JACKSON, Wyo. — Everyone’s favorite spokesbear is celebrating his 80th anniversary this week, with several local events paying tribute to Smokey Bear’s eight decades of wildfire prevention.
Smokey Bear will have a birthday party at Jackson Lake Lodge on Wednesday, Aug. 7, from 4 to 7 p.m. hosted by Bridger-Teton National Forest and Grand Teton National Park. Expect party games including trivia and “pin the hat on Smokey,” plus family photo opportunities, a birthday cake and a special menu.
Smokey will spend Friday, Aug. 9, bouncing between Jackson’s Town Square and the National Elk Refuge & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Center to take photos and meet his adoring fans. Free Smokey swag will be on hand.
Don’t be surprised to catch a glimpse of Smokey elsewhere in town this week. He’ll be visiting the folks at Sage Living Center and the Kids Club on Thursday, Aug. 8. And peep the Elks Club marquee for a special message to Smokey.
There’s still a little time to submit a Smokey Bear poster to the Pinedale Ranger District of the Bridger-Teton National Forest, too. Another Smokey party will be held there on Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with cupcakes, photos with Smokey and giveaways.
Here’s to many more years of wildfire prevention!
