Community Celebration Event
Blue Switch Day (Selective Availability) 2025
Saturday, 3rd May 2025
6:00pm - 8:00pm
On May 2, 2000, just past midnight, the U.S government discontinued its use of Selective Availability in order to make GPS more responsive to civil and commercial users worldwide. Twenty-four satellites around the globe processed their new orders, and instantly the accuracy of GPS technology improved tenfold. Tens of thousands of GPS receivers around the world had an instant upgrade. Prior to this date, only the military had the ability to receive accurate GPS readings. Now, the world and all its wonderful people could pinpoint their precise location. For reasons unknown, this is often referred to as the flipping of the “Big Blue Switch”.
The very next day, a computer consultant named Dave Ulmer hid a black bucket in the woods near Portland, Oregon. Along with a logbook and pencil, he left various prize items including videos, books, software, and a slingshot, then posted the coordinates online.
N 45° 17.460 W 122° 24.800
Three days later, the container was located by Mike Teague. Now, twenty-five years later, geocaching has become a global phenomenon to get off the couch and get outside.
Join me at The Salty Dog Hotel to celebrate and discuss all things geocaching! You are welcome to stay for a drink and/or dinner if you wish. The verandah space has been reserved for us (approx. 20 seats). Please log a 'Will Attend' so that I can gauge numbers and adjust the booking if needed. ID is required. Persons under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a responsible adult/guardian.
By attending this Event, you will be rewarded with the 'Blue Switch Day 2025' souvenir.
Community Celebration Events - 2025
This Event is part of a limited release of Community Celebration Events to celebrate 25 years of geocaching. Geocachers hosted events between January 1, 2025 and December 31, 2025. Learn more about Community Celebration Events on the Geocaching Blog.