In Northeast Oregon, summer and fall are packed with special events that celebrate the personality and history of each community. Special interest groups gather for car shows, motorcycle rallies, cycling events, rodeos and star-gazing. Go to the site’s Visitor Resources page and check out the calendars of events for each of the chambers of commerce. You are certain to find events that appeal to your interests.

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center near Baker City offers entertainment and events of its own throughout the year. Coming to the center June 26 through 29 is musical duo Bill Boycott and Joanne Orr, who perform as Buffalo Bill and Dr. Jo.  This Lander, Wyoming, couple tours around the west, sharing the legacy of traditional and folk music, as well as original compositions and stories about the west – pioneers, cowboys, Native Americans, and the railroads. The couple uses vocals, guitar, banjo, mandolin, and fiddle. Their performance titled “Along the Oregon Trail” includes multi-media, as well as a program on Indian Sign Language. Known for their outstanding vocal harmonies, they won a Western Music Association Harmony Duo Award. Bill has also won awards for his traditional western style yodeling.

Buffalo Bill & Dr. Jo perform each day at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m., through Saturday, June 29.

The Wagon Encampment will be active 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., populated by a variety of pioneers recreating a “nooning” lunchtime break on the Oregon Trail in eastern Oregon. Dutch Oven cooking, blacksmithing demonstrations, pioneer crafts such as leather work, wheelwright, sewing, mending, children’s games, and journaling are included. All this takes place at an outdoor circle of wagons, with the scenery and route of the historic trail as the dramatic backdrop.

Cooks will be using pioneer recipes and ingredients grown locally. On Sunday there will be live music by The Carters.

Visitors can view the permanent exhibits to learn more about the Oregon Trail migration, which had its first major wagon train 175 years ago, in 1843.

Also inside the Center, “The Wild is Calling,” a special exhibit commemorating the 50^th anniversary of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, features artwork by regional artists.

The Interpretive Center will be open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sept. 1, and 9 to 6 on Sunday and Monday and throughout the rest of September.

The Bureau of Land Management National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located five miles east of Baker City, Ore., on Highway 86. Admission for adults is $8 and $4.50 for seniors; children 15 and under are admitted for free. Federal passes are also accepted. Call (541) 523-1843 for updates on programs and events or visit oregontrail.blm.gov.

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Take in a performance of “Dr. Balthasar” in the air conditioned Leo Adler Theater. Portraying a mid-1800s medicine show, Dr. Balthasar sells miracle cures, medicines, and dispenses frontier health advice. The show is approximately 40 minutes. Friday-Monday, August 17-20, 11:00, 12:30 and 2:00 each day.

Make a Christmas tree ornament for the National Christmas Tree. Did you know this year’s tree will be from Oregon, and follow the Oregon Trail back east to commemorate the 175^th anniversary of the Oregon Trail? At this workshop, you can help make Oregon Trail themed ornaments that will be used to decorate the tree when it is displayed in Washington, D.C. this December. Materials provided. Friday, August 17, 10:00-2:00.

See a special exhibit, “The Wild is Calling,”  which features original artwork by multiple regional artists inspired by wild and scenic rivers in Oregon and Idaho.

Take your time viewing the outstanding ongoing exhibit about life along the Oregon Trail, for pioneers, Native Americans and people who settled the West. Learn about what inspired people to migrate West and contemplate how you would pack your own household for such an arduous journey.

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located along the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway, about 5 miles east of Baker City, at 22267 Oregon Hwy 86. Currently open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Entrance fee $8.00 for adults, $4.50 seniors, 15 and under free; all America the Beautiful Passes accepted. Call 541-523-1843 for more information, or visit oregontrail.blm.gov.

July 1, 2 & 3 – Folk Musician Hank Cramer performs music and tells stories from the old west at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m., daily.

July 14 & 15 – Michael “Bad Hand” Terry presents his program “People of the Plains,” discussing history and traditions of Plains Indians, and his research and work in producing authentic replicas of tools, dress, and equipment of the Plains tribes. He will be in the Leo Adler Theater, from 10:30 a.m. to noon and 1:30 to 4 p.m.

July 15 & 16 – Blacksmith Gary Lewis demonstrates historic metal working techniques of the frontier era from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day

July 28 & 29 – Western singer Mary Kaye performs her “Spirit of the West” program with songs about the people, history, culture and landscapes that define this region Saturday, July 29 at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. in the Leo Adler Theater. Evening concert at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, July 28th (outside, weather permitting).

July 6, 13, & 20 – The Thursday Outdoor Club offers learning activities for youngsters to hone outdoor skills from 1 to 2 p.m.

Throughout the month, staff interpreters will offer a variety of living history programs, outdoor cooking demonstrations, history hikes, and gold panning along with demonstrations to help visitors learn about regional geology, frontier life ways, and outdoor skills. Contact the interpretive center for the daily schedule.

The Bureau of Land Management National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located five miles east of Baker City, Oregon, on Highway 86. Take Exit 302 from I-84. The Center is currently open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Admission for adults is $8 and $4.50 for seniors; children 15 and under are admitted for free. Federal passes are also accepted. Call 541.523.1843 for updates on programs and events or visit oregontrail.blm.gov.

Savvy scientists figured out years ago that the highest probability of clear skies in the entirety of the path of totality is right here in Baker City. That’s why the Geiser Grand Hotel has been sold out for more than two years.

“The early and ardent enthusiasm by scientists for the solar event inspired me to create a meaningful experience here,” said the Geiser’s owner, Barbara Sidway. ”We’re dazzled by these Planetary Geologists’ backgrounds.

Jayne Aubele is Senior Educator/Geologist for the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science. She has a Master’s degree in geology and one in planetary science and is working on a long-overdue Ph.D. As a geologist, she has focused on volcanoes and has mapped and researched the geology of New Mexico and the southwest (in person) and of the Moon, Mars and Venus (remotely). Prior to coming to the NM Museum, she was a research scientist and Program Manager for NASA’s Space Grant Program at Brown University. She has published a large number of scientific papers, popular articles about science for the general public, and science curricula for K-12 teachers. She has taught earth and space science topics to K-12 students, K-12 teachers, and the adult public. She was asked to write the entry on “Earth” for the MacMillan Encyclopedia of Space Science and has authored or co-authored chapters in books including Volcanoes of North America, The Geology of Mars, and the Field Guide to the Sandia Mountains. She was technical advisor and on-air geologist for the NM-PBS program, The Sandias. She is past-President and current board member of the New Mexico Academy of Science, and is a Fellow of the Geological Society of America

Larry S. Crumpler, PHD, RESEARCH CURATOR, VOLCANOLOGY AND SPACE SCIENCE at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science. His research interests include volcanology, magma ascent and eruption mechanics/ physics of volcanic emplacement processes and volcanic landscape processes; application of field geologic mapping and the analysis of recent volcanic structures and deposits; application of numerical modeling to the interpretation of physical processes of volcanism; Planetary Science, Comparative planetary volcanology of Mars, Venus, Earth; use of planetary data to understand volcanic processes from well-preserved planetary examples; exploration of Mars with surface landers and rovers. Dr. Crumpler is a participant in operations and science analysis of Viking Orbiter, Magellan, Odyssey, Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, and, currently, Mars Exploration Rover missions.

The scientists will make presentations and take questions at seven seatings: Dinner, 5 p.m. and 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday; Brunch Sunday, 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., and Monday; 7:30 a.m. Tickets are $50 for dinner and $40 for brunch. Seating is limited, so we suggest calling for tickets early! Visitors who are camping, staying with friends or in motels are welcome to join in the adventure, including hanging out with our Space Scientists.

While the Geiser Grande Hotel rooms are sold out with a waiting list, the hotel is offering RV spaces as well as some dormitory style accommodations without private bath.

For more information, please call the Geiser Grand Hotel, 541.523.1889 or request by email to info@geisergrand.com.

Opening remarks will come from former Oregon Governor Barbara Roberts, who cut the ribbon at the grand opening 25 years ago. Attendees will also hear from Randy Guyer, Dave Hunsaker, BLM’s Vale District Manager, Don Gonzalez, and a Congressional proclamation from U.S. Senator Wyden’s office. Immediately following will be a special anniversary encore performance of the living history drama “Fanny” by Joyce Badgley Hunsaker, and live music from Hank Cramer and Friends.

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center opened Memorial Day Weekend in 1992, with community-wide celebrations. The event followed several years of efforts by community and government partners to build a tourism attraction focused on the Oregon Trail and to strengthen the regional economy through tourism.

Over the years, the Interpretive Center has hosted over 2.2 million visitors from around the globe, thousands of school students, tour groups and numerous special events. In addition to permanent exhibits and films portraying the history and legacy of the Oregon Trail, the Center has over four miles of hiking trails and a one mile stretch of the historic Trail route with wagon ruts. For the last 25 years, a staff of interpreters, volunteers, contractors, and partner groups have presented theater programs, living history, special exhibits, activities, and guided hikes averaging more than 500 presentations per year.

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located five miles east of Baker City, Oregon, on Highway 86. Take Exit 302 from Interstate 84. The Center is currently open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily. Admission for adults is $8 and $4.50 for seniors; children 15 and under are admitted for free. Federal passes are also accepted. Call 541.523.1843 for updates on programs and events or visit oregontrail.blm.gov.

Baker City, Oregon__The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center (NHOTIC) and Trail Tenders are hosting a variety of activities for visitors during “Family Fun Day,” the day after Thanksgiving, Friday, November 25, 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Family fun day offers a chance to learn more about the frontier and natural history of the region and to foster inter-generational connections. Visitors will be able to make rag dolls and dip candles. Other activities include a pioneer costume photo booth, a wildlife “skulls, scat and fur” table, as well as a variety of Junior Explorer workbooks.

Folk Musician Hank Cramer will perform in the Leo Adler Theater at 11:00 and 12:30. Wildlife-themed films will also be shown in the theater throughout the day. 

Operated by the BLM, the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located five miles east of Baker City, Oregon, on Highway 86. Take Exit 302 from I-84. Exhibits include life-size dioramas of life on the Trail, hands-on activities such as packing your wagon, videos and interpretation. The Center is currently open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily. Admission for adults is $5 and $3.50 for seniors; children 15 and under are admitted for free. Federal passes are also accepted.

Call (541) 523-1843 for updates on programs and events.

Bureau of Land Management – The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land, the most of any Federal agency. This land, known as the National System of Public Lands, is primarily located in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The BLM’s mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. In Fiscal Year 2015, the BLM generated $4.1 billion in receipts from activities occurring on public lands.

“The Native Landscape: Plants & Pollinators of Sagebrush Country” opens July 19 and will be on display through December 12 of this year.

Visitors to the exhibit will learn about some of the most common native plants found on the sagebrush steppe. The exhibit will feature interactive displays that explore the smells, colors and sights of a thriving native plant landscape. Photographs and illustrations of flowers and pollinators will complement discussions of ethnobotany and how native plants and pollinators are essential to a balanced ecosystem. The exhibit is in the Flagstaff Gallery at NHOTIC. Live presentations, films, and activities related to the exhibit are scheduled throughout the summer months.

Also of note this week, popular northwest folk singer and storyteller Hank Cramer will present his program “Wanderin’ Minstrel” July 15-17 at the National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center. Daily performances are at 11 a.m., 12:30, and 2 p.m. All performances are inside in the air conditioned Leo Adler Theater.

Cramer will be joined by duo Clinton and Sarah Carter of Spokane, known as Carter Junction, bringing together Clinton’s deep baritone voice with Sarah’s angelic yet earthy tone in folk and western music. Cramer’s repertoire is a mix of original, traditional, and contemporary folk songs telling the stories of pioneers, cowboys, sailors, soldiers, miners, and adventurers of the old west. He is an avid historian and presents educational programs which weave together music, history, and cultural traditions.

Blacksmithing demonstrations are also scheduled for July 16 and 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center is located five miles east of Baker City, Oregon on Highway 86. Take Exit 302 from I-84. The Center is currently open 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. Admission for adults is $8.00 and it’s $4.50 for seniors; children 15 and under are admitted for free. Federal passes are accepted.

Call (541) 523-1843 for updates on programs and events or visit oregontrail.blm.gov.

On June 18 and 19, Michael “Bad Hand” Terry presents his program “People of the Plains” in the Leo Adler Theater from 10:30 to noon and from 1:30 to 4:00. He will discuss history and traditions of the Plains Indians, as well as his research and work in producing authentic replicas of tools, dress, and equipment of the Plains tribes.

From June 22 through 28, featured performer Buffalo Bill Boycott presents programs daily at 11:00, 12:30, and 2:00 in the Leo Adler Theater. Boycott’s programs use folk music, both historic and contemporary, to tell stories about the Old West. Harmonizing with his partner “Dr. Jo,” Boycott’s music engages visitors in the spirit of the Old West with stories, songs, and traditional acoustic instrumentation. At 12:30 each day, he presents a program on Indian Sign Language, and how this style of communication was used to bridge the many cultures in frontier America.

For youngsters, the “Thursday Outdoor Club” starts its summer run June 16. The club features interactive programs aimed at the younger visitors and learning about nature. The Club meets Thursdays at 1:30. Attend one session, or all. It is free to all youngsters.

Living History programs in the Leo Adler Theater are scheduled daily, and include a variety of historic characters bringing history to life. Park Rangers are offering outdoor activities to include gold panning, black powder shooting demonstrations, and guided nature walks when weather permits.

“Wagons Ho! Experience the Oregon Trail” continues in the Flagstaff Gallery through July 4. This special exhibit uses costumes, life-sized games, puppets, and a full-scale packable pioneer wagon for youngsters to learn about Oregon heritage and the frontier adventure.

The Trail Center is located five miles east of Baker City, Oregon on Highway 86. Take Exit 302 from I-84. The Center is currently open 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. Admission for adults is $8.00; for seniors it’s $4.50; children 15 and under are admitted for free. Federal passes are accepted. Call (541) 523-1843 for updates on programs and events. For more information about the Trail Center visit www.oregontrail.blm.gov.

The Cast Iron Chef Cook-off is a fun team competition celebrating open air cooking, community, and the local harvest. Ten teams of up to three people each will be assigned an open fire cook space at the Trail Center outdoor wagon encampment. All equipment and ingredients are supplied, and teams have three hours to produce a meal. Ingredients will be a mystery until the Master of Ceremonies reveals this information, but will feature locally grown foods. The judges are well known local culinary experts and will be judging on technique, taste, and appearance. The audience can also sample food and vote for a People’s Choice. One team will be proclaimed Cast Iron Chef Champions of 2015, an honor that comes with cash prizes. Additional prizes will be awarded for 2nd place and People’s Choice. Teams can find more information and register for the cook-off at trailtenders.org or by calling 541-523-1852.

There will be outdoor activities and games for the whole family during the event: a Wagon Master & Oxen relay race, a Buffalo Chip toss, and making homemade ice cream. Sit a spell with mountain man Joe Meek at the wagon encampment or venture inside the Center and enjoy the exhibits and documentary films.

The National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, operated by the Bureau of Land Management, is located five miles east of Baker City, Oregon on Highway 86. Take Exit 302 from I-84. The Center is currently open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. Admission for adults is $8.00; for seniors it’s $4.50; children 15 and under are admitted for free. Federal passes are accepted. Call (541) 523-1843 for updates on programs and events.

Visit oregontrail.blm.gov for more information about the Center or call (541)523-1843 for an update on programs and events. For information on other events in Baker County, Oregon, call (800)523.1235. The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land, the most of any Federal agency. This land, known as the National System of Public Lands, is primarily located in 12 Western states, including Alaska. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. The BLM’s mission is to manage and conserve the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations under our mandate of multiple-use and sustained yield. In Fiscal Year 2014, the BLM generated $5.2 billion in receipts from public lands.

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