From the lighting of Salem’s Grand Tree at the capitol, to waiving at the hometown floats at Keizer’s Holiday Lights Parade, there’s plenty to do this time of year. These events are perfect if you have family coming to see you in Oregon for the first time! 

Christmas in the Garden is sure to be a hit with out-of-town guests, with a beer garden, vendors, ice skating and snowless tubing! 

 

December 1- January 4

Enter a charming winter wonderland and find yourself surrounded by 600,000 twinkling lights, live music, artisan vendors, ice skating, snowless tubing and plenty of holiday cheer at Christmas in the Garden, at The Oregon Garden. This event features something for all ages, including the snowless tubing hill, ice skating, a traditional German Christmas market with local artisans, and a beer garden with live music in the Christmas Barn. Tickets range from $5-15. 

When: Day Session, Noon – 4pm; Night Session, 5pm – 10pm

Where: 879 W Main Street, Silverton, OR

More Information: http://christmasinthegarden.com/events/

 

December 4-24

The 37th annual Holidays at the Capitol programming runs 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The Capitol Rotunda is filled with sounds of the season with visiting choirs throughout the state. There is chair seating available and Capitol holiday decor is sure to add to your visit! The capitol building is open for holiday lights, the ever-popular train, and stunning décor. Detailed performance schedule online.

When: 10-2pm

Where: 900 Court St. NE Salem, OR 

More Information: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/capitolhistorygateway

 

December 13-15

It’s easy to shop local this holiday with the Salem Holiday Market! The largest local vendor market in the state of Oregon features flowers, local produce, nursery products, authentic food and artisan crafts. Enter the Gingerbread house decorating contest or the tree decorating contest—both are free to enter and feature cash prizes!

When: Fri 5:30pm-8:30pm, Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am-4pm

Where: Oregon State Fairgrounds

More Information: https://www.salemcommunitymarkets.com

 

December 14

Bundle up and join us for a magical night of twinkling lights and holiday music at Keizer Chamber of Commerce's annual Keizer Holiday Lights Parade, Sponsored by Salem Electric! Our theme this year, Toys and Tinsel, promises to make this an especially fun and memorable parade with festive lighted entries from local businesses, fire districts, civic groups, car clubs, and marching bands lighting up River Road!

When:  7-9p

Where:River Road N, from Lockhaven to Glynbrook in Keizer

More Information: http://cm.keizerchamber.com/events/details/keizer-holiday-lights-parade-26351

 

December 14

Before you settle in for the Holiday Lights Parade, you’ll want to run, walk or stroll down River Road while spectators prepare for the light show! Enjoy with family and friends this fun filled activity that celebrates the Holiday season and healthy living. Dress up for the best costume awards by wearing your best Santa suit, reindeer horns, or twinkle lights. We’ll have Hot Cocoa and Coffee awaiting for you at the finish.

When:  6p

Where: Keizer Chamber of Commerce 

More Information: http://cm.keizerchamber.com/events/details/keizer-jingle-dash-5k-run-walk-26476

 

December 19-29

Set in the 1940s in the fictional town of Hohman, Indiana, A Christmas Story, the musical follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker and his quest for the Holy Grail of Christmas gifts—an Official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot Range Model air rifle. 

When: 7:30pm, weekend matinees at 2pm

Where: 170 High St SE, Salem, OR

More Information: https://elsinoretheatre.com/event-details-christmas-story.html