The Lebanon Strawberry Festival began in 1909 as a salute to abundant berry fields in the Mid-Willamette Valley.  The organizers consisted of prominent citizens and businessmen from Lebanon.  Early events included the Rose Show and Parades.

As the Strawberry Festival continued to evolve, many changes occurred.  In 1982 the Lebanon Strawberry Festival became an independent nonprofit corporation.  It is a two-tiered organization with Board of Directors responsible for the annual presentation of the Festival and the Association members setting policies while looking for a permanent home for our Festival.

The Board of Directors consists of 24 positions staffed by volunteers.  These 24 positions represent the various events  highlighted the first full weekend in June.  We are proud that our claim to fame is the "World's Largest Strawberry Shortcake" served free to over 20,000 spectators.  Other events include the Junior and Grand Parades, The Strawberry 5K Run and One Mile Health Walk, Carnival, Fireworks Display, Open Air Country Fair, Queen's Coronation and many other civic events.

Volunteering for civic events involves a great deal of time and dedication.  Many families have become involved and have encouraged their youth to become more active in our community.

Historical Buttons From Past Strawberry Festivals