Inclusive Family Activities & Community Events in Medford & Ashland, Oregon
- Lisa B
- Sep 22
- 7 min read
Finding activities that welcome and celebrate every ability can make a big difference for families of children and adults with disabilities. In Southern Oregon, communities like Medford and Ashland are creating more opportunities for inclusive play, recreation, and connection. From welcoming community events to sensory-friendly family experiences, these activities not only build joy but also strengthen community bonds. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting the Rogue Valley, you’ll discover plenty of options designed for fun, accessibility, and belonging.
Jump to the sections most interesting to you by clicking on the links below:
Community Activities for Families
Visit the Railroad Park in Medford -- April through October
When: 2nd & 4th Sunday, 11 AM -- 3 PM Through October
Cost: Free
Location: 799 Berrydale Avenue, Medford
What it is: Ride their "miniature built to scale steam trains" and explore their park. There's full sized cars, a caboose, and other cars to view. Find out more information about train rides and the museum.
Inclusive Family Activities in Medford -- MultiCultural Fair
When: Saturday September 27, 2025 10 AM to 4 PM
Cost: Free
Location: Pear Blossom Park, 204 N Bartlett Street, Medford
What it is: A one-day celebration of culture, with entertainment, games and food. For more information, visit Medford Parks Foundation, for details of this and other inclusive family activities in Medford.
Unique Community Activity -- Silent Disco in Lithia Park
When: 1st & 3rd Fridays thru October, 6 PM to 11 PM
Cost: $10 for headphones
Location: Lithia Park
What it is: Come experience music in a whole new way! Silent Disco has wireless headphones which lets you choose between multiple channels of Live DJs in an immersive and unforgettable experience for the whole family! Celebrate the diversity and uniqueness of Ashland with Silent Disco in the Park!
Free Community Event -- Bilingual Bird Event at The Children's Museum of Southern Oregon
When: October 6 & 19, 8 AM to 10 AM
Cost: Free. Admission to the museum is not included. These events occur during times when the museum is closed.
Location: 413 W. Main Street, Medford
What it is: Bilingual Bird Outings is a fun and educational activity for the whole family! Learn birding basics: How to observe, identify and appreciate the birds in our urban environment. All of the bird walks with be bilingual (Spanish/English) and no prior experience is needed. Beginners are welcome. Binoculars and ID guides provided.
Fun Community Activity: Return of the Salmon - Family Field Day
When: Saturday, October 18, 2025, 10 AM -- 2 PM
Cost: Free
Location: North Mountain Park, 620 N Mountain Avenue, Ashland
What it is: Come join us to celebrate the return of salmon to Bear Creek and enjoy learning about the watershed by participating in activities set up around the park and Bear Creek by local organizations! Bring the family to North Mountain Park to learn about salmon and their life cycle, macro-invertebrates, water quality, pollinators, and riparian areas by visiting educational, hands-on learning stations. This event is brought to you by Stream Smart, the City of Ashland, the Rogue Valley Council of Governments, Rogue Valley Sewer Services, and others. For more information visit Ashland Salmon Festival.
Ashland Community Events for Families
Ashland is hosting some upcoming events that are fun for the whole family.
The Festival of Light celebration happens on Friday November 28, 5 pm. Santa's procession begins the event that leads to the Grand Illumination on the Plaza, with over one million lights and decorations that illuminate Ashland.
Link to all upcoming Ashland events here!
Ashland Inclusive Ice Skating -- All Abilities Community Skate Event
When: Friday December 5, 5 PM to 9 PM
Cost: Free, but please pre-register
Location: Ashland Rotary Centennial Ice Rink, 95 Winburn Way, Ashland
What it is: An outdoor ice skating event designed for all abilities! Hot cocoa and snacks are generously provided by the Lions Club, and skating and skate rentals are free, courtesy of Bridging Communities. An introduction to the ice mini-lesson will be provided and assistive skating devices will be available.
Medford Community Event -- Winter Lights Festival
When: Saturday December 6, 5 PM to 7 PM
Cost: Free
Location: Pear Blossom Park, 204 N. Bartlett Street, Medford
What it is: Highlights include live performances, vendor booths, food trucks, the tree lighting and photo opportunities with Santa. DJ Gemineye will emcee the event. New this year--Santa is inviting residents to take part in an illuminated parade. Decorate your bike, trike, scooter, wagon or stroller with festive lights and holiday cheer and be part of the magic. Participation is free, but pre-registration is required. To sign up, call 541-774-2400.
Ashland Community Fun for Families -- First Frost Community Skate Event
When: Saturday December 20, 4 PM -- 9 PM
Cost: Pricing and info for group pricing & skate rentals will be added at a later date.
Location: The Ice Rink is located in Lithia Park, 95 Winburn Way, Ashland
What it is: The First Frost Community Skate Event is a festive evening on ice with live music, a dazzling figure skate performance, and special family discounts. It's the perfect way to welcome the chill and make some cozy memories together.
Activities for Young Adults
Inclusive Activities for Young Adults -- Activities Around Southern Oregon
The Young Autistic Adults Social Club posts an events calendar with great activities taking place around southern Oregon. Upcoming events include an Art Along the Rogue Meet Up, bowling and a scavenger hunt & artisan meet up in Lithia Park!
All-Ability Gaming Socials -- Ashland
When: The second Friday of each month, 5:30 PM to 7 PM
Cost: Free, but pre-registration is required
Location: Ashland Senior Center, 1699 Homes Avenue, Ashland
What it is: The All-Ability Gaming Socials are intended for ages 8-14, but the whole family can attend. Participants will enjoy a variety of game types, including video games, board games and more, provided by the partnership between the Oregon Autism Society and Bridging Communities. Light dinner is provided. Call 548-278-0697 or info@bcoregon.org for questions.
Activities for Children
Playgroup for Children of All Abilities -- Building Futures Playgroup
When: 4th Wednesday of each month, 10:30 to 11:30 AM
Cost: Free
Location: Family Nurturing Center, 825 E. Main Street Suite A, Medford
What it is: A playgroup for children of all abilities ages 0-5 and their families to play, in a fun and supportive environment. "This inclusive gathering is brought to you in partnership with Autism Society of Oregon, The Family Nurturing Center of Southern Oregon, and Bridging Communities. Together, we're creating a fun, supportive environment where all families are welcome."
The Nature Center in Ashland
When: Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 AM to 1 PM
Cost: Free
Location: North Mountain Park, 620 N. Mountain Avenue Ashland
What it is: The Nature Center features a paved bike path, a covered pavilion with benches and picnic tables, pollinator gardens, a sandbox, and views of the natural area and ponds. Explore the natural area on a series of bark-chipped trails that lead to interesting play features and stream access points along beautiful Bear Creek. Opportunities for bird-watching and wildlife viewing abound, with benches throughout the park, as well as a "Nature Play" area for kids to explore. The Nature Center is open Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 AM to 1 PM, and the park is open from sunrise to sunset. North Mountain Park is a dog free park. Check out a discovery kit for $3, or just explore the beautiful park!
Free Community Events at Local Libraries
Pinecone Projects, 2-3 PM. Medford Library Storytime Room. This free event doesn't need advance registration and is for children ages 6 and up. Weekly on Wednesdays until 11/26. Check out the Jackson County Library Services Website for more information.
2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 3-4:30 PM. White City Library in the meeting room. Lego Explorers. Ages 5+. Lego creations will be on display for a week so the community can view the creations. Check out the Jackson County Library Services Website for more information.
Visit the Library of Things at Jackson county libraries. Check out items instead of books! Some items available include musical instruments, games, craft activities, cooking tools are more. This is a great way to try out new activities without having to buy them first.
Ashland Chamber Children's Halloween Celebration begins at 3:30 on October 31. Starts at the Ashland public library and proceeds down E. Main to the Plaza. Children and their families are invited to join the procession and then trick or treat at local businesses.
Making the Community More Accessible
Sensory-friendly place to explore -- Science Works museum
When: Open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 AM -- 5 PM
Cost: $12.50 Adults, $10.50 Students and Children ages 2+
Location: 1500 E. Main Street, Ashland
What it is: Science Works is a hands-on museum in Ashland. They offer some tools for sensory-sensitive guests, including providing noise-canceling headphones for visitors who are sensitive to loud sounds, and their staff are happy to help plan your visit. Call them ahead to discuss and sensory needs and they can suggest quieter times, less busy play areas or ways to make your visit more comfortable. Their theatre is dimly lit and plays nature films with gentle music when not in use for their programs, serving as a calm, soothing space for anyone who needs a break.
Reserve David's Chair in Lithia Park
When: Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 12 PM
Cost: Free, make a reservation here
Location: Lithia Park Cabin, 340 S. Pioneer Street, Ashland
What it is: Ashland Parks & Recreation has partnered with David's Chair, a wonderful organization that brings freedom and independence to people experiencing mobility challenges. This allows the user to experience different parts of Lithia Park in a new and exciting way. For questions please call the APR Office at 541-488-5340 or email them at parksinfo@ashlandoregon.gov.
Workshop for Parents
Ashland Learning Differences Parent Support Group
When: Every 4th Tuesday 6 PM to 8 PM
Cost: Free
Location: Ashland Public Library
What it is: Connect with other parents in a safe, welcoming space to navigate the journey of raising neurodiverse children. Spanish support available upon request. Their parent leader, Kelly, has more information on her website.
Medford and Ashland continue to shine as hubs for inclusive, family-centered events that embrace people of all abilities. By participating in these activities, families can find meaningful connection, create lasting memories, and support organizations committed to accessibility and inclusion. If you’re looking for your next outing, keep exploring community calendars, local nonprofits, and adaptive recreation groups—you may be surprised at how many welcoming opportunities are available. This is also a great list to share with your caregivers so that they can plan some inclusive community activities with your child. In fact, if you find yourself looking for additional caregivers in the future, Enable has a Matchmaking tool to help guardians connect with local caregivers looking for more work. A recent blog post reviewed the easy process to get connected!
Together, we can help build a more connected, inclusive Southern Oregon for everyone. And if you're traveling around the state, check out our other blog posts on Oregon cities like Portland, Bend, Eugene and Salem. Let us know your family favorites by sending us an email at cen@enable.family and we will add them to upcoming posts.
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