The holidays in Bend the surrounding areas are a fun time of the year. The weather can get damp throughout December. But one of the best ways to move beyond this is to get out and enjoy some of the events that this area offers. Whether you’re looking to get some holiday-inspired exercise or take in a quaint local event, you’ll find something perfect in the Bend area this month.
Bend Christmas Parade
The Bend Christmas Parade, an annual event, will take place on Dec. 7 this year. The theme is “Best Christmas Ever,” and the parade is sponsored by the Downtown Bend Business Association and the volunteer Parade Committee. You can view the events in downtown Bend on Wall and Bond Streets, and it is scheduled to begin at noon.
SantaLand at the Old Mill District
Santa makes his grand entrance via helicopter on Nov. 29 at the Old Mill District’s SantaLand (in the former Gymboree space). Families can stop in to visit with St. Nick Friday through Sunday from 11/29-12/15 and then daily from 12/19-12/23. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
See The Nutcracker
You have two opportunities to see The Nutcracker in Bend this year. Choose one or support them both! The Sunriver Stars Community Theater will host the production from Dec. 5-8, with shows twice daily. The Bend Senior High School presents its 34th annual production of the Nutcracker Ballet (the longest-running show in Bend) from Dec. 6-8.
Annual Christmas Lights Kayak
On Dec. 13, from 4 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., you can catch Bend’s most dedicated kayakers and canoers on the Deschutes River in their holiday-themed boats. This annual lighted boat parade can be seen from the shores of the Old Mill District, or you can decorate your boat with holiday garb and participate.
Holiday-Themed Entertainment
The historic Tower Theatre in Bend is featuring a long list of holiday-themed concerts and productions. Some of these include Mark O’Conner Appalachian Christmas (12/4), Holiday Magic 2019 (12/7-8), Sister’s Christmas Catechism (12/10-11), Central Oregon Mastersingers (12/14-15), and Swingin’ Tower Christmas (12/20-22).
Holiday Suds & Cuisine
Whether you live in Bend or are a holiday visitor, you’ll want to check out the Bend Ale Trail, the largest beer trail in the West. Check out the world-class breweries that are sure to be decorated and lit up for the holiday season.
There are plenty of dining options in Bend as well, but some may have varying holiday hours. But, there is one sure and delicious option. Chinese restaurants are always open on Christmas Day, so one of Bend’s local Chinese favorites could be an excellent choice.
Ski with Santa
Mt. Bachelor will feature Santa on the Slopes on Dec. 24 and 25, where skiers get the opportunity to interact with Santa as he delivers presents from 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each day.
Sure, winter doesn’t have the best reputation in the Pacific Northwest. But, the holiday season in the Bend area easily counters any winter woes with a ton of options for must-see sites and fun activities.
