Smokey Bear is turning 80 years old, and the Department of Natural Resources will be celebrating at state parks and forests throughout Wisconsin.
The DNR is inviting the public to the celebrations and will be making sure they understand wildfire prevention and fire safety tactics.
Smokey Bear’s birthday is officially August 9th, but celebrations begin Saturday (August 3).
The lone celebration in the area this weekend will take place at Kohler-Andrae State Park.
Celebrations continue next weekend on August 9th at High Cliff State Park in Sherwood and the Kettle Moraine State Forest in Campbellsport.
The last local celebration will be on August 17th at Whitefish Dunes State Park in Sturgeon Bay.
Attendees will be able to learn Smokey’s history, enjoy birthday cake, and participate in family-friendly fire safety activities.
Smokey Bear says just like extinguishing a candle in your home before leaving.
It’s also important to make sure campfires are given the same treatment, as only you can prevent wildfires.
More information on Smokey Bear and his birthday celebrations can be found online at dnr.wisconsin.gov.