Beaver State is home to many of America’s top vacation destinations, including often-underrated Bend, a city in the heart of Deschutes County. Bend is a small mountain metropolis sitting idyllically on the corners of Oregon’s panoramic landscapes. Bend Oregon tourist attractions perfectly combine outdoor adventure with an urban sophistication that brews up the perfect grounds for an ideal respite. This combination is evident from the natural features, including raging rivers and tall forests that intertwine with the metropolis making the area a tourist hub regardless of the time of year. Since it aptly ticks all boxes in terms of being conducive to visit, a Christmas getaway to this Oregon gem will have you wowed and satiated. Here’s why you should visit this town for your Christmas.
Christmas Events in Bend
The Holiday Lights Paddle Parade, a tradition practiced for more than two decades, is one of the top Christmas events in Bend. As the name suggests, the parade features a session where paddling enthusiasts decorate their kayaks and canoes in dazzling lights and impressive holiday garb for a paddling session. These dedicated kayakers paddle around the magnificent Deschutes River in their decorated kayaks and canoes.
If you fancy kayaking or canoeing, this event is the perfect thing to try out when visiting Bend during the jolly season. Hire the services of one of the outfitters available in the area and be part of a dazzling tradition that amplifies Christmas celebrations in Bend, Oregon. Since the weather is usually chilly during this time, remember to put on a dry suit under your Christmas sweater.
SantaLand
Another gem in the Old Mill District is the famous SantaLand, lying in the central plaza near the footbridge. This establishment offers a myriad of activities for tourists and locals, including shopping and interacting with the ever-jolly St. Nick. Since the line usually is long, Santa’s little helpers take your phone number and call you when it’s your turn. You can shop and enjoy the great discounts the merchants offer in the hub as you wait for the call.
You can also let the kids write a letter to Santa and drop them in three unique Christmas mailboxes at the South end. The letters need no postage stamp unless the child would love to receive a reply from Santa.
Tree of Joy
While Bend is famous for enthralling outdoor activities all year round, it’s not devoid of the spirit of giving that abounds the area’s atmosphere all through the year as well. The Christmas period is not short of this spirit, as the Rotary Club of Greater Bend, the Old Mill District, and the Salvation Army partner to bring you a philanthropic program known as the Tree of Joy. This program helps families in need by providing new clothing and gifts to over 1,500 children each year.
You can participate in this program by donating to either the Salvation Army or the Rotary Club of Greater Bend. Alternatively, you can visit SantaLand in the Old Mill District and donate while interacting with Santa and shopping.
Snowshoe Tours
Bend’s topography arguably offers the best grounds for snowshoeing in Oregon. This ideal winter activity lets you and your loved ones connect and exercise while taking in tons of fresh air. You can rest assured that such experiences are available in plenty and at a low cost in Bend. Around the town, there are several Sno-Parks that feature idyllic trails and unique terrain perfect for trekking during winter. These Sno-Parks come in varieties, including ones where you’ll find comfy hike-to-warming huts.
There are several tour companies that offer snowshoe tours to visitors. You can hire the services of one of these companies for a trip that’ll feature details of the history of snowshoeing and more about Bend’s topography. If you prefer a solo trip, you can rent equipment from one of the outdoor shops that rent out snowshoeing gear.
Swingin’ Tower Christmas Show
The Tower Theater is one of Bend’s most iconic attractions. The nonprofit foundation highlights Bend’s community through multiple educational programs and top-quality events performed throughout the year. One of these shows is the Swingin’ Tower Christmas Show which, as the name implies, takes place during the Yule season. This family-friendly Bend tradition features performances by live bands and storytelling of interesting Christmas stories.
You can make reservations to enjoy these performances with your loved ones. You can also go out of your way and contribute to furthering the organization’s educational programs by donating. Such a selfless act amplifies the giving spirit associated with the Christmas season and will go a long way in helping the next generation of theater enthusiasts.
Book Your Convenient Rental
Bend is famous for its diverse landscape that features various natural attractions, including forests and rivers. These natural features make the area a haven for events even during Christmas, ultimately making it a perfect Christmas getaway destination. You can visit this Oregon town and stay in one of our vacation rentals to enjoy these activities and events available. Contact us today to book your stay for an unforgettable Christmas vacation.
