longest continuously running celebration in the state of Oregon. While it was first called the Linn County Pioneers’ Reunion, the name changed after the original pioneers passed away to the Linn County Pioneer Picnic. It has since continued to cherish our pioneer history and build community. Admittance is and always has been free for attendees. In 2012, the Picnic was named an Oregon Heritage Tradition by the Oregon Heritage Commission. This is a high honor that we are thrilled to hold.
The Picnic lasts three days every year and is chock full of activities, exhibits, and entertainment for the whole family. Friday is kicked off with the Kiddie Parade and the crowning of the Linn County Pioneer Picnic Princesses. Children and families can then enjoy fun activities and entertainment at the park. On Saturday, the day begins with a breakfast hosted by local firemen that raises funds for the Fourth of July Fireworks. Then begins the ever-popular Parade down Main Street, where hundreds gather to see floats from all kinds of Linn County organizations, clubs, and more. Afterward, the crowds flock to Pioneer Park, where they can find a quilt show, flower show, art display, horseshoe tournament, a logging competition, and more. Children enjoy a penny scramble, three-legged races, and crafts.
Sunday continues the festivities with a nondenominational church service that dates back to the early years of the Linn County Pioneer Picnic.
Throughout the weekend, great music, food, and vendors abound, and attendees set out blankets and fill up picnic tables to spend the weekend together.