holidays

10 must-see holiday light displays in metro Denver

 
 

It’s suddenly tree-lighting, house-decorating, parade-having time of year, and the metro area has no shortage of ways to celebrate the holidays.

Walk-through lighting displays are, of course, one of the lowest-effort activities with the highest return on wonder and kid friendliness — provided you don’t mind the prices. They’re not up too much this year from last — just $2 on average, according to a Denver Post survey — although many nonprofits and commercial installations are still trying to make up for vastly lower attendance the last couple years, so it’s understandable.

Most events are, as you’ll quickly notice, limited in hours, timed and ticketed, and optional in their masking policies. Some do not offer on-site ticket sales, and the biggest ones are likely to sell out in the coming weeks (some, such as Blossoms of Light and Zoo Lights, are being snatched up predictably fast).

Check each event’s website before attending, and bring masks just to be safe.

With that in mind, here are 10 of the biggest metro-area holiday lighting displays, with an interactive map at extras.denverpost.com/holiday-lights. Public tree lightings are free. Admission to the rest varies by location; see links for details.

Downtown Denver Grand Illumination

Where: Denver Union Station, 1701 Wynkoop St., Denver
When: 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25
Price: Free, with paid packages available
Contact: 303-592-6712, denver.org or unionstationindenver.com

Downtown Denver’s Union Station is the center of the citywide Grand Illumination, with an appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus, “an expanded lineup family friendly entertainment of classic holiday hits” from the Denver Dolls, the Miracle Bar pop-up (through Dec. 26), and of course, the lighting of the historic Union Station and its 40-foot-tall, 7,000-light outdoor tree. That event kicks off a chain reaction of architectural icons lighting up in Skyline Park, along the 16th Street Mall, in Civic Center and around downtown.

Visits with Santa are free and on a first-come-first-served, available 11 a.m.-4 p.m. on Nov. 27, Dec. 4, Dec. 11 and Dec. 18. Nick Express skip-the-line tickets are $50 per family, although as of press time only Dec. 17 tickets were available; advanced online purchase is required.

Also for kids on Friday: free face painting, a balloon artist, a caricature artist and more. For everyone: horse-drawn carriage rides, seasonal beverages from Terminal Bar and the Cooper Lounge on an extended patio, specialty hot chocolate — spiked for adults and filled with candy additions for kids from Milkbox Ice Creamery, and more.

9News Parade of Lights

Where: Denver City and County Building, 1437 Bannock St., Denver
When: 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2
Price: Free along the route (see below). Grandstand tickets at the staging area are $25 for adults (or $50 for VIP); 2 and under free.
Contact: winterindenver.com/parade

This 49th annual event brings back holiday-themed floats (40 in all), colorful characters such as Santa and Major Waddles, giant helium-filled character balloons, marching bands, and twinkling lights along festive downtown streets. Spots along the route may fill up quickly due to the fact that they’re free, with about 300,000 attendees expected for this year. The parade will also be simulcast on 9News starting at 6 p.m. Dress for the weather!

The 2-mile route starts at Denver City & County Building, 14th and Bannock streets, then travels up Tremont Street to 17th Street where it goes northwest for several blocks before turning onto Arapahoe Street, organizers said. The parade then loops back on 15th Street to Glenarm.

Denver Zoo Lights

Where: Denver Zoo, 2300 Steele St., Denver
When: 5:30-8 p.m. Sundays-Thursdays; 5:30-8:30 p.m. (last entry) Fridays and Saturdays. Members-only through Dec. 1; opens to the public Saturday, Dec. 2-Jan. 7, 2024, low-sensory night Dec. 31
Price: $28 for adults and seniors; $21 for children ages 3-15; free for 2 and under
Contact: 720-337-1400 or denverzoo.org/events/zoolights

As a complement to Denver Botanic Gardens’ Blossoms of Light, this stationary display takes advantage of the sprawling City Park zoo location with live ice carving, seasonal craft cocktails and treats, and nighttime animal viewing (interactive experiences are available) along with, you know, the 3 million or so twinkling lights, which includes new displays for 2023.

Some weekend time slots are already sold out, with lots of weekday availability as of this writing. Prepare for scant parking and lines. Once you’ve started exploring the 80-acre display, snap a pic or three in front of zoo’s signature animal light sculptures or (as is my family’s favorite) take a spin on the vintage carousel.

Hudson Holidays

Where: Hudson Gardens & Event Center, 6115 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton
When: Limited dates, 5-9 p.m. Nov. 24-Dec. 31
Price: $20 (adults), $18 for seniors, $15 for kids 3-12, free for children 2 and under
Contact: hudsongardens.org

Littleton’s trusty “lighted forest of towering trees” emphasizes the natural surroundings, with holiday songs encouraging singing and dancing in a dedicated grove of Christmas trees, giant snowmen and glowing reindeer, and an eye-popping holiday light tunnel. Don’t forget to grab a cup of hot cocoa to warm your hands (or at least placate the kids).

This year the events are retitled Hudson Holidays, “featuring never-before-seen light installations like a cathedral comprised of thousands of LED lights,” organizers wrote, and the related Light Up the New Year show (Jan. 2-Jan. 28, 2024) that includes that includes “a laser garden and upbeat music.”

Blossoms of Light

Where: Denver Botanic Gardens, 1007 York St., Denver
When: 4:30-9 p.m., Nov. 17-Jan. 7, 2023 (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas)
Price: $25 for adults, $23 for seniors; $21 for kids 3-15, children 2 and under are free
Contact: 720-865-3500 or botanicgardens.org

Denver Botanic Gardens welcomes back the treats and warm drinks that make Blossoms of Light more than just a leisurely, Instagram-friendly stroll through its densely populated York Street grounds. (Drinks and food will be available for purchase at the Hive Garden Bistro and Offshoots Café).

Again, and because it’s easily overlooked: Tickets to Blossom of Light are NOT available on-site and must be bought online in advance. Many dates, including nearly weekend slot through Christmas, are already sold out, so don’t wait to get tickets.

Luminova Holidays at Elitch Gardens

Where: Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park, 2000 Elitch Circle, Denver
When: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24-Jan. 1, 2023
Price: $25-$30
Contact: 303-595-4386 or elitchgardens.com/luminova-holidays

Denver’s Elitch Gardens theme is a great place for huge displays, given its theme-park sprawl and verticality right in the middle of the city. The ever-evolving Luminova display offers more than 4 million lights, a 65-foot-tall Christmas tree, a 25-foot-tall snowman (which never melts, of course), a 300-foot-long candy cane tunnel, giant ornaments, a wall of lights, rides on limited Elitch Gardens attractions, train rides for the kids, Santa and his elves, and more (phew).

Olde Golden Candlelight Walk, Parade

Where: 809 15th St., Golden
When: 6:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 1; parade at 10:30 a.m. Dec. 9
Where: Washington Avenue, from 15th Street in front of Foothills Art Center to 10th Street
Price: Free (candles available for sale at local vendors)
Contact: 303-279-2282 or visitgolden.com

Golden’s traditional holiday lighting and candlelit walk turned 100 last year, and it returns with more holiday revelers strolling Washington Avenue, holding candles and singing carols — “maybe even stopping for warm cider and hot chocolate along the way,” organizers have said. Golden’s Holiday Parade also returns Dec. 9 with marching bands, floats, horses, Victorian carolers, antique cars, elves, Buffalo Bill, the Grinch, fire trucks, and Santa’s visit.

More than 45,000 holiday lights will illuminate Golden’s downtown as well as the trees, bridges and walkways along Clear Creek, while nearby, the Colorado Railroad Museum will be lit by the headlamp of its steam locomotive, as the Polar Express once again steams through the night, bringing kids and Santa to the North Pole, according to Golden officials.

Be sure to see the free, 5 p.m. pre-show at on Dec. 1 at the stage in Parfet Park just before the walk.

Trail of Lights at Chatfield Farms

Where: Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield Farms, 8500 Deer Creek Canyon Road, Littleton
When: 5-8:30 p.m. Friday-Sunday, Nov. 24-Jan. 1, 2024 (closed Christmas)
Price: $16 for adults and kids; $14 for seniors, $12 for kids ages 3-15; free for 2 and under
Contact: 720-865-3500 or botanicgardens.org

The Chatfield location of Denver Botanic Gardens gets in the holiday mood with its outdoorsy version of a lighting display. Walk just under a mile to see the illuminated cottonwoods, box elders and pine trees that wind through Green Farm, Crossroads, Deer Creek Discovery Children’s Play Area and 1880s Hildebrand Ranch homestead, organizers said. (There is the option of a shorter path.)

There’s also music in a children’s play area, “singing” Christmas trees, a pair of three-sided light tunnels, and seasonal food and drink alongside a holiday market. It debuts Friday, Nov. 24, but many times and dates are already sold out.

Camp Christmas

Where: The Hangar at Stanley Marketplace, 2501 Dallas St. in Aurora
When: 4-8 p.m. daily, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. on weekends, through Dec. 24
Price: $12-$24, with VIP options; food and drink for purchase
Contact: 303-893-4100 and denvercenter.org

After a bold run at Lakewood’s Belmar Park, this immersive, tongue-in-cheek show returns to Aurora’s Stanley Marketplace food and retail hall, courtesy of Denver interactive-art pioneer Lonnie Hanzon. We’ve called it a selfie heaven and it continues to be, with surreal, surprising, kitschy installations in a 15,000 square-foot, 360-degree “kaleidoscope of yuletide cheer at this year’s Camp Christmas,” as organizers put it.

This year’s version features a pair of themed bars and special cocktails, but minus Belmar’s kiddie carousel from last year. There are also Thursday-Sunday pictures with Santa with an additional $10 ticket (daily starting Dec. 18).

ICE! at Gaylord Rockies

Where: Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, 6700 N. Gaylord Rockies Blvd., Aurora
When: Various times and attractions, through Jan. 1, 2023
Price: $20-$36 for Ice!, with package options and other events
Contact: 720-452-6900 or christmasatgaylordrockies.marriott.com

Following last year’s Charlie Brown-themed display, Gaylord brings back its impressive ice-carving show with “A Christmas Story” theme. The ICE! celebration features carvings made from 2 million pounds of “boldly colored” ice by 40 ice artisans. The 17,500-square-foot attraction stays frozen thanks to a state-of-the-art chilling system that maintains temperatures at a frosty 9 degrees Fahrenheit, according to producers.

There is a lot more on-site — two-story-tall ice slides, ice tunnels, arches, a Nativity scene and various festive extras (snow tubing, ice skating, kid’s crafts, Santa visits, etc.) Visit the above link for times and prices.

Read more at DenverPost.com

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What to do: Oklahoma events celebrating Christmas season, from leg lamps to parades

 
 

From a Cowboy Christmas Parade to a winter solstice March of the Trees, intriguing holiday events abound across Oklahoma.

In Enid, a more than 100-foot-tall Christmas tree known as The One will be making the season merry and bright on the prairie, while in Chickasha, a 50-foot-tall Leg Lamp inspired by the classic movie "A Christmas Story" is all lit up for the season.  

Although it's impossible to list them all, here is a selection of Sooner State holiday events happening this season:   

Cowboy Christmas Parade  

When: 10 a.m. Dec. 2. 

Where: Stockyards City in Oklahoma City.

Information: https://www.stockyardscity.org/#!event-list.   

With the Slash O Ranch Longhorns leading the procession, the parade will include equestrian groups, marching bands, antique cars, community groups, law enforcement officers, pageant royalty and the famous Cowboy Santa. Rep. Frank Lucas will be grand marshal.  

Chickasha Leg Lamp 

When: Year round. 

Where: 100 Chickasha Ave., Chickasha. 

Information:https://www.facebook.com/chickashaleglamp

Inspired by the iconic 1983 film "A Christmas Story," which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, the 50-foot-tall Chickasha Leg Lamp debuted last year and is on permanent display. But it's especially worth seeing when it's all lit up for the holiday season.  

North Pole Adventure   

When: Dec. 2-24.   

Where: 2215 W I-240 Service Road, in Walnut Square Center.    

Information: https://www.northpoleadventure.org  

An interactive yuletide attraction, North Pole Adventure transports families to St. Nick's stomping grounds, where they can check on his sleigh-pulling caribou in the Reindeer Barn, attend Elf University, make toys in Santa's workshop and more. 

25th University of Central Oklahoma WinterGlow, Edmond 

When: 6 to 9 p.m. Dec.1. 

Where: Nigh University Center, 100 N University Dr., Edmond. 

Information:https://www.uco.edu/student-life/major-campus-programs/winterglow

The free, family-friendly festivities will begin with the Broncho Lake Lighting Ceremony, featuring a children’s choir, followed by an indoor winter carnival. Activities will include an inflatable Velcro wall, ornament making and decorating, free food, hot chocolate, candy, train rides and pictures with Santa. 

Riversport's Winter Glow   

When: Nov. 24-Dec. 30.    

Where: Riversport, 800 Riversport Drive.     

Information: https://www.riversportokc.org/events/winter-glow.     

Riversport OKC's family-friendly holiday experience includes ski lessons and eSports camps.  

Myriad & Bright at the Crystal Bridge Conservatory 

When: Extended holiday hours are 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 23, with the last ticket sold at 7:30 p.m.  

Where: Myriad Botanical Gardens, 301 W Reno Ave.   

Information: https://myriadgardens.org/december-in-the-gardens

The Crystal Bridge Conservatory is all decked out for the holidays with hundreds of poinsettias, including the downtown OKC landmark's signature poinsettia tree. With Conservatory Cheer After Hours, visitors can catch live solo instrumental performances from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 1, 8 and 15.  

Santa's Ozark Mountain Village, Grove  

When: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. select dates Dec. 1-23.    

Where: Har-Ber Village, 4404 W 20th, Grove.   

Information: https://www.facebook.com/HarBerVillageMuseum.   

The unique museum will feature holiday vendors, snow every hour, wine tastings, music, 40,000 lights and more.    

The One Enid  

When: Dec. 3-Jan. 6.  

Where: 150 W Park Ave., Enid.   

Information: https://www.theoneenid.com.   

The centerpiece of Enid's free multi-event holiday experience will be the Christ Tree, a 102-foot artificial tree and a 20-foot bright Bethlehem star. The tree will be decorated with nearly 35,000 lights choreographed to Christmas music.  

Edmond Holiday Stroll 

When: 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 2. 

Where: Edmond Historical Society & Museum, 431 S. Boulevard; 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse, 124 E Second; and Rodkey Victorian House, 410 S. Littler.    

Information: https://www.edmondhistory.org/events.    

Stroll to three historic places and take part in Santa photos, vintage games and crafts, cocoa and the opportunity to see a model train Christmas display by the Sooner Division of the Toy Train Operating Society.

Saints Santa Run    

When: 8 a.m. Dec. 2.    

Where: SSM Health St. Anthony, 1000 N Lee Ave. in Midtown.    

Information:https://downtownindecember.com.    

Folks who prefer to run like Rudolph through the holidays should check out the merriment of this 5K race, one-mile Fun Run and free Kids' Dash where festive garb is highly encouraged.   

American Banjo Museum's Candy Cane Christmas   

When: 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 3.   

Where: American Banjo Museum, 9 E Sheridan.   

Information: https://www.facebook.com/American.Banjo.Museum.   

The building that houses the museum was once a candy factory that made candy canes during the holiday season, so its yuletide event features live music, photos with Santa and Christmas treats. Admission is $8 for adults and free for children younger than 15, but adults can attend for free with the donation of a new unwrapped toy for the Red Andrews Dinner

Automobile Alley’s Lights on Broadway    

When: 3 to 7 p.m. Dec. 2, 9 and 16. 

Where: Broadway Avenue between NW 4 and 10.    

Information:https://www.automobilealley.org.     

The historic downtown OKC district dazzles this time of year, with more than 600,000 kaleidoscopic LED lights curtaining the buildings along North Broadway and its side streets. Various shops and restaurants will feature buzz-worthy window displays, pop-up activities, special promotions and giveaways, live music, balloon art, performances, photos with Santa Claus and more.

Shepherd's Cross' Christmas at the Farm, Claremore 

When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 7-9 and 14-16.   

Where: Shepherd's Cross, 16792 E 450 Rd., Claremore.   

Information: https://shepherdscross.com.  

Along with the walk-through living interactive nativity, the event will feature spinning and weaving demonstrations, fresh cracked and candied nuts and calm outdoor Christmas lights.   

Fort Reno's Firing of the Christmas Guns, El Reno  

When: 3 p.m. Dec. 16.   

Where: Historic Fort Reno, 7107 W Cheyenne St., El Reno.   

Information:http://www.fortreno.org/christmas-guns.    

A literal a blast from the past brought to Oklahoma by German immigrants, the traditional discharging of firearms such as cannons and guns was believed to dispel evil spirits in preparation for the upcoming holiday. Along with the guns, the free festivities will include storytelling, food and a visit from Santa. 

Holiday Stuffed Animal Sleepover, Edmond    

When: 6:30 p.m. Dec. 1.    

Where: Edmond Historical Society & Museum.   

Information: https://www.edmondhistory.org.   

Participants can take part in a craft and story time, snack on milk and cookies and then leave their stuffed animals to explore the museum with the Elf on the Shelf. Staff will compile pictures of their explorations into a digital photo album. The cost is $5 per stuffed animal.  

Factory Obscura's March of the Trees   

When: 5:30 to 8 p.m. Dec. 21.   

Where: Factory Obscura, 25 NW 9.   

Information: https://www.factoryobscura.com/events/2022/march-of-the-trees.   

On the longest night of the year, illuminate the darkness with lights and costumes. Participants are invited to dress as trees — holiday trees, butterfly trees, forest trees or trees of life — and celebrate the winter solstice.  

Depot Nights & Christmas Lights, Ardmore  

When: 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 7, 14 and 21.  

Where: Santa Fe Depot, 251 E Main, Ardmore. 

Information: https://chickasawcountry.com/events.    

Ardmore Main Street will have horse-drawn carriages roaming the streets of the Depot District offering free carriage rides to the public with a "hop-on, hop-off" route so people can travel in holiday style to their favorite stores and restaurants.  

Chabad Community Center’s Chanukah Festival 

When: 4:30 to 7 p.m. Dec. 10.    

Where: Scissortail Park's Love's Travel Stops Stage & Great Lawn, 300 SW Seventh.   

Information: https://scissortailpark.org/events/ 

Celebrate the Jewish festival of lights with the Chabad Community Center.

OKC Streetcar Free Weekend Rides

When: Weekends through Dec. 31.

Where: Downtown OKC.

Information:https://downtownindecember.com/streetcar.

Complimentary fares on the OKC Streetcar are offered on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays during the holiday season.

Science Museum Oklahoma's Pullman Parlor Car Tours 

When: Nov. 20-Jan. 6. 

Where: Science Museum Oklahoma, 2020 Remington Pl. 

Information: https://www.facebook.com/ScienceMuseumOk

The museum continues its tradition of opening up its 1929 Pullman parlor car on the  first floor for holiday tours, which are free with paid museum admission. The parlor car is only visible from the outside most of the year to preserve its historic interior.

Guthrie Territorial Christmas Celebrations  

When: Dec. 2 and 9.

Where: Downtown Guthrie. 

Information:www.GuthriesTerritorialChristmas.com

The historic Logan County seat''s holiday festivities include the Distinctive Homes Tour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 2 and the Victorian Walk Nights from 3 to 9 p.m. Dec. 2 and 9.

Moore's Christmas Spectacular 

When: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Dec. 1. 

Where: Moore Central Park Amphitheater, 700 S Broadway Ave., Moore.  

Information:https://www.cityofmoore.com/upcoming-events/christmas-spectacular-1.  

The free event will include a special appearance by Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, Christmas carolers, tree lighting, shopping at the Mini Merry Market and holiday fireworks.  

'The Polar Express Train Ride' 

When: Through Dec. 27. 

Where: Oklahoma Railway Museum, 3400 NE Grand Blvd.      

Information: https://okcthepolarexpressride.com.

A full theatrical show with a train car for a stage, the immersive ride faithfully follows Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved 1985 children's book and Robert Zemeckis' enduring 2004 computer-animated film starring Tom Hanks.     

Tulsa Christmas Parade   

When: 11 a.m. Dec. 9.   

Where: Downtown Tulsa.   

Information: https://www.facebook.com/ChristmasParadeofTulsa.    

A yuletide tradition since 1926, the parade will feature floats, balloons, bands and Santa himself.

Red Earth TreeFest 

When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays through Dec. 29. 

Where: Red Earth Art Center, BancFirst Tower lobby, 100 N Broadway Ave.      

Information: https://redearth.org/pages/treefest.      

The venerable Red Earth Inc. nonprofit arts organization annually invites Oklahoma-based Native American nations to decorate Christmas trees with handmade ornaments and art objects to showcase the distinctive cultures of each tribe. The display is free to see and will include this year about a dozen decked-out evergreens. 

Norman's Crest on Ice  

When: Through Jan. 7.   

Where: Crest Foods, 2550 Mt Williams Dr., Norman.  

Information:https://www.crestonice.com.  

For the third year, the grocery store is inviting skaters to the 4,200-square-foot rink in its parking lot.

Devon Ice Rink   

When: Through Feb. 4.    

Where: Myriad Botanical Gardens, 125 Ron Norick Blvd., between Reno and Sheridan.    

Information: https://www.facebook.com/devonicerink.    

The rink returns for its 12th season in the Myriad Gardens, offering 5,000 square feet of real ice, glittering lights and seasonal food and beverage offerings in the heart of downtown. 

Arvest Winterfest, Tulsa  

When: Through Jan. 2.      

Where: Outside BOK Center, 200 S Denver in Tulsa.       

Information:www.tulsawinterfest.com.      

The 16th annual downtown Tulsa holiday festival includes a skating rink, huge holiday tree and weekend festivities, including free live entertainment to the Winterfest Express Train and Sundays with Santa.

Edmond Ice Rink

When: Through Jan. 15.     

Where: Mitch Park, 1501 W Covell Rd., Edmond.      

Information: https://www.edmondicerink.com.   

Zip across the real ice at the rink next to the silo in Mitch Park. The rink also is adjacent to Edmond Electric's annual Luminance holiday lights display, making the season bright through Jan. 1. 

Yukon Ice Rink  

When: Through Jan. 1. 

Where: Chisholm Trail Park, 500 W Vandament Ave., Yukon.    

Information: https://www.yukonicerink.com

The rink returns for its fourth season as part of Yukon's Christmas in the Park, billed as the state's largest drive-thru light display.   

Read more at Oklahoman.com

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The Best Holiday Events In Central Oregon

 
 

The holiday season in Central Oregon is full of festive events and traditions.

Snap pictures with Santa in the morning and attend a holiday market from local makers in the afternoon. December nights are filled with local theater and colorful holiday light displays. Whether you prefer running a festive 10K or riding a sleigh at local resorts, there’s an event for everyone. Discover the holiday magic in Central Oregon

Experience the Bend Christmas Parade

The annual Bend Christmas Parade will take over the streets of downtown on December 2, 2023, with the theme “The Lights of Christmas.” Grand Marshal Trish Smith and family lead the festive spectacle, organized by the dedicated volunteers of the Bend Christmas Parade Committee. Since its inception in the 1950s, the parade has evolved into a beloved tradition that marks the start of the holiday season each year. Join in the family fun, be on the lookout for a Santa sighting and let “The Lights of Christmas” brighten downtown Bend. Click here for more information.

Where to Shop for Gifts at Central Oregon Artisan Markets

Local artisans showcase their creativity, offering an array of seasonal decor and one-of-a-kind gifts. Stroll with a cup of hot chocolate or a hot toddy in hand as most markets feature food trucks, live music and festive libations. Find local gift-shopping experiences at holiday markets across Central Oregon.

Bend Moonlight Market: Naughty or Nice | December 1

Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, everyone is invited to the Bend Moonlight Market. Local makers, resellers, and​ artists showcase their work alongside​ a flash tattoo station, live music, food and drink stations and plenty of holiday cheer. Free entry and all ages are welcome to help kick off the shopping season. Click here for more information.

First Friday Holiday Market | December 1

Explore local craftsmanship at The Local Assembly’s First Friday Holiday Market, featuring a thoughtfully curated ​collection of artisan-made products, including clothing, art, jewelry and handmade goods. Support local talent and capture the spirit ​of the season. Click here for more information. 

Holiday Makers Market | December 2

Jumpstart your holiday shopping at Bevel Craft Brewing’s Holiday Makers Market. Browse 20 local vendors, sip on ​craft ​beer and treat yourself to tasty bites from food carts. Spread cheer by donating an unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots and enjoy a free beer from Bevel in return. Smile for a photo with Santa and let him know your Christmas wishes. Click here for more information.

Schilling’s 2023 Holiday Makers Market | December 2 and 3

Schilling’s Garden Market presents its 4th Holiday ​Makers Market, showcasing fresh wreaths, artisanal goods and treats from local vendors. Meet Santa, enjoy live holiday music and participate in a​ vendor-donated raffle. This market takes place outdoors. So rain, shine or snow, it promises to be a winter holiday experience. Click here for more information. 

Craft-O! Holiday Bazaar | December 9 and 10

Craft-O! is the ultimate destination for locally crafted holiday shopping, hosted by The Workhouse, Gathered Wares, ​Mud Lake Studios, Furnish Hope & Home and Desert Rose Cactus Lounge. Peruse offerings from around 50 talented artisan vendors, and warm up at Cafe Des Chutes with boozy lattes, hot chocolate or a glass ​of wine. Click here for more information. 

Holiday Spirit Market | December 16

Experience ​the joy of the season at the inaugural Holiday ​Spirit Market. Delve into a haven of meaningful ​gifts featuring healing crystals, handcrafted jewelry, ceremonial cacao, natural perfume, knits, wood, leather, vintage goods and more. Redefine gifting this year and explore a diverse array of thoughtful treasures. Click here for more information. 

Seasonal Theater and Music in Central Oregon

Throughout the season, Central Oregon theaters and venues brim with festive holiday spirit. Whether you yearn for an evening of swanky jazz, the jubilant notes of a holiday musical or even​ the lively beats ​of a bass-dropping holiday DJ​ set, there’s a show for everyone. Get your tickets and celebrate with these entertaining holiday events in Central Oregon.

Holiday Magic | December 2 and 3

Find festive jazz at Cascade Chorale’s “Holiday Magic.” Experience a lively mix of classics and exciting new pieces. ​This year, the event brings back the much-loved Jazz Central, as well as special guests—27th Street Brass Quintet and Dove String Quartet. Click here for more information.

The Unhinged Holiday Show | December 9

Get ready for The Unhinged ​Holiday Show, an uproarious mix of stand-up and sketch comedy presented by Bits N Skits. Featuring some of Bend’s favorite​ comedians and hosted by Christine Keefer and Whitney Russell, this show is bound to be a riot of laughs mixed with ​holiday cheer. Click here for more information.

Jingle Ball 2023 | December 16

Join the ultimate EDM holiday bash! Don’t miss out on the fun—arrive early to snag your tickets for five hours of non-stop dancing to the tunes ​of Bend’s finest DJs. Get into the holiday spirit with a photo booth, crafts and a cozy lounge area. The theme is laid-back with a touch of glam, so throw on your “funny formal” ​attire for a night of beats and good vibes. Click here for more information. Click here for more information.

Jazz at the Oxford–A Patrick Lamb Charlie Brown Christmas | December 17 and 18

Musician Patrick Lamb showcases a family Christmas ​celebration with the timeless music of Vince Guaraldi. Don’t ​miss the traditional holiday sounds of an award-winning musician at this classic jazz event. Click here for more information.

Swingin Tower Christmas | December 21, 22 and 23

Get into a festive groove at Swingin’ Tower Christmas—a family-friendly celebration with Christmas tunes, carols and heartwarming stories. ​The event features a 17-piece big band and your favorite local singers. Be on the lookout for Olive the Elf and a special visit from Santa. It’s a holiday experience for all ages you won’t ​want to miss. Click here for more information.

Holiday Runs in Central Oregon

As temperatures dip, it’s prime time to inject some festive fun into your fitness routine with these holiday-themed running races. Beyond uniting the community, it’s also the perfect excuse to showcase those creative holiday costumes. ​Whether you’re donning your ugliest sweater, sporting a Rudolph-red nose or simply cozying up in your warmest gear, it’s time to break a sweat in holiday style.

Ugly Sweater Run | December 2

Embrace the holiday spirit at the ​3rd Annual Ugly Sweater 5K Run or Walk in Sisters. Tackle the scenic route adorned in your favorite ugly Christmas sweater and cap off the run at The Barn food truck pod with a lively post-race party and an entertaining ugly sweater contest. ​Families can create teams for added fun and a portion of the proceeds support Sisters High School’s cross-country team. Click here for more information.

The Reindeer Rush | December 2

In its first year, The Reindeer Rush is a way for children and their families to precede the Bend Christmas Parade by following the same route through downtown. Enjoy ​free registration and the first 500 kids who sign up receive a whimsical reindeer headband. Click here for more information.

Holiday Lights & Cookie Run | December 6

The FootZone Holiday Lights & Cookie Run route will be full of sweetness and holiday fun. Gather at FootZone and, for a dash of competition, bring your best-baked entry for the chance to win a cookie competition. The 3-mile route​ offers a tour of local lights and decorations. After the run, indulge in cookies and hot ​chocolate, cider and holiday treats. Participate in the contest for a shot at a $25 FootZone gift card. Celebrate the season by combining a fun run, sweet treats, and a showcase of ​your cookie-making prowess. Click here for more information.

Holiday Season at the Old Mill District 

Some of the best holiday events in Central Oregon are found in The Old Mill District, which comes alive with festive cheer throughout December. From SantaLand’s enchantment to sparkling lights and cheerful ​​carolers, the ​atmosphere is brimming with festive joy. As snowflakes gently fall, the Old Mill transforms into a picturesque holiday haven, inviting everyone to create cherished memories and ​embrace the spirit of the season.

SantaLand

Step into the magical world of SantaLand at Bend’s Old Mill District. The beautiful wonderland, nestled between Sweet Tooth Candy Shoppe and Sunglass Hut, is the perfect setting for dropping off letters to Santa, mingling with elves, meeting Nutcracker ballerinas and capturing moments with the jolly man in red. Throughout November and December, Santa is available for photos every Friday and Saturday, and an outdoor ​Christmas mailbox invites children to send letters to Santa.

Tree of Joy

Spread the spirit of giving through the Tree of Joy, a heartwarming collaboration between the Salvation Army, Rotary Club of Greater Bend and the Old Mill District. To find gift suggestions for families facing challenges, simply pick up a list, select an unwrapped present and return it to SantaLand. The Salvation Army and Rotary Club ​ensure these thoughtful gifts will reach the recipients and brighten the holidays of for those in need.

Menorah Lighting

Join Chabad of Central Oregon for a Menorah Lighting in the Old Mill District on December 7. Starting at 4 p.m., festivities​ commence with music, hot drinks, food and community camaraderie. The event symbolizes light, faith and resilience, unites the local Jewish community and welcomes all ​backgrounds to commemorate the Festival of Lights, Chanukah (Hannukah).

Holiday Lights Paddle Parade

Witness a beautiful light show on the Deschutes River with the Holiday Lights Paddle Parade on Friday, December 15, starting at 4 p.m. Paddlers from Central Oregon gather near Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe before cruising upriver. Kayaks, canoes or paddle boards are adorned in colorful ​lights, turning the water into a dazzling holiday display. Join the fun and witness a parade that transforms ​the Deschutes into a festive river of lights.

Carolers

Get into the holiday spirit with area choirs as they spread cheer in the Old Mill District throughout December. With a cup of hot chocolate in hand and ​surrounded by the Old Mill District’s holiday lights, listen to local choirs of all ages fill the ​air with the sounds of the season.

Click here for more information on holiday celebrations in the Old Mill.

Holiday Season at Central Oregon Resorts

The holidays are especially magical at the beautiful resorts in Central Oregon. ​From sparkling light displays to artisan markets, ​sleigh rides and ice skating, Central Oregon’s resorts offer ample opportunities to create both new traditions and lifelong memories.

Black Butte Ranch

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at Black Butte Ranch. Attend the Christmas Tree Lighting at the Lodge, featuring caroling and delightful treats. Experience holiday magic at Breakfast with Santa, ​complete with photos and cookie decorating. Indulge in the Christmas Buffet, the Christmas Eve Dinner or a carriage ride at the Ranch. Ring in the New Year with a special menu and live music at Aspen Lounge. ​The Lakeside Bistro offers breakfast and a recovery bar ​on New Year’s Day. Select events may require reservations. Lasting holiday memories are created at Black Butte Ranch. Click here for more information.

Tetherow Resort

Embrace festivities at Tetherow Resort with its 2023 Holiday Bazaar, featuring local makers and artisans. Enjoy snacks, shop local, and donate a gift to Toys for Tots and get a complimentary drink. Bring kids of all ages to Brunch with Santa, complete with crafts and Santa appearances. The Christmas Eve dinner begins with seasonal cocktails and includes options for every dietary need. Events are open to the public, though Tetherow Members enjoy special discounts. ​

Sunriver Resort

Celebrate tradition at Sunriver Resort with horse-drawn sleigh rides, fireside hot chocolate and nightly festivities, including the Grand Illumination ceremony. Witness a mesmerizing Holiday Light Show. Join Santa’s Brunch Visits, decorate gingerbread kits, and join in the Takoda the Bear Scavenger Hunt. Enjoy Sunriver Stables Sleigh Rides (weather permitting). Relish in​ festive Christmas dinners and buffets. Visit Gingerbread Junction’s 27th Annual fundraiser and meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. ​Craft treasured memories at Sunriver Resort this holiday season. Click here for more information.

Brasada Ranch

Experience a festive holiday season at Brasada Ranch with family activities, from cozy carriage rides and visits with Santa to ranch-to-table dining. Brasada offers horseback rides to Spirit Rock with panoramic views and a place to savor hot chocolate and gourmet s’mores. Kids enjoy Brasada’sHot Cocoa Scavenger Hunt. Don’t miss special events like Breakfast with Santa, Christmas Eve Dinner and an adults-only New Year’s Eve Dinner ​at Range Restaurant & Bar. The Cosmic Kids New Year’s Eve Party keeps children entertained with games, crafts, a glow pool party and more.

For more holiday events in Central Oregon, visit our calendar page for an updated lineup of celebrations.

Read more at BendMagazine.com

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The History of Earth Day on its 50th Anniversary

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THE FIRST EARTH DAY

Every year on April 22, Earth Day marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970.

As we prepare to mark 50 years of Earth Day in 2020, let’s take a look at the last half-century of mobilization for action:

ORIGINS OF EARTH DAY

Earth Day 1970 gave a voice to an emerging public consciousness about the state of our planet — 

In the decades leading up to the first Earth Day, Americans were consuming vast amounts of leaded gas through massive and inefficient automobiles. Industry belched out smoke and sludge with little fear of the consequences from either the law or bad press. Air pollution was commonly accepted as the smell of prosperity. Until this point, mainstream America remained largely oblivious to environmental concerns and how a polluted environment threatens human health.

However, the stage was set for change with the publication of Rachel Carson’s New York Times bestseller Silent Spring in 1962. The book represented a watershed moment, selling more than 500,000 copies in 24 countries as it raised public awareness and concern for living organisms, the environment and the inextricable links between pollution and public health.

Earth Day 1970 would come to provide a voice to this emerging environmental consciousness, and putting environmental concerns on the front page.


THE IDEA FOR THE FIRST EARTH DAY

Senator Gaylord Nelson, a junior senator from Wisconsin, had long been concerned about the deteriorating environment in the United States.  Then in January 1969, he and many others witnessed the ravages of a massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California.  Inspired by the student anti-war movement, Senator Nelson wanted to infuse the energy of student anti-war protests with an emerging public consciousness about air and water pollution. Senator Nelson announced the idea for a teach-in on college campuses to the national media, and persuaded Pete McCloskey, a conservation-minded Republican Congressman, to serve as his co-chair.  They recruited Denis Hayes, a young activist, to organize the campus teach-ins and they choose April 22, a weekday falling between Spring Break and Final Exams, to maximize the greatest student participation. 

Recognizing its potential to inspire all Americans, Hayes built a national staff of 85 to promote events across the land and the effort soon broadened to include a wide range of organizations, faith groups, and others.  They changed the name to Earth Day, which immediately sparked national media attention, and caught on across the country.  Earth Day inspired 20 million Americans — at the time, 10% of the total population of the United States — to take to the streets, parks and auditoriums to demonstrate against the impacts of 150 years of industrial development which had left a growing legacy of serious human health impacts. Thousands of colleges and universities organized protests against the deterioration of the environment and there were massive coast-to-coast rallies in cities, towns, and communities.

Groups that had been fighting individually against oil spills, polluting factories and power plants, raw sewage, toxic dumps, pesticides, freeways, the loss of wilderness and the extinction of wildlife united on Earth Day around these shared common values. Earth Day 1970 achieved a rare political alignment, enlisting support from Republicans and Democrats, rich and poor, urban dwellers and farmers, business and labor leaders. By the end of 1970, the first Earth Day led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of other first of their kind environmental laws, including the National Environmental Education Act,  the Occupational Safety and Health Act, and the Clean Air Act.  Two years later Congress passed the Clean Water Act.  A year after that, Congress passed the Endangered Species Act and soon after the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. These laws have protected millions of men, women and children from disease and death and have protected hundreds of species from extinction.

1990: EARTH DAY GOES GLOBAL

As 1990 approached, a group of environmental leaders approached Denis Hayes to once again organize another major campaign for the planet. This time, Earth Day went global, mobilizing 200 million people in 141 countries and lifting environmental issues onto the world stage. Earth Day 1990 gave a huge boost to recycling efforts worldwide and helped pave the way for the 1992 United Nations Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. It also prompted President Bill Clinton to award Senator Nelson the Presidential Medal of Freedom — the highest honor given to civilians in the United States — for his role as Earth Day founder.

EARTH DAY FOR A NEW MILLENNIUM

As the millennium approached, Hayes agreed to spearhead another campaign, this time focused on global warming and a push for clean energy. With 5,000 environmental groups in a record 184 countries reaching out to hundreds of millions of people, Earth Day 2000 built both global and local conversations, leveraging the power of the Internet to organize activists around the world, while also featuring a drum chain that traveled from village to village in Gabon, Africa. Hundreds of thousands of people also gathered on the National Mall in Washington, DC for a First Amendment Rally. 

30 years on, Earth Day 2000 sent world leaders a loud and clear message: Citizens around the world wanted quick and decisive action on global warming and clean energy.

EARTH DAY 2010

As in 1970, Earth Day 2010 came at a time of great challenge for the environmental community to combat the cynicism of climate change deniers, well-funded oil lobbyists, reticent politicians, a disinterested public, and a divided environmental community with the collective power of global environmental activism. In the face of these challenges, Earth Day prevailed and Earth Day Network reestablished Earth Day as a major moment for global action for the environment.

Over the decades, Earth Day Network has brought hundreds of millions of people into the environmental movement, creating opportunities for civic engagement and volunteerism in 193 countries.  Earth Day engages more than 1 billion people every year and has become a major stepping stone along the pathway of engagement around the protection of the planet. 

EARTH DAY TODAY

Today, Earth Day is widely recognized as the largest secular observance in the world, marked by more than a billion people every year as a day of action to change human behavior and create global, national and local policy changes.

Now, the fight for a clean environment continues with increasing urgency, as the ravages of climate change become more and more apparent every day. 

As the awareness of our climate crisis grows, so does civil society mobilization, which is reaching a fever pitch across the globe today. Disillusioned by the low level of ambition following the adoption of the Paris Agreement in 2015 and frustrated with international environmental lethargy, citizens of the world are rising up to demand far greater action for our planet and its people. 

The social and cultural environments we saw in 1970 are rising up again today — a fresh and frustrated generation of young people are refusing to settle for platitudes, instead taking to the streets by the millions to demand a new way forward. Digital and social media are bringing these conversations, protests, strikes and mobilizations to a global audience, uniting a concerned citizenry as never before and catalyzing generations to join together to take on the greatest challenge that humankind has faced. 

By tapping into some of the learnings, outcomes, and legacy of the first Earth Day, Earth Day Network is building a cohesive, coordinated, diverse movement, one that goes to the very heart of what EDN and Earth Day are all about — empowering individuals with the information, the tools, the messaging and the communities needed to make an impact and drive change.

2020 marks the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. In honor of this milestone, Earth Day Network is launching an ambitious set of goals to shape the future of 21st century environmentalism. Learn more here.

We invite you to be a part of Earth Day and help write many more chapters—struggles and victories—into the Earth Day book.