Detroit Lake Community Center & City Hall

The Detroit Lake Foundation, in partnership with the Santiam Rebuild Coalition and SEDCOR, has successfully completed the construction of a brand-new Community Center and City Hall for the City of Detroit, Oregon.

This milestone marks a powerful step forward in the city’s recovery following the devastating 2020 wildfires. The new facility stands as a symbol of resilience and renewal, providing a central, multi-use space where neighbors can gather, collaborate, and grow together.

The completed project includes:

• A modern City Hall, ensuring residents have access to essential municipal services.

• A community center designed to host public meetings, classes, celebrations, and cultural events

• A flexible space that supports emergency preparedness, civic engagement, and local nonprofit and volunteer activity.

This achievement reflects the power of partnership, vision, and community spirit. The Detroit Lake Foundation extends deep gratitude to every volunteer, contractor, donor, and supporter who played a role in making this dream a reality. The new center is more than a building—it is a place where Detroit's future takes shape.

Detroit City Sign

The Detroit Lake Foundation has contributed $40,000 towards the installation of a new community information sign on Main Street, designed to keep residents and visitors informed about important updates, local events, and public notices.

Strategically placed in the heart of town, the sign serves as a central hub for communication, ensuring that everyone—whether living in Detroit or just passing through—has access to the latest community happenings. From upcoming festivals and city meetings to emergency alerts and volunteer opportunities, the sign helps keep the community connected and engaged.

This project reflects the Foundation’s ongoing mission to enhance communication, support transparency, and foster community involvement. Whether you're heading to an event, looking for local updates, or just exploring Detroit, make sure to check the sign for the latest news!

Community Kitchen

The Detroit Lake Foundation is actively developing a Community Kitchen Project, designed to serve as a vital asset for both emergency response and everyday community use.

This kitchen will be a multi-functional facility capable of:

• Feeding volunteers and first responders during emergencies like wildfires or natural disasters

• Supporting disaster relief operations and recovery efforts

• Hosting community meals, classes, and local events year-round

• Providing opportunities for local food initiatives, small business incubation, and nonprofit use

Strategically planned as part of Detroit’s growing community infrastructure, the kitchen reflects the Foundation’s commitment to resiliency, preparedness, and connection.

Because in times of need—and in times of celebration— a community kitchen keeps us nourished, together, and strong.

City Beautification Initiative

The City Beautification Initiative is a year-round effort by the Detroit Lake Foundation to enhance the natural charm, cleanliness, and welcoming atmosphere of Detroit, Oregon.

Through a combination of volunteer projects, partnerships, and strategic improvements, this initiative focuses on:

• Seasonal plantings and flower baskets throughout Main Street and public spaces

• Community clean-up days to remove debris and maintain public areas

• Signage, and landscaping enhancements that reflect local pride

• American flags hung throughout the summer season

Whether you're a resident or just passing through, the impact is clear: a more vibrant, inviting, and resilient Detroit.

It’s not just about looking good—it’s about creating a place we’re proud to call home.

Lake Level Committee

The Lake Level Committee, a vital initiative of the Detroit Lake Foundation, is dedicated to monitoring, advocating for, and securing resources to maintain optimal water levels in Detroit Lake year-round.

Recognizing the lake’s importance to the local economy, recreation, environment, and community wellbeing, the committee works in partnership with local, state, and federal agencies to:

• Monitor lake levels and seasonal forecasts

• Advocate for responsible water management policies

• Pursue critical funding for infrastructure and long-term solutions

• Serve as a public resource for transparent updates and information

The Lake Level Committee ensures that Detroit Lake remains a viable destination for boating, fishing, tourism, and community events, while also supporting the long-term health of the watershed.

Protecting the lake means protecting the future of Detroit.

Advocacy

The Detroit Lake Foundation is proud to have a seat at the table in key discussions and decision-making processes that affect the future of our community.

Whether it’s advocating for responsible lake level management, supporting economic recovery, or ensuring public safety and infrastructure investments, the Foundation represents the voice of Detroit in meetings with:

• State and federal agencies

• Regional and local government leaders

• Environmental and resource management partners

• Economic development organizations

By showing up, speaking out, and collaborating with stakeholders, the Foundation helps ensure that Detroit’s needs and priorities are heard and acted on.

We’re not just building events—we’re building a future.

Events

Detroit Lake Fishing Derby

The Detroit Lake Fishing Derby is more than just a weekend on the water—it's a celebration of community, family, and the next generation of anglers. Hosted annually by the Detroit Lake Foundation, the event is designed to keep kids fishing, foster a love for the outdoors, and bring people of all ages together in a fun, supportive environment.

With prizes, raffles, live music, and activities for all ages, the derby creates unforgettable memories while encouraging youth participation in fishing. It's a chance for families to bond, friends to reunite, and new connections to be made—all while enjoying the beauty of Detroit Lake.

Thanks to the generous support of sponsors and volunteers, the Fishing Derby continues to grow as a beloved tradition that strengthens our community and inspires the next wave of outdoor enthusiasts. Cast a line, catch a memory, and be part of something special.

Golf Cart Parade

The Detroit Lake Foundation is proud to coordinate the annual Golf Cart, ATV & Bike Parade—a fun and festive tradition that brings our community together in a colorful show of patriotism and creativity.

Held each year as part of the 4th of July celebrations, the parade invites locals and visitors alike to deck out their rides, crank up the music, and cruise through town in style. It’s a chance to celebrate freedom, community spirit, and the unique charm of Detroit.

Thank you to everyone who participates and cheers us on—this beloved event wouldn’t be possible without your energy and enthusiasm!

Fireworks Over the Lake

The Detroit Lake Foundation (DLF) proudly coordinates every aspect of the beloved Fireworks Over the Lake celebration—from the first spark to the final boom.

Behind the scenes, the DLF team carefully plans and manages:

• Professional pyrotechnics and fireworks display

• Live music performances and entertainment lineup

• Beer garden and curated food truck selection

• Logistics and site setup

• Visitor and traffic safety in partnership with local agencies

• Event permits, emergency planning, and volunteer coordination

Every detail is thoughtfully handled to ensure a safe, fun, and unforgettable experience for all who attend. Whether you're dancing under the stars, enjoying local flavors, or watching the night sky explode with color, it's all made possible by the dedication and heart of the Detroit Lake Foundation team.

It’s more than an event—it’s a gift to the community.

Santiam Music Festival

The Santiam Music Festival is the can't-miss event of the summer—an epic celebration of live music, community, and mountain vibes, proudly hosted by the Detroit Lake Foundation.

This year’s festival features a lineup of incredible regional talent, headlined by Detroit native Scotty Alexander, along with special guests and fan favorites. With a backdrop of forested peaks and sparkling lake views, it’s the perfect way to soak up summer in the Santiam Canyon.

Chili Cook-off

Held in the heart of town, the Chili Cook-Off is a favorite fall gathering, drawing neighbors, visitors, and spice lovers alike. Whether you’re entering your secret recipe or just showing up with an empty bowl and a big appetite, it’s a fun, flavorful way to support the Detroit Lake Foundation’s mission of building community and fueling local recovery.

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting

To kick off the holiday season with warmth, wonder, and community spirit the Detroit Lake Foundation proudly presents the  Annual Christmas Tree Lighting in Detroit City Park! This beloved tradition brings neighbors and visitors together to celebrate the magic of the season.

• Tree Lighting Ceremony

• Visit from Santa Claus

• Hot cocoa, cookies & festive music

• Holiday crafts & cheer for all ages

Light up Detroit - Christmas Light Contest

The Light Up Detroit Contest invites residents and local businesses to deck their halls, porches, and storefronts with festive holiday lights and decorations. Hosted by the Detroit Lake Foundation, this cheerful competition spreads holiday spirit throughout the community while making Detroit glow with magic and joy.

Detroit Rocks

The Detroit Rocks program was created as a way to spread joy, creativity, and community spirit throughout Detroit and the surrounding canyon. Beautifully engraved and painted rocks are hidden in and around the community for families, visitors, and residents to discover. Each rock carries a special message or design that reflects the resilience and beauty of Detroit.

The purpose of the program is to bring people together, encourage exploration of the area, and create lasting memories. Families are invited to keep one rock per household and register their find on the Detroit Lake Foundation website, allowing us to track the positive reach of the program. Detroit Rocks is more than a fun scavenger hunt—it’s a reminder of the strength, hope, and connection that continue to rebuild and sustain our community.