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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If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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A List of New Year Renovation Resolutions

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With the start of the new year, it’s never too late to reflect on new resolutions to give your home a much-needed upgrade.

Sometimes, the smallest changes can accomplish the biggest transformations. As you start to ponder where to begin with your home renovation, we have created a list of new year renovation resolutions for your living space. Take a look, and hopefully, you can take a few from our list and make your house more awesome.

Declutter, Repurpose and Recycle
By removing excess items, you can create a brighter, more spacious atmosphere that’s perfect for starting the new year. Instead of throwing away items you no longer need, consider repurposing them or donating them to someone who can use them. This not only reduces waste but can also save you money in the long run. Recycling household products is another great way to clear space and improve your environment.

Look Into Roof Maintenance or Replacement
Taking care of your roof is critical in maintaining the safety and protection of your home, especially after the harsh winter weather. By inspecting your roof for any damage, leaks, or cracks at the beginning of the year, you can catch any potential issues early on, saving you both time and money in the long run. Consider replacing old roofing with newer, sturdier and more energy-efficient options such as metal or asphalt shingles. Not only will this add value to your home, but it will also ensure that your household is adequately protected from any external elements. Don't hesitate to look into roof maintenance or replacement this year to keep your home in tip-top shape or to reach out to residential roofers if you think you need a professional on the project.

Add Plants to Your Home Decor
Looking to spruce up your living space? Why not add some greenery to your home decor? Plants are a great way to add a touch of nature to your home, and studies show that having plants around can even improve your mood and sense of well-being. Not only do they look appealing, but certain plants also have air-purifying qualities, making them a great addition to any room. If you're new to the world of plants, don't worry - there are plenty of easy-to-maintain options such as Succulents, Fiddle Leaf Figs, Pothos and Ivy. So why not consider adding some green to your space today and see how it transforms your home?

Install New Cabinets, Countertops and Appliances
Upgrading your kitchen cabinets, countertops and appliances can completely transform the heart of your home. If you're tired of looking at the same outdated design, consider investing in new, modern fixtures. Not only will it give your kitchen a fresh new look, but it will also improve the functionality of your space. Imagine cooking in a kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances and ample counter space. It's easy to see why making this update can make daily life easier and more enjoyable.

Add a Home Office or Entertainment Space
With remote work becoming a new norm, the need for a comfortable and functional home office space is undeniable. Working from the kitchen table or couch may not be a conducive environment, hence the need for a designated work area. Why not take it further and create an entertainment space? It's a great way to make your home feel more inviting, and you can utilize the space for casual hangouts with friends or family. Whether you choose a gaming room or mini bar, the possibilities are endless. It's time to spruce up your living space and make it more practical and enjoyable.

Upgrade Your Shower and Lighting
Transform your bathroom into a soothing retreat with a shower and lighting overhaul. Upgrade your shower system and give your bathroom a fresh look by adding new tiles, fixtures and shower heads. From rain shower heads to handhelds, the options are endless. To enhance your experience, install energy-efficient lighting that not only saves money but also creates an inviting atmosphere. With the right lighting, you won't dread getting ready in the morning or winding down before bed. Upgrade your shower and lighting to create a relaxing and rejuvenating spa-like heaven right in your home.

Update Your Exterior Siding
Whether you're looking to boost curb appeal or simply freshen up the look of your place, swapping out old, weathered siding for something shiny and new can make a world of difference. These days, vinyl siding is a top choice for many homeowners—not only is it cost-effective and easy to maintain, but it's also incredibly durable and can last for decades. So if the exterior of your home could use a bit of an update, companies such as Superior Products are ready to supply you with the materials you need to get started.

Home renovation resolutions can be a refreshing start to the new year. Taking the time to evaluate your living space and reflecting on how to make it more awesome can make a significant impact on your daily life. Whether you opt for decluttering and recycling or adding a home office, upgrading your kitchen, or adding plants to your decor, there are a plethora of options to make your home a happy and relaxing place to be. Start small, stay focused and enjoy the transformation of your home.

Read more at Rismedia.com

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Are the Top 3 Housing Market Questions on Your Mind?

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When it comes to what’s happening in the housing market, there’s a lot of confusion going around right now.

You may hear one thing in conversation with your friends, see something totally different on the news, and read something on social media that contradicts both of those thoughts. And, if you’re thinking about making a move, that can leave you with a lot of lingering questions. That’s where a trusted local real estate agent comes in.

Here are the top 3 questions people are asking about today’s housing market, and the data to help answer them.

1. What’s Next for Mortgage Rates?

Mortgage rates are higher than they’ve been in recent years. And, if you’re looking to buy a home, that impacts how much you can afford. That’s why so many buyers want to know what’s ahead for mortgage rates. The answer to that question is: no one can say for certain, but here’s what we know based on historical trends.

There’s a long-standing relationship between mortgage rates and inflation. Basically, when inflation is high, mortgage rates tend to follow suit. Over the past year, inflation was up, so mortgage rates were as well. But inflation is easing now. And this is why the Federal Reserve has recently paused their federal funds rate hikes, which means many experts believe mortgage rates will begin to come down.

And in some ways, we’ve started to see hints of slightly lower mortgage rates in recent weeks. But it’s certainly been volatile and will likely continue to be that way going into next year. Some ongoing variation is to be expected, but the anticipation is, that in 2024, we’ll see a downward trend. As Aziz Sunderji, Strategist at Home Economics, says:

“The bottom line is that interest rates are likely to be lower-perhaps even lower than many optimists think – in the weeks and months to come.”

2. Where Are Home Prices Headed?

While there’s been a lot of concern prices would come crashing down this year, data shows that didn’t happen. In fact, home prices are rising in most of the nation. Experts say that trend will continue, just at a slower pace that’s much more normal for the housing market – and that’s a good thing.

To help show just how confident experts are in this continued appreciation, take a look at the Home Price Expectation Survey from Pulsenomics. It’s a survey of a national panel of over 100 economists, real estate experts, and investment and market strategists. As the graph below shows, the consensus is, that prices will keep climbing next year, and in the years to come.

 
 

3. Is a Recession Around the Corner?

While recession talk has been a common thing over the past few years, there’s good news on that front.

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) polls experts on this topic regularly. And last year at this time, most of them thought a recession would have happened by now. But as experts look at all the leading indicators today, they’re changing their minds and saying a recession is getting less and less likely. The latest results show that more experts now think we’re not headed for another recession (see chart below):

 
 

This is big news for the housing market. And while the 48% to 52% split may seem close to half and half, the key thing to focus on is that the majority of these experts think we’ve avoided a recession already.

Bottom Line

The big takeaway? The data shows there isn’t cause for concern – there are actually more signs of hope. Reach out to a local real estate agent to talk more about the housing market questions on your mind heading into the new year. 

Read more at KeepingCurrentMatters.com

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Homebuyers Will Be So Thankful To Hear These Strangely Hopeful New Housing Statistics

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Now that the holiday season is in full swing, the housing market typically slows down until the new year. This holiday housing market, however, might be a whole different world.

One reason for this is that mortgage rates have dropped again, averaging 7.29% for a 30-year fixed-rate home loan in the week ending Nov. 22. (The results include an adjustment for the observance of Thanksgiving.)

“In recent weeks, rates have dropped by half a percent,” said Sam Khater, Freddie Mac’s chief economist. However, “potential homebuyers continue to hold out for lower rates and more inventory. This dynamic is reflected in the latest data showing that existing-home sales have fallen to a 13-year low.”

Yet the latest housing statistics from Realtor.com® show a glimmer of hope coming down the pike: For the week ending Nov. 18, new listings shot up a whopping 5% compared with last year.

We’ll break down what this and other just-released real estate statistics mean for buyers and sellers in this latest installment of “How’s the Housing Market This Week?”

Why more homes are hitting the market

Housing inventory has been famously scarce in recent months, but in the past three weeks, there’s been an upward trend of new listings coming to market.

“With the number of homes for sale already limited, a pickup in new listings is a welcomed change to recent inventory woes,” notes Realtor.com economic research analyst Hannah Jones in her analysis.

In addition to this gush of fresh listings, the total number of active listings (both new and old) increased by 1.5% for the week ending Nov. 18 compared with a year earlier. This is the second week in a row that these numbers exceed last year’s levels.

Granted, Jones points out that, “from a longer-term macroeconomic perspective, housing remains undersupplied.”

Pull back to the big picture, and you might be shocked to know that the number of for-sale homes is currently 41.8% below pre-pandemic levels.

Still, more homes are slowly but surely coming—particularly since both housing starts and housing permits have been climbing month over month.

The latest trend in home prices

On the not-so-good news front? So far at least, home prices are still rising.

The nation’s median list price ticked up by 1.2% over last year’s levels for the week ending Nov. 18.

“Though prices have continued to climb over last year’s level, mortgage rates have fallen for the last three weeks, promising relief for buyers,” Jones points out.

As more homes come to market and ease supply issues, prices might soon settle down, too.

“More active inventory will take some pressure off of home prices,” Jones explains. “And falling home prices, coupled with falling mortgage rates, will help buyers trickle back into the housing market.”

Still, this “gift” is more of a consolation prize, at least at this point.

“Prices remain higher than a year ago, and rates remain in the mid-7% range,” Jones concludes. “Meaning that unaffordability is likely to persist for the time being.”

Why the pace of home sales is picking up

While the pace of home sales tends to slow to a crawl in the fall, this season has been different on this front, too.

“This fall, the time a typical home spends on the market is growing much more slowly than is typical for this season,” says Jones.

In fact, the pace of sales has recently been speeding up. For the week ending Nov. 18, homes spent four fewer days on the market compared with this same time last year.

The take-home lesson for buyers is that if they see a home they like, they should not wait to close the deal—and that this holiday housing market is shaping up to be a highly unusual one.

Read more at Realtor.com

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If there is a home that you would like more information about, if you are considering selling a property, or if you have questions about the housing market in your neighborhood, please reach out. We’re here to help.

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Just Listed: Spacious Single-Level Living on a Corner Lot in a Picturesque Neighborhood!

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Single level on large corner lot!

Laminate flooring throughout this light and bright craftsman home. Two bedrooms off of the front hallway open to a vaulted great room perfect for entertaining. Open kitchen with pantry, and island overlooking the beautiful backyard and patio. Living room is complete with cozy gas fireplace. At the rear of the home is the large primary suite with huge windows, large en suite and a great closet! Fully landscaped yard with sprinklers and covered patio. Potential space for RV parking (gate needed). Fabulous location and neighborhood with park!

Listed by Jenelle Brewer for West + Main Homes. Please contact Jenelle for current pricing + availability.

 
 
 

Have questions?
West + Main Homes
(405) 652-6635
hello@westandmain.com

Presented by:
Jenelle Brewer
541-350-4187
jenelle@westandmainoregon.com

 
 
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