Thinking about a Central Oregon holiday getaway? Central Oregon delivers the perfect mix of snowy adventures, festive small-town charm, and cozy spaces to gather with the people you love. Meredith Lodging offers a wide selection of vacation rentals in Sunriver, Bend, Sisters, and Three Rivers – from snug cabins tucked beneath the pines to spacious luxury homes that sleep the whole family. If you’re planning to honor long-loved traditions or create brand-new ones, we’d be honored to be your home base this 2025 holiday season. Snowflake Boutique – Redmond The long-running Snowflake Boutique returns in early November 2025 at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds. This juried artisan show features handcrafted décor, jewelry, home goods, toys, and holiday gifts. It’s one of the region’s most beloved seasonal markets and a great place to start holiday shopping. Families appreciate the festive atmosphere and wide variety of locally made items. Holiday Food & Gift Festival – Redmond The Holiday Food & Gift Festival brings hundreds of vendors to the Expo Center in late November 2025. Visitors can browse handcrafted gifts, artwork, home décor, and gourmet food items from across the region. The festival’s tasting area is always a highlight, offering chocolates, sauces, teas, and baked goods. It’s ideal for completing holiday shopping in one place. Traditions at Sunriver Resort Sunriver Resort’s annual Traditions celebration runs from late November through New Year’s Day. Events include seasonal light displays, family craft workshops, sleigh rides, Santa visits, concerts, and outdoor fire pits. Many activities occur daily, creating a festive environment throughout the resort. It’s one of Central Oregon’s most iconic winter experiences. Sunriver Holiday Light Show From late November through early January, the Sunriver Holiday Light Show presents nightly music-synced lighting displays. Families enjoy strolling through the illuminated pathways and relaxing with warm drinks available nearby. The show runs multiple times each evening and is free to attend. It’s a favorite holiday activity for both visitors and locals. Bend Christmas Parade The Bend Christmas Parade returns to downtown Bend in early December 2025. Expect themed floats, community groups, bands, and a festive downtown atmosphere. The event draws large crowds and brings out the best of Bend’s holiday spirit. Local shops and restaurants often offer specials, making it an excellent day to explore downtown. Downtown Bend Tree Lighting – Brandis Square The official Downtown Bend tree lighting ceremony takes place on December 7, 2025. Families gather for live music, seasonal treats, kids’ activities, and a countdown to light the community Christmas tree. It’s a festive way to welcome the holiday season. Shops remain open afterward for evening browsing and dining. Holiday Lights Paddle Parade – Bend The Holiday Lights Paddle Parade offers a unique riverside experience as paddlers decorate kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards with lights and glide along the Deschutes River. The illuminated procession creates a beautiful holiday scene reflecting across the water. Spectators line the banks of the Old Mill District to watch. It’s one of Bend’s most creative seasonal traditions. Ice Skating in Bend Seasonal ice skating is available throughout December at The Pavilion and at Seventh Mountain Resort. Visitors can rent skates on-site and enjoy outdoor winter fun in a scenic setting. Skating sessions run day and evening, including special holiday-themed skate times. It’s a classic winter activity for families and couples. Sisters Holiday Palooza & Tree Lighting Sisters hosts its annual Holiday Palooza with downtown shopping, live music, and festive activities. The event concludes with the official tree lighting at Fir Street Park. Families enjoy the small-town charm, local artisan shops, and wintery Cascade views. It’s a warm and welcoming celebration for visitors staying in Sisters or nearby. Shillings Garden Market Holiday Makers Market – Bend The Holiday Makers Market at Shillings Garden Market showcases local artisans selling handmade gifts, décor, and seasonal treats. Visitors will find unique, small-batch goods that make memorable holiday presents. The market offers a relaxed shopping environment with festive touches throughout. It’s a great stop for anyone who loves locally made crafts. Holiday Sip & Shop – Bend The Holiday Sip & Shop offers adults an evening of wine, craft beer, and boutique shopping. The event features local makers and curated seasonal items in a lively, social atmosphere. It’s ideal for finding gifts while enjoying Bend’s craft beverage scene. Entry is typically free and the experience is relaxed and festive. Under the Starlit Pines – Sunriver Under the Starlit Pines is a tranquil, illuminated nature walk hosted by the Sunriver Nature Center. Guests enjoy twinkling pathways, warm beverages, and occasional live music. It’s a quieter holiday event perfect for couples or families looking for a peaceful winter night. Tickets are limited, creating an intimate experience. Festival of the Trees – Redmond Festival of the Trees transforms the Fair & Expo Center into a gallery of beautifully decorated themed Christmas trees. Visitors can stroll through the displays, enjoy live entertainment, and participate in auctions benefiting local community programs. The event blends creativity with holiday tradition. It’s a long-standing favorite in Redmond each December. Holiday Movie Screening: Elf – Bend The Tower Theatre hosts an annual screening of the movie “Elf,” offering a fun, family-friendly holiday outing. Guests enjoy classic holiday cinema in one of Bend’s most charming historic venues. It’s a great mid-December activity for visitors who want a cozy break from outdoor adventures. Tickets tend to sell quickly. Geminids Meteor Shower Snowshoe Tour – Bend Wanderlust Tours leads a guided snowshoe trek during the peak of the Geminids Meteor Shower in mid-December. Participants enjoy a starlit winter hike, hot drinks, and expert naturalist insights. With minimal light pollution, Central Oregon delivers excellent meteor visibility. This event is ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Christmas in the Pines – Prineville Christmas in the Pines is a drive-through holiday light show at the Crook County Fairgrounds. Visitors enjoy illuminated displays from the warmth of their vehicle, making it perfect for cold winter nights. The event typically runs nightly through Christmas Day. It’s a charming small-town light show worth the
Plan a memorable Thanksgiving escape in Government Camp with our curated selection of spacious lodges and cozy cabins. These homes offer comfort, privacy, and mountain charm, perfect for holiday gatherings, outdoor adventures, and winter relaxation.
