Chamber Chat – July 2026

JACKSONVILLE is gearing up for one of the most joyful, heritage-rich celebrations we’ve hosted in years—the Jacksonville Jubilee, happening Saturday, July 11, 2026, in the heart of our historic downtown. This one day summer festival brings together everything people love about Jacksonville: history, music, community, and a little bit of magic. And this year, that magic arrives on wheels—trolley wheels, to be exact.

Christmas in July… Jacksonville Style—With six months until Christmas, we’re bringing a mid summer dose of cheer to 3rd Street. Father Christmas himself will arrive by Magical Trolley at noon, greeting families, posing for photos, and checking his list to see who’s been “naughty or nice.” Kids can enjoy festive crafts and games, while adults soak in the nostalgia of an old-fashioned holiday moment in the middle of July.

And because Jacksonville is a three-trolley town, we’re celebrating in true trolley fashion: free trolley rides with Father Christmas all day long. Our Historic Trolley Tour, and our ever-popular Wine Trolley Tour will be running as usual. Hop aboard, enjoy the breeze, and take in the charm of our National Historic Landmark District from the best seat in town.

A Celebration Rooted in Jacksonville’s Heritage—This summer’s Jubilee revives the spirit of Jacksonville’s historic Gold Rush Jubilee and Pioneer Days—celebrations that once filled our streets with parades, music, costumes, and community pride. As we approach the 60th anniversary of Jacksonville’s National Historic Landmark District designation later this Fall, the Jubilee is our way of honoring the people, stories, and traditions that shaped this remarkable town.

Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy heritage presentations, special walking tours, and appearances by Jacksonville’s finest; including Historic Jacksonville docents, Beekman Bank tours, Woodlands Association representatives, Community Center activities, History Saturday in the Cemetery, and beloved local reenactors like the Belles & Beaus. It’s a chance to experience history not as something behind glass, but as something alive, shared, and woven into the fabric of our community.

Music, Food & Summer Fun—No summer celebration is complete without great food and great music. The Jubilee will feature:

  • Live music from local performers throughout the afternoon
  • Food vendors serving hot dogs, cotton candy, ice cream, and festival favorites
  • Jacksonville merchants and artisans offering art, goods, and handcrafted treasures
  • Old-time photo experiences for families and visitors in the US Hotel
  • Kids’ activities and games on 3rd Street, at Churro Rush and Happy Alpaca

With 3rd Street closed for the day, from 11am-7pm, the festival zone becomes a safe, walkable space filled with color, creativity, and community energy. Including celebrations and special prizes at participating businesses throughout our Historic Landmark Town. See more Event details at www.jacksonvilleoregon.org.

A Day to Celebrate Jacksonville—Past, Present & Future—The Jacksonville Jubilee is more than an event — it’s a reflection of who we are. A town that honors its past, celebrates its present, and welcomes visitors with open arms. A place where history is lived, not just remembered. A community that knows how to gather, laugh, and create memories together.

Whether you’re a long-time resident, a returning visitor, or discovering Jacksonville for the first time, we invite you to join us on July 11. Bring your family, bring your friends, and bring your summer spirit. Come ride the trolley, meet Father Christmas, enjoy live music, explore our shops, and experience the magic of Jacksonville in full celebration mode.

Here’s to a joyful July, a vibrant community, and a Jubilee worthy of our historic town.

See you on July 11—I hope to welcome you aboard.