Rumor has it, there’s always something happening in Bend. And you know what? The rumors are true. It’s safe to say there’s always an event going on in our bustling little mountain oasis.

Events in Bend are chock full of fun, culture, action, and even delicious food and beverages. From family-friendly festivals to art walks, beer-fests, outdoor concerts, marathons, or a bike race, there’s probably an event happening that you won’t want to miss. And the holidays are no different! See below for a few of our holiday favorites!

Ice Skating - Seventh Mountain Resort, Begins 11/17/23

Ice Skating at Seventh Mountain Resort has been a winter tradition for families on Central Oregon’s oldest outdoor rink.

Projected Opening November 17th, 2023!Please visit their website to see the schedule. https://seventhmountainriverco.com/

Nutcracker - Magical Christmas Ballet, 11/18/23

The beloved family tradition is back: NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet! Gather your loved ones for the warm-glow-nostalgia of America’s favorite Christmas celebration. Experience the extraordinary international cast and Ukrainian Principal Artists performing at the peak of classical European Ballet. Be transported by the magic of jaw-dropping acrobatics, larger than life puppets and stunning hand-crafted sets and costumes. Don’t miss this chance to experience the wonder of NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet. Get tickets now!

https://nutcracker.com/

Traditions at Sunriver Resort, Begins 11/18/23

Spark up the holiday season with family and friends at the Grand Illumination tree-lighting ceremony and fireworks show, a Signature Sunriver tradition for more than 20 years. This year’s celebration includes a visit from Santa, live music and entertainment, train rides, telescope viewings, hot cocoa, putt-putt, huggable characters, holiday shopping and more. Enjoy a meal from one of their restaurants or a selection of local vendors.

https://www.sunriverresort.com/traditions

Community Tree Lighting - Downtown Bend, 12/1

Community Tree Lighting outside of The Commons Cafe & Taproom from 4 to 8 p.m.

Music, Festivities & Activities
- Meet Santa (outside The Commons Cafe & Taproom - 4 - 8 p.m.)
- Art Walk on First Friday
- music from Bella Acappella Carolers, the Oregon Youth Choir and more!
- dance performances by Downtown Bend Dance Group
- Silver Rail Elementary Students read "Why I Love Winter in Bend"
- Hot Cocoa 

https://www.downtownbend.org/communitytreelighting.html#/

Bend Christmas Parade, 12/2

Bend's most beloved event is coming soon! The 2022 Parade was even bigger and better! 2023 is going to surpass 2022! Theme: "The Lights of Christmas"

https://www.bendchristmasparade.org/

Swinging Tower Christmas, 12/21-12/23

Enjoy a family-friendly holiday celebration of the most swingin’ Christmas songs, as well as carols and stories of the season. A 17-piece big band of top local musicians lays down the groove for several of your favorite local singers. Mollie and Jim Tennant host this swingin’ celebration sure to make your Yule cool. Keep an eye out for Olive the Elf, and the big man himself…Santa!

https://www.towertheatre.org/tickets-and-events/swingin-tower-christmas_2