How Fort Union's Budget Cuts Affected The Annual Rendezvous Event

In a disappointing turn for summer plans across the region, the Fort Union Association has announced the cancellation of its beloved annual Rendezvous event. It was scheduled for June 12–15 and has been called off due to significant staffing and funding challenges that have recently impacted park operations.

Severe Staff Shortage and Travel Restrictions Force Event Cancellation

According to a post published on the Fort Union Association’s Facebook page, Fort Union will operate with only three permanent employees this June—just 30% of the staff needed to support the Rendezvous. Traditionally, an additional 10 to 12 National Park Service (NPS) employees are brought in from other parks to assist, but new travel restrictions have made their participation impossible.

Brandon Delvo/Canva

Rendezvous Cancelled

Get our free mobile app

Lack of Support Staff and Budget Constraints Make Event Unworkable

Organizers say that while volunteer efforts are always appreciated, the scope and complexity of the Rendezvous require a full team of trained NPS staff to manage planning, supervision, safety, and post-event wrap-up. With no available personnel to recruit or oversee volunteers, hosting the event simply isn’t feasible.

Budget constraints have added to the problem. Spending authority, which was previously shared among three staff members, is now limited to just one—and only for essential operations. All of these factors have made things extremely challenging for this event.

Brandon Delvo/Canva

Rendezvous Cancelled 2

The Rendezvous, a signature event at Fort Union, has long drawn history lovers, artisans, and families to celebrate frontier heritage. Now that 2025’s gathering is off the calendar, organizers remain hopeful that the tradition will return when staffing and resources allow.

Fort Union encourages visitors to stay connected through its other programs and to follow the park on social media for updates on future opportunities.