When Lumberjack is King and farm families reign

   September in Orofino is highlighted with the combining of two major events for Clearwater County and its neighboring communities, the County Fair and Orofino Lumberjack Days. The 2004 dates are Sept. 16, 17, 18, 19. The theme this year is "Remember the Days of Old".

   The four days of scheduled activities include a huge carnival, an old timers social at the museum, dances, 4-H Style Revue, food booths, luncheons and breakfasts. There are games for children, a large variety of exhibits – from logging equipment, health care and musical instruments to flowers, fancy work, photography, paintings, cooking, garden produce and 4-H projects.

   Lumberjacks from all over the northwest and often from outside the United States, come to Orofino to compete in the Orofino Lumberjack Days show.  It continues the concept of promoting the forest industry, honoring the history and heritage and demonstrates the early life of the logger. There is Jack and Jill Sawing, birling, pole climbing, power sawing, cross cut sawing, hot saws, chopping, tugs of war, relay logging events and the exciting high climbing exhibition. Something exciting happens each minute of Sunday afternoon’s show.

   The 4-H competitions in showmanship and the two parades draw many spectators. There is always a stir of excitement when a young 4-H member, nervous and flushed, is declared top showman. The hour-long main parade on Saturday features bands, floats and novelty entries beginning 10 a.m. On Friday at noon the kids march in costume to match the theme of the event.

   Auction lovers will find plenty of action on Saturday after the parade as many new donated items go on the block to help finance the free activities of the 57^th Annual Lumberjack Days. This is followed by an auction of 4-H livestock, raised and prepared to perfection by dedicated youngsters.

   It takes a great number of people participating to make this major celebration work and as the weekend approaches, more and more people get involved until the town fairly explodes with activity. But, weeks of preparation pay off – everyone has stored up enough fun and memories to last them until next.

   So visitor or resident make your plans to join in the fun and excitement of this traditional logging and farming showcase of skills and knowledge.