By Chris Lewis
Every year, some days simply stand out more than others. Christmas. Easter. Thanksgiving. In downtown Ewen, one other day is extremely unique— when it hosts the annual Ewen Log Jamboree.
Community, Fun, and Traditions
Set to occur on Sept. 25 and 26, this year’s log jam will once again lead hundreds of Ewen residents (and tourists) to gather together and celebrate the annual tradition. This has been the case every year since 1976, in fact (aside from 2021, when the event was cancelled due to COVID-19).
“The community involvement really stands out,” said Adrien Worachek, a Ewen Civic Association member. “There’s just something about the streets of downtown Eden being filled with people wearing flannel and kids running around.”
Created by Ray and Bettie Rigoni to celebrate the “World’s Fair Load of Logs,” the Ewen Log Jamboree was overseen by the Rigonis for 40 years. During that time, the Ewen community became more and more involved, too.
“The community is what makes it what it is,” Worachek stressed. “Without the community, we wouldn’t have a log jam. From all of our volunteers to everyone who just comes out—that’s what makes the log jam so special.”
Along with the people who are involved, the Ewen Log Jamboree is special for another primary reason: its traditions. Each year, it has virtually the same theme. Dating back to the 1970s, it has even offered attendees many of the same events, too.
A two-day-long event, the log jam begins on a Friday every year, as residents and tourists are welcomed to enjoy a craft fair and luncheon. Afterwards, they can also participate in a fun run on Saturday morning, followed by a parade and kids’ games all day long. In addition, attendees can relax at the “Timber Show” and listen to music.
“We try to keep traditions the same, but things need to change every once in a while,” Worachek added. “For a few years, there wasn’t a ‘Timber Show.’ But current Ewen Civic Association members brought that back roughly 10 years ago.”
An extremely kid-friendly event, the log jam has also become renowned for its “World Famous Rubber Ducky Race.” Featuring upwards of 500 rubber duckies, which float down the Ontonagon River’s South Branch, the race has become a “sight to see.”
“While Saturday gets all of the credit, our Friday soup/sandwich luncheon and craft fair are just as big of a deal,” Worachek said. “Both days are a great time to get out and enjoy the events and people in general.”
She continued, “I think it’s a great weekend for people to just visit and reconnect. Over the years, it’s been great for class reunions!”
Preparing for 2026—and Beyond
As Worachek prepares for the Ewen Log Jamboree’s 49th edition, she’s looking forward to a new tradition: food trucks. After all, last year, the event featured an assortment of local food trucks for the first time, leading to considerable variety for attendees.
Furthermore, the log jam will feature three bands this year, resulting in all-day entertainment—Arvon, Chad Borgan & The Collective, and Stevie & The Nobodies.
“We’re always looking for new activities for participants (both young and old) and are always open to suggestions and help from the community,” Worachek said.
The bottom line? Simply put, Worachek is determined to ensure each log jam is better than the last one. To achieve this goal, she believes a “village” is necessary. And every year, it seems that a village shows up, from the Ewen Civic Association to the Ewen Volunteer Fire Department.
“People are always helping out to make it a great weekend,” she added.
While looking ahead to 2027 and the log jam’s 50th anniversary, Worachek is also hoping to recreate some of its old traditions. For instance, next year, Ewen’s Main Street may close for the entire Saturday of the event so that residents can relish different carnival rides, just like the good ol’ days.
“They used to have an ‘off-road’ loggers’ run on Saturday morning,” Worachek said. “It would be fun to bring something like that back as well.”
When all is said and done, as long as Ewen residents and tourists are having fun with their family members and friends, Worachek will be happy.
“The Ewen Log Jamboree is all about family and tradition,” she continued. “It holds a special place in so many people’s hearts.”
