Looking for December events around Bend, Oregon to celebrate with your family, buy some great gifts, or just enjoy a winter beer? We’ve got you covered with the top December events to mark on your Bend calendar!
Bend Christmas Parade – Dec. 7th
If it’s not Christmas to you without a parade, then you’ll want to mark this one on your calendar: The downtown Christmas Parade features floats, celebrations, music and more. The parade wraps around Drake Park and provides many different options for viewing with your family.
Holiday Tails Art and Craft Fair – Dec. 7th
If parades aren’t really your style, you may be more interested in checking out this craft fair held at the Athletic Club of Bend. It’s a great time to look for holiday gifts and features many local artists with a variety of crafts and goodies for sale. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Humane Society of Central Oregon, and there’s a general pet theme to the whole event.
4th Annual Winter Pop-Up – Dec. 12th
This little festival, located at Springhill Suites right by Old Mill, chooses more than 20 of the very best local vendors in town and gathers them together for a unique shopping experience. It’s a good place to finish up your Christmas shopping or see what the latest and greatest in Bend are creating these days. Afterward, stroll across the street to the Box Factory and take a look at some great stops for food and drink.
Tumalo Creek Holiday Lights Paddle Parade – Dec. 13th
No, it’s not too cold for a little paddling! This event sees brave paddlers dress up their canoes, paddleboards and kayaks in festive holiday lights and decorations, then paddle through the Old Mill District. You don’t have to be on the river to have fun, either: The show looks great for those just strolling through Old Mill, where there are plenty of places to warm up and grab a drink afterward. 2018 saw more than 1,000 participants!
Father Christmas and Thorn Hollow String Band – Dec. 14th
There are a LOT of chances to take your kids to meet Santa around Bend, but this special event held at the High Desert Museum is one of our favorites. It’s a great day out for your family that includes an authentic 1880s version of Santa Claus (modern photos are encouraged), cookie decorating, live music and of course, exploring the Museum.
If this isn’t your speed, there’s a Brunch with Santa on the same day in Sunriver that’s another favorite for families and includes many activities (reservations required for photos).
Central Oregon Winter Beer Festival – Dec. 14th
Are you a fan of dark, powerful winter beers? Then you won’t want to miss this beer festival, held at Goodlife Brewing. It features the top winter beers from nearby breweries in one spot for easy tasting. Food carts will also be present for grabbing a delicious meal. Proceeds benefit the Central Oregon Brewers Guild.
A Swingin’ Tower Christmas – Dec. 20th – 22nd
This very popular Christmas event at the Tower Theater happens a few days before Christmas and has quickly become a tradition in the city. It’s a family-friendly concert and performance that features an 18-piece swing band, unique holiday characters, and host Mollie Tennant. It’s a great event to really feel like it’s Christmas time! Of course, seating at Tower Theater is quite limited so it’s best to act fast.
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