About the Madras Downtown Association
Welcome to the heart of Central Oregon—Madras! Here at the Madras Downtown Association (MDA), we’re dedicated to turning this beloved town into a thriving, vibrant destination for locals and visitors alike. From the scenic views of the Cascade Mountains to our downtown lined with unique shops, eateries, and art, Madras offers a welcoming, small-town feel paired with endless adventure.
Our Core Values
Community-Driven – At the MDA, we believe in building together. Every initiative, event, and program is designed to uplift our town and strengthen connections between businesses, residents, and visitors.
Cultural Diversity – We celebrate Madras’s unique blend of cultures, honoring the contributions of the diverse communities who make our town so vibrant and dynamic.
Adventure-Ready – Located in the heart of Central Oregon’s stunning landscapes, Madras is a gateway to unforgettable experiences—from hiking trails and scenic drives to the annual First Thursdays featuring live music, food vendors, and local artists!
Who We Are
The MDA is a community-driven, nonprofit organization fueled by our passion for local businesses, cultural diversity, and the people who make Madras a place we’re all proud to call home. With a focus on collaboration, sustainability, and inclusivity, we work with small businesses, local artists, and residents to create opportunities for connection, growth, and creativity right here in downtown Madras.
Our mission is simple: to enhance the economic vitality of Madras, preserve its rich cultural heritage, and foster a fun, safe, and environmentally-conscious downtown that serves as a hub for everything Central Oregon has to offer. We’re here to build relationships, spark inspiration, and celebrate the best parts of living, working, and playing in Madras!
Why We Love Madras
Why We Love Madras
Madras isn’t just a place; it’s an experience—a town full of trails waiting to be hiked, local shops with stories to tell, and people who care deeply about the future of their community. As an organization, we believe Madras has the potential to become one of Central Oregon’s top destinations, not by changing what makes it special, but by embracing it.
So, whether you’re a business owner, a resident, or simply a curious traveler, we invite you to become part of the MDA family. Explore our events, discover local treasures, and join us in making Madras an even better place to live, work, and play.
What The MDA Does
At the MDA, our work spans a wide range of year-round initiatives designed to make downtown Madras a thriving center for commerce, culture, and community. Supporting and promoting local businesses is at the heart of what we do. We connect small business owners with valuable resources, offer marketing support, and provide networking opportunities that build lasting relationships across industries.
Our community events are another major part of our mission to bring vibrancy to downtown. Our events are crafted to create unforgettable experiences while driving local commerce.
Beyond events, we’re continually working to improve downtown Madras with a range of resources, from business support and volunteer initiatives to advocacy for sustainable and eco-friendly practices that align with our community’s values. We’re here to foster growth, bring people together, and ensure that downtown Madras remains a welcoming and innovative place for everyone who lives, works, or visits.
Signature Events
Our events bring the spirit of Madras to life! From our much-anticipated First Thursdays where you can catch live music, grab delicious eats, and shop local crafts, to seasonal festivals and family-friendly gatherings, there’s always something happening downtown.
Support Local Businesses
MDA members receive exclusive perks like vendor discounts, networking opportunities, and free promotion on our website, social media, and blog. As an MDA member, you’re not just joining an organization—you’re becoming part of a support network built on passion, purpose, and pride in Madras’s local economy.
Volunteer Opportunities
Our community wouldn’t be the same without our amazing volunteers! Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor looking to give back, our Friends of the MDA program offers an option for individuals who want to get involved, make connections, and help create meaningful change in downtown Madras.
