November 6–15
The Tempest
THEATER – William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” is a magical tale of adventure and second chances. When Prospero, the rightful Duke of Milan, is stranded on a mysterious island with his daughter Miranda, he uses magic to create a powerful storm that brings his old enemies to shore. As secrets are revealed, Prospero must decide whether to seek revenge or offer forgiveness. Filled with magic, mischief and humor, “The Tempest” explores the power of letting go and choosing a new beginning.
Open Space Studio | $15–$25
beatchildrenstheatre.org
November 14
Quills Out! A Porcupine Adventure
LEARN – In this playful, family-friendly gallery experience, visitors are immersed in a storybook world where porcupine adventures abound—crossing oceans and continents, scaling canyons and boulder fields, sailing the sagebrush sea and more. Although porcupines are commonly known as forest dwellers, they have adapted to live in our High Desert landscape of lava rock and sagebrush. Here, these nocturnal creatures often den in caves and crevices, munch on tough twigs and even climb steep rockfaces.
High Desert Museum | $13–$24
highdesertmuseum.org/whats-on/exhibitions/quills-out/
Flannel & Frost
FUNDRAISER – This unforgettable evening brings the community together for a night of celebration, generosity and impact, featuring a live auction, great food and plenty of flannel—all to support local youth programs.
Boys & Girls Club of Bend | $150
www.bgcco.org/events-fundraisers
November 14 & 15
Winter Traditions & Festival of Trees
SHOP – Browse through 35+ vendors at this holiday bazaar in La Pine. In addition to shopping, have fun bidding on a tree!
La Pine Activity Center | Free
lapineseniorcenter.org
November 18
NUTCRAKER! Magical Christmas Ballet
SHOW – Renowned for its Broadway-caliber artistry, this production collaborates with world-class theatrical designers, including scenic artists, prop masters and puppeteers from Czechoslovakia, South Africa, Chuvash, St. Petersburg and New York. The enchanting marionettes, intricately crafted by Petre Puppeteer and the hilarious animal puppets, reimagined by the legendary Nino Novellino, add to the production’s immersive magic, creating an unforgettable holiday experience. 7 p.m.
Tower Theatre | $25–$129
towertheatre.org
Kids Only 3D Printing
LEARN – Are you curious about how something gets from an idea to a real-world object? This class will cover everything from how a 3D printer works to creating and printing custom designs. You will be directed to the proper software to add to your own computer for future self-learning too. Beginners and intermediate beginners including repeat participants are welcome and will progress in skill level.
DIY Cave | $99
diycave.com
November 20–22
Holiday Food & Gift Festival
SHOP – This 27th annual festival returns! Shop hundreds of exhibitors and local artisans for arts, crafts, jewelry, clothing, woodcraft, music, photography, toys, Christmas décor and much more. Discover one-of-a-kind gifts, support small businesses and complete your holiday shopping early. Santa will be on site all
three days!
Deschutes County Expo Center | $7/adult, Free for kids
expo.deschutes.org/events
November 21–29
Silver Sage Trading Winter Sale
SHOP – If you’re looking for that unique Central Oregon gift, head to the High Desert Museum’s gift shop, Silver Sage Trading, where, during this time, members receive 20% off most merchandise (10% off for other visitors). Those coming exclusively to shop may enter the museum for free. Check in at admissions. Open daily:
11 a.m.–4 p.m.
High Desert Museum | Free
highdesertmuseum.org
November 21–January 1
Traditions at Sunriver Resort
HOLIDAY – Kicking off with the Grand Illumination, this holiday tradition gives families the opportunity to visit Santa, enjoy hot cocoa by the fire, experience a horse-drawn sleigh ride, visit huggable characters, go holiday shopping and more. Enjoy the spirit of the holidays in Sunriver and don’t miss the fireworks show!
Sunriver Resort | Free
sunriverresort.com/traditions
November 23
Creativebug Workshop: Gifts, Wrapping Paper and Cards!
CRAFT – Join Librarian Betsey for this family session of Creativebug Workshop! Grownups help their 0–5-year-olds create handmade gifts for important people in their lives using Creativebug tutorials and library materials. Librarians will be on hand to guide and assist in the creation of gifts, wrapping paper and cards. Get a jump start on your holiday planning with this fun and creative workshop session. 4 p.m.
Central Library | Free
Deschutespubliclibrary.org
November 23–27
Thanksgiving Break Open Play
PLAY – Enjoy additional sessions of Toddler Open Play from 9 a.m.–12 p.m. and Kids Open Play from 12–4:30 p.m. during Thanksgiving week—except on Thanksgiving Day. Toddler Open Play is for ages 10 months–5 years, and Kids Open Play is for ages 10 months–13 years. Each session is 90 minutes and gives kids the chance to climb, swing, slide and explore the ninja gym.
Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play | $16–$20
freespirityoganinjaplay.com
November 26
Redmond Turkey Trot
RUN – Come for a Thanksgiving fun run—5 or 10K—with family and friends. Registration includes a discounted Hoodoo ski lift ticket and a t-shirt (while supplies last.) All proceeds benefit Bright Eyes Bright Future. Also, don’t miss The Brace Place 1K kids’ race, which is free for all kids ages 10 and under!
Sam Johnson Park | $30–$35
redmondturkeytrot.com
I Like Pie Run
RUN – On Thanksgiving morning, bring the entire family to the Old Mill District for this iconic Bend run anytime between 7:30–9:30 a.m. to run or walk a 1.3-, 3.14- or 5.3-mile loop. Cross through the finish line arch to enjoy a celebration filled with music, community, photo ops and of course—pie! All proceeds benefit the Boys and Girls Clubs of Bend.
Old Mill | $25–$45
cascaderelays.com/events/i-like-pie/
November 27 & 28 & December 5 & 12
Holiday Village Market
SHOP – Looking for a unique, artisan, locally crafted gift this holiday season? Stop by! This seasonal market is the perfect place to check off your holiday shopping list. With a vast array of custom and handmade products from local businesses, you will be sure to find the perfect gift! Each day brings a different selection of vendors and food trucks.
10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Centennial Park in Redmond | Free
visitredmondoregon.com/attractions/holiday-village-market/
November 28
Holiday Palooza & Tree Lighting in Sisters
HOLIDAY – All are welcome as Sisters combines two favorite holidays into one spectacular event! The Holiday Palooza will kick off with a holiday parade down Main Street and culminate with holiday activities, including the tree lighting ceremony at Fir Street Park. Enjoy festive music and free hot chocolate to get you in the holiday spirit! Also included is a holiday craft, pictures with Santa and a drop-off site for letters to Santa. 3:30–5:30 p.m.
Fir Street Park | Free
sistersrecreation.co/special-events/holiday-palooza
Starlight Parade
HOLIDAY – Join the Redmond Chamber of Commerce with a holiday theme inspired by the movie, “Elf.” Expect plenty of Christmas cheer, colorful floats and a few nods to Buddy’s enthusiastic approach to the holidays. The parade begins at 5 pm on 6th Street, so bundle up, find your spot and get ready for an evening filled with lights, laughter and holiday spirit. 5–7 p.m.
Downtown Redmond | Free
visitredmondoregon.com/event/starlight-parade/
November 28 & 29
The Nutcracker: A Child’s Tale
SHOW – Valerie Holgers’ Académie de Ballet Classique is proud to present this holiday ballet, which takes place on the eve of Christmas when a young girl, Clara, befriends a nutcracker. The nutcracker magically comes to life to bravely fight an evil mouse king to whisk Clara away to a land filled with dolls, sugar plums, bon bons and snow fairies. Join this festive start to the holiday season.
Tower Theatre | $43–$67
towertheatre.org
November 28–December 23
Santa Land
SANTA – Santa Land returns to its second-floor location, welcoming families for photos, letters and all things merry. Come meet Santa, help a child in need with the Tree of Joy and don’t forget the festive photo keepsake.
Old Mill | $20 per photo
oldmilldistrict.com
December 2
Art With Sarah: Art with a Splash of Science Classes
ART – Join licensed teacher Sarah Swoffer from Let’s Paint for an engaging and interactive experience in these classes. Designed for children ages 5 to 10, this hands-on program blends creativity with scientific exploration, encouraging young minds to tap into their natural curiosity.
Tea + Art Lounge | $30
bendteal.com
December 3–20 & November 29–December 22
Ebenezer Scrooge’s Big Bend Christmas Show!
THEATER – One of the holiday season’s favorite tales has been reimagined and transformed into a gut-busting, fun and family-friendly theatrical experience that incorporates our very own Cascades Theatre into the story. Take a spin with Ebenezer, all three ghosts, Tiny Tim and more in this music-filled show. A story about transformation, this show is clever and high energy—a concentrated shot of holiday fun and festivity.
Cascades Theatrical Company | $44–$49
cascadestheatrical.org
December 4
Teen D & D Club
PLAY – All experience levels are welcome to join. Just bring your creativity, imagination and fantasy skills! All materials needed to play will be provided by the library. This program is intended for middle and high school-aged teens as content of the game will be geared towards this group.
Sisters Library | Free
Deschuteslibrary.org
Mt. Bachelor Opening Day
(conditions permitting)
SKI – Grab your shredding buddies and come up to Mt. Bachelor for Opening Day 2026! Fingers crossed for deep snow, free refills and loads of stoke!
Mt. Bachelor | Prices vary
mtbachelor.com
December 5
Festival of Trees
FUNDRAISER – Join the community in supporting ClearPath Healthcare’s annual fundraiser. During the daytime event, the community is invited to visit with Santa, hear local live music and view the 30+ stunningly decorated Christmas trees. The daytime event is free. During the evening, attendees purchase tickets to enjoy dinner, music, raffles, games and an exciting live Christmas tree auction. The proceeds help ensure that patients without insurance can still receive compassionate hospice care.
Deschutes County Fair and Expo Center | Free
hospiceofredmond.org/festival-of-trees/
Bend Christmas Parade
PARADE – Don’t miss this annual holiday tradition in downtown Bend. Check out the floats, marching bands, decorations and so much more! Santa is sure to make an appearance! Grab a spot early – the parade starts at noon.
Downtown Bend | Free
bendchristmasparade.org
December 6
Holiday Magic: The Winter Lantern – Legend of Caerwyn
MUSICAL THEATER – Celebrate the season with the Cascade Chorale, Central Oregon’s premier community chorus. For 22 years, Holiday Magic has marked the beginning of the holiday season in Central Oregon. This year, enjoy the new work of Bend’s own composer and director, James W. Knox in a Celtic-inspired theatrical experience that weaves familiar carols with original music, Irish dance and a fully staged production designed to transport audiences into a world of myth and memory.
Tower Theater | $31–$51
towertheatre.org
Bend Holiday Market
SHOP – Get ready for a festive day of local shopping, seasonal treats and plenty of holiday cheer. This new, top-tier holiday market brings together talented makers, artists and local businesses for a one-stop seasonal shopping experience. Browse unique gifts and find something special for everyone, including yourself! 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Open Space Event Studio | Free
bendholidaymarket.com
December 6 & 7
Swingin’ Tower Christmas
MUSIC – Get ready to jingle all the way! This beloved family-friendly holiday spectacular is back, packed with the season’s liveliest songs and heartwarming stories. Join host Mollie Tennant (“Annie,” “Cats,” “Mamma Mia,” “Les Mis”) as she leads a joyful cast of local performers, accompanied by her husband Jim’s 16-piece live big band. It’s a festive, toe-tapping celebration the whole family will love!
Tower Theatre | $32–$52
towertheatre.org
December 9
Rock The Holidays with Violinist Aaron Meyer
MUSIC – Mark your calendars for this event, featuring concert rock violinist Aaron Meyer, who performs original material and hits of the season, combining contemporary and classical styles with his dynamic rock band. This event is presented by the Sunriver Music Festival.
The Tower Theatre | $40–$65
sunrivermusic.org
December 10
Little Artists: Clay Creations
ART – Let your child’s imagination take shape in Clay Creations with Ms. Alyssa! Designed for kids ages 5–10, this weekly class is all about creating, exploring and having fun with air-dry clay. Each week, young artists will sculpt a brand-new project. From adorable animals and magical creatures to miniature foods, seasonal decorations and imaginative masterpieces, they’ll build fine motor skills, spark creativity and gain confidence as they bring ideas to life.
Tea + Art Lounge | $30
bendteal.com
December 11–14
Geminids Meteor Shower Starlight Snowshoe Tour
TOUR – The Geminids Meteor Shower is one of the most plentiful showers that grace the night skies each year! Cruising on snowshoes under the night sky, immerse yourself in the winter wonderland of the Deschutes National Forest, enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and meander through the powdery snow! During the adventure, naturalist guides will share the history of trapping and the invention of snowshoeing by Native Americans. Enjoy the hushed ambiance of the forest.
Deschutes National Forest | $140
wanderlusttours.com/special-events
December 14
Birding by Ear
NATURE – December’s Twilight Talk invites you to experience birding in a whole new way by closing your eyes. This lecture will introduce you to the fundamentals of identifying birds by sound. Getting even the basics of this skill will take your birding adventures to a whole new level as vocalizations can reveal species identity and the presence or absence of their song can be indicative of habitat health. Just in time for the Christmas Bird Count, you can take your new listening abilities to the next level. 5:30 p.m.
Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory | Free
snco.org
December 16
Santa Pajama Jam
PLAY – Kids ages 10 months to 10 years come dressed in their holiday pajamas for a festive afternoon featuring photos with a legit Santa and his elves, holiday games, ornament making, music and lots of active play in the ninja gym. Choose between three 90-minute sessions at 1, 2:30 and 4 p.m. Babies under 10 months are free.
Free Spirit Bend | $28
freespirityoganinjaplay.com
Kids Woodworking – Cutting boards
ART – In this kid-friendly workshop, participants will design and build their very own child-sized, one-piece wooden cutting board. Along the way, they’ll learn the basics of measuring, shaping, sanding and finishing wood—all with age-appropriate and safe tools under the close guidance of experienced instructors.
DIY Cave | $119
diycave.com
December 18–20
Dirksen Derby
SNOWBOARD – Come out for this all-ages snowboarding race to raise money for charities and individuals in need. The goal of the Dirksen Derby is to bring the snowboard and sit-ski communities together for an incredibly fun and memorable weekend filled with fast race times, strong friendships and lasting memories.
Mt Bachelor Ski Resort | $25–$100 entry fees
dirksenderby.com
December 21–23
Kids Yoga Winter Camp
CAMP – Young yogis ages 5–8 explore playful movement, mindfulness and creativity. Led by Free Spirit owner Rachel Augustine, each day includes yoga flows, group games, partner poses, breathing exercises and arts and crafts. Campers build strength, balance, confidence and emotional awareness while connecting with friends. Plus, enjoy high-energy playtime in the ninja gym!
Free Spirit Yoga Ninja Play | $198
freespirityoganinjaplay.com
Welcome to Hollywood
CLASS – Explore the world of movies! Spend the day acting like your favorite movie characters, creating new characters and imagining plot twists, storylines and movie sets. We will even make our own movie and watch it on the final day. Sign up for one day or join us for all three days!
Amity Creek Magnet at Thompson Elementary | $80
campfireco.org/specialevents/
December 22
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
MOVIE – National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a classic holiday comedy that follows Clark Griswold as he tries to create the perfect family Christmas. Between unexpected relatives, decorating disasters and a series of hilarious mishaps, Clark’s dream holiday quickly spirals into chaos, making for a funny and heartwarming Christmas favorite. Join us for one last hurrah this holiday season and please dress up as your favorite character!
Tower Theatre | $18 (plus $8 historic preservation fee)
Towertheatre.org
December 23–30
One-Hour Premium Dark Sky Viewing
NATURE – Seek the stars at the nation’s largest collection of publicly accessible telescopes. This one-hour session starts with night sky viewing through various telescopes with staff astronomers and finishes with a guided constellation tour.
Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory | $30–$32
snco.org
December 31
New Year’s Eve Bonfire on the Snow
TOUR – Ring in the new year with this tour at midnight under the magic of the solar system’s twinkling lights. Cruising on snowshoes, arrive at your destination of a hand-carved amphitheater in the snow where a crackling bonfire awaits. Join in for a magical meander through the powdery forest at night.
Deschutes National Forest | $170
wanderlusttours.com/special-events
January 1
New Year’s Relay
SKI – Each skier from each team will ski a 2k-loop for a total distance of 6k for the whole team, except for the youngest category, which will have a shorter course. Each skier may choose their own technique. This is a casual, family-friendly event where costumes are encouraged! Come for the laughs and stay for the goodies and raffle brought to you by Strictly Organic Coffee and MBSEF.
Mt. Bachelor Nordic Center | Prices vary
mbsef.org/new-years-nordic-relay/
January 13–17
Phantom Tollbooth
THEATER – Milo is a deeply bored boy who finds no joy in anything—until a mysterious Phantom Tollbooth appears and whisks him away to the Land of Wisdom. There, he learns that the Princesses Rhyme and Reason have been banished, leaving two brothers, the kings of Dictionopolis and Digitopolis, locked in a bitter feud. Armed with his loyal companion, Tock – a dog with a ticking clock in his belly—Milo sets off on a quest to rescue the princesses and restore harmony to the kingdom, discovering more about himself in the process.
Ponderosa Playhouse | Prices vary
ponderosaplayers.com
This article appears in Bend Nest Winter 2026.
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