Chelan Fire & Rescue to mark 100 years with centennial celebration, historic helicopter flyover

CHELAN — Chelan Fire & Rescue will celebrate 100 years of service to the community on Saturday, April 18, 2026, with a full day of centennial events, including a downtown parade, a historic firefighting aviation tribute and an evening recognition of firefighters past and present.

The milestone comes as the United States prepares to observe its 250th anniversary in 2026, a moment prompting communities nationwide to reflect on the institutions that have shaped local life. In Chelan, the centennial honors a fire department founded in 1926 that has grown alongside the city it serves.

“For 100 years, our firefighters—career and volunteers—have shown up for Chelan when it mattered most,” Chelan Fire & Rescue Chief Brandon Asher said. “This Centennial is a moment to honor that legacy, thank our partners and neighbors, and inspire the next generation of first responders.”

The celebration will begin with a Grand Centennial Parade through downtown Chelan at 10 a.m. One of the day’s central features will be a flyover by a restored 1966 Huey helicopter used in wildfire suppression, coordinated with Wenatchee Fire. Organizers said the flyover is intended as a visual tribute to the evolution of the fire service and the cooperation between ground and aerial firefighting resources across North Central Washington.

Additional events include a community Chili Cook-Off at the Chelan Fire Station, titled “100 Years of Fire & Flavor,” sponsored by KOZI Radio. The day will conclude with an evening centennial celebration recognizing current and former firefighters, retirees, volunteers and community partners.

Mayor Erin McCardle is scheduled to present a Centennial Proclamation during the evening program, marking the first such proclamation since the department’s founding.

As Chelan Fire & Rescue enters its second century, the centennial celebration reflects broader themes of service, resilience and community that have defined small towns across the country, organizers said.

The event is free and open to the public.

More information and event updates are available at chelan7.com/firefighters-assn/assn-events/.