1. Oregon officially became a state on January 1, 1859. This followed a lengthy process that began with the region's discovery by European explorers in the late 1700s, and continued through several waves of settlement and territorial disputes.

2. One of the biggest events in Oregon on January 1 was the annual Rose Bowl game, held in Pasadena, California. The game began in 1902 and quickly became a beloved tradition, drawing fans from around the country and putting Oregon on the national sports map.

3. In 1933, Oregon was hit by a devastating earthquake that caused widespread damage and claimed several lives. The quake, which measured 6.4 on the Richter scale, was centered near the town of Scotts Mills and was one of the strongest ever recorded in the state.

4. On January 1, 2020, a new law went into effect in Oregon allowing people to pump their own gas at some stations. Previously, the state had mandated that gas stations be staffed by attendants who handled the fueling process for drivers. The new law was controversial but widely supported by those who saw it as a way to save time and money.

5. Finally, January 1 has traditionally been a day of celebration and renewal in Oregon, with events and activities ranging from fireworks displays and parades to charity runs and cultural festivals. The holiday is a time for reflection on the past year and anticipation of the new one, as Oregonians look forward to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.