Burnside Bridge Centennial Celebration

Photo courtesy of Multnomah County

For 100 years, the Burnside Bridge has stood as one of Portland’s most recognizable landmarks. This week, the city celebrates the bridge’s 100th birthday with a daylong celebration on the bridge itself.

More than just a crossing over the Willamette River, the Burnside Bridge has played a central role in Portland’s story. Since opening in 1926, it has witnessed moments of celebration, protest, progress and change.

Here’s how you can join in the celebration:

To commemorate its 100th birthday, the bridge is open to foot traffic only on Saturday, May 30, from 12-5 p.m. Gather with your friends and family on the top of the bridge for an afternoon of history, community and fun activities.

Walk Through 100 Years of History

One of the centerpiece attractions of the celebration is a walking historical exhibit. Learn about key milestones, major maintenance projects, and important social and political moments connected to the Burnside Bridge over the past century.

The bridge itself will be transformed into a timeline, divided into three historical eras: