Central Oregonians invited to celebrate Smokey Bear’s 82nd birthday with party

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) --  Central Oregonions are invited to celebrate Smokey Bear’s 82nd birthday Sunday at the Cascade Lakes Welcome Station.

The free celebration runs from 11:00a.m. to 1:00p.m. and will include family-friendly activities, opportunities to meet Smokey, and cupcakes served at noon while supplies last.

The Cascade Lakes Welcome Station is located at 18500 Cascade Lakes National Scenic Byway, Bend, OR 97702.

Smokey Bear debuted in 1944 and has spent more than eight decades teaching generations of Americans how they can help prevent human-caused wildfires.

The celebration comes as several significant wildfires continue burning across Central Oregon, bringing renewed attention to Smokey’s enduring prevention message.

KTVZ’s Claire Elmer will be at the party, speaking with organizers and attendees about Smokey’s legacy and why his message remains especially relevant today. Tune in for the full report Sunday on KTVZ News at 6:00p.m.