Central Oregon’s agricultural bounty continues to grow, and there’s no better way to experience it then by joining a farm-to-table dinner. You’ll have not only a delicious meal, but also the chance to support the local farmers and ranchers who are leading the local food revolution.
Harvest Dinner & Live Music at Brasada Ranch
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Brasada Ranch and the Cascade Mountain Range, The Harvest Dinner Series is an exceptional culinary event led by Executive Chef Karl Holl. Celebrate the season’s bounty with a menu crafted with the freshest locally sourced ingredients from local artisans, all prepared and served over an outdoor spitfire.
You’ll enjoy culinary excellence, live music with Summer Groove Party Band, family-friendly activities, and stunning sunsets in the high desert. A portion of the proceeds from each ticket will support the High Desert Food & Farm Alliance. Wild Rye is proud to be partnering with the following local farms, ranches, and purveyors to source our fresh ingredients: Boundless Farmstead, Groundwork Organics, Anderson Ranches, Nine Peaks Farm, Well Rooted Farms, and Rainshadow Organics.
Kick off the Cascade Equinox weekend at an unforgettable farm-to-table, Feast-to-Festival dining experience at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds. Chris & Emma Leyden of Feast Food Co. present a five-course dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients paired with exquisite wines from Division Wine Co. and crafted cocktails from KraftBar. Enjoy live music as you savor this extraordinary evening to benefit the Waldorf School of Bend.
Join Terra Kitchen in Redmond for an unforgettable Farm-to-Table Dinner on Wednesday, October 23, 2024! Enjoy a seasonal menu crafted from fresh, local ingredients, with the option to enhance your experience with a wine pairing. Guests will have the opportunity to hear from local farmers, winemakers, and chefs, who will share their stories throughout the evening. Tickets are limited to just 38 people, so reserve your spot today!
Time: 5:30 PM
Tickets: $65 each | $30 for optional wine pairing All the details here.
Terra Kitchen, SCP Hotel, Redmond
6th Annual Fall Harvest Feast & Fundraiser with Central Oregon Locavore
Save the date for this Halloween-themed masquerade taking place at the enchanting Hanai Community Center in Bend on Friday,October 25th. From costume contests and silent and live auctions featuring locally sourced crafts and concoctions to a hidden speakeasy, tarot readings, and mysterious brews at the Green Witch’s Tea Parlor, this harvest party is going to be a thrilling evening filled with mystery, magic, and mouthwatering delights. Wear your most creative disguises, and come prepared to eat to your heart’s content!
The culinary highlight of the evening will be a multi-course, farm-fresh meal crafted from the finest local produce and high-quality meats sourced from Well Rooted Farms. Renowned local chefs will work their culinary magic to deliver a supernatural dining experience, celebrating the rich seasonal bounty of Central Oregon.
Don’t miss out on this hauntingly good time on Friday,October 25th. Reserve your seat for an extraterrestrial experience, here. For more information, head to centraloregonlocavore.org/fall-harvest-feast/.
Longtable Dinners at Rainshadow Organics
Throughout the year, Rainshadow hosts dinners on the farm consisting of 4 courses created from their organic produce and grains and pastured, grass-fed meats. These meals are unique and showcase what the farm is growing and raising that particular week. Each dinner features a traditional plated 4-course meal. Meal start times vary with the time of year and available daylight. Each features a cash bar with local wine, beer, and hard cider selections.
4th Annual Faces of Farming Gala, Silent Auction and Farm to Table Feast
When: May 3 Where: Tetherow Resort Price: $85-$95
Learn about local farmers and ranchers, join the silent auction, sip on local wine, beer and cocktails, then settle in for a one-of-a-kind feast from Tetherow’s culinary team at the resort’s event pavilion. The Faces of Farming Gala is a farm-to-table event celebrating the high desert’s champions of local food.
Sanchovore Father’s Day Farm-to-Table Dinner
When: June 16 Where: Anker Farm & Creamery Price: $65-$75
The Sanchovore Father’s Day Farm-to-Table Dinner takes place at Anker Farm & Creamery in Bend and features a farm-to-table produced by Bend’s favorite taco shop, El Sancho. It’s a great way to spend Father’s Day together and have a one-of-a-kind meal.
Rainshadow Organics
When: June 21, July 26, August 23 and September 21 Where: Rainshadow Organics Price: $65
Tour the garden and farm store at Rainshadow Organics in Bend, then settle in for an Instagram-worthy dining experience at the long table. It’s a BYOB event with multiple courses of flavorful dishes made from ingredients grown on the farm.
Brian Malarkey Serves His Own Brand of Refined Rustic Food, With a Touch of Glam
Tumalo, 1983: Nine-year-old Brian Malarkey is riding a skinny-tired 10-speed down a rocky dirt road to school. He’d already cleaned out the horse stalls at the family’s 90-acre cattle ranch and in winter, he’d have broken the ice in the animals’ water troughs. An entrepreneurial kid, he’d earned a small bundle selling Scottish terrier puppies he’d bred and was splurging on taking his family out for a steak dinner—at Beef and Brew. It was the only restaurant more exciting to him than Bend’s first McDonald’s, which opened when he was six.
It wasn’t the Central Oregon experience that draws people here today. “It was down and dirty,” said Malarkey. The first chance he got, he was off—at 17, to Portland, then Seattle, Santa Barbara, L.A., Minneapolis, and San Diego, working his way up from a chef to a serial restaurateur. After selling his first restaurant group for $25 million, he launched a second group with 10 San Diego-based concepts, including the acclaimed Herb & Wood.
Simmering on another burner throughout this time: Television — Food Network shows, Bravo’s “Top Chef,” ABC’s “The Taste,” appearances on “Good Morning America” and “Today.” While the world learned about Malarkey, he learned about the culinary world.
Coming back to Central Oregon a couple of years ago, he saw it anew. “I finally looked around. I was like, oh, my God, this is paradise. It took me a lifetime to realize I was born in paradise. I’ve been running from it my whole life.”
His brother, entrepreneur and business partner James Malarkey, piqued the restaurateur’s interest, telling him about the ways the City of Bend encouraged new businesses with programs such as opportunity zones, that offered tax incentives. The celebrity chef said he never would have considered opening a restaurant in Bend before the pandemic. But watching the success of Rancher Butcher Chef, Bosa and Bos Taurus, he thought the timing might be right. “Those are big, loud, fun restaurants.”
The pair landed on the location of a former eatery and mini-golf center on Century Drive. The name Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge popped into Brian’s head, a synthesis of favorites, from ranch raptors and Hawkeye Pierce of TV’s “M*A*S*H,” to his dad’s dog named Huckleberry. Plus, it’s a favorite summer fruit. “And then, of course, the greatest Western of all time, Tombstone,” he said. In the film, Val Kilmer, as gunslinger Doc Holliday, has the memorable line, “I’m your huckleberry.” The brothers let Kilmer be their spirit guide. A larger-than-life, black-and-white poster of Holliday with his trademark line, blazes in pink neon and greets guests at the door of Hawk & Huck, which opened in June.
More than 450 guests packed the grand opening, sipping everything from “rhinestone cowgirl,” concoctions involving vodka, Cocchi, strawberry, apricot, lemon and glitter to Coors Light. Large canvas tents created glamp-styled dining and lounge areas, with faux-shearling and bourbon-colored, tufted velvet swivel chairs. Each tent was named for local towns, with tables big enough to hold an entire stockyard laid out in the form of charcuterie. James wielded a flamethrower for the one-of-a-kind ribbon-cutting, and local band The Shining Dimes played Patsy Cline.
Rhinestone Cowgirl Cocktail
Second-hand guitars and old cowboy hats line the walls, waiting for patrons to grab them, get in the spirit and, of course, post photos on Instagram. A vintage trailer named Dolly, formerly owned by one of the players in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, which the movie A League of Their Own is based on, is tucked between the stage and a spacious event room.
Malarkey recruited longtime industry collaborators and chefs Tony Torres and Carlos Anthony to carry out his ranch-to-plate culinary vision in Bend. He roped them in from endeavors in Las Vegas and San Diego respectively, letting them discover their inner cowboys while living at his family’s P-B Hawkeye Ranch. Learning what it takes for cows to go from graze to glaze is eye-opening for Torres and Anthony, self-described urban cowboys, and it’s inspiring them.
For Torres, that means menu items ranging from Oregon beef tartare and ranch aioli with hand-cut chips, lime chili rub, house pickles and roasted poblanos, to P-B Hawkeye Ranch 32-ounce porterhouse steak cooked over Oregon hardwood with a variety of sauces, from bone marrow gravy to horseradish cream. Add Dungeness crab hollandaise or fried oysters for a nod to the coast. Or, order a whole, roasted local pig two days in advance as a feast for eight.
The secret sauce, though, is engaging the entire staff in championing the story of local ranchers through every aspect of the dining experience.
“It doesn’t take a celebrity chef, it takes great people in every area, and that’s what Brian does better than anybody — he empowers you to be great — the best chef, the best bartender, the best restaurant,” said Anthony, who has competed against his mentor on Food Network’s “Superchef Grudge Match.”
Hawkeye & Huckleberry Lounge helps boost the neighborhood as a culinary zone, from The Flamingo Room and Hook & Plow to the old-school Cascade West Grub & Alehouse — Brian Malarkey appreciates them all. “And, the world’s greatest restaurant is right across the street from me — McDonald’s,” he said.
Attend an unforgettable multi-day festival experience at Cascade Equinox. This vibrant multi-modal event offers a highly-curated celebration of art and community with music, art, food, spa experiences and activities for all ages.
See both favorite nationally-recognized artists and discover new bands. Cascade Equinox has selected an eclectic roster — from well-known headliners to local favorites and new-on-the-scene artists. There’s something for everyone, with genres spanning from jam and electronic to funk, soul and bluegrass. Across six stages, energetic performances feature unique stage designs and light shows that pulse with the energy of the crowd.
Get lost in Cosmic Drip, the festival’s interactive art experience. This exhibit isn’t your classic, don’t-touch-just-look experience. Festival-goers become part of the art as they interact with the installations and get their hands dirty in the live painting lounge. Cosmic Drip offers more than just visual art, it’s an experience of the senses with music, poetry and even healing arts.
Unwind at The Oasis and The Healing Garden. Decompress at The Healing Garden with yoga and meditation classes or a session with a massage, acupuncture, chiropractic or Reiki practitioner. Finish your spa experience at The Oasis mobile bathhouse with a shower, sauna, cold plunge, or massage.
Shop, play and dine at the festival’s different environments. From indoor roller skating at the Solar Spin to shopping at The Nomadic Market, Cascade Equinox offers entertainment of all varieties. Play all day and refuel at the Culinary Commons or grab a drink at one of the festival’s many social areas—The Grotto, The Inner Circle or The Grove.
Cascade Equinox is a festival for the whole family! Cascade Equinox offers engaging day camps for children of all ages in the Orbit Family Zone. While the kids play, parents can enjoy the elevated experience of a festival reimagined for Central Oregon that recognizes the natural landscape and adds layers of an art and musical landscape.
WHEN: September 20-22, 2024 WHERE: Deschutes County Fairgrounds, Redmond, OR CascadeEquinox.com
Feast to Table Dining Experience
Kick off the Cascade Equinox weekend at an unforgettable farm-to-table, Feast-to-Festival dining experience at the Deschutes County Fairgrounds.Chris & Emma Leyden of Feast Food Co. present a five-course dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients paired with exquisite wines from Division Wine Co. and crafted cocktails from KraftBar. Enjoy live music as you savor this extraordinary evening to benefit the Waldorf School of Bend.
WHEN: Thursday, September 19th. 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. WHERE: Deschutes County Fairgrounds, Redmond, OR Feasttotable.com
In the thru-hiking community, Oregon gets a bad rap. Nicknamed the Green Tunnel by Pacific Crest Trail hikers, Oregon is known for having repetitive, wooded scenery and hordes of mosquitoes. The bug problem held true, but the five days I spent on trail were anything but boring.
The PCT spans 2,650 miles of wilderness from Mexico to Canada and can be traveled in many months as a thru-hike, but many break it up into smaller section hikes. I would be hiking a miniscule 65 mile section, but the trip seemed daunting and not entirely appealing.
My dad had been dreaming of thru-hiking the entire PCT for years. But, I had never shared his dream. I couldn’t imagine the appeal of hiking every day for months, of sleeping on the ground, eating freeze-dried food and going so long without a shower that you can hardly stand your own stench. When my dad shared photos and stories from his thru-hiking adventures each summer, I would just shake my head and smile in amusement at his overgrown beard, dirt caked legs and dorky trail lingo.
I grew up backpacking in Mount Rainier National Park, and my experience was much closer to glamping than the hardcore expedition that thru-hikers undertake. My sister and I would carry tiny backpacks for our clothes and our parents would sherpa the rest. We’d hike a few miles in, us kids whining and dragging our heels, and my dad hiding gummy worms on the trail to keep us going. We’d camp at a lake or beside a little alpine stream and my sister and I would spend all evening catching frogs. Dinner was always mac and cheese with oreos for dessert. Mornings came with hot chocolate and blueberry bagels.
Until this summer, I was unaccustomed to the type of camping that comes without glitz, glamor and gummy worms, and until a few months ago I was uninterested in learning. But when my dad asked me to join him on trail, I hadn’t seen him in nearly a year and I was missing him and the mountains, so I said “Yes.”
Leading up to the trip I regretted my burst of bravery, but I was too embarrassed to quit, so on the first of July, my dad and I set off from Six Lakes trailhead with 25-pound backpacks weighed down by tents, trail mix and freeze-dried food. For the next few days, I was destined to discover the “hiker trash” lifestyle, a term of endearment in the thru-hiking community and a way of being that my dad proudly subscribes to. I would eat strange meals, wear the same outfit every day and collect a layer of Deet and dirt on my unwashed skin.
Day One: 15 Miles from Six Lakes Trailhead to Elk Lake
On the first day, we bushwhacked over fallen trees and made our way through burn areas. The bugs were thick in the air, and I was failing to find beauty in my stark surroundings. For the first six miles I battled the question that had been in my head all week. “Why am I doing this?” But around noon, when we plopped down to eat lunch on a plot of burnt dirt a few feet off the trail, I noticed the silence for the first time — the perfect, head-clearing silence of the trail. I was accountable to no one and responsible for nothing but putting one foot in front of the other and pitching my tent at the end of the night.
“Don’t you love how quiet it is,” my dad said. “These are my favorite moments of thru-hiking — just sitting in silence and observing things.”
I nodded and took another bite of my peanut butter and banana chip burrito. Even eating felt simpler on the trail. We stopped hiking when we were hungry and ate what we wanted out of our food stuff sacks, cramming our mouths with handfuls of trail mix or glopping heaps of peanut butter into tortillas.
That day we got to know the Green Tunnel and the wildlife that comes with it — mosquitoes. When we stopped to filter water at a small stream crossing the trail, we were ambushed. I had taken off my pack and made myself comfortable on a log when the swarms attacked. Springing up from my seat, I danced around the clearing—pacing and circling just to keep moving. My skin was covered with a thick layer of insect repellant, but my back, bare without my backpack, was vulnerable. In minutes I was covered in angry, red bumps.
As I furiously itched my back on a dead tree, I received my official trail name — a tradition used by thru hikers to identify each other and make the hike a little more fun. From then on I would be Baloo, after the bear from The Jungle Book. I had the song “The Bear Necessities” stuck in my head for the rest of the trip.
We finished hiking that first day with a view of Mount Bachelor as we finally popped out of the trees. After 15 miles on foot, I was cranky, itchy and tired of walking through burned forest. I spent that evening cowering from the bugs in a full suit of rain gear with a mosquito head net, purchased from REI just days before, draped over my face. By 7 p.m., I was in my tent, staring at the nylon ceiling, feeling pathetic and miserable.
Day Two: 13.73 Miles Around the Backside of South Sister to the Backside of Middle Sister
On the first day, I was bored, trudging through a tunnel of trees just a few miles from Cascade Lakes Highway. It felt too close to home, and when I turned my phone off airplane mode that night, I discovered that I still had service. I could feel the tug of emails and tasks nagging at me to get done. But Day Two took us into the wild.
We were into the mountains and off of dry ground as we trekked across snowfields at the base of South Sister. We lost the trail frequently as it disappeared below the snowpack into the forest, and my dad had to redirect us back on track every few minutes with his FarOut GPS app (the lifeline of our trip).
When we grew tired of checking our location on the phone every few minutes, we decided to place full faith in the faint footprints in the snow. When the footprints kept leading us straight back to the trail, we named the owners of the prints “Smart People.” We met the Smart People a few miles later and ended up setting up camp within earshot of them, a certain comfort when you’re in the middle of the woods.
The bugs at campsite number two proved to be even worse than the night before so I retreated to my tent for the evening. Our campsite that night was by far the most scenic, and I pitched my tent without the rain fly so I could peer out at the Three Sisters and The Husband glowing pink as the sun set.
“I honestly don’t remember the last time I had this little to do,” I said as I stared at the mountains. We were far from service and that day I had felt the relief of being truly detached. The only thing on the agenda for the rest of the night was to eat and sleep.
“Isn’t it glorious?” my dad said, and I smiled.
“Yeah, it’s pretty amazing.”
As we prepared dinner that evening, we met Ducky, the only PCT thru hiker I would encounter on my trip. He had followed our tracks to find the trail, leading him right to our tent site. Averaging 30 miles a day, he was soon far ahead of us, and we became his number one fans as we followed his footprints for the rest of the trip.
Day Three: 12.36 Miles Around the Middle and North Sister and Over Opie Dilldock Pass
Night two was freezing, and the trail had transformed into a treacherous ice rink the next morning. Hiking was slow going, and we traversed the snow-covered slopes cautiously. I had forgotten my trekking poles at home so we were sharing my dad’s pair, white-knuckling the handles and kicking our feet into the hill for stability.
“That’s what dads are for,” my dad said when I asked if he was sure he didn’t need both.
We barely laid eyes on the trail all day, and 12 miles felt like 20 with all of the detours and retracing of our steps. Our only solace was our friend Ducky and the footprints he left in the snow for us to follow.
“Look, Ducky prints!” I would call out each time I saw the distinct Duck-like outline of his hiking shoes that we surmised earned him his trail name.
In the afternoon we reached dry ground and began the ascent up Opie Dilldock Pass. The trail faded from a distinct dirt path into a faint groove in a field of craggy lava rocks. Dramatic switchbacks were etched into the steep wall of rock. While I huffed and puffed to the top, the narrow rock canyon opened up to a stunning view of North Sister.
We had been so focused on finding the trail all day I had almost lost sight of the majesty surrounding us. But standing on an endless lava field, the Three Sisters looming grand and quiet above me, I was reminded how small we are on this earth. My problems and stresses shrunk to nothing and it was just so quiet.
When we descended over the other side of the pass, the trail vanished under a snow drift, and my moment of perspective along with it. We followed along the groove of the drift towards the wall of lava ahead, assuming the trail was below us. But when we reached the wall, there was no trace of the trail.
There was only one reasonable route…down. I boot-skied the first snow field, a steep slope with a big cornice at the top. My dad sat and sledded down on nothing but his shorts and skin. At the second snow field, he was complaining about a snow rash, and I had a brilliant idea. My eyes glinted mischievously as I pointed to the foam sleeping pads strapped to our packs. Seconds later we were screaming and sliding on our makeshift sleds.
One more heavy-footed mile of hiking and we made it to our camp, pitching our tents on a hill above a lake with a view of North Sister. That night we slept like the dead, drifting off before the sun set and waking after it rose.
Day Four: 16.7 Miles Across Mckenzie Pass and Past Mount Washington to Big Lake Youth Camp
As we headed out of camp, we came across “Dog Father,” a section hiker from Eugene. He was still in bed, which he told us is because he likes to hike late and sleep in. My dad got a good kick out of that one. Hardly anyone on the trail stays up past the hiker’s midnight of 9 p.m.
That day was the hottest on the trail so far and we were surrounded by black lava rock. When we realized we were nine miles from our next water source, I had less than 10 ounces of water left and my dad didn’t have much more.
“This is the real PCT experience,” my dad said.
Just a mile later we had found a patch of snow and were packing it into a water bladder. Not two minutes later we ran into a day hiker who was happy to fill our bottles with his remaining water supply. Pacific Crest Trail hikers call moments like these Trail Magic, and the people who help them along the way are known as Trail Angels. We had just met our very own angel. We were set.
The next few miles of the hike were impossibly hot as we hobbled over lava rocks on a steep incline. The only signs of life were tiny purple flowers hiding in the rocks. We were either silent or deep in conversation. He told me stories from his childhood and I giggled about how different it was from mine.
Our destination for the night was Big Lake Youth Camp, a place known for its hospitality to thru hikers. When we arrived at the camp’s PCT center we found a full kitchen, bathrooms, cell service and a complimentary dinner. My dad was grateful for the glimpse of civilization, as he would be on trail for the next few days, but I was disappointed by my early reintroduction to the real world.
I wasn’t ready to get off trail, to return to the stresses of real life. I was perfectly content being disconnected in the middle of the woods, so I kept my phone on airplane mode and remained in my happy quiet bubble. The real world would have to wait until tomorrow.
Day Five: 5.12 Miles From Big Lake Youth Camp to Santiam Pass Through Swarms of Mosquitoes
Setting off that morning, the magic of the trail was behind us and a thick swarm of mosquitoes was ahead. We speed-walked the first three miles, but when we lost the bugs our pace slowed and we fell into the same conversation we had been having all week — how much we enjoyed being unplugged and how little we wished to return to real life.
Life had become so simple on the trail. The only thing we had to worry about was walking enough, eating enough and finding a flat piece of ground to pitch our tents at the end of the day. The exhaustion from hiking all day calmed me and the mountains looming above humbled me. I was battered and blistered, but each time my dad told me he was impressed with me I swelled with pride.
As I entered the last bug free stretch of my time on the PCT, I had become nostalgic and was reluctant to leave it all behind. My dad was crying as he hugged me goodbye.
“You could totally do the whole PCT,” he said proudly.
“Only if you do it with me,” I said.
Suggested Gear for a Successful Thru-Hike
Nemo Switchback Ultralight Foam Sleeping Pads are a game changer when it comes to comfort on the trail. Tired of scoping out the perfect spot to sit for lunch? Nemo’s got your back — or more accurately, your butt. Strap one of these pads onto your pack, and suddenly, anywhere is a fine place to dine. Then, at nighttime, it takes on its sleeping pad role to make the ground a comfortable abode.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filters are a thru-hiker’s most prized possession. Why would you spend precious time pumping water when you could just squeeze? Added bonus: The filter fits perfectly on the mouth of a plastic Smart Water bottle, aka the PCT gold standard for carrying water.
Peak Refuel Freeze-Dried Meals are the ideal end to a big mileage day. Hiker hunger is real, and nothing satisfies a craving for cheeseburgers quite like a hot plastic bag full of rehydrated pasta. After a few days on trail, their Chicken Alfredo could pass as a Michelin star meal.
Altra Lone Peak trail running shoes might look silly on foot, but in terms of luxury, they’re the thru hiker equivalent to Louboutins. Ditch your stereotypical image of a hiker in brown, dusty boots, with trail runners as the new wave of style. These shoes have a durable, spikey tread and are extra wide in the toe box which helps to avoid blisters.
Janji Pace Running Shorts are the ultimate clothing option for my fellow thick-thighed hikers. Chafing is the worst case scenario on long, hot days of hiking, and these shorts have an anti-slide band to prevent it. The side pockets also make for great, easy access phone storage so you can snap a pic on a moment’s notice.
Sea to Summit mosquito head nets are a must for the buggy woods. Worn over a hat, these nets create a safe little bug-free tent for your ears, eyes and mouth so you can at least enjoy the illusion of a bug free hike.
Bend Magazine Tip for Hikers: If you are passing through Sisters, Oregon, make sure to stop at Luckey’s Woodsman. While there, share 1 trail story, and you will receive 1 free drink, plus a Trail Butter (while supplies last). Luckey Woodsman’s mission is to bridge the divide between outdoor recreation and professional food service by offering this trail angel service to any hikers passing by their kitchen in Sisters. How cool is that?!
Mt. Bachelor likely offers much more than you may think. For many skiers and snowboarders in Central Oregon, when the snow melts, the mountain may seem closed until next season. This is especially true if they aren’t taking advantage of the lift-access biking throughout the summer.
But this mountain offers so much more than skiing, snowboarding, and biking. Whether you are looking for a new place to grab dinner, hike, or descend 1,400 feet on the Northwest’s fastest zipline, Bachy has you covered.
From winter to summer, spring and fall, something is always happening up on the hill — and it could be the gem you’ve been looking for.
Bachelor’s History
Over 65 years ago, local business owner Bill Healy had the idea of turning what was then known as Bachelor Butte into a downhill ski slope. On December 19, 1958, the renamed Mt. Bachelor opened with one pomalift and two rope tows. The slopes were only open on weekends and holidays, and patrons could expect to fork over a steep $3 per day for a lift ticket.
Over the years, we have seen growth from one lift and two ropes. In 1962, the first chairlift took skiers up the mountain to 7,700 feet. Two more lifts were installed in 1973, while Nordic skiing grew in popularity in the 70s. Bachelor continued to grow steadily through the 80s, 90s, and 2000s.
Today, Bend has North America’s 7th largest ski resort in its backyard, with over 4,300 acres of skiing terrain to tackle. There are 101 runs to choose from off of 12 lifts and over 3,300 vertical feet of elevation to ski down, with the longest run covering four miles.
Summer activities were soon to follow. The bike park started taking bikers up the chair lifts in the summer of 2013, and the infamous zipline opened in 2020.
Ditch the Lifts
Not all skiing has to start with you riding a chairlift to the top. Nordic and backcountry skiing are great alternatives to lift-access skiing. Bachy is home to world-class terrain in both categories.
Photo courtesy of Mt. Bachelor
Nordic Skiing
Do you want to take advantage of the nation’s longest-groomed Nordic ski season? You can, roughly 30 minutes from your front door. Mt. Bachelor’s Nordic Center boasts 56 km of groomed trails.
No skis? No problem! The Nordic Center’s shop has everything you may need for a Nordic track for rent. They also offer a range of XC ski lessons and clinics throughout the season. After you’re done, warm your toes in their Nordic Cafe with a warm beverage.
Backcountry Skiing
Yes, you can actually ski uphill, which has grown in popularity over the past several years. Backcountry skiers place “skins” on the bottom of their skis, allowing uphill travel without sliding back down. Once they reach the top, the skins are removed, and hard work pays off with turns through chest-deep powder.
Backcountry skiing allows skiers to get away from the crowds and groomed trails to fully experience the beauty and solitude of the mountain. Snowboarders can also get away into the backcountry. Splitboards are designed in two pieces that form a snowboard when attached together but skis for going uphill when apart.
Terrain Park – Snow
If backcountry riding isn’t extreme enough, head to one of the many terrain parks. Woodward Mountain Parks puts on Woodward Mt. Bachelor, which brings jumps, rails, and a halfpipe to the slopes.
Photo courtesy of Mt. Bachelor
The terrain parks are set up with sixteen Woodward Park Zones on the hill to encourage progression. Woodward categorizes the features in these zones, rating them on a scale from XS (extra small features) to L (large features). This allows newer riders to choose what zone they want to spend their time in— and which to avoid — based on their ability level.
Downhill Mountain Biking
As sunset dinners have laid the stage for the summer season, we can’t forget about the Mt. Bachelor Bike Park. Undoubtedly, Bendites are spoiled by the number of trail options. But, every once in a while, it is good to give those climbing legs a rest, riding the chair lift up to experience the adrenaline of downhill again and again.
Photo Jules Jimreivat
Bikers can choose from over 13 miles of downhill trails accessed by the Pine Marten and Little Pine lifts. Trails range from beginner to expert, making this the perfect bike Park for any rider. There is also a full rental shop, bike lessons, camps for kids, and clinics for women.
Wrap up the day of riding park with food and a beer on the deck at the West Village Lodge.
Other Summer Activities
If biking isn’t your thing, a variety of other fair-weather activities occur throughout the summer.
Hike the New Evergreen Trail
Officially opening August 1, 2024, Mt. Bachelor’s newest trail, Evergreen, is a multi-use trail stretching 4.5 miles from the West Village base area. Hikers can ascend and descend Evergreen, while bikers can only descend it. The moderate hike offers phenomenal views of high cascade lakes and surrounding mountains.
The mountain is also home to several other hiking trails, including two options for reaching the nearly 10,000-foot summit. Summit East and West Ridge trails are black diamond hikes stretching far above the tree line, so bring sunscreen and be prepared!
Zipline
For the most unique alpine experience, reserve a spot for their ZipTour Adventure. Starting at nearly 8,000 feet, the ZipTour is the nation’s highest, fastest, and steepest zip line. The three-stage zip tour will have you drop 1,400 feet as you start high above the treeline before dropping in amongst the pines.
Disc Golf
If you’ve played all the disc golf courses Bend and surrounding cities offer, it is time to head west. Bachy’s 18 holes are free to play (no lift ticket required) and will challenge even the most experienced disc golfer.
During the summer, sunset dinners are offered at the Pine Marten Lodge on Thursday through Sunday evenings. Space is limited, as seating starts at 5:00 p.m., ends at 7:45 p.m., and only goes through September 1, so make your reservations now. Reservations for the dinner include a complimentary chairlift ride up and down from the Pine Marten Lodge.
Photo by Dan Price
Annual Events
Any season high in the Cascades wouldn’t be complete without the phenomenal annual events hosted on the slopes and at the lodges. Whether you aim to participate or want to go as a spectator, Bachelor’s events don’t disappoint.
Here are just a few.
Peace Park Party!
Fun music, free giveaways, and good vibes all day. This party starts at Peace Park and then picks up again on the deck of the West Village Lodge. More music, drinks, dancing, and live DJs make this the terrain park dance party to go to!
Van-lifers, RVers, and car campers make the West Village parking lot their home for a long weekend. Ski during the day and dance by night as you grove with fellow travelers to the live music dotted throughout the time there. You know what they say: home is where you park it.
Pond Skimming
As winter ends, we in Bend say goodbye to the snow each year with the annual Pond Skim Championships. 100 participants are tasked with taking on the pond, attempting to skim across the surface 100 feet to the other side. Prizes are plentiful and include a season pass for the following ski season.
Is turning your snow skis into water skis, not your thing? No worries. But don’t miss out on being a spectator of this event! Crack a beer and be ready to cheer the skimmers across those icy waters.
Pray for Snow
It isn’t just the name of a great beer by 10 Barrel Brewing. As fall slowly turns toward winter, skiers and snowboarders around Bend start praying for snow each season. And even before Bachy opens, we are connected to its slopes.
Many will head to the Cinder Cone on the mountain’s north side to get those preseason laps in. Climbing more than 700 feet to the cone’s summit is a bit of a bear, but many say it is worth it to get that feeling again before the chair lifts start turning.
Keeping You Connected
Mt. Bachelor prioritizes keeping its community up to date with all events and happenings. Whether you are on the hill or not, daily reports are provided on their website to help patrons prepare for a day on the slopes.
In addition to the weather and conditions, culture is shared through video and media projects. You can explore what they are up to at the hill on their YouTube channel and other social media platforms.
Mountain Fuel
Staying hydrated and fueled up is an essential aspect of all outdoor activities. Even though Mt. Bachelor feels like it is in our backyard, it is important to remember that you will be exposed to much higher elevation. Biking takes place well above 7,000 feet, and skiing and hiking can reach the summit, just over 9000 feet. Elevations like this can be more strenuous on your body than you’d expect.
Photo by Tambi Lane
Bring snacks and lots of water for your adventures. The different lodges have places to refill water bottles between laps, so plan accordingly. In addition to water and food, wear sunscreen and bring extra to reapply between laps.
Can summer be put in a bottle? Royal Juice Company hopes so. Local proprietor Samantha Royal makes beneficial, thirst-quenching juice concoctions an essential part of a healthy summer. Royal Juice is now offering turmeric shots and blends of cleansing vegetable, fruit and herbal-infused juices at their new downtown Bend location.
Royal goes beyond the tried-and-true green blends to mix varietal seasonal veggies and tropical fruits with elixirs of herbs, mushrooms, squash, plant extracts and spices. A longtime avid juicer, she simplifies what can be a complicated nutritional science of organic, raw, vegan, herbal mixology by offering convenient modes for imbibing them. Several factors converged in the creation of Royal Juice Company. Royal brought experience combining flavors and “adjusting the palate” from being a sommelier and bartender. She has a naturopathic background as a yoga teacher, mother, doula, a student of alternative medicine, and as a chef with her own cleansing and fasting program.
Try Royal’s dynamic Lemon Basil Hawaiian Juice for an herbal, earthy splash of summer, with its blend of lemon, ginger, basil, pineapple, poppy seed and botanically infused reishi extract. Like all the Royal Juice offerings, the Hawaiian is bold and refreshing botany in a bottle.
Nearly 80% of Royal Juice is made from local produce and 100% of production takes place on a Bend farm, with hydroponics allowing greens to grow through the winter. Embrace those greens with the Get Yo Greens, a blend of cucumber, mint, parsley, cilantro, zucchini, broccoli, lemon, pear, spinach, kale, chard and a bit of peppermint oil. Or for a sweet treat, Strawberry Mint refreshes with strawberry, mint, lime, apple, botanically infused with schisandra berry extract. Nutrition is served.
It was 2 a.m. and Kate Bhatia was mopping her kitchen floor, a sticky mess after an evening of making batch after batch of ice cream, while her 2-year-old, Teddy, and 13-week-old, Eleanor, slept. This was all after a day of working remotely for a tech startup. It was at that moment in the summer of 2022 when Bhatia realized she couldn’t do it all, nor did she want to.
Her path was clear, although she’d never thought that being an artisan ice cream entrepreneur would be the career step after being a venture-backed tech product manager. She’d loved it, but her heart wasn’t in software anymore. Bhatia had moved to Bend from Chicago at the end of 2020 with her partner, Dr. Amit Bhatia, a psychiatrist. After their daughter was born, she turned to churning the sweet, creamy comfort food of her childhood years growing up in Rochester, Minnesota.
“Making ice cream was like a moment of desperation, really,” said the 31-year-old. “It was a little bit of homesickness, a little bit of postpartum hormones. I was just trying to recreate some of our favorite flavors, and it sort of just organically grew.” She’d make a few pints of ice cream and share it with friends and neighbors. Soon, people were asking for more.
Grey Duck Ice Cream, named for Duck, Duck Grey Duck, a Minnesota version of the game Duck, Duck Goose, was born in 2022, just two weeks after her daughter’s birth. By the time Bhatia’s maternity leave ended, she was making up to 100 pints of ice cream a week at home. She’d post the flavors on Instagram—from chocolate mixed with Tony’s Chocolonely dark and milk chocolate to cream cheese ice cream with farmers’ market blackberries and a butter-toffee-coconut graham-cracker crust. They’d be snapped up in five or 10 minutes. At 7 p.m., cars would be lined up around the block to pick up the creamy pints from Bhatia’s house.
She moved on to pedaling ice cream at farmers’ markets and parks from a custom-designed bicycle. Dropping single-serving cups of her creations from footbridges to people floating the Deschutes River below, she forged new, devoted customers. Production moved to Bend’s Central District, part of the city’s Core Area Project. Allison Platt, manager of the project, said,
“Grey Duck Ice Cream is an example of a locally and woman-owned business.”
Last December, Bhatia opened a scoop shop at The Pantry, releasing two new flavors every week. Think goat cheese ice cream with a ripple of fig jam and cinnamon streusel bits or summer flavors celebrating local seasonal ingredients such as rhubarb and sweet corn ice cream.
“We’ve always wanted a small business, and that was part of the reason we moved to Bend,”
she said. “We wanted to have a place where we could be involved and could plug into community and invest ourselves. [We] didn’t expect it to happen that quickly, and we didn’t necessarily think it was going to be ice cream.”
A sign in the production facility tells the full story. It reads, “It’s not about the ice cream.” The luscious treat is a means to an end. “The end is connection, joy and real change,” Bhatia said. “That, for us, is the crux of it.”
COOKIE SAMMIES RECIPE
Makes six cookie sandwiches
Ingredients
1 dozen cookies, store-bought or homemade (3-inch diameter works best)
2 pints ice cream
Instructions
Remove a pint of ice cream from the freezer, leaving the lid on. Use a tape measure or ruler and sharpie to make two marks on the outside of the pint–the first at one inch from the top and the second mark at 2 ½ inches from the top. Use a bread knife to cut through the outside of the pint at the two marks to create three sections of ice cream. Remove paper from each section. Place the ice cream on a cookie, then top that with a second cookie, forming a sandwich. Place each on a tray in the freezer.
For the third sandwich, the bottom section of the ice cream needs to be flattened to fit the cookies. Place the ice cream between two pieces of parchment paper, pressing it flatter with the warmth of your hand. Once at the desired width, pop it onto a cookie, top it with the second cookie and place in the freezer. Repeat with the second pint of ice cream.
Note: If baking cookies from scratch, make sure they’re completely cool. Play around with different combinations of cookies and ice cream. Chocolate chip cookies with vanilla bean ice cream make the classic sandwich, but snickerdoodles and Earl Grey ice cream or Funfetti cookies with coffee ice cream are the next-level delicious.
MATCHA AFFOGATO RECIPE
Ingredients
½ teaspoon matcha tea
¼ cup hot water
1 scoop ice cream
Instructions
Heat water to just before boiling. Sift matcha powder into a small, shallow bowl. Add water and whisk the matcha in with the water until frothy, about 45 seconds. Scoop the ice cream into a small cup and pour the matcha mixture on top.
Note: This recipe swaps out classic espresso for matcha tea. Mild-flavored ice creams, such as vanilla, work best. Don’t be afraid to use an ice cream with ribbons or chunks—it will mix easily with the matcha.
ICE CREAM BONBONS RECIPE
Ingredients
1 cup white chocolate (substitutions: milk or dark chocolate)
½ cup freeze-dried fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries
1 pint ice cream (any flavor)
Instructions
To form ice cream balls, set ice cream on the counter to soften for five minutes. Use a melon baller or teaspoon to scoop marble-size balls of ice cream onto a parchment-lined tray. Work quickly to prevent melting. Place the tray in the freezer for two to three hours until the ice cream is solid.
To prepare the coating, place freeze-dried fruit in a blender or food processor on high for one to two minutes, or until the fruit turns to powder. Put white chocolate in a tall, narrow, microwave-safe glass and heat on high for 15-second intervals, stirring between intervals. Once the chocolate is melted, add fruit powder one teaspoon at a time, mixing well. Add enough to satisfy your color and taste desires.
Prepare a second parchment-lined tray. Remove about five balls from the freezer at a time. Using a skewer, toothpick or small fork, lift and quickly dip the ball into melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off and back into the glass. Place the coated bonbons on the tray and move back into the freezer as quickly as possible. Once completely frozen, consolidate into an airtight container. These little bites are a satisfying treat when your sweet tooth strikes.
Note: Try different combinations of ice cream and coatings, such as strawberry ice cream with a chocolate coating or coffee ice cream with a cinnamon white chocolate coating.
Dive into an innovative flavor adventure that celebrates the bounty of the land while nourishing body, soul and planet. From organic salads and sustainable steak to vegetarian immunity boosters and a vegan version of a Vietnamese classic, the intersection of culinary creativity and rebellion against the ordinary lies just outside your doorstep.
(Photo of this dish shown above, by Tina Paymaster) It’s worth knowing exactly who Mama Sandy’s Mediterranean Bowl is named for. It’s C.R.A.V.E. co-owner Sandy Egge, who has an extensive background in naturopathic nutrition. The dish, with lemon grilled chicken, house-made, creamy, roasted pine nut hummus, feta-tomato-cucumber salad, arugula and quinoa, exemplifies a menu devoted to terrific taste and great health. People don’t realize how good the dish is for them, said Egge. “It is packed with fresh oregano and thyme, things that are good for your immune system and gut health. Our focus here is, how can we bring forward really good quality food—quality vegetables, quality proteins—in a way that’s different, tasty and delicious.”
Think of the umami and crunchiness of a Bahn Mi sandwich, except it’s vegan—and in a bowl. General Manager Abi Adams created this top-selling dish with roasted cauliflower, spicy sesame sauce, spinach, house-made sriracha-cashew vegan mayo, brown rice, pickled vegetables, daikon radish, cucumber, cilantro, purple kohlrabi and avocado. “Our food is not complicated. We use simple, fresh ingredients, and we try to present them in a beautiful way,” said co-owner Leila Carter. “You eat with your eyes first.” The focus is on healthy locally grown, organic ingredients and house-made sauces and components, such as cashew ricotta pesto and nut butters. “Every time you’re eating vegan, you are helping the planet,” said Carter.
The health mantra “eat the rainbow” is so easy here, just order it! Salud’s Rainbow Salad is a color-packed celebration of organic goodness. Fresh greens, bell pepper, cabbage, cucumber, carrot, tomato, beets and sunflower and sesame seeds are crowned with tender microgreens from Deschutes Produce of Tumalo. The crowd-pleaser has been on the menu since Salud opened in 2013. “It’s huge, it’s just got all the goods on it, and it is probably the most beautiful,” said owner Corrine Coxey. “When I put that down in front of someone, it does look like a rainbow—it’s really amazing.” Delicious dressings range from lemon garlic tahini to garlicky vegan Caesar. The vegan, gluten-free and organic menu includes veggie-packed nori seaweed rolls with ingredients such as basil almond paté, maple-miso-chili dipping sauce and walnut-based “tuna” and cashew cream.
Terrebonne terroir comes into focus with Brand 44’s roasted beet salad, starring vegetables locally grown at Naturally Elevated Farm, a boutique regenerative, organic grower. Arugula, spinach, goat cheese, heirloom tomatoes, pepitas, croutons and basil-lemon vinaigrette complete the dish. “It’s the perfect meal for the patio in summertime,” said restaurant co-owner Danielle Fuller, “and definitely one of our top sellers.” The balance of the menu ranges from egg dishes, house-made pastries and vegan and gluten-free items to the mimosa tower, a 100-ounce decanter of sparkling wine with a spout and glasses filled with gummy bears. “It makes you feel like a kid again, but with a mimosa,” Fuller said.
The Wholesome Bowl here is aptly named, given the satisfying ingredients: organic brown rice, organic black and red beans, cheddar cheese, green cabbage, salsa, avocado, cilantro, seasoning, topped with Active Culture’s OG Sauce. Short for Organic Goodness, the ingredients of this flavorful sauce remain a secret, but its impact is anything but. This protein-packed signature dish is gluten-free, vegetarian, tasty and a best seller. “It’s the bowl we suggest to all our meat-eating skeptics—[to show] that vegetarian food can taste good and leave you feeling full and nourished,” said co-owner Faye Wickland. The eatery makes all of its sauces and dressings daily. Don’t miss its seasonally inspired shake specials, acai bowls and happy hour every Friday.
Every crunchy bite of Jackson’s Blue organic salad not only imparts fantastic flavors, it’s healthy for you and the planet. The freshness of Pacific Northwest apples combines with the richness of candied walnuts, Rogue Creamery blue cheese, a tart-sweet blue cheese vinaigrette and the umami of soy-glazed steak from the ranch, 2T Sustainable of Sisters. The ranchers are on horseback with the cattle daily, guiding their grazing in a way that regenerates and nurtures the land. Chris Hall, who co-owns Jackson’s Corner with his wife, Anna, said it’s always fun to see customers’ surprised looks when the cowboys come in to deliver the beef. Less surprising is how delicious it is elsewhere on the menu, including the steak sandwich, gemelli pasta with Sunday gravy, the ribeye and kids’ meatball skewers.
Peak-bagging? Don’t forget the Grand Tetons—the salad, that is. Approach the bed of guacamole, make your way through black beans, cilantro, cashew cream, nacho sauce, taco-seasoned almond crumble, cherry tomatoes and green onion, then attack the “summit” made of house-made flax-carrot-chive crackers. “They’re really delicious and hearty with our nacho sauce—a spicy cashew sauce,” said manager Lila Klemroth. “They’re fun, deconstructed nachos.” Everything here is vegan, organic and gluten-free, not to mention soy-free, and decadent, too. For instance, the Big Bear gluten-free waffle is topped with whipped almond butter, whipped coconut cream, syrup, banana and candied coconut. “It’s delicious and creamy, but without any of the dairy,” she explained.
Here’s Everything You Need for an Epic Outdoor Adventure
Summer is in full force, which means it’s time to throw a few craft brews in the cooler, pitch a tent or park your van and spend the night in one of the roughly 100 campgrounds across Central Oregon.
Photo by Whitney Whitehouse
If you’re excited to sleep under the stars during the coming months, we’ve put together a guide that breaks down the basics for an epic camping adventure—from finding a site and pampering your pooch to telling spooky stories and keeping warm around a (safe) fire. Here’s everything you need to know for a memorable trip into nature.
Find Your Next Favorite Campsite
Most campgrounds across the Deschutes National Forest and at Oregon State Parks offer reservations on a six-month rolling basis—meaning you can book a site as early as February 1 if planning a trip for August 1. While most choice sites have likely been booked since Valentine’s Day, hope for a more spontaneous camping trip is not lost.
Photo by Whitney Whitehouse
Even if your favorite campground looks full all summer long, be on call for an opening by setting up availability alerts (via ReserveAmerica.com for Oregon State Parks campgrounds or Recreation.gov for Deschutes National Forest campgrounds) that automatically email you when sites become available at your desired destination. For better odds, set your sights on the region’s larger campgrounds (such as Tumalo State Park, which hosts more than 75 sites near Bend)—where the chance of a last-minute cancellation is higher.
As your trip date approaches, look into tighter reservation windows. Some campgrounds within the Deschutes National Forest open a limited number of sites for booking on a 14-day rolling basis; Paulina Lake Campground, within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, makes five of its 68 sites available two weeks in advance.
If your camp time inches even closer and you haven’t received one of those coveted alerts, see if your preferred campgrounds have set aside some sites on a first-come, first-served basis—and if so, try arriving early on Thursday for your best possible chance at scoring a site. (For example: Four of the nearly four-dozen sites at Lava Lake Campground along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway are set aside for last-minute arrivals.)
If you’re a fastidious planner who’d rather have a reservation before packing the car, check some of the region’s rare campgrounds that are not managed by the Deschutes National Forest or Oregon State Parks—they tend to have more availability than you might expect. It’s not unheard of, for instance, to find week-of availability at Creekside Campground near downtown Sisters (which is managed by the city)—assuming you’re not trying to reserve a site during a big event such as Sisters Rodeo. Private campgrounds—including The Camp, an RV park in Bend—tend to fly under the radar and have last-minute availability, as well.
Being a Good Neighbor
If you have campsite neighbors, follow a few simple guidelines to keep everyone happy.
Respect a campground’s “quiet” hours (usually from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) by keeping your conversation volume low, turning off the Bluetooth speaker and putting away the guitar. Just before bed, take care to put a campfire all the way out; it should be cool to the touch. And if camping with four-legged friends, respect all leash rules.
Sharing a tent with someone? Practice good tent-iquette by ensuring your headlamp is nearby in case you have to get up in the middle of the night, storing all your gear and clothing on your side of the tent, and trying to limit the amount of noise you make.
Bringing Pups to Camp
Camping is a family-friendly activity—and, in Central Oregon, that means the whole family, including fur babies.
When planning, look for a campground that offers pet-friendly amenities; for instance, The Cove Palisades State Park offers a fenced-in, off-leash dog exercise area. LaPine State Park hosts five dog-friendly log cabins.
As the trip approaches, be sure to pack dog food and a food bowl, a separate bowl for water, at least one towel, a leash, plenty of waste bags, identification tags, bedding, extra water and a pet-specific first-aid kit.
Once at the campsite, note that dogs must typically be leashed at all times, other than in your vehicle, tents, pet-friendly cabins or yurts, bodies of water and in designated off-leash areas. Note leashes should be no more than six feet long.
When the sun sets and it’s time to gather, it helps to have a few ways to kickstart the storytelling.
Not sure where to start? Take a cue from Campfire Stories Card Deck, where 50 cards offer prompts that ask about national park visits, favorite experiences, animal encounters and other revealing topics.
All three books in the Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark series make frightfully good camping companions. In each piece, author Alvin Schwartz draws on urban legends, folklore and other genres to craft stories guaranteed to spook children of all ages.
Get a hootenanny going after packing a copy of Campfire Songs from Hal Leonard’s Strum Together series; the book includes the melody, lyrics and chord diagrams of 70 classic songs for five instruments (such as guitars, ukuleles and banjos). Sing along to notable songs including “You Are My Sunshine,” “Sweet Caroline” and “Hey Jude.”
How to Have Fun Without a Campfire
What happens when you can’t gather around a campfire or cook over an open flame? (Don’t worry, s’mores are still on the menu.)
Wildfires have grown more common in recent years, as have fire bans at campgrounds across the region. These regulations are put in place to keep campers safe and ensure that firefighters are being deployed where the need is greatest. But bans don’t need to spell the end of a memorable night.
If you encounter a campfire ban on your next trip, consider cooking meals with a butane- or propane-powered stove—which is prohibited in only the most extreme circumstances. Look for Coleman’s lineup of two-burner, propane-powered stoves that provide reliable cooktops for most car campers.
You’ll have plenty of options for gathering around a portable, propane-powered firepit after dinner; the small firepit may not keep you quite as warm as a traditional fire—but isn’t typically banned at the lowest levels of fire restrictions, won’t force you to dodge smoke all night, holds up better in damp conditions and requires almost no clean-up before bed. Outland Living is a popular producer of propane-powered firepits, with offerings in a variety of sizes and colors to match your needs and style. Whichever brand or model you go with, take heart: Propane firepits are still warm enough to roast a perfectly gooey s’more.
Gear for a Fun, Cozy Stay
You don’t need to fill your vehicle with gear and gadgets before heading out, but a few helpful items can take your camping trip to the next level.
Part puffy jacket, part sleeping bag, the Poler Napsack is a vibe, whether you’re warming up with camp coffee on early mornings or sharing tall tales at the end of a day.
Embrace your inner mixologist with the shaker set that’s designed specifically for outdoor use. The all-in-one set comes with a twist-to-lock cap that prevents spills, and stainless steel cups offer a camp-friendly alternative to glass.
After a full day of adventures, happy campers sleep deeply without interference of rocks and roots emerging from the ground beneath them. With headquarters in Bend, Luno offers comfy car-camping mattresses for a range of vehicles, from truck beds and vans, to Subarus Jeeps and Teslas. Their upcycled gear line, Project ReRoam, uses fabrics from returned mattresses to make new camping gear.
Portable, Re-Chargeable Lanterns
After stargazing, want to read a book before bed? Portable LED lanterns hook to the top of a tent’s interior, provide plenty of light and won’t blind neighbors. Black Diamond’s Moji R+ Lantern comes with a micro-USB charging port plus a full spectrum of fun colors to accompany impromptu dance parties or howling at the moon.
Out in the wild, culinary disasters can strike as surely as rain: with sandwiches soggy enough to double as sponges, mediocre meals that taste suspiciously like yesterday’s hotdogs and blame flung as freely as snack wrappers. Such gastronomic misadventures are legendary among those who venture into nature. Fortunately, the era of cooler chaos and frayed nerves is giving way to a revolution among the pines as innovative chefs transform Central Oregon’s great outdoors into a grand dining hall. Humble campfire fare can be elevated to sublime feasts, proving that the best tables in town are under a vast sky in the middle of nowhere.
Chef Jackson Higdon of Luckey’s Woodsman Off-Grid Provisions prepares dinner outdoors | Photo by Arian Stevens
Elevated Eats Made Easy by Pacaya
Once upon a smoky campfire, Jason Eckhoff and Chris Arathoon found themselves lamenting the culinary woes of camping with kids—from hastily grabbed convenience food on the way out of town to lackluster meals that sparked more groans than glee. “What if outdoor food was actually good?” they wondered. Not just passable, but mouthwateringly spectacular. From the ashes of mealtime misfires, their company Pacaya was born.
Named for a Guatemalan volcano and just as fiery in its ambitions, Pacaya is redefining what it means to eat well in the wild. No more last-minute dashes to the grocery store or the dreaded realization that the butter sits forgotten on the kitchen counter. Pacaya’s meal kits are the antithesis of traditional camp food. They are meticulously planned and locally sourced, with a dash of international flair. Offerings include flavor-packed hits such as Pork Carnitas Tacos with Guatemalan refried beans or Flatiron Steak paired with Chimichurri sauce. This isn’t roughing it; it’s dining out—way out.
The genius of Pacaya lies in its simplicity and attention to detail. Each meal kit is portioned and packed in a pre-chilled Yeti cooler and weather-proof dry box, turning the wilderness into a makeshift gourmet kitchen. Every component is labeled, organized and accompanied by easy-to-follow instructions, reducing both waste and the common campsite squabbling over who forgot to pack what. Even the culinary novice can prepare a feast under the stars in 20 minutes or less using one pot and one pan.
Pacaya Camp Meals Made Easy | Photo by Alyson Brown
From their famous Easy Clean-up Western Omelette, made with pasture-raised eggs that slide out of the bag perfectly, leaving nothing to clean, to the Walking Tamale that promises mid-day mobility and flavor in every bite, Pacaya has simplified the outdoor dining experience without compromising on taste. “We want you to have fun in the woods instead of stressing over shopping, prepping and cleaning,” said Eckhoff. “Get outside, have an adventure, and leave the meal planning to us.”
Luckey’s Woodsman plating dinner | Photo by Arian Stevens
Taste the Wild with Luckey’s Woodsman
At Luckey’s Woodsman Off-Grid Provisions in Sisters, Jackson Higdon draws on his heritage and love for the outdoors to deliver a menu that bridges Old-World techniques with modern culinary trends. Inspired by his grandparents’ original establishment, Luckey’s Woodsman celebrates the wild abundance of Central Oregon in several aways. He has a brick-and mortar-shop, food truck and hosts events, such as a forager’s dinner where diners gather raw foods he prepares for a feast in the forest.
Luckey’s menu features hearty but healthy dishes that reflect the untamed spirit of the forest. The Lumberjack—a guest favorite—features a 14-hour smoked brisket paired with local greens and woodsman beans, drizzled with pesto and chipotle aioli. Each dish celebrates the region’s natural bounty, crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Salmon Dinner Luckey’s Woodsman | Photo by Arian Stevens
For adventurers on the go, Luckey’s offers Camper Kits—conveniently prepared meals just a phone call or email away. Hot kits are designed to be warmed on a stove or over a campfire. Cold boxes are packed with items such as the Wanderlust Wrap, guaranteed to withstand the day’s journey without turning soggy.
Seated Forager’s Dinner in the Woods by Luckey’s Woodsman | Photo by Arian Stevens
As a purveyor of outdoor-inspired cuisine, Higdon insists, “The forest shares its bounty generously; we must honor it.” Deeply ingrained into every slice and simmer, this ethos is a nod to promise that was printed on his grandparents’ original menu over 60 years ago of The Woodsman Way: “To honor all who stand in awe and appreciation of the great outdoors.”
Luckey’s Woodsman dessert | Photo by Arian Stevens
Al Fresco Dining with AlpenGlow Adventure Catering
Dining under a starlit sky, accompanied only by the rustle of leaves and clink of cutlery, is not the stuff of dreams but a daily reality for Robert Dudzik and Erin DeJarnette. The brains behind AlpenGlow Adventure Catering, the duo blends extensive culinary expertise with outdoor logistics prowess, showing Central Oregon that gourmet meals genuinely belong in the wild.
AlpenGlow’s custom cook trailer transports a complete gourmet kitchen into the heart of the wilderness—whether for a romantic dinner for two by a secluded lake or a lavish meal for 60 people in the Alvord Desert. Every meal, prepared over an open flame, is infused with a smokey richness that enhances each bite.
Guests are not just diners but participants in an immersive event that blends gourmet cooking with the rugged charm of Central Oregon. “Our meals are a testament to the beauty and abundance surrounding us,” said Dudzik. “We’re giving people a true taste of the land.” Dining with AlpenGlow might include a Cowboy Cookout with smoke-tinged slow-roasted brisket and Dutch oven delights or an exquisite nine-course affair with fire-roasted duck and an arugula salad with a burnt-orange gastrique. Every meal celebrates flavors sourced directly from more than 30 local farms and ranches. AlpenGlow’s commitment to the “Leave No Trace” philosophy means that the only things they leave behind are satisfied smiles and perhaps a craving for seconds.
Aerial shot of dining table at Luckey’s Woodsman Seated Forager’s Dinner | Photo by Arian Stevens
Without a doubt, we have a lot of outdoor activities to experience in Bend. From hundreds of miles of mountain biking trails to cooling off by floating the Deschutes River, it can seem like recreation in Central Oregon is endless.
That is, until you’ve lived here for a while and feel like you’ve done all that Bend offers. But the truth is, you haven’t discovered the next best thing: exploring trails on an ATV.
Here at Bend Magazine, we try our very best to keep you updated on the happenings around Central Oregon and what to do on any given day, any time of year. So, when Matt Miller and his crew at Octane Adventures invited us out for a day of four-wheeling on some of Central Oregon’s ATV trails, we jumped at the opportunity and thought we’d bring you along for the adventure.
Hitting the Trails with Octane Adventures
Octane Adventures offers a few different trips, both guided and self-guided. After reading rave reviews online, we opted for the guided tour, which we strongly recommend, too. Octane Adventures guides take you to all the best local spots as they know the area like the back of their hands. Access areas and views most people won’t reach even on the most epic hiking days. Propelled on four wheels, see lava flows, serene alpine lakes and views of the Cascade Range. Plus, with our guide leading the way, we didn’t waste time circling the same backroads, missing the best viewpoints, spots to cool off, or secret trails. We could focus on the fun, with no risk of getting lost. Despite maps on smartphones, ATV routes can take riders pretty far out there in areas with little to no cell service.
Octane Adventures offers two different guided tours: If you only have two hours, check out Octane’s High Cascade Scenic Tour. As the name suggests, the High Cascades Scenic Tour will take you deep into Central Oregon’s backroads, to spectacular viewpoints nearly inaccessible by regular vehicles.
If you have more time, consider Octane Adventures’ Black Sands ATV Tour. The Black Sands tour gets deep into Central Oregon’s backcountry, featuring some of the area’s most challenging trails and backroads. Stunning mountain views, lakes, streams, and lava flows await you on this 4-hour ATV experience.
Tours with Octane Adventures take you so close to the Cascade Range that you can nearly reach out and touch the mountains. After winding down pine forest backcountry roads, you come upon some of the most pristine lakes and remarkable geological features, like lava flows and lava tube caves. We watched as bald eagles soared overhead. It is truly unbelievable to know this is right here in our backyard! Bend Magazine’s guided tour with Octane Adventures had us riding up to Little Cache Mountain near Mount Washington for some of the most spectacular 360-degree views we have ever seen.
To say we had fun would be an understatement.
If you have a handle on the area and know where to go, signing up for a self-guided tour is an option. Rental of one of Octane’s side-by-side ATVs, for four- or eight-hour rental options. The price of a four-hour rental was same as the four-hour Black Sands ATV Tour, so we opted to go with a guide to uncover Central Oregon’s secret spots.
How an Octane Adventures Trip Works
Booking a trip through Octane Adventures’ website is super easy. First, choose between the High Cascades, Black Sands, or self-guided trips. Next, select the dates you want to go — Octane Adventures will automatically filter out the days they are fully booked on their calendar. Lastly, after you confirm your booking, you’ll receive a booking confirmation with all the information you need for your ATV adventure.
On the day of your trip, you’ll meet Octane Adventures at their trailhead in Sisters, where they will have their brand new Polaris RZR XP1000 4-seaters waiting for you. And, yes, despite this being a “guided” tour, you and up to three friends will be driving one of these go-anywhere, off-road machines.
Driving the Polaris side-by-side should come naturally, as automatic transmission and power steering make them very similar to the car you showed up in. And don’t be afraid of getting lost, as each side-by-side is equipped with a user-friendly GPS navigation system. That way, you can track where the other vehicles are on the map at all times. Everyone stays together on this excursion.
Before you follow your guide deep into the forest, Octane Adventures goes over a few safety items. You’ll discuss where you are going and get a comprehensive orientation of how to operate the side-by-side. Next, you’ll be fitted for a helmet and goggles, both provided by Octane Adventures. And before the pedal hits the floor, you’ll be shown how to strap into the 3-point harness in your seat properly.
If you want to amp up your safety knowledge, watch the ATV safety and trail etiquette videos, along with a liability release form sent to you beforehand—they’re packed with useful tips, especially if this is your first time operating an ATV.
Pro Tips from the Trail
Use the bathroom before leaving home, there are no facilities in the backcountry.
Pack water, snacks, or lunch (you can rent a cooler from Octane).
Be sure to stay hydrated and fueled to fully enjoy your epic adventure!
Now, you’re ready to ride. See you on the trails!
Explore Winters with Octane, Too
When the temperature drops and snow begins to fall, Octane Adventures trades their side-by-sides for snowmobiles. And while they explore the Cascade Mountains outside of Sisters during the summer, Octane heads south to explore Newberry Crater in the winter.
Octane Adventures offers three different guided snowmobile tours. The first is a two-hour tour of some of the most scenic locations at Newberry Crater. Two hours is added to the second tour option, with a stop at the historic Paulina Lake Lodge for food and drinks (which we highly recommend). The third tour has riders chasing the sunset around Newberry Crater to catch some of the most spectacular golden hour views.
Pro Tip for Weather
Embrace weather of all kinds! Cloudy sunsets can reveal an equally stunning and moody winter landscape. Tours for all four seasons offer remarkable experiences, rain, snow or shine.
Ready for Your Adventure?
Octane Adventures is your ticket to discovering more of Bend. Whether you’re exploring trails in summer or cruising the snow in winter, they offer an adventure like no other. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip and explore the wild side of Central Oregon.
Pools Reopen to Encourage Splashes of Heritage and Community
Water. No other sound or element brings more relief to a Central Oregon summer. The region is rich with lakes and rivers, and since 1962, the waters at Kah-Nee-Ta Hot Springs Resort at Warm Springs Reservation have provided a prime venue for “fun in the sun” in Central Oregon. Closed since 2018, this summer marks the return of the Warm Springs destination, news as reviving and relaxing as the mineral water pools that await.
The benefits of Kah-Nee-Ta reopening its pool and village extend beyond recreation. While the lodge, convention center and golf course remain closed for now, the Warm Springs community, along with Central Oregon residents and visitors alike, can once again enjoy the hot springs resort experience as a bridge between cultures every season of the year.
Running to the Pool | Photo by Edward Heath
Waters Heal and Connect Communities
The Indigenous Warm Springs people, well aware of the healing qualities of hot mineral water released from the earth, have used Kah-Nee-Ta’s hot springs for thousands of years. Member of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs and former Oregon poet laureate Elizabeth Woody called the springs, “a healing spot, and it always has been—a welcoming place that has mystique, but also culture.”
“Water is the giver of life,” said Starla Green, a lifelong resident of Warm Springs and descendant of the resort’s namesake. Kah-Nee-Ta was named after Xnitla, a Warm Springs woman who lived, gathered and farmed there after the turn of the 20th century. “[The water of the springs] regenerates you and cleanses not only your physical being, but also your spirit and down to your soul,” Green said. The resort’s new pools and village have been designed to highlight and share the healing qualities and Warm Springs’ traditions around water.
An old postcard inviting people to come swim in the naturally heated swimming pools.
“We’re adding to the wellness [aspect of the resort] by making this a chance to experience the water like you would in a natural hot springs,” said Jim Souers, CEO of the Warm Springs Economic Development Corporation. “The newly reimagined Kah-Nee-Ta offers a world-class soaking experience nestled in the majestic beauty of the region and with access to its rich cultural heritage.”
There are further enhancements as well— all the water for Kah-Nee-Ta will be treated by infusing it with oxygen and ozone, a technology the Japanese have embraced for 70 years, Souers explained. Rich in minerals, the naturally hot water flows into four of the seven pools at Kah-Nee-Ta. The hot-springs pools include an ADA-accessible leisure pool, and two smaller adjacent pools with temperatures up to 102 and to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Twenty private, six-person hot-spring soaking tubs sit just above the rippling Warm Springs River, creating an even closer connection between place, people and water.
Family is the foundation of Kah-Nee-Ta, both for Warm Springs residents and visitors. The new design provides even more options for all ages: A large pool offers children a place to play water volleyball and basketball, while a lazy river encircles the pool’s deck for those who prefer a slower and more leisurely float. There is a beach-entry kiddie pool with spray features and fountains, a three-leaf-clover hot tub, ice baths, poolside cabanas and plenty of sunbathing areas.
Kah-Nee-Ta Resort | Photo by Edward Heath
More Than a Splash
Beyond recreation, the reopening of the Kah-Nee-Ta pools and village will create jobs, especially seasonal opportunities for Warm Springs youth each summer. Having grown up near the resort and worked there in various roles, Starla Green is now the kitchen manager and co-food and beverage manager for the resort. She also serves on the Warm Springs Community Action Team, a nonprofit dedicated to helping people build economic independence and new businesses in Warm Springs. The Kah-Nee-Ta Village will provide a space where Warm Springs artists can sell their crafts, another added benefit for tribal and nontribal people to deepen the connection between cultures. Additionally, The Museum at Warm Springs and tribal retail stores alongside the Indian Head Casino, such as Tananawit artist’s collective, King Salmon fish and game and Pony Express coffee shop, provide places for visitors to stop, explore and learn more about the Warm Springs community year-round.
Deschutes River | Photo by Edward Heath
Kah-Nee-Ta is also bringing back the long standing tradition of a weekend salmon bake. Charles Jackson, Warm Springs tribal member and Economic Development Corporation board treasurer, described how his first job as a teenager was at Kah-Nee-Ta. He recalled the split salmon roasting on spits beside an open fire, the traditional dancing and the sense of camaraderie. “The salmon bake offers opportunities for visitors to interact with tribal members and get to know us, to get to know each other,” Jackson said. “That’s one of the things that we want to bring back–this regular intercultural communication between people who don’t live here and the people on the reservation.”
Visit and Play
Beyond the hot springs, summer guests to Kah-Nee-Ta can float a three-mile stretch of the river in tubes or kayaks, then take a shuttle ride back to the village. Alongside and above the river, several 5- or 10-mile loop trails access Warm Springs terrain for hikes, walks and bike rides. Horseback rides, along with mini golf, ping pong, frisbee golf, horseshoes and pickleball will also be available at the resort, creating diverse experiences and perspectives.
Photo by Edward Heath
For replenishment and refreshments, a sit-down restaurant and full sports bar serve authentic tribal fare such as river-caught salmon and fry bread, while a full-service spa rounds out the holistic wellness experience. Some guests visit for the day, but overnight options include a 30-room hotel, RV hook-up sites and teepees made by Bend-based Nomadics Tipi makers that include the work of Kris Lawler and Dale Rae Samples. Looking ahead, additional art for teepee canvases will be created by Warm Springs artist Natalie Kirk as part of a recent grant from Visit Central Oregon’s Future Fund.
“The region, as a visitor destination, is really excited to welcome visitors from around the world to experience our tribal community once again,” said Kristine McConnell, vice-president of regional programs for Visit Central Oregon.
Generations of Warm Springs residents and visitors hold cherished memories of Kah-Nee-Ta. With the reopening, these memories can return, aided by the comfort of mineral hot springs, plenty of sunshine and a classic salmon bake. Newcomers, too, will have a chance to make Kah-Nee-Ta a part of their family traditions. Most importantly, perhaps, the new resort allows the Warm Springs community to reintroduce the land and its water, whose beauty and health benefits these tribes know better than anyone.
Old postcard from the ’60s inviting guests to visit Kah-Nee-Ta Resort
Like many women, Emily LaPlume could never find a swimsuit that was both comfortable and cute, so she decided to make one. That was in 2015, when she was a junior at Champlain College in Burlington, Vermont. When she won a scholarship to study abroad in New Zealand, LaPlume decided to bring some of her creations with her, trading her swimsuits for accommodations. “I was just handing out suits along the way to women in these really amazing, beautiful places, and they started documenting it and sending me pictures,” said LaPlume, age 29. Instagram was just becoming popular, and after she began posting the photos, her swimwear started trending too.
Back at college, LaPlume sought out a mentor, fared well in collegiate “Shark Tank”-style competitions, and a few shops began selling her creations. After graduation, she debated whether to continue with the business or pursue her passion for traveling. She chose the latter and witnessed global pollution’s glaring impact on Southeast Asia’s coastlines and the exploitation of low-wage workers.
A breakthrough came in Byron Bay, Australia, a surfing town that promotes sustainable businesses. “That totally reignited something in me—to completely shift the focus of the company toward sustainability—for everything from hangtags to hygiene liners to packaging,” explained LaPlume. She began using regenerated nylon made of industrial waste, such as fishing nets, and in 2019, launched Saturday Swimwear. Returning home to Allenstown, New Hampshire, LaPlume and her father converted a van into a mobile workshop and home for her new company.
Driving west, LaPlume discovered Bend. Since then, sales have doubled annually, confirming the market for her product. The suits are sewn in Portland, then sold online, at LaPlume’s shop in downtown Bend and in boutiques across the United States. No longer sewing the suits herself has freed up time for LaPlume to focus on other aspects of the business. She enjoys commissioning women artists to create nature-inspired prints for her swimwear, that swimmingly continue her goal of embracing aesthetics, adventure and comfort in a sustainable way.
Ahoya Float Tubes
Whenever Emily Hoy and Justin Novicky finished floating the Deschutes River, their mood would quickly go from elated to deflated upon seeing trash cans filled with ripped, flattened, round tubes—yet more plastic destined for the landfill. This inspired Hoy, age 48, a senior graphic and color designer at Hydro Flask, to engineer an adventure tube that’s more durable, functional and has some flair. Riffing on her name and the seafaring exclamation–Ahoy matey!–Hoy and Novicky launched the Ahoya all-season adventure tube for snow tubing and river floating.
Ahoya tubes boast an array of well-thought-out features addressing Hoy and Novicky’s mission. An inflatable backrest doubles as waterproof storage. Strong “daisy chain” webbing lets users carry the tube, connect with other tubes and attach a reusable water bottle. There’s no rope to fall off in the river and no cup holder, features designed to minimize trash and de-emphasize drinking alcohol, which is illegal on the Deschutes River. “It’s our answer to the fast fashion of tubes,” said Hoy.
After testing their fourth prototype, sample tubes are available this summer, with sales beginning in spring of 2025. The couple bootstrapped their startup–and credits Bend Outdoor Worx accelerator with the mentorship they needed. “We’re so thankful because we’re getting our brand voice dialed, our value propositions, our core beliefs, our ‘why’ before we release it,” Hoy said. “We want to change the way people float the river—we want to create a river-lution.”
Pick Fresh Local Products of the Season
Zealios Sunscreen
For a high level of sun protection, without painting on a coat of thick white paste, this athlete-focused brand based in Bend promises SPF performance that’s completely clear.
Sea Salt Surf Car Freshener by Broken Top Brands
Is that the scent of beachy ocean air with notes of jasmine? No, it’s the inside of a Subaru. Hang an air freshener made with just two ingredients—essential oils and paper— from your rear view mirror.
“No Bugs” Spray by Lotus Naturals
Turns out that mosquitoes, gnats, fleas, horseflies and ticks are turned off by some scents we love. Wear this blend of essential oils, with cedarwood, lemongrass, geranium and peppermint, to keep bugs away while you play.
Lemon Citronella Candle by Broken Top Brands
This vegan, paraben-free, phthalate-free soywax candle will keep your deck, patio and dinner party bug free, too.
Meet LaPlume and Hoy on The Circling Podcast with Adam Short. Listen at BendMagazine.com/podcast.
In the burgeoning Shevlin West neighborhood, Malace Homes has completed eight of 15 homes, making it the largest single builder in the development. This recently completed Mid-Century Modern home features many of the hallmarks of a high-end Malace residence, such as heated hardwood floors, quartz and slate on the counters and the island, eight-foot-high doors, 10- to 19-foot-high ceilings, prewired solar capabilities, surround sound system throughout and an epoxy-finished floor in the two-car garage.
One of the main advantages of living in Shevlin West is its easy access to Shevlin Park, a prime destination for dog walking, mountain biking, hiking and exploring the natural beauty along Tumalo Creek Trail. As a resident himself of the neighborhood, Tom Malace, founder of Malace Homes, understands the needs of fellow homeowners and builds homes that cater to every need, from seniors who prefer single-level living to young families eager to be immersed in a close-knit community.
How did Malace Homes begin?
Tom Malace
I founded Malace Homes in 2015, hoping to change the way home design and home buying were done. I knew I could make a simple shift: building spaces that reflect homeowners’ lifestyles and tastes without neglecting quality artisanship or customer experience. The Malace Homes team is approaching its 10-year anniversary, and we only feel more motivated to continue creating homes that serve the people living in them.
Tell us about your approach to working with clients.
Our job begins with understanding each client’s lifestyle and personal values so that we can create a home that supports them. I believe that building and buying a home should be a process of being listened to, prioritized and respected; this is why people choose to customize their home in the first place.
Before founding Malace Homes, I spent 20 years managing large banking teams that worked directly with homebuyers. These teams quickly noticed a common theme: Buyers were constantly dissatisfied with their home-buying process. The problem was that counteroffers, low-quality construction and generic living spaces neglected too many people’s needs. I wanted to turn the home design and buying marketplace on its head, so that’s exactly what Malace Homes has set out to do.
The motto of Malace Homes is “Expect More.” What do you mean by that?
Expecting more is a process of restoring faith in home design and buying. We never cut corners when it comes to sustainability and quality. We are all about making the American Dream accessible to our clients. Nothing is off the table during the design process with Malace Homes. Our clients work directly with our interior design team to hand-pick each finish to meet their needs. Designing and purchasing a home should be treated like the milestone it is.
How do you explain the concept of building a dream home to your clients?
The dream of home ownership for me as a builder is to design and build rooms, spaces and finishes that please our clients in a way that represents the home they envision. When it comes to home building, Malace Homes works to utilize the abundant resources and artisanship in our community to create an environment our clients are proud to call home. I know our customers have worked hard, and saved long, to be ready to build their dream home. We want to show people what luxury feels like when their needs, lifestyle and finances are put first. It’s fulfilling work, and it’s what homebuilding is all about.
Created in 1984, the Oregon Lottery not only provides fun and exciting chances to win great prizes, but it’s also a major financial contributor to many of the programs and places that residents and visitors to Oregon enjoy. Nearly $15 billion in Lottery funds have been steered to Oregon’s public schools, veteran services, and state parks, to ensure the legacies of places and programs exist for future generations.
“[People] may not realize that every time they play one of our games, whether it be Powerball, Scratch-its or Video Lottery, the majority of those dollars are going to fund programs Oregonians voted to support,” said Melanie Mesaros,external communications program manager of Oregon Lottery.
Park Origins
When Sarah Helmick, an Oregon Trail pioneer, donated 5.46 acres of her family’s land for use as a park in 1922, she ignited an idea that eventually turned into the Oregon State Park system.
Today, there are more than 250 Oregon State Parks—including Tumalo, Smith Rock, and Prineville Reservoir—as well as heritage sites, waysides, and recreation areas. Oregonians, known for their love of the outdoors, enjoy the wide range of activities these parks have to offer all year-round.
“We know, both in our hearts and through research, that people experience tremendous benefits from both natural and cultural park experiences,” said Jason Resch, communications division manager for Oregon State Parks and Recreation. “There are measurable benefits, like health care savings and economic activity, and more hard-to-define results, like how much better you feel after soaking in the scenery or learning something interesting and new about Oregon.”
Preserving Oregon’s state treasures and continuing a mission more than 100 years old is vital to provide the continued beauty and recreational opportunities that make Oregon special. There was a time when the future of Oregon’s state parks was far from assured.
In the 1990s, the park system was underfunded. Some parks had to close seasonally, while some were even in danger of being sold outright in order to pay for maintenance in others. The lack of full funding forced our state park system to make hard decisions and to judge which properties should be let go in order to assure the survival of others.
Solving the Problem
Luckily, Oregon voters found a creative solution. In 1995, voters directed a portion of Oregon Lottery proceeds to support the state’s unmatched state parks system. Since then, more than one billion dollars have been used to help preserve, improve and operate the parks, viewpoints, scenic corridors, beaches and heritage sites that comprise the Oregon State Parks system.
In Central Oregon, those funds have allowed access to some of the region’s favorite places:
Along with hiking and mountain biking, Smith Rock State Park is known as one of the seven wonders of Oregon. It’s a popular destination for climbers with more than 1,000 bolted routes. Just 25 miles from Bend, it’s also a great place to spot amazing wildlife such as prairie falcons, golden eagles, and river otters. Since 2020, Smith Rock State Park has received more than $16,000 in Oregon Lottery grants. This money has gone toward parking and trail improvements, as well as important work to reduce fuel for potential wildfires.
Located in the heart of Bend, and accessible by walkable trails, is Pilot Butte, with its majestic panoramic views of the high desert. To the west are the snowcapped Cascade Range, as well as Mt. Jefferson, Black Butte, Mt. Hood and the Three Sisters volcanic peaks. Just over $35,000 in Oregon Lottery grants has gone to Pilot Butte for projects such as landscaping and trail and road maintenance.
Located along the Upper Deschutes River, LaPine State Park is a draw for those who love fishing, camping, hiking, and floating. In colder weather, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are also popular. In addition, the park is centrally situated for exploring iconic landmarks of Central Oregon, such as Newberry Crater, Deschutes National Forest, and Lava River Cave. LaPine State Park has received more than $250,000 of Lottery funds spread over several projects. These range from smaller grants for updating electrical and sewer systems, to much larger grants for making restrooms ADA compliant and for parking lot restoration.
Four miles north of Bend and resting alongside the Deschutes River sits Tumalo State Park. With its alpine lakes and trout-filled streams, it’s an ideal destination for anglers. Scenic trails provide a great way to get some fresh air and exercise along the river. For more leisurely fun, there are plenty of picnic facilities, and wading or floating in the meandering river in the summer. Year-round camping is also an option.
Tumalo State Park has benefited the most during this period with $1.2 million going for ongoing necessary upkeep from drain fields and paved areas to electrical systems and accessible shower facilities.
Directing the Dollars
Not all of the state parks have the same needs. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) takes in the Oregon Lottery funds apportioned for state parks and distributes them where the needs are greatest.
“We prioritize the list based on human health and safety, recreation needs, natural and cultural resource protection goals, risk of failure, existence of other funding, and how timing matches up with other projects, among other things,” said Resch.
While paying for projects such as plumbing and electrical upgrades might seem underwhelming amid the magnificent landscapes that characterize these parks, they’re the sort of expenses that play a critical role in keeping the parks open and safe for visitors year-round.
Director at Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Lisa Sumption explained, “Support from Oregon Lottery is especially important because there are no taxes operating state parks – in fact, Lottery dollars make up approximately a third of our entire operating budget. Quite frankly, our park system would not exist as it is today without this support from the Lottery.”
The Oregon Lottery slogan, “Together, we do good things,” is right on target. Partnerships and Oregon Lottery’s success help the entire state thrive. “Last year, we returned nearly $900 million to the state to benefit the public programs Oregonians care about, including our state parks,” said Oregon Lottery Director Mike Wells. Funding state parks is a win for visitors and residents alike.
Central Oregon residents and visitors have made Sunriver a place to rest, relax, and enjoy the outdoors for decades. From its being a launching point for weekends at Mt. Bachelor in the winter to its home base for day trips on the Deschutes River in the summer, Sunriver offers a little bit of everything we want here in Central Oregon.
Despite its modest size, Sunriver’s charm lies in its intimate, community feel. Spanning just a few thousand acres, the area is ideally suited for exploration by bike. Sunriver has harnessed this advantage, making it a cyclist’s paradise.
The paved, 15-mile Sunriver Bike Path stretches around the community, taking riders and walkers alike through residential areas, shopping districts, and restaurants. Off of the public Sunriver Bike Path, nearly 40 more miles of paved path are located on the Sunriver Resort property. Staying at Caldera Springs, for example, will provide you access to this additional 40 miles of bike paths and is also one of the Northwest’s premiere resort rental communities.
But how do you get around? Where should you go, and where can you get a bike if you don’t have one? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered.
Photo courtesy of Sunriver Resort
What can be accessed by the bike paths?
Almost everything in Sunriver is bikeable, thanks largely to the extensive bike path network. And, where you go will largely depend on where you stay.
Most will enter Sunriver on Century Drive, traveling south of Bend on Highway 97. The lion’s share of the bike paths in Sunriver are north of Century Drive, although a few dip to the south. For reference, the Sunriver Resort seems to be the southern cutoff for the area’s bike paths, as it also appears to be a bit of a boundary for the area itself.
What do you want to do while in Sunriver? Whether you are looking for good food, some great golf, or some activities to do with the family, Sunriver has a way to get you there by bike.
But, before you and the family head out on this extensive trail system, it is important to know some ground rules. All pathways are intended for non-motorized use, except class-1 e-bikes. Throttle-controlled class 2/3 e-bikes, Segways, hoverboards, and electric scooters are prohibited.
Just like driving, ride on the right side of the bike path and pass on the left. Only pass when you have enough distance to do so, and be sure to communicate audibly with the person or persons you are passing. Pets must be secured in a basket or carrier, not running alongside a rider.
Two more critical safety concerns to point out: first, bike riders and passengers under sixteen must wear a helmet, per Oregon State Law. Lastly, the bike paths intersect many different roads as they wind through Sunriver, and cyclists must yield to cars at these road crossings. Luckily, vehicle traffic is relatively light, and visibility is excellent, with no road crossings sneaking up on you. As you enjoy the trails, keep an eye out for those learning the ropes—young and new riders often add a dash of unpredictability to the scenic routes!
Cycling to Food
Great places to grab a beer and a bite to eat await you in Sunriver. Leave the car at the rental and hop on your bike to get there!
Sunriver Brewing has two locations in Sunriver, both accessible by bike. Their Brewery Taproom is a great place to grab a quick beer and see how Sunriver Brewing makes its phenomenal beer. It is located on Enterprise Drive and connected to a bike path.
The Sunriver Brewing Pub is located just a bit north, in The Village at Sunriver shopping center. This rustic-style brewery has excellent beer and food and has a play area for the kids, making it the perfect lunch or dinner spot for the whole family. Plus, it is easily accessible by the bike path that runs along Abbot Drive.
The Owl’s Nest, located in The Lodge at Sunriver, this cozy spot has an atmosphere that’ll make you want kick up your feet, share a few drinks and stay for a while. Especially after a heart pumping ride. With a blend of cuisines the menu offers something for everyone.
Food cart pods continue to pop up all around Central Oregon, and Sunriver is no exception. In the summer of 2024, we will see the opening of Century Commons, Sunriver’s newest taphouse and only food cart pod. Seven food carts will accompany the indoor and outdoor seating at the Century Commons, which is not too far from the Sunriver Brewing Taproom. As with most places in Sunriver, you can easily ride to the Century Commons.
Fun Pit Stops Along Your Ride
Many golfers flock to Sunriver for the incredible greens and challenging courses the area offers. And while you may want to exchange your bike for a golf cart as soon as you get there, Sunriver’s bike paths will lead the way to the resort courses.
If eighteen holes isn’t your thing, maybe disc golf is. Pedal over to SHARC for nine holes on their par 27 disc course or splash in the aquatic center’s many pools. The kids will have fun playing at Paulina Park, or you can easily pedal to Fort Rock Park for an afternoon there. Horseshoes, pickleball, basketball, and tennis are also an option.
Need to rent a bike for your stay in Sunriver? That is no problem; Sunriver has several locations where you can rent bikes. Village Bike and Ski, Sunriver Sports, and Four Seasons are all located in The Village at Sunriver and offer rental bikes. Whether you’re just looking to rent for the day or for the duration of your time in Sunriver, you’ll be able to find a bike that works for you.
And, if it is mountain biking you are looking for, hundreds of miles of Central Oregon’s best singletrack is just across the Cardinal Landing Bridge. Crossing the bridge will put you on a trail called Roundabout, connecting to Afternoon Delight, Royal Flush, Tyler’s Traverse, and more.
So, next time you’re in Sunriver, trade your car for a bike and enjoy everything the area offers. Happy pedaling!
Look north from the junction of highways 216 and 197 just west of Maupin and see Mt. Hood in the distance. Notice how the pavement slightly bends to the south and disappears as it descends into town. Now glide along the road’s wide shoulder following the Sherar’s Falls Scenic Bikeway, picking up speed as you flow into town and descend toward the Deschutes River.
Of the state’s 17 official scenic bikeways, six are in Central Oregon. There’s the challenging McKenzie Pass Scenic Bikeway across the Cascade Range and the descriptively titled Sisters-to-Smith Rock Scenic Bikeway. Another, the Twin Bridges Scenic Bikeway, originates at Mirror Pond in Bend, visits Tumalo, then loops north before returning to town.
Three other nearby routes follow less-explored roads. Each one is well under 40 miles and offers only a few hills. Experienced road cyclists and those on e-bikes may consider these rides to be easy. Those with less time pedaling may agree with these routes’ official ratings: moderate. But all will benefit by slowing to appreciate the scenery, geology and history found along the way.
Crooked River Canyon Scenic Bikeway
Crooked River Canyon Scenic Bikeway
The Crooked River canyon, south of Prineville, is a dream destination for rockhounds searching for agate, jasper, obsidian, opal and Oregon’s prized find—thundereggs. It should be no surprise to cyclists when they see these dedicated hunters scouring the river banks as they pedal south on Oregon Route 27, the Crooked River Highway, toward Bowman Dam and Prineville Reservoir. The rocks, remnants of the region’s long volcanic history, are so plentiful that Crook County is considered to be among the best rock-hunting locations in the country. The thunderegg, a geode that reveals colorful, crystalline silica when cracked open, has been the Oregon state rock since 1965.
The ride from Prineville’s southern edge follows the river for 18 miles as it twists through the canyon on an easy, gradual climb until ending at Big Bend Campground, a half-mile shy of the reservoir. There are several opportunities to stop for pictures as the river snakes between the high canyon walls. Shade is limited until reaching the campground, so it’s important to carry adequate food and water–and liberally apply sunscreen. While it’s 18 miles to the end of the ride for those who planned to have a vehicle waiting at the end, it’s extended to 36 miles with a return to Prineville.
► Start and Finish: Prineville ► Distance: 18 miles one way, or a 36-mile loop ► Elevation Gain: 728 feet
Sherar’s Falls Scenic Bikeway
This is one bike ride, available in three parts. First, there’s a segment through Maupin, with an exploration of Wasco County farmlands and a peaceful pedal along the Deschutes River. How the day’s experience unfolds next is determined by an answer to the question: Do you want to complete the hard work early and enjoy the rest of the day, or split the uphill effort into two smaller sections? Riders may choose a steep climb from the river for six miles up slow-moving Highway 197 through Maupin before the road finally levels out. Or, another option includes a steep uphill going up and then across the countryside, passing through Tygh Valley and returning to town for several miles along a downhill stretch.
There are two key spots to take note of on this bikeway. One is Maupin, a community worthy of a rest stop, a cold drink and a look around. The other is Sherar’s Falls, a twist in the road and a river crossing steeped in history. The Sherar’s Bridge Hotel, stagecoach stop and toll bridge are long gone; the hotel burned down more than 80 years ago. The waterfalls, while modest in size, remain a traditional fishing spot for Native peoples using wooden scaffolds and dipnets as their ancestors have for thousands of years.
► Start and Finish: Maupin ► Distance: 33 miles round trip ► Elevation Gain: 1,727 feet
Madras Mountain Views Scenic Bikeway
Start this experience on a gravel path veering off of SW Mountain View Drive in downtown Madras. The road’s rocks are too deep to continue pedaling with narrow road-bike tires, so you’ll need to walk about 50 yards to a parking lot and look for a stone guardrail. Lean forward and stare down into the aquamarine waters of Lake Billy Chinook. This ride is named for its views of the distant Cascade Range, but it’s hard to take your eyes off the lake, which is actually a reservoir. It collects water from the Deschutes, Metolius and Crooked rivers before allowing a controlled stream to flow north as the Deschutes River. To the west are the mountains—Jefferson, Bachelor and Washington, plus the Three Sisters and more—if you remember to look up.
The Madras Mountain Views Scenic Bikeway is a comfortable ride from Sahalee Park in Madras south across open farmland and through the towns of Metolius and Culver before angling toward the lake. There’s one hill to climb on the way back and then the route glides for seven miles back down to Madras.
► Start and Finish: Downtown Madras ► Distance: 29 miles ► Elevation Gain: 1,175 feet
Cycling Safety and News: These routes follow public roads and include vehicle traffic. Wear a bicycle helmet and brightly colored clothes. Use a flashing tail light and obey traffic laws. Also note: Oregon Highway 242, part of the McKenzie Pass Scenic Bikeway, is closed for repaving and roadside improvements from U.S. 20 in Sisters to the summit at Dee Wright Observatory. Roadwork is expected to be completed by the McKenzie Highway’s traditional June opening which is June 17 this year. An Oregon Department of Transportation spokesperson emphasizes that the road is not safe for bicycling until then and urges cyclists to respect the closed road gates.
Explore Central Oregon’s vibrant summer scene with Bend Magazine’s packed event calendar. From outdoor concerts to farmers markets, adventure sports to cultural festivals, we’ve got your summer plans covered. Discover guided hikes, art walks and fun pop-up events showcasing our region’s spirit. Our constantly updated calendar is your go-to resource for unforgettable experiences, whether you’re a local or visitor. Don’t miss a moment of Central Oregon’s summer magic. Click here to explore our full calendar to ensure you don’t miss a thing.
– July 17, 2024 –
The summer season keeps on sizzling with a lineup of dynamic events in Central Oregon! This week, indulge your taste buds at a Purple Hands Wine Tasting, hear some of country’s biggest names at FairWell Festival or hunt for vintage treasures at Good Bad Rad Vintage’s lively block party. For those feeling philanthropic, dance the night away at a fundraiser in Sisters or spice things up at Papi Chulo’s Latin bash. Nature lovers can even learn to whip up gourmet meals in the great outdoors. Read on for all the juicy details that’ll make your week pop!
Purple Hands Wine Tasting
4 p.m. Thursday, July 18, 2024 | Free | Viaggio Wine Merchant, Bend
Prepare your palates: Margaux Lemma of Purple Hands Winery is taking over the bar for an exclusive evening of expert pours. As a key player in this rising Oregon winery’s small team, Lemma brings insider intel straight from the vineyard to your glass. Swirl, sip and discover why Purple Hands is causing such a stir in the wine world. Click here for more information.
FairWell Festival
Times Vary, Friday, July 19-Sunday, July 21, 2024 | Tickets start at $160 | Deschutes County Fairgrounds, Redmond
Calling all festival-goers: It’s time to rock, roll and indulge your senses at FairWell Festival’s sophomore splash this weekend. With Billy Strings, CAAMP and Kacey Musgraves headlining, your feet won’t stop dancing, nor will your taste buds thanks to a smorgasbord of local libations and cuisine. Grab your tickets now–one day or three, your call–and maybe splurge on that VIP package to splurge on live music. Click here for more information.
Good Bad Rad Vintage Block Party
11 a.m. Sunday, July 21, 2024 | Free | Good Bad Rad Vintage, Bend
Vintage enthusiasts and bargain hunters, take note: Good Bad Rad Vintage is throwing a Community Block Party that’s sure to be a treasure trove of fun and fashion. With vinyl tunes spinning, tasty bites and more than 20 local makers and vintage vendors showcasing their wares, there’s something for every taste–including a $10 booth for the thriftiest of shoppers. Click here for more information.
Changing Futures 2024 – A Circle Of Friends Fundraising Event
6 p.m. Saturday, July 20, 2024 | Sliding scale donations | Sisters Art Works, Sisters
Join Changing Futures, a youth mentorship program for Sisters’ underserved children, for a night of local bites from Luckey’s Woodsman, raffles, dancing and music from Toast & Jam. The night is anopportunity to come together in celebration of community while supporting children in need. Click here for more information.
Sunset Latin Party at Papi Chulo’s
7 p.m. Saturday, July 20, 2024 | Free | Papi Chulo’s, Bend
Bring your dancing shoes: This Saturday, Papi Chulo’s’ patio will turn into a Sunset Latin Party, animated with music from DJ SOLO and dance ranging from cumbia to salsa. Grab a cold drink, enjoy the tunes and soak in the summer vibes at this Latin summer fiesta! Click here for more information.
Backpacking Food Workshop
9 a.m. Sunday, July 21st, 2024| $35 | Tumalo State Park, Tumalo
Amp up your backpacking feasts: Wildland Guiding Company’s hands-on Backpacking Food Workshop will turn you into a master meal prepper, providing you with the skills to make healthy, lightweight and super tasty spreads for your next outdoor adventure. Plus, you’ll walk away with three take home meals, all included in your workshop cost. Reserve your spot today! Click here for more information.
– July 10, 2024 –
Summer is in full swing in Central Oregon! This week, enjoy free music at Munch & Music, explore art and culture at the Bend Summer Festival or admire intricate quilts in Sisters. Green thumbs can get their fix at Berry Fest, while nature lovers celebrate at the Tree-Mendous Victory Party. From artisan markets to equestrian shows, there’s an adventure waiting for every taste. Don’t miss out on the fun – read on for all the exciting details!
Munch & Music
5:30 p.m. Thursday, July 11, 2024 | Free | Drake Park, Bend
Pitch your camping chairs for Ozomatli at Drake Park. This free show is part of the Munch & Music series. Come hungry – Bend’s favorite food vendors will be there, plus a kid zone for family fun. Click here for more information.
Bend Summer Festival
Times Vary, Friday, July 12 – Sunday, July 14, 2024 | Free | Downtown Bend
Celebrate Bend’s culture, arts, and community at the Bend Summer Festival. This summer staple offers a diverse array of experiences, from local libations to artisan crafts. Stroll through downtown, enjoying local cuisine and live performances that showcase the best of Bend’s vibrant community. Click here for more information.
The 49th Annual Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show is a must-see for stitching enthusiasts. Marvel at the work of master quiltmakers and explore a colorful array of one-of-a-kind quilts. This celebration of fiber arts not only showcases incredible talent but also supports enrichment opportunities for local youth programs. Click here for more information.
Downtown Bend Artisans Market
9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday, July 13, 2024 | Free | Downtown Bend
There’s nothing quite like this open-air market, rich with the diverse vendors of Central Oregon. Browse artisan booths, taste local specialties and get to know some of Bend’s finest creatives. The Downtown Bend Artisans Market first kicked off in 1974, so stop by to see what makes this Bend staple return year after year. Click here for more information.
Berry Fest
9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday, July 6 to Sunday, July 14, 2024 | Free | Schilling’s Garden Market, Bend
Are you ready to plant summer’s favorite fruit? Schilling’s Garden Market has all the plants, tips and fresh berries a Central Oregon berry enthusiast could ask for. The experts at Schilling’s can assist you as you begin your garden patch plant varieties zoned for Central Oregon. Bring the kids along to participate in the drawing contest! Click here for more information.
Raise the Baton: The Elements of Music
5 p.m. Sunday, July 14, 2024 | $100 | Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon, Bend
Enjoy an evening of live music while supporting young musicians of our region. This fundraiser for the Young Artists Scholarship will pair stunning performances with delightful hors d’oeuvres and wine. It’s a wonderful opportunity to encourage the next generation of musicians while delighting in a night out. Click here for more information.
Tree-Mendous Victory Party
5 p.m. – 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 16, 2024 | Free | Worthy Brewing, Bend
If you’re ready for a nature-loving celebration, head to Worthy Brewing for the Tree-Mendous Victory Party! A major environmental win has aided the preservation of 7 million acres of forest across Oregon and Washington. This party features tree-themed fun and live reggae music, making for a feel-good night you won’t want to miss. Click here for more information.
Oregon High Desert Classics
8 a.m. Wednesday, July 17 to Sunday afternoon, July 21, 2024 | Free | J Bar J Boys Ranch, Bend
The gorgeous Hunter-Jumper horse show of Bend is back this July. Marvel at the talented horses and riders – all for a great cause. This event is also the premier fundraiser for J Bar J Youth Services, so grab food on the grounds, lay out a picnic blanket and enjoy the equine spectacle! Click here for more information.
– June 26, 2024 –
Another week of summer fun in Central Oregon is here! Find out what beer sounds like at the inaugural Bend Bands & Brewers Bash or find your rhythm at Big Ponderoo Music & Art Festival. Join in the celebration at the grand re-opening and 50th anniversary bash for Bend’s Riverhouse Lodge. For film enthusiasts, catch inspiring flicks at the No Man’s Land Film Festival. If you appreciate handcrafted goods, don’t miss the Artisan Market. Keep reading for all the details.
No Man’s Land Film Festival
7 p.m. Friday, June 28, 2024 | $17 | Tower Theatre, Bend
For BendFilm’s annual “IndieWomen” appreciation screening, attend the No Man’s Land Film Festival 2024, featuring eight short films directed and produced by women. The event showcases diverse stories in outdoor sports and adventures, with free admission for members of Independent Women in Independent Film. Click here for more information.
Big Ponderoo Music and Art Festival
Times Vary, Friday, June 28 – Sunday, June 30, 2024 | Tickets start at $95 | Village Green, Sisters
Big Ponderoo, an SFF Presents production, celebrates Sisters’ music and arts community. The weekend festival features a free community concert on Friday, followed by two days of ticketed performances on Saturday and Sunday at Village Green Park, showcasing Americana, bluegrass and alt-country music on two stages. Click here for more information.
Bend Bands & Brewers Bash
Times Vary, Friday, June 28 & Saturday, June 29, 2024 | Tickets Start at $25 | Silver Moon Brewing, Bend
At the inaugural Bend Bands & Brewers Bash, a two-day live music and beer festival, Ten local bands will each perform at a different craft brewery where signature beers have been created to reflect their sound. All ten beers available both days. Click here for more information.
Riverhouse Lodge 50th-Year Celebration & Grand Re-Opening
Times Vary, Friday, June 28 – Sunday, June 30, 2024 | Free | Riverhouse Lodge, Bend
With its iconic location next to the Deschutes River, Riverhouse Lodge is celebrating 50 years with a newly redesigned space that is officially open to the public this weekend. The reimiagined space brings Riverhouse Lodge into the future and celebrates with a weekend full of live music, food and drink, carnival rides and more. Click here for more information.
Artisan Market
11 a.m. Sunday, June 30, 2024 | Free | Hollinshead Barn, Bend
A summer kickoff market event will feature more than 20 vendors offering artisan-made apparel, jewelry, home goods and art. After you’ve purchased your goodies stick around to enjoy live music and refreshments. Click here for more information.
– June 19, 2024 –
There’s lots of summer fun on this week’s calendar! From vibrant artistry at the Art Forward block party to local crafts and beats at the Summer Solstice Makers Market, creativity is in full swing. Delight in classical piano at Drake Park’s In A Landscape event or savor smoky delights at The Big Bend BBQ festival. Get ready to chuckle at So You Think You Got Jokes comedy competition and explore Oregon’s flora and fauna at the Sunriver Wildflower Show & Pollinator Festival. Experience forest bathing at Shevlin Park and groove at Cruxapalooza for beer, music and fun vibes. Wrap up your week with the Bend Moonlight Market for an evening of community or with a rock show at Hayden Homes Amphitheater. Keep reading for all the details!
Art Forward: Advancing Creative Thinking Fundraiser
4 p.m. Thursday, June 20, 2024 | $75 | Scalehouse Gallery, Bend
Kick off the summer with a block party for a great cause. The Art Forward block party and fundraiser will be equally communal, creative and celebratory, with all proceeds directly benefiting Scalehouse’s youth education program. The fundraiser event features creative hubs to get your hands on artmaking, live music, an art auction supplied by local artists, drinks and tasty bites from Bleu Bite Catering. Click here for more information.
Summer Solstice Makers Market
4 p.m. Thursday, June 20, 2024 | Free | The Grove Market Hall, Bend
Celebrate the longest day of the year at The Grove’s Summer Solstice Makers Market. Browse the creations of 12 local artists and find diverse crafts for purchase. Listen to the tunes from a live DJ and indulge in an array of delicious drinks and cuisine. Click here for more information.
In A Landscape: Classical Music Performance
6 p.m. Thursday, June 20, 2024 | $40 | Drake Park, Bend
Experience classical music like never before! Listen to Hunter Noack timeless piano melodies through wireless headphones as you wander through Drake Park, allowing the music to harmonize with the natural beauty around you. This traveling outdoor concert series promises an immersive blend of music and the outdoors. Click here for more information.
The Big Bend BBQ
Times Vary, Friday, June 21 – Saturday, June 22, 2024 | Free | Alpenglow Park, Bend
Get fired up for summer at this sizzling BBQ festival. Bring a lawn chair and blankets for a day of mouthwatering delights from local vendors and plenty of fun activities for the whole family. From Texas brisket to Korean BBQ, it’s a flavor-packed festival celebrating the art of barbecue. Click here for more information.
Wildflower Show & Pollinator Festival
9 a.m. Saturday, June 22, 2024 | $12/adult, $10/child | Sunriver Nature Center, Sunriver
Explore the diversity of Oregon’s wildflowers and pollinators at the 34th Annual Wildflower Show & Pollinator Festival. With activities and displays for the entire family, the festival features guided tours, insightful talks, art displays, native plant sales, crafts and vendors– celebrating all things wildflower and their pollinators. Plus, industry experts will be available to learn from throughout the festival. Click here for more information.
Summer Solstice Forest Bathing
10 a.m. Saturday, June 22, 2024 | $35 | Shevlin Park, Bend
Celebrate the summer solstice with an immersive meditation led by a certified forest therapy guide, inviting attendees to cultivate a deep sense of relaxation and presence. Forest bathing takes a holistic approach to rejuvenating the mind, body, and spirit, enhancing your sense of wonder, gratitude and connection with the earth. Click here for more information.
Cruxapalooza 2024
11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday, June 22, 2024 | Free | Crux Fermentation Project, Bend
Hang out on the iconic Crux lawn for Cruxapalooza! This 12-year commemoration of Crux beers is an all-day celebration of live music, food trucks, games and even a morning 5K–if dashing for beer is your style. Whether running or sipping, head to Cruxapalooza for a day spent with fellow beer lovers as you toast to one of Bend’s favorite breweries. Click here for more information.
Bend Moonlight Market
3 p.m. Saturday, June 22, 2024 | Free | Open Space Event Studios, Bend
The Bend Moonlight Market is back and ready to celebrate the summer season with flair! Treasure hunt for a curated selection of local goods, delectable food, live music and even flash tattoos. Bend’s original night market is the perfect place to support Central Oregon’screative community. Click here for more information.
Cage the Elephant: Neon Pill Tour
5:30 p.m. Monday, June 24, 2024 | $100 | Hayden Homes Amphitheater, Bend
Soak in the evening sun and rock out with Cage the Elephant, the Grammy Award-winning band behind hits like “Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked” and their new single “Neon Pill.” As part of a national tour, the band will be joined by special guests Young the Giant, Bakar and Willow Avalon. Click here for more information.
– June 12, 2024 –
It’s going to be a whirlwind week in Central Oregon! From outdoor yoga to a charity golf tournament and a jubilant Juneteenth celebration, there’s something for everyone. Get dressed for a glamorous fundraiser, or indulge in regional libations lakeside. Keep reading for all the details.
Power Flow Yoga and Polar Plunge
5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 13, 2024 | $22 | Tumalo State Park, Tumalo
Experience a 60-minute Power Flow yoga class at Tumalo State Park, featuring dynamic poses followed by a refreshing polar plunge. This outdoor session welcomes all abilities and offers an invigorating blend of physical challenge and serene ambiance. Enjoy renewal and empowerment in nature’s embrace. Click here for more information.
Ghost Tree Invitational Golf Tournament
7:45 a.m. Friday, June 14 & Saturday, June 15, 2024 | $125 | Juniper Preserve, Powell Butte
Experience this immersive two-day event featuring a charity golf tournament on Juniper Preserve’s Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, exquisite culinary offerings, live music by Precious Byrd and a silent auction. With special lodging packages at Juniper Preserve, indulge in the ultimate getaway weekend of golfing, dining and entertainment. Click here for more information.
Juneteenth Central Oregon Jubilee
11 a.m. Saturday, June 15 & Sunday, June 16, 2024 | Free | Drake Park, Bend
Join the 4th Annual Juneteenth Central Oregon celebration for a two-day “Jubilee” of education, entertainment and community. Experience authentic African, Caribbean and African American cuisine, art, activities and captivating performances in a vibrant celebration of heritage and culture. Click here for more information.
Tuxes & Tails Fundraiser
5:30 p.m. Saturday, June 15, 2024 | $135 | Riverhouse on the Deschutes, Bend
Join the Humane Society of Central Oregon for Tuxes & Tails, an evening of dinner, dancing, drinks and live and silent auctions. Enjoy wine, desserts and entertainment while supporting animals in need, with all proceeds benefiting shelter and medical care for more than 3,000 animals. Click here for more information.
Tuesday Wine on the Deck
3 p.m. Tuesday, June 18, 2024 | $40 | The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse, Sisters
Head out to The Suttle Lodge for the first event in its Tuesday Wine on the Deck series, featuring Buona Notte Wines from the Columbia River Gorge. Sip wines paired with unique small plates crafted from seasonal ingredients andearn from winemaker Graham Markel about his passion for creating exceptional wines in the dynamic microclimates of the Columbia River Gorge region. Click here for more information.
– June 5, 2024 –
Photo courtesy of Bend Yoga Festival
Get ready for fun with this diverse lineup of activities around Central Oregon! Immerse yourself in the world of yoga at the Bend Yoga Festival or indulge in a lively First Friday Block Party. Spice up your evening at a Latin Dance Party and don’t miss the opportunity to discover artisan goods at the Bend Handmade Market. Keep reading for all the details!
Missing sweet treats from Foxtail Bakeshop? In head baker Nickol Hayden-Cady’s new cookbook, Treats from the Den, find recipes for your favorites. The launch party promises an evening filled with delightful flavors as Hayden-Cady shares a sampling of her whimsical desserts crafted from the pages of her book. Copies of Treats from the Den will be available for purchase. Click here for more information.
Bend Yoga Festival
Time Varies, Thursday, June 6 – Sunday, June 9, 2024 | Passes start at $29 | Locations Vary
Find your flow at the premier yoga festival in the Pacific Northwest! Enjoy four days of world-class yoga, uplifting sound journeys and a variety of nourishing wellness sessions, including asana intensives, yoga philosophy and guided forest bathing experiences. Take part in this transformative event curated for deep relaxation and self-discovery. Click here for more information.
First Friday Block Party
6:30 p.m. Friday 7, 2024 | Free | The Commons Cafe & Taproom, Bend
Brooks Alley block parties on First Fridays are synonymous with Bend summers! Get ready for a a kick off evening filled with local music, art, food and community, featuring the awesome tunes of local musicians. This weekend dance to the sounds of Skillethead as you overlook Mirror Pond. Click here for more information.
Latin Dance Party
7 p.m. Friday, June 7, 2024 | $15 | Immersion Brewing, Bend
Spice up the night at a lively Latin dance party! Featuring the vibrant sounds of Bendiciones Salsa Orchestra, the event promises an evening of lively salsa music, dance lessons and nonstop dancing with DJ Solo. Mark your calendars for a night of moving and grooving to the beat of Latin rhythms! Click here for more information.
Bend Handmade Market
10 a.m. Saturday, June 8, 2024 | Free | Downtown, Bend
Find 100 of the best makers and artists from throughout the Pacific Northwest at Urban Craft Uprising’s Bend Handmade Market. Celebrate the work of indie artisans while exploring a diverse range of handmade goods, including jewelry, housewares, clothing, toys, art and more in downtown Bend. Click here for more information.
– May 29, 2024 –
The local calendar is buzzing with excitement as summer approaches! Dive into the world of wine with a workshop on regenerative agriculture. Savor a night of gourmet delights at a farm-to-fork fundraiser, or get active at an inaugural pickleball tournament. Lace up for a challenging half marathon or bask in the sun at a festive Pride pool party. Discover unique crafts at a lively makers market and celebrate the season with music, food and fun. Keep reading for all the details!
Wine Workshop Series: Regenerative Agriculture
6 p.m. Thursday, May 30, 2024 | $25 | Flights Wine Bar, Bend
Offering engaging classes paired with tastings, the upcoming installment of the Wine Workshop Series features Jessica Cortell from Cortell Collections winery. Learn about the benefits and challenges of regenerative agriculture and how it compares to organic and biodynamic farming. Class price is refunded with a 2-bottle purchase and dinner will be available at Flights before or after the event. Click here for more information.
Farm-to-Fork Dinner and Fundraiser
5 p.m. Friday, May 31, 2024 | $120 | Tetherow Resort, Bend
Attend the 7th Annual Farm to Fork Dinner and Fundraiser to enjoy locally sourced food, live music and stunning views while supporting Heart of Oregon Corps through various fundraising activities, such as the Somewhere That’s Green Plant Auction and a lively Dessert Dash. The night kicks off with a cocktail hour, followed by dinner and a program featuring Heart of Oregon youth and alumni. Click here for more information.
PLAY ON! Pickleball Tournament
Time varies, Friday, May 31-Saturday, June 1 2024 | $77.50 | Sunriver Resort, Sunriver
Sunriver Music Festival hosts the inaugural PLAY ON! amateur pickleball tournament and fundraiser at the welcoming Fort Rock Park Pickleball Complex. Open to all ages and skill levels, this event supports the Sunriver Music Festival and the Young Artists Scholarship Program. Click here for more information.
Dirty Half Marathon
7 a.m. Saturday, June 1, 2024 | $90 Registration Fee | Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, Bend
Join the 23rd annual FootZone Dirty Half Marathon and experience 13.1 miles of trail bliss with challenging elevation changes and stunning mountain views. The race starts at the Unitarian Church and follows Phil’s Trailhead, ending with food, beer and music at the finish line. Click here for more information.
Pride Pool Party
2 p.m. Saturday, June 1, 2024 | $20 | Campfire Hotel, Bend
Kick-off Pride Month with a day full of fun and celebration! Begin by diving into the festivities at Pride in the Park, then soak up the sun poolside with Cliché’s 21+ Pool Party at Campfire Hotel where you can swim, mingle and sip on refreshing drinks crafted by Canteen Bend. Keep the energy high as you head over to Silver Moon for an unforgettable evening of dancing and celebration. Click here for more information.
9th Street Village Makers Market
12 p.m. Sunday, June 2, 2024 | Free | Bevel Craft Brewing, Bend
Visit the monthly Makers Market, popping up the first Sunday of each month through September and brimming with locally grown and handcrafted goods.. Enjoy a tasty Bevel beer and lunch from the food carts, then stay for the open acoustic Bluegrass Jam Circle taking place at 3 PM. Click here for more information.
– May 22, 2024 –
The weather is heating up and so is the local calendar! Hype up for summer hiking at the Big Butte Challenge Launch Party. Then, take your taste buds back in time with a ’70s-inspired dinner fundraiser. Mingle with artisans at a lively market in the Old Iron Works District and toast to the anniversary of a local taphouse. Wrap up ski season with some serious splash action at the pond skimming competition, and celebrate Memorial Day with a mouthwatering BBQ feast at Brasada Ranch. Cap it all off with a film screening that’s bound to leave you inspired. Keep reading for all the details!
Big Butte Challenge Launch Party
4 p.m. Thursday, May 23, 2024 | Free | Bend Brewing Company, Bend
Gear up for the Big Butte Challenge launch party! The challenge involves the exploration of eight buttes and breweries from Memorial Day through October 1 at your own pace, with prizes and free beer at participating breweries. Learn more, and listen to live music, at the Bend Brewing kick-off event. Click here for more information.
Riverhouse on the Deschutes 50th Anniversary Dinner: Celebrate the 1970s
6 p.m. Thursday, May 23, 2024 | $95 | Currents at the Riverhouse, Bend
Celebrate Riverhouse on the Deschutes’ 50th anniversary at the “Dining Through the Decades” dinner six-part series. At this first event, enjoy a nostalgic culinary journey through the 1970s, paired with Deschutes Brewery selections, including the exclusive Riverhouse Golden Ale. A portion of ticket sales benefits KIDS Center of Bend. Click here for more information.
Last Saturday Artwalk
9 a.m. Saturday, May 25, 2024 | Free | Old Bend Iron Works, Bend
Meander through the Old Bend Iron Works district for artist popups and vibrant art happenings. Swing by Café des Chutes for its Afternoon Jazz on the Patio. This week, hear the Michelle Van Handel Jazz Trio. Sales and surprises await! Click here for more information.
Crosscut’s 4th Anniversary Party
12 p.m. Saturday, May 25, 2024 | Free | Crosscut Warming Hut No. 5, Bend
Cheers to four years of Crosscut Warming Hut, a gathering place for craft beer near Bend’s Box Factory. Enjoy discounted drinks, live tunes, and tasty treats from Kona Ice of Bend. Dance, sip and soak in the celebratory atmosphere. Click here for more information.
Memorial Day Artisan Market & BBQ
11 a.m. Sunday, May 26, 2024 | $15 per plate | Brasada Ranch, Powell Butte
Celebrate Memorial Day at Brasada Ranch with artisan treasures, live music and a lip-smacking BBQ menu. Delight in classic burgers, smoked mushrooms and more, paired with wine, beer and spirits as you enjoy Brasada’s beautiful grounds and views. Click here for more information.
Annual North American Pond Skimming Championships
11 a.m. Sunday, May 25, 2024 | Free | Mt. Bachelor, Bend
Bid adieu to winter with a splash at Mt. Bachelor’s pond skimming showdown. Although registration is full, spectators are welcome to witness skiers attempt to glide across the epic 100-foot-long pond for a chance to win a Winter 2024/25 Mt. Bachelor Full Season Pass. Get ready for thrills and spills and a lot of fun! Click here for more information.
“Dream Boldly: The Grand AdvenChair” Film Screening
5:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, 2024 | $10 | Open Space Event Studios, Bend
Witness the inspiring tale of Geoff Babb’s Grand AdvenChair, a human-powered wheelchair built for epic journeys. Follow his remarkable adventure through the Grand Canyon in “Dream Boldly: The Grand AdvenChair,” a film earning recognition from various film festivals, including at Cannes Film Festival. Enjoy a Q&A session after the screening with Babb and his crew, followed by community mingling. Click here for more information.
– May 15, 2024 –
There’s lots happening in town this week! Celebrate the end of another ski season at a passholder party, laugh at a comedy show, experience (or participate in)the annual Pole Pedal Paddle, savor a salmon bake, join a community dinner party, watch mixologists compete to make the best gin cocktail, raise money for regional wildlife, and gear up for mountain biking season with a themed film festival. Keep reading for more details!
Winter Passholder Party: 90’s Night
6 p.m. Thursday, May 16, 2024 | Free | Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room, Bend
Ready to toast to the end of an epic ski season? Swing by the Passholder Party for some après-ski vibes. Rub elbows with Mt. Bachelor big wigs, fellow shredders and snag your first beer on the house when you flash your 2023/24 Outplay 365 Pass or Alpine Full Season. Click here for more information.
A Good Comedy Show
7:30 p.m. Friday, May 17, 2024 | $10 | Bo’s Falafel Bar, Bend
Get ready to laugh with Bad Posture Collective’s comedy show! Enjoy a night of hilarious stand-up acts that promise to keep you entertained. Don’t miss out on this evening of drinks, tasty treats and guaranteed giggles. Click here for more information.
2024 SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle
9:15 a.m. Saturday, May 18, 2024 | Free | Race Ends at Farewell Bend Park, Bend
Gear up for the 44th annual SELCO Pole Pedal Paddle, Central Oregon’s premier multi-sport event. Individuals, pairs and teams tackle the alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, cycling, running and kayaking course stretching from Mt. Bachelor to Bend’s Old Mill District. Don’t miss out on this iconic race, a cornerstone fundraiser for MBSEF to support more than 800 athletes annually. Click here for more information.
Salmon Bake
11 a.m. Saturday, May 18, 2024 | Free | Central Oregon Community College, Bend
COCC’s annual Salmon Bake is back! Head to the campus athletic field for a day of feasting, fundraising and family fun. Enjoy traditional roasted salmon, entertainment, vendors and a silent auction, all supporting the COCC First Nations Student Union scholarship program. Click here for more information.
Bend May Dinner Party
6 p.m. Sunday, May 19, 2024 | $25 | Flights Wine Bar, Bend
Experience the flavors of the Middle East at the Bend May Dinner Party hosted by Flights Wine Bar, with featured recipes from Rose Previte’s debut cookbook, Maydan. Join fellow food enthusiasts for an evening of bold and shareable dishes inspired by Lebanon, Morocco and beyond. Click here for more information.
Gin Riot 2024
1 p.m. Sunday, May 19, 2024 | $18 | 10 Barrel Brewing Eastside Pub, Bend
Check out a live competition where six mixologists will vie for the title of best Gin Riot cocktail. For the past month, Central Oregon bars and restaurants have featured specialty cocktails made with Crater Lake Prohibition Gin or Crater Lake Reserve Dry Gin to prepare for the competition. Join fellow gin enthusiasts to celebrate the culmination of this spirited event. Click here for more information.
4th Annual Wildlife Baby Shower
3 p.m. Sunday, May 19, 2024 | Donations Encouraged | Oregon Spirit Distillers, Bend
Support your local wildlife hospital at the Think Wild Fundraiser and Supply Drive at Oregon Spirit Distillers. Bring cash donations or supplies to aid injured and orphaned native wildlife.. Enjoy live music, food, raffles and a silent auction, with $2 from every cocktail purchase going to Think Wild. Click here for more information.
Mountain Bike Film Festival
7 p.m. Tuesday, May 21, 2024 | $20 | Volcanic Theatre Pub, Bend
Experience the thrill of mountain biking on the big screen at the RituaMountain Bike Film Festival. Celebrate the sport’s spirit and watch incredible athletes push the limits of what’s possible with stunning cinematography and engaging storylines. Click here for more information.
– May 7, 2024 –
Get ready to soak up the warmth–Central Oregon is heating up with a slew of exciting events this week! From hanging out with renowned photographer Brown W. Cannon III to hitting the slopes with the U.S. Ski Team’s Laurenne Ross, there’s something for everyone. Peruse a lively night market, attend a one-of-a-kind fashion show fundraiser, freshen up on your bike safety and learn from Indigenous artists. Keep reading for all the details!
An Evening with Photographer Brown W. Cannon III
6:30 p.m. Friday, May 10, 2024 | Free | Patagonia Bend
Dive into the adventurous world of surfing with photographer, surfer, author and activist, Brown W. Cannon III. At Patagonia Bend, Cannon will share captivating tales and stunning images from his latest book, NORTH, which encapsulates the history and thrill of the North Shore of O‘ahu. Plus, indulge in refreshments courtesy of Willamette Valley Vineyards. Click here for more information.
Laurenne Ross Shred Camp
Saturday, May 11 – Sunday, May 12, 2024 | $350 | Mt. Bachelor, Bend
Calling all ski enthusiasts! Join U.S. Ski Team alpine racer Laurenne Rossfor an adrenaline-pumping two-day Giant Slalom race camp at Mt. Bachelor. Perfect for youth and teens with a passion for ski racing, this camp includes top-notch coaching, dry-land training sessions, complimentary lunches and exciting raffle prizes. Click here for more information.
Bend Moonlight Market
3 p.m. Saturday, May 11, 2024 | Free | Open Space Event Studios, Bend
Spend an enchanting evening at the Bend Moonlight Market! From delectable food to live tunes and a diverse array of vendors, this market promises a fun, community-centered experience for all. Whether you’re shopping for Mom or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere, this market is not to be missed. Click here for more information.
12th Annual Rubbish Renewed Eco Fashion Show Fundraiser
5 p.m. Saturday, May 11, 2024 | Tickets start at $15 | The Pavilion at Tetherow, Bend
Celebrate creativity and sustainability at the Rubbish Renewed Eco Fashion Show, a fundraiser for REALMS schools. Marvel at the wearable art creations made from recycled materials by local designers while enjoying a live auction, a pop-up marketplace and mouthwatering treats from food trucks. It’s fashion with a purpose, and it’s bound to be fabulous! Click here for more information.
Bend Bike Night
4:30 p.m. Monday, May 13, 2024 | Free | 921 Northwest Mount Washington Drive, Bend
This family-friendly evening hosted by Commute Options includes aBike Safety Course for elementary-aged children. Kids will learn essential skills such as stopping, starting, communication and predictability. Additionally, there will be a safety information station and helmet fitting workshop provided by Safe Routes to Schools. Click here for more information.
Indigenous Artists Panel
6:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, 2024 | $5 | High Desert Museum, Bend
Attend an enlightening discussion with Indigenous artists, including the talented Kelli D. Palmer (Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs), Jacy Sohappy (Cayuse/Nez Perce/Yakama) and Dr. Michelle Jack (sqilxʷ /syilx–Okanagan). Gain insight into the creative process and learn how these artists are preserving and evolving cultural traditions through their work. It’s an evening celebrating art, culture and the power of storytelling. Click here for more information.
– May 1, 2024 –
Happy May Day! Let’s gather and cultivate some of it’s vibrant, springtime energy at these Central Oregon events and parties. Dance at RendezVan 2024 or whet your palate with a Cheese & Limoncello pairing. Lace up your running shoes for the annual Bend Beer Chase or find inspiration at Bend Women’s Expo 2024. Round off the week with a Star Wars Dance & Costume Party or shop the Love Your Mother Mini Market for artisan gifts, and dress up for a Kentucky Derby Party! Keep reading for all the details!
RendezVan 2024
Thursday, May 2 – Sunday May 5, 2024 | Free | Mt. Bachelor, Bend
Rev your engines and head up to the annual RendezVan Festival at Mt. Bachelor! Join fellow RVers, campers and van-lifers for a celebratory weekend packed with live music, spring skiing and community spirit. Groove to headliners like Company Grand Saint Motel and The Floozies, with opening acts by Billy & the Box Kid, The Dip and Robert DeLong. Click here for more information.
Cheese & Limoncello Pairing
5 p.m. Friday, May 3, 2024 | Free | Oregon Spirit Distillers, Bend
Let the limoncello flow at this fun pairing event! Enjoy a tasting of classic, lavender and strawberry limoncellos, alongside some pink gin delights, all perfectly paired with artisan cheeses. Curious about this Italian drink? Let the experts at Oregon Spirit Distillers guide you through its origins and flavor notes. Admission is free and cheese flights are available for $20 each. Click here for more information.
Bend Beer Chase
7 a.m. Saturday, May 4, 2024 | Free | 10 Barrel Brewing, Bend
Experience the ultimate Bend Beer Chase! This relay adventure spans approximately 55 miles of Central Oregon’s scenic beauty, with pit stops at local breweries along the way. Cross the finish line and enjoy a riverside beer festival at Drake Park. Feeling less like racing and more like pacing? No problem! Join the Keg Leg for a leisurely stroll through downtown Bend, indulging in top-notch brews on each block. Click here for more information.
Bend Women’s Expo 2024
10 a.m. Saturday, May 4, 2024 | $10 | Seventh Mountain Resort, Bend
Bend Women’s Expo is a day of empowerment, education and entertainment celebrating the diversity and strength of women. Explore specialized spaces such as the Goddess Lounge for holistic wellness and take part in panel discussions, wine tasting, yoga and outdoor activities. Click here for more information.
Love Your Mother Mini Market
12 p.m. Saturday, May 4, 2024 | Free | Midtown Yacht Club, Bend
Mother’s Day is quickly approaching! Find gifts for the special women in your life at this artisan market, featuring creations from local artists and makers. Shop offerings from Partie Pretzelz, Glaze & Stitch, Over The Hedge Apothecary, Mae & June Flowers and more. Support local artisans while gearing up to celebrate Mother’s Day! Click here for more information.
Kentucky Derby Party
1 p.m. Saturday, May 4, 2024 | Free | Waypoint BBC, Bend
It’s time for the 3rd annual Kentucky Derby Party at The Grove’s Waypoint BBC. Sip on classic mint juleps and other derby-themed delights and don a hat in Kentucky Derby tradition. Prizes will be awarded to the best-dressed attendees. Click here for more information.
Star Wars Dance & Costume Party
10:30 p.m. Saturday, May 4, 2024 | $20 | Open Space Event Studios, Bend
Transport yourself to Endor at this Star Wars-themed rave featuring a playlist of 90s techno hits, cosmic cocktails and more. Dress to impress for the costume contest and a chance to win cash prizes. Plus, get in on the action with raffle tickets for authentic Star Wars memorabilia. May the Force be with you! Click here for more information.
– April 24, 2024 –
It’s springtime in Central Oregon and the spirit of celebration is in full bloom! From poetry soirées to wine tastings, artisan markets to tree-planting parties, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Flex your green thumb at gardening workshops, attend a moving film festival or take in a lecture on the power of art for social change. Keep reading for all the details!
“Imagine and Empower” an Evening with COCC Student and Alumni Poets
5 p.m. Thursday, April 25, 2024 | Free, with pre-registration required | Central Oregon Community College, Bend
Enjoy an evening of verse and vitality with student and alumni poets Aaron Rasheed, Londale Dhesi, Ivy Sotelo, Sloan Cassidy, and Ama Garza. Whether you’re on campus or tuning in from the Redmond, Madras or Prineville campus, get ready to feel inspired. Refreshments will be provided. Click here for more information.
Viaggio Wine School
5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 25, 2024 | $50 | Viaggio Wine Merchant, Bend
Take a vinous voyage through France’s Loire Valley with Advanced Sommelier Benjamin Richardson, owner of Viaggio Wine Merchant. Enjoy a wine-tasting class where you’ll sip your way through a selection of varietals from the region. Bon voyage! Click here for more information.
Spring Makers Market
3 p.m. Saturday, April 27, 2024 | Free | Immersion Brewing, Bend
Celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Peruse the Spring Makers Market for a dose of creativity and community spirit. With more than 25 vendors, local brews, live tunes, raffles and even impromptu flash tattoos, there’s something for everyone. Plus, you’ll be supporting the work of local nonprofit Street Dog Hero. Click here for more information.
Arbor Day Planting Celebration
10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 27, 2024 | Free | Central Oregon Community College, Bend
Get your hands dirty at the Pondo Planting Party in celebration of Arbor Day! Join COCC and Project Ponderosa for a day of tree planting, interactive activities and music. Learn more about ponderosa trees while enjoying coffee and cookies in the company of fellow nature enthusiasts. Click here for more information.
Educational Garden Fair
11 a.m. Sunday, April 28, 2024 | Free | Sisters Firehouse Community Hall, Sisters
Dig deep into the world of gardening at Deschutes Public Library’s Know Gardens: Garden Fair! Walk away with a greener thumb thanks to workshops on pollinator support, composting, seed bombs, veggie patch mastery and even art classes. Click here for more information.
SPROUT Film Festival 2024
10 a.m. Tuesday, April 30, 2024 | $6 | Tower Theatre, Bend
Get tickets for a cinematic celebration of diversity and creativity. Showcasing a collection of short films, the SPROUT Film Festival aims to break down barriers, challenge perceptions and spread awareness about intellectual and developmental disabilities. Click here for more information.
“Art, Social Justice and the Radical Imaginary” with Favianna Rodriguez
6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 30, 2024 | $10 | Central Oregon Community College, Bend
Artist Favianna Rodriguez takes the stage for COCC’s Nancy R. Chandler speaker series. Delving into the intersection of art, social justice and the imagination, Rodriguez will explore the power of art to inspire social change. Click here for more information.
– April 17, 2024 –
It’s Earth Day and Central Oregon sure knows how to celebrate! Explore environmental well-being discussions or immerse yourself in an Earth Day forest bathing session. Indulge in local cuisine and support farmers at the Locavore Gala, or groove to local beats at the HomeGrown Music Festival. Join the Earth Day Fair & Parade in downtown Bend for family-friendly fun, and cap off the celebrations with outdoor yoga at Drake Park. Keep reading for all the details!
A Discussion on Environment and Well-Being
5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 18, 2024 | Free | Pine Meadow Ranch Center for Arts & Agriculture, Sisters
Dive into the environmental dynamics shaping Oregonian life in this engaging talk facilitated by The Roundhouse Foundation. Explore themes of global reliance and impact through emerging concerns such as novel pollutants in water, land and food sources. Click here for more information.
2024 Locavore Gala and Farm-to-Table Feast
5 p.m. Friday, April 19, 2024 | $150 | Tetherow Resort, Bend
Support Central Oregon Locavore at its 8th Annual Gala and Fundraiser, a celebration of collaboration, cooperation and the essence of local food. Engage in community with a gourmet multi-course farm-to-table feast, silent and live auctions, plus photographic narratives that highlight local farmers’ dedication. Click here for more information.
HomeGrown Music Festival
Times Vary, Friday, April 19 – Saturday, April 20, 2024 | $30 | Locations Vary, Bend
Get ready for the 2nd annual HomeGrown Music Festival featuring your favorite local bands. Enjoy non-stop tunes all weekend with multiple stages at Bunk+Brew and Silver Moon Brewing, plus late-night shows at the Domino Room. Don’t miss the pre-party at the Volcanic Theatre Pub on Thursday. Click here for more information.
Earth Day Fair & Parade
11 a.m. Saturday, April 20, 2024 | Free | Downtown, Bend
Mark your calendars for the 2024 Earth Day Fair & Parade, a colorful celebration of the planet and community spirit. Enjoy a family-friendly parade through downtown Bend, where costumes showcasing Earth’s wonders are encouraged. At the fair, explore food vendors, interactive booths and performances for all ages, including authentic Mayan drumming and dancing. Click here for more information.
Earth Day Forest Bathing
1 p.m. Friday, April 21, 2024 | $35 | Shevlin Park, Bend
What better way to celebrate Earth Day than with a rejuvenating forest bathing session? Connect with nature and honor the planet through guided meditation and sensory exploration, led by a certified forest therapy guide from Rooted Presence. Foster a deeper bond with the natural world, while contributing to your overall health and wellness. Click here for more information.
Earth Day Outdoor Yoga Class
5:30 p.m. Monday, April 22, 2024 | Suggested Donation $15 | Drake Park, Bend
Get moving outside with this all-level yoga class led by Emily Tighe of Do Yoga Outside and Khyra Wilhelm of Wildland Guiding Company. Experience a one-hour flow class to connect with nature. Be led to ground your senses and move your body with your breath. Honor Earth Day with a centering community experience of mindful movement outdoors. Click here for more information.
– April 10, 2024 –
This week is brimming with excitement in Central Oregon! From rhythmic poetry to Latin dance, the region’s creative energy is swirling. Don’t miss out on winter parties at both Mt. Bachelor and Hoodoo Ski Area, or opt for cultural experiences such as a musical performance in an ancient cave or a guided wine and cheese tasting. Embrace the fast-paced competition at a national BMX race or attend a film festival that supports local housing initiatives. Read on for all the exciting details!
“Voices of Power, Voices of Imagination” Poetry Slam
5 p.m. Friday, April 12, 2024 | Free | Central Oregon Community College, Bend
Kick off National Poetry Month with creativity and inspiration at the “Voices of Power, Voices of Imagination” Poetry Slam. Moderated and judged by a mix of students and faculty from COCC, and local poets, it’s sure to be a moving evening in celebration of language. Click here for more information.
Latin Dance Party
8 p.m. Friday, April 12, 2024 | $10 | The Barrel Room—Immersion Brewing, Bend
Groove to the vibrant rhythms of Latin culture at this tropical music and dance event. Start the night with a lively Latin dance lesson before showcasing your moves. DJ SOLO and special guests will keep the energy going all night long. Click here for more information.
Subaru WinterFest 2024
Friday, April 12 – Sunday, April 14, 2024 | Free | Various Locations
Celebrate the spirit of adventure and winter at the Subaru WinterFest, featuring a free concert by the Cold War Kids at Deschutes Brewery. A weekend filled with music, mountain lifestyle and festivities awaits. Click here for more information.
USA BMX: Great Northwest Nationals 2024
Times Vary, Friday, April 12 – Sunday, April 14 | Free | Deschutes County Fairgrounds, Redmond
Join the fast-paced excitement to watch BMX racers push the limits of speed and agility. There’s not a bad seat in the house to cheer on riders in age classes from 12 and under to over 41. Get ready for a high-intensity day of fun! Click here for more information.
Bid farewell to the ski season at Hoodoo’s annual Spring Fling event. Test your skills at the Pond Skimming Battle Royale and participate in the costume contest for a chance to win fantastic prizes. Click here for more information.
Art in Nature: Camerata in a Cave
1 p.m. Saturday, April 13, 2024 | $150 | Juniper Preserve, Bend
Experience an unforgettable musical performance by the local a cappella group, Bend Camerata, inside an 80,000-year-old cave. After a scenic walk, enjoy an interpretive tour of the cave before settling in for the mesmerizing vocal concert. Wine and light appetizers will be served. Click here for more information.
Port Wine and Cheese Tasting
4 p.m. Saturday, April 13, 2024 | $35 | Elixir Wine Company, Bend
Join cheese and wine expert, Teri Tith, for an exclusive tasting experience pairing gourmet cheeses with aged Port Wines from Elixir’s portfolio. Learn about the history and tradition behind these pairings to elevate your appreciation for the artistry of cheese and wine. Click here for more information.
We Are Home Film Festival
6:30 p.m. Saturday, April 13, 2024 | $24 | Tower Theatre, Bend
Support the Thrive Central Oregon at its fundraiser, the second annual We Are Home Film Festival. Explore the theme of home and belonging through six short films by independent filmmakers, with proceeds supporting local housing initiatives. Click here for more information.
– April 3, 2024 –
Check out Central Oregon’s lineup of events this week! From rodeo-themed whiskey tastings to nostalgic trips through the 80s and 90s, there’s something for everyone. Go stargazing under the pristine night sky, attend a moving film screening, hit the trails for a scenic race or journey into the history of Oregon hops. Keep reading for all the details!
Distiller-odeo First Friday
4 p.m. Friday, April 5, 2024 | Free | Oregon Spirit Distillers, Bend
Kick off the weekend with a rodeo-themed celebration at Oregon Spirit Distillers. Dive into the world of whiskey-making amidst country music, rodeo decor and happy hour specials. Complimentary distillery tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Grab your cowboy hats and join the fun! Click here for more information.
“Don’t Stop Believin’” 80s Party
9 p.m. Friday, April 5, 2024 | $10 | Midtown Ballroom, Bend
Get ready to groove to your favorite 80s hits at this throwback-themed bash. DJs Mystic and Cruz will keep the dance floor hoppin’ with era-inspired tunes, accompanied by dazzling lights and visuals. Dress to impress for a chance to win cash prizes and dance the night away in true 80s style. Click here for more information.
International Dark Skies Night
6 p.m. Saturday, April 6, 2024 | $130 | Wanderlust Tours, Bend
Embark on an otherworldly adventure with Wanderlust Tours during International Dark Sky Week at Prineville Reservoir State Park, Oregon’s only International Dark Sky Park. Guided by naturalist experts, explore the beautiful Crooked River Caldera while learning about the celestial wonders above. Who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of a shooting star! Click here for more information.
90s Throwback Prom Fundraiser
7 p.m. Saturday, April 6, 2024 | $75 | Boys & Girls Club, Downtown Bend
Dust off your flannel shirts and scrunchies and get ready to relive the 90s at the Boys & Girls Club of Bend’s Throwback Prom! Indulge in era-inspired snacks, dance to classic 90s hits spun by a live DJ and bask in the nostalgic atmosphere of a retro gymnasium. Don your best 90s attire and support a worthy cause. Click here for more information.
BendFilm Screening of “Thelma”
7 p.m. Saturday, April 6, 2024 | $12 | Tower Theatre, Bend
Join BendFilm for a special screening of “Thelma,” a captivating film which premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival. Follow the gripping tale of a 90-year-old woman’s journey to reclaim what she lost to a phone scam. Prepare for an evening of moving cinema and fun giveaways. Click here for more information.
Horse Butte 10-Mile Trail Run
9 a.m. Sunday, April 7, 2024 | $65 | Horse Butte Trailhead, Bend
Lace-up your running shoes and take on a scenic and challenging race at Horse Butte Trail! Traverse dirt roads and singletrack amidst breathtaking high desert vistas and mountain panoramas. Conquer uphill climbs and relish flat stretches, then reward yourself with a post-race BBQ and beverages courtesy of Cascade Lakes Brewing Company. Click here for more information.
Presentation: Historic Photographs of Oregon’s Hopscape
12:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, 2024 | Free | Downtown Bend Library, Bend
Delve into Oregon’s hop-growing legacy with an insightful presentation by Kenneth I. Helphand, Professor Emeritus of Landscape Architecture at the University of Oregon. Explore the rich history of hop cultivation, from planting to harvest, and its profound impact on Oregon’s landscape and culture. Click here for more information.
– March 27, 2024 –
This week, don’t miss an impactful documentary film screening, the chance to sharpen your line dancing skills, and fun-filled parties at both Hoodoo Ski Area and Mt. Bachelor. Keep reading for all details!
Common Ground Film Screening
6 p.m. Friday, March 29, 2024 | $26 | Tower Theatre, Bend
Attend a screening of the eye-opening documentary Common Ground. Presented by Cultivate Bend, Tower Theatre Foundation, and High Desert Food and Farm Alliance, this film exposes the tangled web of money, power and politics behind our food system. The film offers personal stories, investigative journalism and a glimpse into the regenerative agriculture movement. Click here for more information.
Country Line and Swing Dance Lessons
7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 30, 2024 | $6 | Worthy Brewing Company, Bend
Put on your dancing shoes and join Worthy Brewing for a boot-scootin’ good time! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, expert instructors will guide you through the steps of country line and swing dancing. Grab a partner or come solo – either way, get ready to groove! Click here for more information.
Rodeo Day at Hoodoo Ski Area
10 a.m. Saturday, March 30, 2024 | Free With Lift Ticket | Hoodoo Ski Area, Sisters
Saddle up for a day of Wild West fun at Hoodoo Ski Area! Take part in a chili cook-off, test your skills on a mechanical bull, and enjoy live music by Saint Steel and The Preachers. Dress in your best western gear for a chance to win prizes in a costume contest. Yee-haw! Click here for more information.
Mt. Bachelor Party in Peace Park
10 a.m. Saturday, March 30, 2024 | Free With Lift Ticket | Mt. Bachelor, Bend
Head to Mt. Bachelor’s Woodward Peace Park for a day of funky beats and free SWAG. After hitting the slopes, keep the party going at the West Village Lodge Deck with specialty cocktails, tasty treats, prize giveaways, and live DJ performances. It’s going to be a party! Click here for more information.
– March 20, 2024 –
This week promises a delightful array of events! Hang loose at Mt. Bachelor’s Big Wave Challenge, connect with inspiring local authors, immerse yourself in the world of health and wellness at the Bend Health Fair, explore the intricacies of regenerative agriculture at a wine workshop and support the avalanche dogs of Mt. Bachelor. Let’s dive into the details!
Big Wave Challenge
Thursday-Saturday, March 21-24, 2024 | Free | Mt. Bachelor, Bend
Get ready for the 12th Annual Big Wave Challenge, a contest that blends the spirit of surf and snow, hosted by local legend Gerry Lopez. Snowboard through a custom-built course of wave-like features. Prizes will await the boldest riders. Surf’s up, snowboarders! Find out more here.
An Evening with Ellen Waterston and Friends
6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 21, 2024 | $5 (or a book purchase) | Roundabout Books, Bend
Gain insight into the minds of Oregonian authors Ellen Waterston, Charles Goodrich and John Daniel as they discuss writing, their new books and living a literary life. Their new titles include Where the Crooked River Rises, by Waterston; Weave Me a Crooked Basket by Goodrich, and Rogue River Journal by Daniel. Learn more here.
3rd Annual Bend Health Fair
9 a.m. Saturday, March 23, 2024 | $5 | Riverhouse on the Deschutes, Bend
Nurture your well-being at the 3rd Annual Bend Health Fair, where you get the chance to mingle with local practitioners and wellness experts. Bring the whole family for an encounter with the Easter Bunny and an Easter Egg Hunt. Participation supports Family Access Network and the Humane Society of Central Oregon. Discover more here.
Wine Workshop Series: Regenerative Agriculture
6 p.m. Saturday, March 23, 2024 | $25 (or the purchase of 2 bottles of wine) | Flights Wine Bar, Bend
Meet Jessica Cortell, vineyard manager, owner and winemaker at Cortell Collections winery. In a workshop exploring regenerative agriculture in the wine industry, Cortell will delve into the principles, benefits and challenges of this holistic approach. Join for a sip of knowledge! Learn more here.
Mt. Bachelor Avalanche Dog Team Fundraiser
6 p.m. Friday, March 29, 2024 | Free | Greg’s Grill, Bend
Head to Greg’s Grill for a fundraiser supporting Mt. Bachelor’s Avalanche Dog Team. Get ready to give out some pats as avalanche dogs including Cashew, Ruddy, Shasta and the newest addition, Jetty will be in attendance. Get to know the pups and their Ski Patrol handlers, indulge in delicious food and support a worthy cause. Learn more here.
– March 13, 2024 –
Each week we share our curated list of Things to Do Around Bend. Here’s what we have for you this week! Have the best day ever at the Ski For All games at Mt. Bachelor or the Best Fine Art Sale Ever at Tumalo Art Company. Trek into nature with Yoga in the Wild by Wanderlust Tours. Wrap up the week with a Spring Equinox Sound Bath at Hanai Foundation and an author event featuring world-class runners Kara Goucher and Lauren Fleshman. Keep reading for all the details!
Ski For All Fundraiser for Oregon Adaptive Sports
9 a.m. Saturday, March 16, 2024 | Tickets start at $80 | Mt. Bachelor, Bend
Don’t miss out on the Ski For All games to raise funds for Oregon Adaptive Sports. Open to skiers and riders of all abilities, this event promises a rousing day on the slopes with challenges, prizes and an epic raffle drawing. Your participation helps ensure access to outdoor recreation experiences for individuals with diverse abilities. Click here for more information.
10th Annual Best Fine Art Sale Ever
9 a.m. Saturday, March 15, 2024 | Free | Tumalo Art Company, Bend
After a brief hiatus, the Best Fine Art Sale Ever is back and ready to celebrate its tenth anniversary. With the chance to meet over 20 artisans offering incredible deals on their creations, you will be able to explore a wide array of artwork at this art sale. Click here for more information.
Yoga in the Wild
7 p.m. Saturday, March 16, 2024 | $140 | Wanderlust Tours, Bend
Take off on a soul-stirring snowshoe adventure with Wanderlust Tours. Trek through an old-growth forest to a warming hut for a guided yoga practice under the stars. Led by professional naturalist guides and yoga instructors, this experience combines nature exploration with mindfulness in a beautiful setting. Click here for more information.
Spring Equinox Sound Bath
5 p.m. Sunday, March 17, 2024 | Tickets start at $30 | Hanai Foundation, Bend
Celebrate a new season and the start of longer days with a transformative sound bath experience featuring seven chakra-colored quartz crystal singing bowls and grounding vibrations from an 18-inch buffalo-hide medicine drum. Let the soothing melodies wash away stress and promote deep relaxation, while you embrace the spirit of renewal and rebirth. Click here for more information.
Author Event: Kara Goucher in Conversation with Lauren Fleshman
6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 19, 2024 | $25 | Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, Bend
Top athletes and authors Lauren Fleshman and Kara Goucher delve into their respective books and the topic of women in the running industry. Experience a deep dive into the revelations and experiences shared in their acclaimed books, and gain insights into the challenges and triumphs of female athletes in the running world. Click here for more information.
– March 6, 2024 –
This week, celebrate Winter PrideFest with a medley of snow sports, comedy nights and dance parties. Gather your gals for Ladies Night at Bar Rio and Women’s Progression Sessions at Mt. Bachelor. Plus, indulge in the Girl Scout Cookie and Beer Pairing and join your fellow snow enthusiasts at a Pray for Snow Party. Keep reading for details!
Winter PrideFest 2024
Times Vary, Thursday to Sunday, March 7-10, 2024 | Free | Venues throughout Bend
OUT Central Oregon presents the sixth annual Winter PrideFest, celebrating LGBTQ+ diversity and inclusivity with a weekend of winter activities and inspiring events around town and at Mt. Bachelor. Featuring headliners WILLAM from RuPaul’s Drag Race and comedian Dana Goldberg, the event expects more than 1,500 attendees for skiing, snowboarding, comedy shows, dance parties and more. Click here for more information.
Ladies Night Cocktails and Tapas
3 p.m. Thursday, March 2, 2024 | Free | Bar Rio, Bend
Round up your ladies and head to Bar Rio in downtown Bend for a Mediterranean escape. Enjoy Ladies Night specials every Thursday, including $8 limoncello-spiked bubbles and $2 off all menu cocktails. It’s the perfect excuse for a girls’ night out filled with delicious drinks and lively vibes! Click here for more information.
Women’s Snow Sports Progression Sessions
8 a.m. Saturday, March 9, 2024 | Tickets start at $25 | Mt. Bachelor, Bend
Get ready to shred at Woodward Mountain Parks with Mt. Bachelor at the Women’s Progression Sessions. Designed to help women conquer the slopes, these sessions offer guided clinics, private mini-pipe sessions and après fun for all levels. Plus, there are awesome group prizes at the Woodward Boombox! Click here for more information.
3rd Annual Girl Scout Cookie & Beer Pairing
4:30 p.m. Sunday, March 10, 2024 | Free | Midtown Yacht Club, Bend
Attend a one-of-a-kind tasting at the 3rd Annual Girl Scout Cookie & Beer Pairing event. Guests enjoy delectable Girl Scout cookies paired with flavorful beers, promising an evening of delightful indulgence. Be sure not to miss out on this scrumptious and fun-filled event! Click here for more information.
Pray for Snow Party
5 p.m. Saturday, March 9, 2024 | Free | 10 Barrel Brewing Company, eastside pub, Bend
Get ready for the ultimate snow celebration at 10 Barrel’s Pray for Snow Party! Mark your calendars for this free, all-ages event. Enjoy live music, free snowboard and ski waxings, giveaways and plenty of beer. Click here for more information.
– February 29, 2024 –
Brewery “Pup” Crawl
4:30-7:30 p.m., March 1-30, 2024 | $15 | Participating breweries throughout Central Oregon
Support the Humane Society of Central Oregon (HSCO) during the month of March by visiting 14 breweries on 14 designated dates. Purchase a Pup Crawl 2024 logo pint glass filled with a beverage of choice and 100% of the proceeds benefit HSCO thanks to Bend Studio, Bend Pet Express and host brew pubs. Raise a glass for animals in need–your canine companions are welcome! Click here for more information.
Experience the excitement of Viking Fest, brought to you by Sons of Norway and Ski Bums Garage. Dive into a day of Nordic culture, free-heel ski lessons, storytelling and family-friendly activities. From arrow shooting to Viking sword decorating, there’s something for everyone. Click here for more information.
Exhibition Opening: “Sensing Sasquatch”
9 a.m. Saturday, March 2, 2024 | Free with Admission Ticket | High Desert Museum, Bend
Don’t miss the opening of “Sensing Sasquatch,” an exhibition delving into the enigmatic creature’s past, present and future in the high desert from an Indigenous perspective. Experience the artworks of five Indigenous artists shedding light on this elusive being. Click here for more information.
Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Oregon
9 a.m. Saturday, March 2, 2024 | $50 | Riverbend Park, Bend
Step out of your comfort zone and join Central Oregon’s Polar Plungetodive into the chilly waters of the Deschutes in support of Special Olympics Oregon athletes. Kick off the day with a heart-pumping race around the Old Mill District, followed by the plunge at Riverbend Park. Don’t forget to bring cozy clothes for warming up post plunge! Click here for more information.
Bend Moonlight Market
3 p.m. Saturday, March 2, 2024 | Free | Open Space Event Studios, Bend
The Bend Moonlight Market is back, promising an evening filled with community, creativity and entertainment. Peruse markets featuring Bend’s creative makers and resellers; indulge in food, music from DJ Sorski, tattoos and drinks.Click here for more information.
Don’t miss this upcoming race on the BLM trail network known as Maston, nestled between Tumalo and Redmond beneath the shadow of Cline Butte. Offering scenic views of the Deschutes River and the mountains of Central Oregon, this trail race winds through juniper trees and the high desert landscape.Click here for more information.
International Women’s Day Celebration
9:30 a.m. Sunday, March 3, 2024 | Free with Lift Ticket | Mt. Bachelor, Bend
Join SheJumps at Mt. Bachelor for Get the Girls Out!, a nationwide campaign in support of women, girls, transgender and non-binary individuals in the outdoors. Enjoy morning and afternoon ride sessions, lunch, a prize drawing, and meet pro snowboarder Sarka Pancochova in celebration of International Women’s Day.Click here for more information.
Musical Celebration of Women in Country Music
7:30 p.m. Sunday, March 3, 2024 | Tickets start at $52 | Tower Theatre, Bend
Discover how iconic female performers Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton inspired women worldwide at “Trailblazing Women of Country.” Through songs, words and clips, witness how these artists advocated self-assurance, women’s independence and the importance of family roots. The production stars Miko Marks and Kristina Train, with a live all-female band. Click here for more information.
Equality Wines and Out Central Oregon Wine Dinner
Reservations starting at 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 6, 2024 | $100 | BOSA Food & Drink, Bend
Equality Vines brings its collection of limited-release wines to BOSA Food & Drink for a night to benefit equality for all. The four-course dinner pairs wines such as “Love Wins” sparkling blanc de blanc with rustic Italian and French cuisine. A portion of each ticket goes to Out Central Oregon. Click here for more information.
Farm-to-Warm Springs Fundraiser
5 p.m. Thursday, March 7, 2024 | $45 | Aspen Hall, Bend
Enjoy an evening filled with local food, entertainment and fun! Join Around the Bend Farms a nonprofit with a mission to provide fresh, healthy food for the Warm Springs tribes.. Your contributions will help grow produce, purchase farm supplies and tools, and build fertile soil for ongoing community food production.Click here for more information.
– February 22, 2024 –
Winter Beer Fest at Suttle Lodge | Photo by Natalie Puls
This week, sip craft brews at the Winter Beer Fest, enjoy captivating films at Mountainfilm on Tour, and celebrate winter at Hoodoo Ski Area. Don’t miss Mimosa Fest for brunch and beats, or the Backcountry Film Festival for outdoor inspiration. Plus, dance the night away at a Leap Year Party. Keep reading for all the details!
Suttle Lodge’s 2024 Winter Beer Fest
12 p.m. Friday to Sunday, February 23-25, 2024 | Tickets start at $55 | The Suttle Lodge, Sisters
Mark your calendars for three days of beer-filled festivities on the shore of Suttle Lake! Join more than 25 craft breweries for a winter lodge experience featuring live music, delectable food and the latest brew releases from Oregon’s most popular breweries. A portion of the proceeds benefit CASA of Central Oregon. Click here for more information.
Mountainfilm on Tour
7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, February 23 & 24, 2024 | $22 | Tower Theatre, Bend
The Environmental Center’s annual fundraiser presents Mountainfilm on Tour, bringing captivating documentary films to Central Oregon. Experience tales of adventure, exploring climate change, culture and resilience across the globe. Click here for more information.
Hoodoo’s Winter Carnival features a day packed with free activities for all ages. Enjoy a variety of games and contests including ax throwing, frisbee golf, obstacle races, pie-eating, snow-sculpture contests and more. The festivities culminate in a special dinner, a torchlight descent and professional fireworks display on the mountain. Click here for more information.
Mimosa Fest
11 a.m. Sunday, February 25, 2024 | $15 | Volcanic Theatre Pub, Bend
Mimosa Fest comes to Bend, featuring a live DJ, brunch menu and themed mimosa flavors. General admission tickets include event entry and a mimosa voucher, while VIP tickets include three mimosa vouchers and a souvenir T-shirt. Live, laugh, mimosa! Click here for more information.
Backcountry Film Festival
6 p.m. Thursday, February 29, 2024 | $25 | Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, Bend
Join Discover Your Forest for the 2024 Backcountry Film Festival, featuring a diverse selection of outdoor films celebrating snowscapes and stewardship. Enjoy drinks courtesy of Cascade Lakes Brewing Company and participate in raffles with prizes from numerous local sponsors. Films are presented by Winter Wildlands Alliance and proceeds support Discover Your Forest’s efforts to ensure access to the outdoors for Central Oregon youth. Click here for more information.
Leap Year Party
9 p.m. Thursday, February 29, 2024 | $5 | Immersion Brewing, Bend
Celebrate an extra day on the calendar with a lively leap year celebration! Dance the night away with beats from talented local DJs who will keep the party going with back-to-back sets. Get ready for an evening filled with great music, drinks and company. Click here for more information.
– February 15, 2024 –
This week, get bundled up for Central Oregon’s annual WinterFest, attend film screenings throughout town, snowshoe around Crater Lake with expert guides, celebrate Hoodoo Ski Area’s anniversary, dance to the tunes of local DJs, and test your page-to-screen trivia. Keep reading for all the details!
WinterFest 2024
Time Varies, Friday to Sunday, February 16-18, 2024 | Free | Old Mill District, Bend
Oregon WinterFest 2024 is happening this weekend in the Old Mill District with three days of winter fun. The event features national music acts, ice sculptures, fine art, delicious food and more. Click here for more information.
Documentary Film Screening in Honor of Black History Month
6 p.m. Friday, February 16, 2024 | Free | Central Oregon Community College, Bend
Don’t miss the screening of Blend: On Being Black in Bend, a documentary film based on interviews with 10 Black Central Oregonians who discuss their experiences living, working and playing in the high desert. Created by Kenny Adams, the film offers candid insights into the lived experiences of its subjects. Click here for more information.
Women’s Adventure Film Tour
5:30 p.m. Friday, February 16, 2024 | $15 | Tower Theatre, Bend
Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled showcase of courage and triumph at The Women’s Adventure Film Tour 2024®. Celebrating extraordinary women and their thrilling expeditions, this showcase is sure to ignite your adventurous spirit. Click here for more information.
Crater Lake Winter Tour: Snowshoe Exploration
8:00 a.m. Saturday, February 17, 2024 | $210 | Wanderlust Tours Office, Bend
Explore the wonders of Oregon’s only national park with Wanderlust Tours, where you’ll snowshoe through a preserved volcanic landscape. Take in views of stunning Crater Lake and learn about its geologic and cultural history with expert naturalist guides. Click here for more information.
Harold the Hodag’s 25th Birthday
All Day Saturday, February 17, 2024 | Free | Hoodoo Ski Area, Sisters
Celebrate Harold the Hodag’s 25th birthday at Hoodoo! Join the festivities as the ski hill’s beloved mascot throws a birthday bash, featuring an opportunity to shred with Harold and his pals, Yeti and Sas. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for aliens on the slopes! Click here for more information.
Dance Party
8:00 p.m. Saturday, February 17, 2024 | $5 | Immersion Brewing, Bend
Experience a night of music with Bend’s top local DJs in Immersion’s cozy Barrel Room. Enjoy an open deck format where you can showcase your talent while immersing yourself in a living room setting. Dance, play games or get a flash tattoo at this fun-filled evening. Click here for more information.
Page-to-Screen Trivia
6:30 p.m. Thursday, February 22, 2024 | $10 | Roundabout Books, Bend
Challenge your knowledge of books that have been adapted into movies or television at this fun trivia night! Teams of 2-4 people can compete for prizes,and refreshments will be available from the Roundabout Books Café and Washington Dining and Cocktails. Click here for more information.
Hoodoo Ski Area
– February 7, 2024 –
This week, savor a seafood feast, trek into the snowy wilderness, attend a fundraiser soirée, learn the art of charcuterie and enjoy a magical Valentine’s Day evening. Keep reading for all the details!
Worthy Brewing Tidewater Boil
6 p.m. Saturday | $75 | Worthy Brewing Company, Bend
Get ready for an all-you-can-eat seafood boil featuring Dungeness crab sourced from the Oregon coast, accompanied by shrimp and andouille sausage. Pair your feast with Worthy’s special beer feature. All ages welcome! Click here for more information.
Experience a romantic trek at Hoodoo’s Nordic Trail System. The first 50 participants receive complimentary goodies, including a rose, chocolate-covered strawberries, and access to a deluxe hot chocolate station. Don’t miss out on the chance to win prizes during this enchanting adventure. Click here for more information.
Experience an evening of fine dining, whiskey tasting, a live silent auction, raffle and more at this Western-themed fundraiser. Proceeds go to The Center Foundation, a local nonprofit that supports student-athletes. Click here for more information.
Prepare to impress your next dinner party guests by mastering the art of building a stunning charcuterie board at the Faith, Hope & Charity Vineyards. Take home your beautifully crafted board just in time for a Super Bowl party or gain the confidence to assemble one for a special Valentine’s Day celebration. Click here for more information.
Experience an unforgettable evening of jazz in Sunriver’s iconic Great Hall for Valentine’s Day. Enjoy a hosted happy hour, multi-course dinner and full concert. Grab your partner and dance the night away at this gourmet dinner and concert! Click here for more information.
– February 1, 2024 –
This week, attend an author event, gather the gals for a vineyard’s artisan market, celebrate backcountry sports,, prep for Valentine’s Day with a candle-making workshop and enjoy jazz music lakeside. Keep reading for all the details!
Author! Author! Anne Lamott
7 p.m. Friday | $35 | Bend High School, Bend
Attend this year’s kickoff of the Author! Author! Literary series with bestselling author Anne Lamott. Secure your tickets for an engaging evening with this acclaimed writer, known for her novels and influential nonfiction works on writing and life. Click here for more information.
Explore the talents of local women vendors at a vibrant showcase of arts, crafts and creations. Grab your gals and enjoy flowing wine, wood-fired pizzas and special event snacks. Click here for more information.
2024 VertFest Backcountry Festival
8 a.m. Sunday | Registration fee starts at $40 | Mt. Bachelor, Bend
Celebrate winter culture at Central Oregon Avalanche Center’s annual VertFest. From practiced racers to costumed enthusiasts, all backcountry athletes are welcome to register for the race and have some snowy fun. Race participants will receive a neck warmer, compliments of Blackstrap. Click here for more information.
Candle Making Workshop
6 p.m. Wednesday | $55 | Bevel Craft Brewing, Bend
Discover the art and science of candle crafting at this two-hour class. Participants will receive step-by-step instructions to create a 100% soy candle with a unique scent blend in honor of Valentine’s Day. All materials are included. Drinks and food will be available for purchase. Click here for more information.
Cozy up lakeside for an evening live Dirty Jazz hosted by Wolfe House Records every first Wednesday of the month throughout the winter. Enjoy food and drinks from the Skip Bar during each lively session. Click here for more information.
– January 25, 2023 –
This week, play poker with a purpose, warm up with après-ski festivities, delight in expertly paired wine and cheese, dance and glow at a retro dance party, learn about Central Oregon wildland fires and let creativity flow with a sip-and-paint night at a local cocktail bar. Keep reading for all the details!
ReachAnother’s 4th Annual Poker Night
5 p.m. Friday | $150 | Tetherow, Bend
Put on your best poker face and shuffle cards for a good cause. This annual poker night features an open bar, gourmet bites and the chance to win prizes all while supporting ReachAnother’s mission to help Ethiopian children with neural tube defects. Click here to learn more about the ReachAnother event.
Après-Ski Download
3 p.m. Saturday | Free | LOGE Camps, Bend
Heading down from the mountain? Stop by LOGE Camps for some après-ski DJs, dancing, drinks and more. Warm up fireside and indulge in complimentary s’mores. Click here to learn more about LOGE Camps.
Wine and Cheese Pairing Workshop
5 p.m. Saturday | | Flights Wine Bar, Bend
Flights Wine Bar hosts Teri Tith, a wine and cheese steward, to lead a tasting workshop. Indulge in three different kinds of cheese each paired with a distinct glass of alpine wine. Click here to learn more.
Glow Dance Party
6 p.m. Saturday | Free | Bevel Craft Brewing, Bend
It’ll be a night of nostalgia with DJ Bevel Beard spinning the best hits of the 2000s. Don your brightest dayglow attire for a $1 discount on beers throughout the night, with complimentary glow sticks provided. Click here for more information.
Green Drinks Education Series: Learn About Wildfire
Attend an insightful evening with a Discover Your Forest wildland fire education coordinator. Delve into discussions and trivia spotlighting fire in the Deschutes National Forest and Central Oregon’s forest ecosystems. Click here to learn more about attending this event.
Paint and Sip Night
6 p.m. Tuesday | $48 | Waypoint BBC at The Grove, Bend
This week, party prohibition-style, attend a local wedding showcase, work up a sweat with a cross-country ski tour, sip beer for a good cause, attend a Season of Nonviolence speaker event and discover the wonder of bees! Keep reading for all the details!
Prohibition Party
6 p.m. Friday | Prices Vary | High Desert Museum, Bend
Get ready to jazz up your weekend! Head to the High Desert Museum for a roaring good time with 1920s tunes, signature cocktails and a swanky speakeasy vibe. Dress to the nines and be transported to the glamor of the past. Click here for more information.
2024 Cascade Wedding Show
10 p.m. Saturday | $10 | Riverhouse on the Deschutes, Bend
Planning a wedding? Take advantage of the 2024 Cascade Wedding Show to connect with top-notch event pros and explore the latest bridal trends. Also, enjoy live music, score cool prizes and potentially win a grand prize honeymoon giveaway. Click here for more information.
Tour of Meissner
8 a.m. Sunday | Suggested Donation $30 | Virginia Meissner Sno-Park, Bend
The Tour of Meissner features 47 km of groomed trails at Virginia Meissner Sno-Park. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, seize the opportunity to experience the joy of classic skiing on 17 km or 30 km of stunning rolling terrain at this signature event in benefit of Meissner Nordic. Click here for more information.
Sip for a cause! This pint night supports Discover Your Forest’s mission to enhance forest exploration and nurture environmental stewardship in the Deschutes and Ochoco National forests, and Crooked River National Grassland. Every pint you enjoy gives $1 to supporting these vital efforts. Click here for more information.
Season of Nonviolence Speaker—Jodie Patterson
6 p.m. Tuesday | Free | Central Oregon Community College, Bend
Kick off COCC’s 2024 Season of Nonviolence with Jodie Patterson, author, activist, Human Rights Campaign board member and mother of five. Join her as she explores the concept of genderless mothering, and the way it weaves together feminism, Black pride, and LGBTQIA+ activism. Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired and informed! Click here for more information.
Nature Night—The Remarkable Native Bees of Central Oregon
7 p.m. Wednesday | Free | Tower Theatre, Bend
Discover the buzz about Oregon’s 700+ native bee species. Dive into the fascinating world of Central Oregon’s unique and sometimes quirky bees with the Deschutes Land Trust and Associate Professor Andony Melathopoulus of OSU’s Department of Horticulture. Learn about native bees and get gardening tips to make these special pollinators feel right at home in your backyard. Click here for more information.
– January 11, 2023 –
This week, party après-ski style, attend a museum exhibition opening, volunteer for MLK Day of Service, celebrate winter with Hoodoo and learn about two climbers’ captivating journey on the Great Himalaya Trail. Keep reading for all the details!
Exhibition Opening: Timber Culture
10 p.m. Saturday | Free with paid admission | High Desert Museum, Bend
Attend the opening day of the Timber Culture exhibit at the High Desert Museum and dive into the captivating history of an Oregon ghost town. Historical images and untold stories chronicle the town of Maxville’s boom during the 1920s and 1930s, exploring issues of race, labor and leisure. Don’t miss this chance to witness a vital part of Oregon’s past come to life. Click here for more information.
Après Kick-Off Party
5 p.m. Saturday | Free | Boss Rambler Beer Club, Bend
Get ready for the ultimate throwback at Boss Rambler’s annual Après Kick-Off Party. Rock your loudest retro ski gear, enjoy $5 pints of Ski Babe IPA and vote for the Best Dressed prize — round up your crew and get ready to party! Click here for more information.
MLK Day of Service
10 a.m. Monday | Free | Broken Top Bottle Shop, Bend
Join Connect Central Oregon for impactful volunteering across the region to honor the MLK Day of Service. Support local seniors, aid veterans or contribute to environmental initiatives. Sign up individually or as a team to embody the principles of justice and equality today! Click here for more information.
Wintervention
6 p.m. Tuesday | Free | Volcanic Theatre Pub, Bend
Hoodoo’s Wintervention hits Bend with a bang! This snow-happy event offers plenty of prizes, including lift tickets and gear. Join the fun for free, play games and support SNOWDAYS scholarships. Click here for more information.
Crossing the Cols
6:30 p.m. Wednesday | Suggested Donation $10 | The Environmental Center, Bend
Embark on a Himalayan journey with the Central Oregon Bitterbrush Broads and Bros. Join Art Pope and Leslie Kent for a captivating presentation on conquering Nepal’s Great Himalaya Trail, navigating the formidable Shepani Col and West Col at over 20,000 feet. This event supports the Wilderness Defense Fund, preserving the untamed beauty of our wilderness. Click here for more information.
– January 4, 2023 –
This week, indulge in oysters at a local wine bar, learn a new board game, run with other community members, attend a Mt. Bachelor passholder party to celebrate the season, learn about snowshoeing in Central Oregon and spend an inspiring evening with Oregon authors. Keep reading for all the details!
Get ready for a shuckin’ good time at First Friday Oysters! Hama Hama Oyster Company is in the house, serving up their freshest catch. Sip on Viaggio’s carefully curated wine selection while indulging in European snacks. Shucking kicks off at 3:00 pm and lasts until 9:00 pm, or until the oysters vanish! Click here for more information.
Saturday Morning Coffee Run
9 a.m. Saturday | Free | Thump Coffee, Bend
Gear up for the Central Oregon Running Klub’s (CORK) weekly Saturday morning coffee run, departing from Thump Coffee on NW York Drive. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or taking your first strides, this event is for you. Slip into your running shoes and hit the road with CORK for a morning filled with camaraderie and coffee. Click here for more information.
Know Stories – Game Day with Modern Games
11 a.m. Sunday | Free | Downtown Bend Library, Bend
Put on your game face! Join the Modern Games staff for a fun board game session where you’ll learn how to play all kinds of games, from classics to newbies. This month’s theme is stories, so get ready for games that spin tales and ignite your imagination. Click here for more information.
Winter Passholder Party: Old School 1988 Party
5 p.m. Thursday | Free | Deschutes Public House, Bend
Pray for snow and amp up your après game at Mt. Bachelor’s Winter Passholder Party. Rub elbows with Mt. Bachelor leadership, mingle with fellow pass holders and enjoy your first beer on the house. For pass holders, all subsequent beers are just $5. Just show up with your 2023/24 Outplay 365 Pass, Alpine Full Season Pass, or proof of purchase to snag that complimentary Deschutes brew! (Event is limited to the first 300 passholders, so rally early!) Click here for more information.
Snowshoeing Central Oregon Presentation
6 p.m. Thursday | Free | Broken Top Bottle Shop, Bend
Winter adventure awaits! While our favorite hiking trails may be covered in snow, Oregon’s wildlands are still ripe for exploration. Oregon Wild has your back, whether you’re a seasoned snowshoer or a first-timer, Wilderness Program Manager Erik Fernandez will spill the secrets of snowshoeing in Central Oregon. From safety tips to choosing the best gear and scenic trails, this presentation has it all. Click here for more information.
An Evening with Ellen Waterston & Friends
6:30 p.m. Thursday | Free | Roundabout Books, Bend
Spend an evening with Oregon authors Ellen Waterston, Charles Goodrich and John Daniel as they discuss their latest works, including “Where the Crooked River Rises,” “Weave Me a Crooked Basket” and “Rogue River Journal.” Explore the beauty of the high desert, a unique love story on a family farm and a season of solitude in the rugged Rogue River Canyon on this intimate literary journey through landscapes and lives across Oregon. Click here for more information.
– December 14, 2023 –
This week, brighten up the Deschutes River with a festive paddle, trade outgrown kids’ snow gear, groove at an electric holiday dance party, experience an innovative cello performance, test your Christmas-movie knowledge, master the art of crafting a charcuterie board, discover exhibits on endangered species, celebrate the winter solstice with a soothing sound bath and check out the cosmos with an in-town astronomy session. Keep reading for all the details!
Holiday Lights Paddle Parade
4 p.m. Friday | Free | Tumalo Creek Kayak and Canoe, Bend
Light up the Deschutes River at dusk at the annual Holiday Lights Paddle Parade. Adorn your kayak, canoe or paddleboard with festive holiday lights. Spectators can bundle up and catch the illuminated spectacle as it floats along the Old Mill District. Click here for more information.
Kid’s Snow Clothing Swap
2 p.m. Saturday | Free | Mt. Bachelor, Bend
Upgrade your little shredder’s winter uniform at this 1-for-1 swap for gently used outerwear and mid-layers. Drop off your items at Patagonia Bend on Thursday or Friday or at Mt. Bachelor’s Worn Wear booth on Friday (12/15) to earn tickets for the Saturday swap event. Time for a winter wardrobe refresh! Click here for more information.
Jingle Ball 2023
7 p.m. Saturday | $12 | Open Space Event Studios, Bend
Get ready for a holiday bash with an electric twist! Bend’s top DJs will spin five hours of eclectic beats at this festive EDM party, accompanied by visuals from Tall “Tripy Lights” Adam and lasers by Kismet. Embrace the fun in your funny formal wear—take breaks between dancing to snap pics in the photo booth or chill out in a comfy lounge. Click here for more information.
Portland Cello Project
7:30 p.m. Sunday | Tickets start at $30 | Tower Theatre, Bend
Don’t miss this innovative ensemble’s first holiday show, “Under the Mistletoe.”With Saeeda Wright, an R&B sensation from Portland and former backup vocalist for Prince, this event promises a one-of-a-kind cello performance. Click here for more information.
Christmas Movie Trivia
6 p.m. Monday | Free | Bevel Craft Brewing, Bend
Put your holiday film knowledge to the test with trivia about Nightmare Before Christmas, Home Alone 2, Elf, Rudolph and It’s a Wonderful Life. Dress in the ugliest Christmas sweater you have for a shot at winning a prize. Click here for more information.
Worthy’s Holiday Sip and Savor
6 p.m. Wednesday | $40 | Worthy Brewing, Bend
Learn how to dazzle your mother-in-law this holiday season at Worthy Brewing’s charcuterie and mixology workshop. Experts will guide you on how to craft the perfect charcuterie board and whip up festive cocktails, ensuring your spread is a hit at the next family gathering. Click here for more information.
Winter Nights: Exploring Endangered Species
4 p.m. Thursday | Tickets start at $6 | High Desert Museum, Bend
Explore the museum’s latest endangered species-themed exhibits, “Endangered in the High Desert” and “Andy Warhol’s Endangered Species.” Enjoy a themed scavenger hunt, concluding with an art project inspired by the exhibits. And don’t miss the chance to decorate sugar cookies! Click here for more information.
Candle Light Winter Solstice Sound Bath
6:30 p.m. Thursday | Tickets start at $30 | Hanai Foundation, Bend
Celebrate the winter solstice at a restful evening of sound healing with seven chakra-colored, quartz-crystal singing bowls. Get ready to shed old patterns, welcome new possibilities, and celebrate the spirit of rest and renewal. Wear comfortable clothes and be sure to bring a water bottle, yoga mat, pillow and an eye mask. Click here for more information.
Sidewalk Astronomy
6 p.m. Friday | Free | Commons Cafe and Taproom, Bend
On clear Friday nights, local astronomer Grant Tandy will be setting up a Newtonian telescope all around Central Oregon. He invites the community to explore the wonders of the cosmos, offering a chance to observe celestial objects such as the moon, Saturn, Jupiter, and more. Click here for more information.
– December 7, 2023 –
This week, attend two festive dance parties at local breweries, indulge in wine bar’s holiday dinner, get dressed up for a good cause, try your hand at wreath-making, attend a local author event, bundle up for a meteor shower snowshoe adventure and revive favorite gear for the season. Read on for details!
Sno’d In Winter Party
4 p.m. Friday | Free | Bend Brewing Company, Bend
Get ready to chill at the Sno’d In Winter Party at Bend Brewing Company! DJ Freely starts the beat at 4 p.m., followed by local reggae vibes at 7 p.m. Sip, groove and do good–$1 from every beer sold supports Oregon Adaptive Sports. It’s also the perfect excuse to check out the brewery’s revamped Beer Garden. Click here for more information.
Apres Ski 90s Dance Party
4 p.m. Saturday | $15 | Bevel Craft Brewing, Bend
Indulge in some nostalgia at the Apres Ski ‘90s Dance Party at Bevel Craft Brewing! Get your skis waxed and drink a beer, with a portion of event proceeds supporting the REI Cooperative Action Fund. Rock flashy ski gear for $1 off beers all night while you groove to DJ Bevel Beard’s beats. Click here for more information.
Holiday Dinner
5:30 p.m. Saturday | Tickets start at $55 | Elixir Wine Group, Bend
Celebrate the season with a good old-fashioned dinner party! Elixir will host guest chef Ryen Schneringer for an elegant evening of fine wine, delicious food and live music. Click here for more information.
Festive & Fancy
6 p.m. Saturday | Tickets start at $20 | Dilly Dally Cafe, Bend
Dress to the nines and tear up the dance floor at this festive event with proceeds donated to local nonprofit Saving Grace. Enjoy live music, refreshing libations and tasty bites. Auction and raffle winners will take home a diverse range of prizes from cozy comforts to gourmet treats, wine experiences and outdoor adventure gear. Click here for more information.
Wreath-Making Workshop
6 p.m. Tuesday | Tickets start at $20 | East Bend Library, Bend
Craft your own festive holiday decor! Learn to hand-tie beautiful wreaths with cones, berries, bows and more. Instructor provides greens, wreath rings and wire—just bring your creativity, a pair of scissors and some extra nature finds! Click here for more information.
Author Event: A Fine Line by Graham Zimmerman
6 p.m. Wednesday | Tickets start at $25 | Dudley’s Bookshop Cafe, Bend
Join alpinist and local author Graham Zimmerman at Dudley’s Bookshop Cafe for the release of his book A Fine Line. Enjoy catered appetizers and a variety of drinks during the “Meet + Greet” followed by a reading, presentation, plus a question and answer session. Click here for more information.
Geminids Meteor Shower Starlight Snowshoe Tour
7 p.m. Wednesday | $120 | Mt. Bachelor, Bend
Embark on a snowy adventure in the Cascade Range near Mt. Bachelor for a magical Geminids Meteor Shower experience. Led by naturalist guides, snowshoe under the starlit sky in the Deschutes National Forest, sipping hot chocolate and discovering winter wonders. (Snowshoes, headlamps and hot chocolate included!) Click here for more information.
Worn Wear Happy Hour
6 p.m. Thursday | Free | Patagonia Bend
Get ready to revive your well-loved gear because Worn Wear is hitting the town! With the motto, “Repair is a radical act,” this Patagonia program is all about celebrating what you already own. So bring in your worn-out gear and the Worn Wear team will fix it up for free. You can also trade in and buy used gear at this sustainable event! Click here for more information.
– November 30, 2023 –
This week, attend a tree lighting, check out the annual Bend Christmas Parade, take part in a cookie decorating workshop, win winter-themed prizes, sip tea at a holiday gathering and sing along to your favorite “Frozen” songs. Read on for details!
Celebrate the start of the holiday season at the Community Tree Lighting outside the Commons Cafe & Taproom, downtown Bend. Enjoy Santa meet-and-greets, festive performances by local dance studios and choir groups and heartwarming readings by Silver Rail Elementary students. Click here for more information.
2023 Bend Christmas Parade
12 p.m. Saturday | Free | Downtown Bend
The annual Bend Christmas Parade, led by Grand Marshal Trish Smith and family, will take over the streets of downtown. Join the festive tradition, organized by the Bend Christmas Parade Committee, and watch as holiday spirit illuminates Bend with the theme “The Lights of Christmas.” Click here for more information.
Santa’s Cookie Decorating Workshop!
11 a.m. Sunday | $68 | The Environmental Center, Bend
Decorate delicious sugar cookies while enjoying mimosas, apple cider, coffee, hot chocolate and a mouthwatering brunch charcuterie board at Santa’s Cookie Decorating Workshop, organized by Bend Cookie Company. No experience needed and every ticket purchased automatically enters attendees into a raffle for a chance to win one of two exciting gift boxes! Click here for more information.
Wintervention
6 p.m. Tuesday | Free | Volcanic Theatre Pub, Bend
Don’t miss Hoodoo’s Wintervention–the biggest snow series giveaway in the Pacific Northwest! Enjoy a fun day of games, a shot at over $ 50-thousand in prizes, including lift tickets and gear, and even a chance to win your own pass to the Snowlab where you can design and build your own gear. Click here for more information.
Holiday High Tea
2 p.m. Wednesday | Free | Blissful Spoon, Bend
Feel posh at Holiday High Tea, where you’ll indulge in scrumptious treats, aromatic teas and mimosas in a cozy cafe. Join an afternoon of community and festive flavors of the season. Click here for more information.
“Frozen” Sing-A-Along
4 p.m. Thursday | Tickets start at $16 | Tower Theatre, Bend
Sing along to songs from Disney’s beloved movie “Frozen” such as “Let It Go” and “Love is an Open Door” at this fun screening. Enjoy a costume contest, raffle prizes and share the joy by bringing a new, unwrapped gift for the Ronald McDonald House toy drive. With multiple screenings, there is plenty of opportunity to belt your heart out. Click here for more information.
– November 2, 2023 –
This week, try your hand at swing dancing, discover a new local beer release at First Friday, enjoy a guided hike and dinner, kick-off snow season with a Warren Miller film, get educated on avalanche safety, warm up with a celebratory turkey trot, gather gift ideas at a holiday bazaar, watch as local bartenders go head-to-head in a friendly cocktail competition, indulge in an expert-led wine tasting, attend a local author’s event and celebrate your love of pow with a Patagonia movie screening. Read on for details!
First Friday Swing Dancing
4:30 p.m. Friday, November 3 | Free | Blacksmith Public House, Redmond
Get ready for a lively First Friday featuring live music by Cheyenne West, free swing dance lessons from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., and goods from nine local vendors. Kick November off with a night of entertainment and shopping! Click here for more information.
November First Friday Beer Release and Live Music
4 p.m. Friday, November 3 | Free | The Ale Apothecary, Sisters
For First Friday, Ale Apothecary is set to release “Little Star,” a collaborative rustic saison in support of a local nonprofit, Bethlehem Inn. Enjoy live music and delicious treats by Orion Forge, and meet Eric from North Fork Brewery. Click here to visit The Ale Apothecary’s Facebook page for more information.
Guided Hike, Dinner and Wine Tasting
3:30 p.m. Saturday, November 4 | $250 | Depart from Wanderlust Tours, Bend
Explore the Deschutes River Trail with naturalist guides from Wanderlust Tours to learn more about local flora and fauna. For a post-hike treat, indulge in a wine tasting paired with a four-course meal prepared by Chef Ingrid Rohrer, courtesy of Elixir Wine, while your guide shares insights about the area’s geology, history and winemaking process. Click here to learn more, or head over to the Wanderlust Tours page for more information.
Warren Miller Film Screening
4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, November 4 | $26 | Tower Theatre, Bend
Celebrate 75 seasons of Warren Miller with a screening of his latest film, ALL TIME. It explores the birth of iconic ski towns, dives into the most extreme locations ever skied and introduces some of snow sports’ most legendary athletes. Find out more details about this film here.
Bend Snow and Avalanche Workshop 2023
8 a.m. Saturday, November 4 | $45 | Central Oregon Community College, Bend
Attendees of the Bend Snow and Avalanche Workshop 2023 can look forward to an informative speaker lineup, including discussions on backcountry decision-making, weather updates and reflections on snow-sport history. An afterparty will take place at the Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room at 6 p.m. Click here to visit the Central Oregon Avalanche Center website for more information.
Turkey Trot & Toddler Trot
10 a.m. Saturday, November 4 | $15 for adults, free for toddlers | Central Oregon Community College, Bend
Get ready to participate in the 24th Annual Turkey Trot 5k Run/Walk, featuring a scenic route around COCC’s Bend Campus, with free T-shirts, lunch and prizes for participants. Bring your kids for the 2nd Annual Toddler Trot, offering several races for youngsters under 5 free of charge. Click here to visit the Central Oregon Community College website for more information.
Bend Gold Club Holiday Bazaar
10 a.m. Sunday, November 5 | Free | Bend Golf Club, Bend
It’s never too early to start shopping for the holidays! Explore this holiday market, where vendors will showcase artisan creations, including jewelry and accessories, art, wreaths, hand-knit beanies, candles, baskets, holiday essentials, upcycled glassware and more. Find out about the Holiday Bazaar here.
Espresso Wars
12 p.m. Sunday, November 5 | $18 | Worthy Brewing Company, Bend
Eight of Central Oregon’s top bars and restaurants compete to create the best cocktails with Crater Lake Hazelnut Espresso Vodka. Tickets to the cocktail showdown include entry, free cocktail samples and a chance to vote on your favorite cocktail creation. Arrive early for first-come, first-served seating, and enjoy food and drinks from Worthy Brewing. Click here for more information on the Espresso Wars event.
Wine Workshop
6 p.m. Monday, November 6 | $20 | Flights Wine Bar, Bend
The “Wine Workshop Series” at Flights Wine Bar offers expert-led tastings and education with winemakers. At this session, delve into wines of the Northern Rhone Valley and discover Champagne from Louis Roederer. The class fee is refundable with a two-bottle purchase. Come early or stay late to enjoy a Flights dinner to round out your evening. Click here to visit the Flights Wine Bar event page.
Author Event: Glenn Voelz
6:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 7 | Tickets start at $5 | Roundabout Books, Bend
In Oregon Search & Rescue: Answering the Call, author Glenn Voelz explores Oregon’s rich history of volunteer search and rescue, dating back to its territorial days. With more than two decades of military service and numerous published works, Voelz delves into the evolution of Oregon’s volunteer teams, which are known to be some of the nation’s most effective units. Click here to visit the Roundabout Books website for more information.
Patagonia Presents: The Meaningless Pursuit of Snow
6:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 7 | Free |Patagonia, Bend
The Meaningless Pursuit of Snow documents the lives of those who passionately chase powder, uniting people across cultures and generations in their love for the backcountry. The evening will feature guest speaker Vanessa Chavarriaga Posada, along with insights from the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education so that everyone can stay safe this winter. Click here to visit The Meaningless Pursuit of Snow event listing for more information.
– October 26, 2023 –
This week, dance salsa to some Latin music, dress up for a spooky Halloween bash, explore a harvest carnival, get creative at a painting pumpkin party, sing along at a screening of the Rocky Horror Picture Show, show off your Tim Burton trivia skills, celebrate Halloween with the whole family in the Old Mill District, paddle the Deschutes for a good cause, get down to a haunting DJ set, listen to live music downtown, donate excess trick-or-treat candy and join fellow readers for a community book club. Read on for details!
La Rumba – Latin Dance Party
7:30 p.m. Thursday | Free | Hola! Downtown, Bend
Put on your dancing shoes and head to Hola!’s vibrant fiesta for a night of Latin music, dancing and refreshing drinks. DJ SOLO will spin the hottest salsa, bachata, cumbia, reggaeton and more. Dust off your moves with a dance lesson starting at 7:30, followed by music and dancing from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.! Click here to visit the Hola! Facebook page for more information.
Halloween Blowout Bash
9 p.m. Friday | Free | Avid Cider Company, Bend
Don’t miss Avid Cider’s epic Halloween bash, their final event before embarking on the search for a new taproom location. With three DJs, photo ops from Bend VW Photo Bus, delectable bites from The Pizza Cart and costume prizes, it will be the ultimate grand finale you won’t want to skip! Click here to visit the Avid Cider Facebook page for more information.
7 p.m. Sunday | Free | Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon, Bend
COCC invites you to join its annual screening of the cult classic, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, welcoming ages 17 and up. Dress up in your most extravagant costumes and celebrate this cultural phenomenon with a colorful night of singalong fun. Click here to visit the event’s Facebook page for more information.
Tim Burton Trivia
6 p.m. Monday | Free | Bevel Craft Brewing, Bend
Get ready for a pre-Halloween celebration with Tim Burton Trivia, covering iconic classics such as Beetlejuice, Batman Returns, PeeWee’s Big Adventure, Edward Scissorhands and Mars Attacks! Dress in Tim Burton-themed attire and assemble your trivia team of six people or less for a chance to win Bevel gift cards. Get in the Tim Burton spirit and join the fun! Click here to visit the Bevel Craft Brewing Facebook page for more information.
Halloween in the Old Mill District
4 p.m. Tuesday | Free | Old Mill District, Bend
Celebrate Halloween with this free, family-friendly event featuring candy, treats, a pet costume contest, an aerial arts show, art projects, and more. The Old Mill festivities promise a safe and delightful Halloween fun for everyone! Click here to visit the Old Mill District website for more information.
Bend Witches Paddle 2023
4 p.m. Tuesday | Free | Riverbend Park, Bend
Welcoming witches and costumes of all kinds, families, furry friends and various types of watercraft, the Bend Witches Paddle is a colorful Halloween spectacle on the Deschutes River. Remember to prioritize safety and bring life jackets to ensure a fun experience while supporting MountainStar Family Relief Nursery. Click here to visit the Bend Paddle Witches Facebook page for more information.
The Halloween Bass Crypt
4 p.m. Tuesday | $5 | Silvermoon Brewing, Bend
Don’t miss the spine-chilling Halloween Bass Crypt EDM show with DJ sets by SCHABB, SWELL, EYENEYE, and LIAMLANTERN. Get ready for a hauntingly good time with this lineup of spooky beats! Click here to get tickets for The Halloween Bass Crypt.
The Spinners
7:30 p.m. Wednesday | Tickets start at $46 | Tower Theatre, Bend
Prepare for a legendary performance as The Spinners, one of R&B’s enduring and iconic groups, take the stage at the Tower Theatre. With a rich history spanning six decades, the band is set to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame just two days after their Central Oregon appearance. Click here to visit the Tower Theatre website for more information.
Don’t miss the Current Fiction Book Club’s monthly meeting where you can join a discussion of Shark Heart by Emily Habeck. Gather with fellow book enthusiasts for engaging literary conversations on the first Wednesday of each month. Click here to visit the Roundabout Books & Cafe website for more information.
– October 19, 2023 –
This week, enjoy a date night out, check out a haunted Saturday night bash, throw it back with an evening of Grateful Dead jams, celebrate the fall harvest at a local farm, catch an adventure movie screening, attend this season’s first event in the Nancy R. Chandler Lecture series and paint pumpkins while sipping wine. Read on for details!
Parents’ Night Out: Potions & Pajamas
5 p.m. Friday | $50 | Wondery Art + Adventure School, Bend
Let your child explore a world filled with magic potions, painting and pizza while you enjoy a relaxing evening out. Remember to dress them in their spookiest pajamas! Parents, take a short walk next door to the newly opening Jiā for a fantastic dinner and enjoy a 10% discount on your first order with coupon courtesy of Wondery. Click here to sign up for Parents Night Out.
Damn Tasty Beer Fest: Oktoberfest Edition
1 p.m. Saturday | Tasting Packages start at $15 | Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room, Bend
Get into the spirit of Oktoberfest at the Damn Tasty Beer Fest, where some of the best breweries in Central Oregon, including Deschutes Brewery, Boneyard Beer, Funky Fauna Artisan Ales and more, will set up shop. Dance to live music, pair your local beer with mouthwatering food truck meals, dress up in your lederhosen and try your hand at traditional Oktoberfest games. Click here to visit the Deschutes Brewery Instagram for more information.
Bash of the Batties Costume Party
6 p.m. Saturday | $10 | Open Space Event Studios, Bend
Ring in the season with a party featuring live bands, video installations by VHS By Doone and a photo slam with Deco Dream Suite. Join the costume party and enter the Batty Pageant for a chance to win a photoshoot with Deco Dream Suite. Click here to visit the Open Space Studio website for more information.
Grateful Night of the Living Dead
7 p.m. Saturday | $15 | Volcanic Theater Pub, Bend
Experience a night of spooky, groovy fun with the band Call Down Thunder, playing the iconic music of The Grateful Dead. This event will surely be a memorable evening with visuals by Trippy Lights and shopping by Revival Vintage. Costumes are encouraged, and a photo booth and crafts will be available with admission. Click here to visit the Volcanic Theater Pub website for more information.
Celebrate the autumn harvest with a day of treasure hunting in Rainshadow Organics’ 25-acre field to culminate the successful summer growing season. Bring home all the hidden treasures you glean, enjoy food for sale and live music by the Fire Pit. Click here to visit the Rainshadow Organics Instagram for more information.
Film Screening: Jirishanca
7 p.m. Monday | Free | Patagonia, Bend
Catch a screening of Jirishanca, a new Patagonia film featuring veteran alpinist Josh Wharton’s daring quest in the Peruvian Andes. Head over to the downtown Bend Patagonia store early for complimentary drinks from Humm Kombucha Taproom before the show. Click here to visit the Patagonia website for more information.
Nancy R. Chandler Lecture Series and Panel Kick-off
6:30 p.m. Tuesday | $10 | Central Oregon Community College, Bend
Discover the profound impacts of longevity and the evolving map of life in the 21st century at Birth to 100 Years: Embracing the Opportunities and Challenges of a Century-Long Life, a panel discussion with Marvin Kaiser, Ph.D. Gain insights from Kaiser and a panel of experts as they explore how extended lifespans shape our society and individual experiences, both locally and internationally. Click here to visit the Nancy R. Chandler Lecture Series website for more information.
Time varies, Thursday to Sunday | Passes start at $200 | Location Varies
The annual Bend Film Festival celebrates 20 years this weekend with a curated lineup of 163 independent films. Beyond movies, this Academy-qualifying festival features panels, award ceremonies and parties. Who knows, you may even rub elbows with a few Oscar winners. Click here to visit the BendFilm website for more information.
A Witchy Women’s Evening
5 p.m. Friday | Free | Avid Cider Company, Bend
Calling all witchy women for an evening of relaxation and indulgence. Gather your coven and enjoy chair massages, hair sparkles, permanent jewelry, cupcakes and shopping while you sip on delicious cider and seltzers. Click here to visit the Avid Cider Facebook page for more information.
Diff’rent Smokes: Rauchbier & BBQ Festival
1 p.m. Saturday | $20 | GoodLife Brewing, Bend
Honor the efforts of local firefighters and celebrate the end of wildfire season at a festival full of smoked goodies. Imbibe on smoked-malt beers or cocktails crafted with smokey spirits. Enjoy smoked meats fresh off the grill or dishes from local food trucks Luckey’s Woodsman and Susan’s BBQ. A portion of the festival proceeds will go to supporting the Oregon Volunteer Firefighters Association. Click here to get tickets for Diff’rent Smokes: Rauchbier & BBQ Festival.
Masquerade Cocktail Party
7 p.m. Saturday | $100 | Hanai Center, Bend
Don your finest masquerade attire for a night of intrigue and mystery hosted by Cork & Barrel. Indulge in delicious food and swanky drinks from Crafted Life Cocktails as you dance to live music and compete for the best mask and costume prizes. All proceeds from the event will benefit the KIDS Center. Click here to visit the Cork & Barrel website for more information.
Sip Sip Soirée
4 p.m. Sunday | Tickets start at $50 | Benham Hall @ SHARC, Sunriver
Celebrate fall at the kickoff of Sunriver Owners Association’s wine, food and live music series. Enjoy an elevated evening of Pacific Northwest wine from Lumos Wine Company, curated food pairings by Pekora Charcuterie and a beautiful musical performance by Christie Lenee. Click here to visit Sunriver Sharc’s website for more information.
Connect Central Oregon Volunteer and Board Fair
4:45 p.m. Monday | Free | Deschutes County Fair and Expo Center, Redmond
Interested in getting more involved and supporting the Central Oregon community? Visit the Connect Central Oregon Volunteer and Board Fair to find 40 organizations from across Central Oregon looking to connect attendees with volunteer, board and leadership opportunities. Get inspired to improve our region as you learn about local organizations who are making an impact. Click here to visit the Connect Central Oregon website for more information.
High Desert Innovation Week
Time Varies, Monday to Friday | Tickets start at $65 | Location Varies, Bend
Immerse yourself in arts, culture, technology, business and community at the inaugural High Desert Innovation Week. Featuring five days of dynamic events, organizations across Oregon are coming together to highlight the various startup resources available while celebrating the collaborative spirit that makes Oregon a growing hub for entrepreneurs. Click here to visit the High Desert Innovation Week website for more information.
6 p.m. Tuesday | Free | Central Oregon Community College, Bend
Join Central Oregon Community College and Portland-based writer, DJ and educator, Emilly Prado, in celebration of Latinx Heritage Month. Prado will share insights from her award-winning book, Funeral for Flaca, a collection of moving essays which explore identity, family and culture. Attendees are invited to participate in a Q&A session and book signing after the speaking engagement. Click here to visit the Central Oregon Community College for more information.
– October 5, 2023 –
This week, gather together to celebrate fall, kick up your heels for a local nonprofit, attend anniversary parties for two local businesses, celebrate the fall goodness with a party at a pumpkin patch, take local crafts home from a harvest festival, flex your bingo skills for a good cause, refine your palate with a guided wine tasting and buff up your snow safety knowledge with an educational film screening. Read on for details!
6:30 p.m. Friday | $35 | The Green House Cabaret, Bend
Local nonprofit Saving Grace, providing services and support to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, hosts a fundraiser in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The evening features drag shows, art vendors, local bites, specialty cocktails and live music. Click here to visit The Green House Cabaret website for more information.
Saxon’s Rocks 40 Years!
1 p.m. Saturday | Free | Saxon’s Fine Jewelers, Bend
Saxon’s Fine Jewelers is turning 40 and invites everyone to its anniversary party. Celebrate with live music, drinks from Avid Cider Company and Deschutes Brewery, delicious food from Zydeco’s food truck and a chance to win a specialty-cut diamond!! See the Saxon’s Fine Jewelers Facebook page for more information.
Piñata-Making Workshop
12 p.m. Saturday | $12 | River’s Place, Bend
It’s food truck Sopa’s fourth birthday and festivities will fill the day! Enjoy a piñata-making workshop, live music, local vendors, mezcal tasting and try out your salsa dancing moves. Click here to visit Eventbrite for more information.
Pumpkin Patch Palooza
11 a.m. Sunday | Free | DD Ranch, Terrebonne
Fall is in full swing and Pumpkin Patch Palooza will help you make the most of the season. Go pumpkin picking, enjoy exclusive gift bags with ride tickets and treats, listen to live local music, explore a hay maze, take a pony ride and pet adorable farm animals, all while enjoying delicious food from local vendors and partaking in the festive activities to round out an autumn day. Click here to visit the Pumpkin Patch Palooza Facebook page for more information.
Sister’s Harvest Faire 2023
Time Varies, Saturday and Sunday | Free | Downtown, Sisters
For more than 40 years, the Harvest Faire has been a cherished Sisters tradition, bringing together diverse artisan vendors and their high-quality handcrafted items to celebrate the changing seasons. Attendees will also enjoy local food and live music. Click here to visit the Sisters County website for more information.
Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration
11 a.m. Monday | Free | Central Oregon Community College, Bend
Central Oregon Community College will commemorate Indigenous Peoples’ Day with two free events at the Bend campus. Take part in an instructor-led discussion exploring Native American history and contemporary issues, followed by a bead-making workshop rooted in historical context. Click here to visit the Central Oregon Community College website for more information.
Flights Wine Bar is eager to host you at its wine-tasting class featuring wines from Schramsberg Vineyards, the first California winery to produce Champagne Method sparkling wine. Explore a series of educational courses with tastings in this workshop series. Click here to visit the Flights Wine Bar website for more information.
International Snow Science Workshop Movie Night
6 p.m. Wednesday | $10 | Tower Theatre, Bend
Explore the legacy of mountain guides and the evolution of winter recreation and avalanche safety with a screening of “To The Hills & Back,” a compelling snow science movie. The film delves into stories from pioneers to modern enthusiasts, shedding light on how to stay safe while playing in the snow, followed by a post-film discussion with a moderated panel. Click here to visit the Tower Theatre website for more information.
– September 28, 2023 –
This week, taste fresh hops, celebrate the fall season, connect with local farmers, ride your bike or run trails for a good cause, enjoy this year’s harvest, catch a ski film screening, play some games while enjoying local brews. Read on for all the details!
Fresh Hops on the Pond!
11 a.m. Friday | Free | Bend Brewing Company, Bend
Attend a mini fresh-hop beer festival featuring local breweries in the beer garden lawn and patio area at Bend Brewing Company. Sample fresh hopped brews from Bend’s finest breweries, groove to live music and bring the whole family, including kids and dogs. Click here to visit the Bend Brewing Company Facebook page for more information.
Bend Fall Festival
Time Varies, Friday to Sunday | Free | Downtown, Bend
Bundle up to celebrate the arrival of fall at the annual Bend Fall Festival, a weekend full of live music, art installations, family-friendly activities and more. Indulge in local food and drinks, dress up in your best Oktoberfest attire or try your hand at a cornhole competition. Click here to visit the Bend Fall Festival website for more information.
Meet Your Farmer
6 p.m. Saturday | Tickets start at $70 | Worthy Brewing Company, Bend
Connect with the hardworking people behind our local food scene with this dinner presented by Central Oregon Locavore. Join the folks from Beef Barn and the Worthy Garden Club for a curated menu of locally grown and produced food, and learn how your meal gets to your plate. Click here to visit the Central Oregon Locavore website for more information.
Oregon Cancer Bike Out
10 a.m. Saturday | Registration start at $30 | Wanoga Sno Park, Bend
Celebrating its 11th year, Oregon Cancer Bike Out invites you to get your heart pumping with a group mountain bike ride to raise funds for local organizations that provide cancer treatment and care. Finish the day at LOGE Bend for a free concert. Click here to visit the Cancer Bike Out website for more information.
Bend Bigfoot 10K
9 a.m. Sunday | $50 | Cascade Lakes Welcome Center, Bend
Feel the crisp fall air in your lungs as you run through beautiful pine forests and down the Deschutes River Trail to the Old Mill District. All funds go to support Bend-La Pine High School cross-country teams. Click here to visit the Bend Bigfoot 10K website for more information.
The Harvest Dinner Series is an elevated culinary experience happening at the Range Restaurant & Bar of Brasada Ranch amidst stunning vistas. Guests will enjoy beautiful views and attentive hospitality while savoring the flavors of locally sourced ingredients prepared on an outdoor spitfire. A portion of each ticket sold will benefit the High Desert Food & Farm Alliance. Click here to visit the Brasada Ranch website for more information.
2023 Quality Ski Time Film Tour
7:30 p.m. Tuesday | $19 | Tower Theatre, Bend
Did you see the snowfall up at Mt. Bachelor last weekend? Shred season is coming and the Quality Ski Time Film Tour is here to help get the community stoked. Along with the film, attendees will have the chance to win all sorts of ski-inspired prizes. Click here to visit the Tower Theatre website for more information.
This week, practice yoga outside, indulge in a nostalgic movie, show off your skills at a skate night, celebrate the fall equinox at a music festival, get hyped for winter with a ski-movie screening, celebrate fresh-hop season in Sisters, peruse a makers market and attend a local health fair. Read on for details!
Yoga, Hike and Brew
8 a.m. Friday | $65 | Tumalo State Park, Tumalo
Join local guides for a refreshing outdoor adventure featuring yoga, community and nature. Begin with an invigorating outdoor yoga session, followed by a three-mile guided hike to learn about Central Oregon’s captivating history and culture, all topped off with a sample of local kombucha. Click here to visit the Wildland Guiding Company website for more information.
Jumanji Film Screening
6 p.m. Friday | Free | Tower Theatre, Bend
‘From Page to Screen!’’ is a free family movie night program presented by the Tower Theatre Foundation, Deschutes Public Library and Assistance League of Bend. Reserve your spot for the program’s screening of Jumanji, an adaptation of Chris Van Allsburg’s 1981 book following the adventures of two kids who unleash another world from a magical board game, leading to a thrilling quest to complete the game and overcome the dangers within. Click here to visit the Tower Theatre website for more information.
Friday Night Roller Dancing
7:30 p.m. Friday | Tickets start at $5 | The Pavilion, Bend
Roll into the weekend with a night of roller skating, complete with Friday night dance vibes and a fantastic soundtrack. This Friday is Queer Night, offering an inclusive atmosphere and a vibrant celebration of diversity. There’s only one more Friday Night Roller Dance event after this one, so join the festivities while you still can! Click here to visit the Bend Park and Recreation Facebook page for more information.
Cascade Equinox Festival
Time varies, Friday to Saturday | Tickets start at $99 | Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center, Redmond
Attend the inaugural Cascade Equinox Festival, a three-day musical event in Central Oregon put on by Gem & Jam and 4 Peaks Presents. Experience a fusion of music, immersive art, workshops, kids’ activities, camping, carnival rides, local wineries, breweries and artisanal crafts. Click here to visit the Cascade Equinox website for more information.
Celebrate Central Oregon breweries’ success at the Great American Beer Festival with the ultimate watch party! Enjoy award-winning beers, live music and a thrilling Wing Wars competition. Don’t miss the live awards ceremony that will be screened at the pub at 9 a.m., followed by a day of music and exceptional brews from Bend breweries. Click here to visit the 10 Barrel Brewing Facebook page for more information.
Fall Equinox Health Fair
10 a.m. Saturday | $8 | Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, Bend
The Bend Health Fair is making its grand return after a three-year hiatus! Enjoy a sound bath opening ceremony, keynote speakers discussing important health topics, family-friendly activities and opportunities to learn about new healing modalities. Click here to visit the Bend Health Guide website for more information.
Sisters Fresh Hop Festival
12 p.m. Saturday | Tickets start at $30 | Three Creeks Brewing Company, Sisters
Spend your day at the Sisters Fresh Hop Festival for a taste of new hop beers from over 25 Oregon breweries, live music and family-friendly fun! Your attendance supports Ronald McDonald House Charities, positively impacting children and families in our communities. Click here to visit the Sisters Fresh Hop Festival website for more information.
Level 1 Screening
8 p.m. Saturday | $22.50 | The Domino Room, Bend
Are we getting excited about ski season? Let the Level 1 Freeski Film Tour, showcasing the year’s top ski flicks, tide you over until the first Central Oregon snowfall. Get ready for product tosses, exciting raffles, athlete poster signings, and, of course, thrilling ski movies featuring top talents like Henrik Harlaut, Jake Mageau and many others. Click here to visit the Level 1 website for more information.
9th Street Village Makers Market
12 p.m. Sunday | Free | Bevel Craft Brewing, Bend
Explore a diverse range of handmade creations, including jewelry, pottery, paintings and woodwork, all while savoring delicious local food and beverages from food carts and the Bevel Craft Brewing taproom. Join Bevel Craft Brewing, Cultivate Farms and DIYcave to support local artisans and businesses, unite the community and enjoy a day of shopping, food and drinks. Click here to visit the Bevel Craft Brewing Instagram for more information.
– September 14, 2023 –
This week, party with BendFilm Festival, celebrate the kick-off of Hispanic Heritage Month, check out a car showcase soak in the sounds at a local music festival, head to Sunriver for a wine tasting, attend a family-friendly fundraiser and enjoy a show from reggae royalty. Read on for all the details!
BendFilm Festival Kick-Off Party and Fundraiser
7 p.m. Friday | $75 | Volcanic Theatre Pub, Bend
The twentieth-annual BendFilm Festival is set to kick off with a bang! Dress to impress for a night filled with local cuisine, drinks, live music, fabulous drag performances, and, of course, some captivating short films. Click here to visit the Bend Film Festival website for more information.
Vámonos Al Cine: Latinx Outdoor Film Fest
Time varies, Saturday | Free | Tower Theatre, Bend
The inaugural Vámonos al Cine – Vámonos Outside Latino Film Festival coincides with Hispanic Heritage Month and Mexican Independence Day. This free community event showcases films that bridge Latinx culture and the natural world, promoting inclusivity and a deeper connection with nature. Click here to visit the Tower Theatre website for more information.
Oregon Festival of Cars
Time Varies, Friday to Sunday | Free | Deschutes Historical Society, Bend
Time Varies, Friday to Sunday | Free | Midtown Corridor, Bend
Get ready for the Bend Roots Revival, a free community music festival celebrating Bend’s creative spirit. Across multiple stages at Silver Moon Brewing, Bend Bunk + Brew and Deschutes Brewery find performers in genres from hip hop, folk to blues. The event includes workshops and family-friendly fun as well. Click here to visit the Bend Roots website for more information.
Uncorked
Time Varies, Friday and Saturday | $25 | Benham Hall, Sunriver
At Sunriver’s wine festival, sip a diverse selection of wines from Oregon and dive deeper into your wine knowledge with on-stage ‘wine experience & tasting’ sessions in SHARC’s outdoor amphitheater. Plus, enjoy local food and join the fun with Paint n’ Sip classes hosted throughout the festival. Click here to visit the Sunriver SHARC website for more information.
Endless Summer Nights
7 p.m. Tuesday | $25 | Bend Park and Float, Bend
Attend a family-friendly fundraising event featuring games, food trucks and activities such as Cycle Pub races, cornhole and bingo. All event proceeds go to support Heart of Oregon Corps, empowering local youth through employment, education and community service. Click here to visit the Heart of Oregon website for more information.
Stephen Marley
7 p.m. Tuesday | $25 | Midtown Ballroom, Bend
Reggae artist Stephen Marley brings his musical talent to Central Oregon. With a rich legacy as the son of the Bob Marley, King of Reggae, and a winner of eight Grammy Awards, Marley’s versatile career has taken him from legendary family collaborations to solo success. Click here to visit the Midtown Ballroom website for more information.
– September 7, 2023 –
This week, support local creatives at a maker fair, celebrate Latin culture, enjoy the melodies of a local quintet, lace up your running shoes for a good cause and catch some live music in downtown Bend. Keep reading for all the details!
Latino Fest 2023
10 a.m. Saturday | Free | Sahalee Park, Madras
Celebrate Latin American cultures at this festive event with live entertainment, community booths, cultural displays, delectable food options and fun activities for kids. Don’t forget to catch the new addition this year–a pre-festival parade starting at Madras High School. Click here to visit the Latino Community Association website for more information.
Central Oregon Maker Faire
Time varies Saturday and Sunday | Tickets start at $5 | Deschutes Brewery, Bend
Central Oregon Maker Faire is the ultimate showcase of creativity and innovation, where a diverse community of makers, from engineers and artists, scientists and crafters, come together to share their projects and passions. Join the family-friendly fun and meet local creatives! Click here to visit the Central Oregon Maker Faire website for more information.
27th Street Brass Quintet
2 p.m. Saturday | Free | High Desert Music Hall, Redmond
Enjoy an hour of free music courtesy of Central Oregon Symphony and its Music in Public Places Library series. This volunteer-based program has been a part of the local arts scene since 1967, bringing beautiful music to the community free of charge. Click here to visit the High Desert Music Hall website for more information.
Heroes On The Run 5k
10 a.m. Sunday | $45 | Athletic Club of Bend, Bend
Support Street Dog Hero’s mission to save abandoned dogs worldwide through transportation, medical care and adoption at its fourth annual Heroes On The Run event. Bring the family for a dog-friendly day of fun, including a 5K race, adoptable dogs, raffles, live music and more. Click here to visit the Street Dog Hero website for more information.
Foy Vance at Tower Theatre
7 p.m. Tuesday | Tickets start at $34 | Tower Theatre, Bend
Get your tickets for a live performance by the acclaimed Northern Irish musician, Foy Vance as he brings his Regarding the Joy of Nothing Tour to Central Oregon. Known for his captivating blend of musical influences, Foy Vance has gained critical acclaim and shared the stage with renowned artists such as Ed Sheeran and Sam Smith. Click here to visit the Tower Theatre website for more information.
– August 31, 2023 –
This week, sample barrel-aged libations, gather with fellow van-lifers, combine your passion for running with local beer, discover vintage treasures at artisan resellers market and kick off fall with an afternoon of apple-picking. Keep reading for all the details!
The Little Woody Barrel-Aged Beer, Cider & Whiskey Festival
Time varies, Friday and Saturday | Tickets start at $20 | Deschutes Historical Museum, Bend
Celebrate craft barrel-aged beverages at The Little Woody Festival in downtown Bend. Enjoy wood barrel-aged beer, cider and whiskey, along with live music, local food and small-batch rye whiskey and bourbon tastings. Dress like a gnome for free drink tokens! Click here to visit The Little Woody website for more information.
Descend on Bend
Friday to Monday | Passes begin at $169.99 | Oregon Outback
Calling all van-lifers! Descend on Bend is an annual four-day event in the Oregon Outback celebrating the mobile lifestyle. This gathering unites more than a thousand like-minded outdoor enthusiasts to foster community through art, live music, makers markets, yoga, educational seminars, kids’ workshops and more. Click here to visit the Descend On Bend website for more information.
What screams Central Oregon more than the combination of craft beer and running? Runners will travel a scenic 5K course along the Deschutes River, savor local beer samples en route and cross the finish line at The Little Woody festival. Click here to visit The Little Woody website for more information.
ReSellers Row
3 p.m. Saturday | Free | Open Space Event Studios, Bend
Whether you’re gearing up for fresh back-to-school looks or just want some new pieces for the upcoming season, the ReSellers Row is a must-stop for your weekend. Shop sustainably at the 15-plus vintage clothing vendors setting up shop. Click here to visit the ReSellers Row Instagram for more information.
Apple Rally and Cider Pressing
9 a.m. Sunday | Tickets start at $5 | Location given upon registration
Gather your buckets for a delightful morning spent picking apples and pressing cider at a local apple orchard. Central Oregon Locavore aims to foster connections with the farmers and community with its Edible Adventure School. Click here to visit the Locavore Instagram for more information.
– August 24, 2023 –
This week, bring your pup to a pub, support Hawaii wildfire relief efforts, learn about how to make the most of your summer harvest and sip European wines with an expert. Keep reading for all the details!
Dogs & Lagers Fest
12 p.m. Friday and Saturday | Free | Crux Fermentation Project, Bend
Crux Fermentation Project and the Dog Guide Bend want to celebrate National Dog Day with you and your pups all weekend long! Bring your happy dogs to the Crux lawn, enjoy refreshing lagers and live music, and explore dog-friendly businesses. Click here to visit the Crux Fermentation Project website for more information.
Hawaii Wildfires Relief Fundraiser & Beer Release
4 p.m. Saturday | Free | Immersion Brewing, Bend
Support Hawaii wildfire relief efforts while previewing some new local beers. The fundraiser event features three new brews, an island-inspired pig roast, a raffle and live music. Immersion Brewing will donate a portion of event proceeds to the American Red Cross Hawaii Wildfires Relief Fund. Click here to visit the Immersion Brewing Instagram for more information.
Tomato Manifesto 2023 Preserving Your Summer Bounty
1:30 p.m. Sunday | Tickets start at $8 | Open Space Event Studios, Bend
Has your garden produced plenty of bounty this year? Join the nonprofit Central Oregon Locavore for an enriching event that dives into the art of storing and enjoying tomatoes year-round. Gain insights, hands-on practice and knowledge about various preservation techniques that maintain nutritional value and adhere to food safety standards. Celebrate tomatoes and bring kids over the age of 10 to capture the sweet flavors of summer! Click here to visit the Central Oregon Locavore website for more information.
Spanish Wine Tasting With European Cellars
5 p.m. Wednesday | Tickets start at $25 | Viaggio Wine Merchant, Bend
Experience an exclusive evening with Julie Raynaud of European Cellars as she takes you on a journey through Spain’s renowned wine regions—Catalunya, Valencia, Galicia, Sierra de Gredos, Priorat, and Toro—unveiling six exceptional wines. Engage in insightful conversations and learn about Spanish viticulture from this esteemed import company, renowned for its responsibly cultivated, family-owned properties. Sign up in advance for this tasting event. Click here to visit the Viaggio Wine Merchant website for more information.
– August 17, 2023 –
Theater in the Park: RENT
6 p.m. Friday and Saturday | Tickets starting at $35 | Drake Park, Bend
What could be better than a warm summer evening spent watching a live performance in the park? Reserve tickets for the vibrant local rendition of “RENT,” a theatrical celebration of love, friendship and revolution. Appetizers and libations will be available before the show. Click here to visit the Theater Bend website for more information.
Outdoor Movie Screening
6 p.m. Friday | Free | TBD
Cozy up under the stars for an outdoor movie screening with Wildland Guiding Company. Enjoy retro vibes with White Wolves, A Cry In The Wild 2, a film made in Central Oregon thirty years ago, along with popcorn and beer. Location details will be sent once guests reserve their spots. Click here to visit the Wildland Guiding Company website for more information.
‘90s Dance Party
7 p.m. Saturday | Free | Waypoint at The Grove, NorthWest Crossing
5 p.m. Wednesday | Tickets start at $20 | Suttle Lake Lodge, Sisters
Head down to the creek at Suttle Lake Lodge to enjoy mouthwatering, Traeger-grilled goods along with refreshing drinks from Bauman’s Cider, the event’s special guest brewery. All are welcome with entry on a first-come, first-served basis. Click here to visit the Suttle Lake Lodge website for more information.
– August 10, 2023 –
This week, attend a film festival, peruse an art fair, enjoy local music and hit the trails running. Keep reading for all the details!
Outside Voices Film Festival
6:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday | $5 | Open Space Event Studios, Bend
Celebrate diversity in the great outdoors at the Outside Voices Film Festival, hosted by Better Days West and Central Oregon BIPOC. Witness the inspiring art and talent of BIPOC filmmakers and athletes as they showcase the transformative power of adventure, unveiling the wonders of belonging and discovery. Click here to visit the Outside Voices Film Festival Instagram for more information.
Sunriver Art Fair
9 a.m. Friday to Sunday | Free | The Village at Sunriver, Sunriver
The Sunriver Art Fair is celebrating its 14th year this weekend! More than 70 talented artists will showcase their juried work, featuring diverse categories such as ceramics, glass, jewelry, painting, photography, sculpture, textiles, woodworking and mixed media, providing a range of styles and prices. Net proceeds from the fair support public schools and nonprofits. Click here to visit the Sunriver Art Fair website for more information.
Sisters Hometown Hang
6 p.m. Friday | Free | Sisters Art Works, Sisters
Join Sisters Folk Festival in celebrating the creative energy of local bands Skillethead, Quattlebaum, Beth Wood &Dennis McGregor, and Skybound Blue. Bring the whole family, sit back, relax and indulge in a selection of food and beverages while enjoying live musical performances. Click here to visit the Sisters Folk Festival website for more information.
Haulin’ Aspen
7 a.m. Saturday | Tickets start at $55 | Wanoga Sno Park, Bend
Sign up for the Haulin’ Aspen running race to spend a day exploring mountain trails. With a full all-trail marathon, a half marathon and the 6.5-mile “Half As” course, participants will explore the stunning Deschutes National Forest with breathtaking views from the trails. Click here to visit the Bend Races website for more information.
– August 3, 2023 –
This week, enjoy a county fair, admire metal artwork, indulge in oysters and wine, and celebrate the opening of new pickleball courts. Keep reading for all the details!
Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo
Times Vary, Wednesday to Sunday | Tickets start at $10 | Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center, Redmond
The 103rd year of the Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo beckons with melt-in-your-mouth cotton candy, Ferris wheel rides and much more. Get ready for an action-packed championship rodeo, live music, thrilling carnival rides, delicious local food vendors and adorable farm animals. Click here to visit the Deschutes County Fair & Rodeo website for more information.
COMAG 2023 Art Show
Times Vary, Friday and Saturday | Free | Open Space Event Studios, Bend
Join the Central Oregon Metal Arts Guild for a showcase of diverse metal artists, live demos, food trucks and a chance to win fun prizes. Discover unique jewelry, sculpture, forged steel, ceramics, leather and more by 24+ local artists of the High Desert. Click here to visit the Central Oregon Metal Arts Guild website for more information.
First Friday Oysters
3 p.m. Friday | Free | Viaggio Wine Merchant, Bend
Don’t miss Viaggio Wine Merchant’s First Friday Oysters event! Treat yourself to the freshest oysters from Hama Hama Oyster Company, perfectly paired with a curated list of wines and delicious European snacks. Shucking begins at 3:00 p.m! Click here to visit the Viaggio Wine Merchant website for more information.
Grand Opening of Sunriver Resort’s Pickleball Courts
8 a.m. Tuesday | Free | Sunriver Resort, Sunriver
Celebrate National Pickleball Day at Sunriver Resort’s grand opening of its outdoor pickleball complex, featuring ten brand-new courts. Enjoy mixers, round-robin games, open play, food, drinks, raffle prizes and more! Click here to visit the Sunriver Resort website for more information.
– July 27, 2023 –
This week, admire beautiful hot air balloons, attend a cultural fundraiser, help with a river clean up, celebrate a beloved local business, watch a baseball game and attend a book launch event. Keep reading for all the details!
Balloons Over Bend
4 p.m. Friday to Sunday | Free | Central Oregon Community College, Bend
Experience the annual Balloons over Bend hot air balloon festival this weekend. After you witness stunning balloons lift into the sky from R.E. Jewell Elementary School head to COCC for more festivities. Enjoy music, food, a marketplace and family-friendly activities, including the thrilling Balloon Blast race suitable for kids ages 3-10. Click here to visit the Balloons Over Bend website for more information.
A Night in Ghana
4 p.m. Friday | Free | Open Space Event Studios, Bend
Join the 4th Annual Night in Ghana, a cultural celebration and fundraiser presented by the human rights organization Volta Revival Foundation. Enjoy Ghanaian music, cuisine, goods, an art auction and a children’s carnival. All proceeds support VRF’s shelter for children rescued from forced labor and trafficking in Ghana. Click here to visit the Volta Revival Foundation website for more information.
Annual Deschutes River Cleanup
9 a.m. Saturday | Free | Locations Vary
Join the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council for the largest annual Deschutes River Cleanup, where volunteers of all ages are invited to help protect the river and its riparian areas at multiple park locations. Enjoy a day of stewardship and build on last year’s success of removing 2,600 pounds of garbage and weeds. Click here to visit the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council for more information.
Bend Pet Express 30th Anniversary Party
2 p.m. Sunday | Free | Bend Pet Express Eastside, Bend
5 p.m. Sunday | Tickets Start at $9 | Vince Genna Stadium, Bend
Join the Bend Elks for their final game of the 2023 season and enjoy a family-friendly experience at the Bend Field house in Oregon while watching the local team play against the Corvallis Knights. Don’t miss the chance to secure a discount on General Admission tickets with the code “MOM2023” and witness the action from the reserved 3rd Base GA seating section, courtesy of Mom What’s Next Bend. Click here to visit the Bend Elks website for more information.
Author and Book Launch Event
6:30 p.m. Tuesday | $5 | Roundabout Books, Bend
Join bestselling author Tracey Lange as she presents The Connellys of County Down–a novel exploring family loyalty. Listen to an engaging conversation between Lange, who lives in Bend, and local writer Nicole Meier at this captivating literary event. Click here to visit Roundabout Books for more information.
– July 20, 2023 –
This week, kick back at a music festival, play a round of bingo for a good cause, sip wine lakeside and enjoy a special evening of food and drinks. Keep reading for all the details!
FairWell Festival
Times Vary, Friday to Sunday | Tickets start at $100 | Deschutes County Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Redmond
The inaugural FairWell Festival, a three-day music event, comes to town this weekend. Groove to more than 36 performances on three stages featuring folk, blues, rock, country and soul music. Treat yourself to tasty food, wine, craft beers and more. Click here to visit the FairWell Festival website for more information.
Healing Reins Bingo
6 p.m. Tuesday | Free | Deschutes Brewery & Public House, Bend
Join a round of bingo and sip refreshing pints while supporting Healing Reins Equine Assisted Services. Every Bingo card purchase and $1 from each pint sold directly benefit this worthy cause. Have fun, win prizes and make a positive impact. Click here to visit the Healing Reins website for more information.
Head to Suttle Lake to indulge in an exceptional wine experience featuring locally renowned Bar Fiori founded in 2021 by Bend’s Kelsey Kuther. Bar Fiori will bring natural wines to the table, paired expertly with seasonal small plates from Skip Kitchen. Click here to visit The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse website for more information.
Slammin’ Summer Series
5 p.m. Wednesday | $100 | Jackson’s Corner, Bend
Jackson’s Corner and Spider City Brewing collaborate to present an elevated evening of local beer and food. Indulge in five carefully curated courses paired with exquisite beers and the chance to meet the talented brewmaster and team of chefs behind your delicious meal. Click here for more information.
– July 13, 2023 –
This week, groove at some live music, chill out at a beer festival, attend a fundraiser for music and enjoy a rafting trip followed by some après-float fun. Keep reading for all the details!
The Damn Tasty Beer Fest will be an epic day filled with local brews, live music, delicious food and various vendors. Mark your calendar, bring your friends, and celebrate the tastiest of beers. Click here for more information.
4 p.m. Sunday | $100 | Great Hall, Sunriver Resort
Prepare for an evening of music with performances by the Central Oregon Mastersingers, Young Artists Scholarship recipients and mezzo-soprano/pops concert soloist Sarah Mattox at Sunriver Music Festival’s 28th-annual fundraiser. Along with captivating musical performances, participate in an auction and enjoy complimentary wine and hearty hors d’oeuvres from Sunriver Resort chefs. Funds raised support the Sunriver Music Festival and Young Artists Scholarship program. Click here to visit the Sunriver Resort website for more information.
Raft ‘N Brew
4:30 p.m. Wednesday | $89 | Sun Country Tours, Bend
Join Sun Country Tours on Wednesdays in July and August for a three-mile paddle on the Upper Deschutes followed by live music, beer tasting from a local brewery and hors d’oeuvres on the Sun Country Tours patio. This week features Boneyard Beer and live music by Erin Cole Baker, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Mt. Bachelor Play Forever Fund. Click here to visit the Mt. Bachelor website for more information.
We have questions and want to hear from you! And this is where we are going to ask. Are we missing out on a party somewhere? Is there a trail we must hike? Or where is your favorite dog park?
This Week’s Question:
Are there any exciting Mother’s Day celebrations happening that we might not know about? Have you got the inside track on the best place to spoil Mom with mimosas and brunch this Sunday? We’re eager to hear—where will you be honoring Mother’s Day this year? Share your plans, and you could win 1 of 10 gift cards from Dear Mom Cafe!
May 1, 2024 Question:
Do you have an inside scoop on where tacos and margaritas are going to be served this Sunday? We’re all ears — where are you celebrating Cinco de Mayo this year? Let us in on your plans!
Kick off summer and kick up your heels at the second annual Big Ponderoo Music and Art Festival. SFF Presents newest music event will take place on June 29 and 30, 2024 in the heart of Sisters, Oregon. Big Ponderoo brings fresh energy to SFF Presents’ mission of “strengthening community and transforming lives through music and art.” With an impressive 16-act lineup performing at two outdoor stages, a free community art walk and celebration, plus room for camping, Big Ponderoo has all the ingredients for a true festival experience. Bring your picnic blankets, dancing boots, or bare feet and get ready for an intimate music experience filled with an incredible lineup of Americana, alt-country, blues, and bluegrass talent with the soul of Sisters.
How Big Ponderoo Was Born
The creation of Big Ponderoo has been a long-time dream at SFF Presents (producers of the long-running Sisters Folk Festival). It was born out of a collective vision and desire to create Thanks something new and fresh early in the summer that would widen the festival’s audience base, Communication Manager Erin Pihl explained. The light-hearted name reflects the energy that inspired the creation of the festival. Ponderoo is a play on the word ponderosa, said Pihl. “Our creative director Brad Tisdel wanted to celebrate the massive ponderosas that characterize Central Oregon, as well as a sense of place, and the fun, fresh feel we envisioned for the festival,” she said. At Big Ponderoo, taking place under the sun, moon, and stars, music lovers are invited to bring their tarps and chairs, tents and sandwiches, and camp out at the new 2024 venue, Village Green Park.
Where to Watch
Musical performances will take place at Village Green Park, conveniently located in the center of town under Central Oregon’s trademark ponderosa pines. The lineup for Big Ponderoo is filled with vibrant talent sure to get you grooving. The event is headlined by Shinyribs, an Austin-based 10-piece supergroup defying genres as a sonic melting pot of Texas Blues, New Orleans R&B funk, horn-driven Memphis Soul, and country twang; Oliver Wood, the frontman of The Wood Brothers and a mainstay of modern-day American roots music; and Silverada (formerly Mike and the Moonpies), global ambassadors of a blue-collar country sound, striking a balance between timeless influences and cool, contemporary appeal. Enhancing the festival’s music scene, Big Ponderoo is also hosting the Ponderoo Arts Experience throughout the week, exploring self-expression through the visual arts, including a dynamic Art Stroll complete with more live music at 13 galleries around Sisters.
The War and Treaty at Big Ponderoo 2023 | Photo by Rob Kerr
Why Attend Big Ponderoo
Big Ponderoo brings a different energy to the myriad music festivals in Central Oregon. Since it is an independent, nonprofit event, attending Big Ponderoo is an investment in the community, and festival goers will feel that friendly, close-knit community energy.
“We are offering something very intimate where you’re up close and personal with the artists,” said Pihl. “Going to Sisters makes you feel transported back in time, to a quieter pace. The festival will have that laid back, getaway feeling.”
SFF Presents is passionate about including all who are inspired by music and are hosting a free community event to begin the Big Ponderoo festivities at Village Green Park on Friday, June 28, from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. Listen to festival bands The East Pointers and The Sam Chase and the Untraditional as you dance with friends, sip, and nibble on local fare, take in art displays and interactive arts events, and embrace the intimate community vibe to kick off Sisters’ newest summer festival Big Ponderoo.
The Last Revel, Big Ponderoo 2023
The Weekend Lineup
SATURDAY, June 29
PONDEROO STAGE
12:00 – 1:00 pm – Skybound Blue
1:30 – 2:30 pm – Shadowgrass
3:00 – 4:00 PM – The Sam Chase and the Untraditional
Deena Kamm Strikes a Chord to Amplify Voices of the Community
Entering the doors of westside Bend’s Broken Top Bottle Shop & Ale Cafe on the first Monday of each month is akin to stepping into a rock n’ roll show. The drummer and bassist keep the driving beat, while a guitarist and keyboard player offer solid rhythm and familiar leads. However, the 50 or so lead singers of the Public Rock Choir (PRC) joyfully belting out Jon Batiste’s popular song “Freedom” remind you that you are closer to home. The lyrics say, “I hear a song that takes me back and I let go with so much freedom.”
The Public Rock Choir has been meeting regularly at Broken Top Bottle Shop since 2016, though their voices have been heard in downtown Bend’s Drake Park, on a float during the Bend Christmas Parade and singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” at sporting events.
“No one has to sing alone, and everyone gets to tap into their inner rockstar and let it rip,” explained Vocal Coach and PRC Founder Deena Kamm. “It’s meant to be fun, loud and a place where you can come and sing your face off.”
About Deena Kamm
Kamm, who has been a professional singer most of her life, started vocal coaching roughly a decade ago. After being consistently asked for lessons by audience members at her performances, she began taking on child and adult students. Her career evolved to into executive voice coaching, though she still works with singers as well. Her focus in coaching is to find a client’s true voice and help unleash what is already inside of them. While working with many of her students, she realized they had nowhere to sing in public; and the idea for the choir was born.
Bend’s Jim Brown started taking vocal lessons from Kamm a few years ago and attended the Public Rock Choir shortly after that. He likes the live band and being able to sing with a crowd.
“Over time it has become a fun community of people,” said Brown. “There are regulars who have become friends and it’s a nice once-a-month get together.”
Experience Bend’s Public Choir
Uriel Fox decided to join the choir in 2017 after realizing she would have to pitch her startup company at entrepreneurial events. She ran across an ad for PRC that touted, “If you can talk, you can sing! No experience necessary.”
“The experience has helped me develop smooth, cool voice control through proper breath control,” explained Fox.
Kamm organizes the choir to be beneficial for everyone. She makes sure the musicians–made up mostly of former students and high schoolers–are paid and experience what it’s like being in a working band. Her only rule for the singers is that everybody has to be nice to everyone else.
Historically, group singing has been around as long as time immemorial. Scientifically, singing creates physical happiness as the body releases serotonin, oxytocin, dopamine and endorphins. The energy in a room also begins to change as the resonance of notes from group singing syncs up the frequency of the singers.
Choosing songs can be the most challenging part. A typical evening with the Public Rock Choir finds the singers and band covering everything from “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars, to “When Will I Be Loved” by Linda Rondstadt or “Sympathy for the Devil” by The Rolling Stones. It’s most important that the songs are fun for the choir to sing and to create a gospel for believers and non-believers alike. The Public Rock Choir inspires others to believe in community.
“I have been a professional singer my whole life,” said Kamm. “I’ve done it all—from albums to tours. This has been the most satisfying thing in my life. Watching people experience music without inhibitions is so liberating.” See singbend.com.
Over the past thirty years, Pioneer Millworks has crafted a national reputation for manufacturing some of the finest reclaimed and sustainable wood flooring, siding, paneling and decking. All are made responsibly at its employee-owned mills in McMinnville, Oregon and Farmington, New York.
Recently the company partnered with celebrated interior designer David Senise of Spectrum Design Group for its new European-style wide plank white oak flooring line–Natural Expressions Collection. This collection is a perfect example of Pioneer Millworks’ ability to meet high-quality standards while remaining committed to its triple bottom-line ethos of people, planet and prosperity.
The Natural Expressions Collection
Partnering with Senise for this designer flooring collection, the Pioneer Millworks team expertly combined elements inspired by nature to bring thoughtful sophistication and grounded aesthetics from the natural world into commercial and residential spaces.
“This collection conveys a connection to the natural world – looking at things like pine needles, toasted wheat and acorns, adopting them into the color palette through tones and finishes that speak to the times in which we live,” explained Senise. “For me personally, developing this collection with Pioneer Millworks was a wonderful opportunity to create a more natural look and feel than other flooring options on the market and provide a truly modern palette for designers and homeowners to utilize that is also healthy and responsible.”
Made with their sustainably harvested FSC® Certified Casual White Oak, the Natural Expressions Collection utilizes an eight inch wide plank format paired with a highly durable all-natural UV-Cured Hard-Wax Oil finish, giving any space an organic flow by allowing each board to express a variety of wood grain patterns.
The 12 stunning natural color finishes and dynamic oak wood grains of the collection inspire scenes of dense forests, flowing fields of wheat and enigmatic thunderstorms rolling in over the landscape. With names like Nantucket Fog, Toasted Wheat and Warm Umber, each unique color option in the collection takes on a life and personality of its own.
Staying true to their roots, the Pioneer Millworks team diligently worked to make sure the Natural Expressions Collection is also as sustainable as possible, because to them, sustainability is not only a priority– it is a fundamental part of their ethos.
Naturally Good
The heart and soul of the Natural Expressions Collection is Pioneer Millworks’ sustainably harvested FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council) Certified Casual White Oak. The casual grade boards are produced by utilizing the upper section of oak trees above the first branches, which gives the flooring its signature character while minimizing waste during production.
Additionally, the collection’s UV Cured Hard-Wax Oil finish is free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to minimize off-gassing of noxious fumes and maintain healthy indoor air quality.
Made right here in the United States, this high-quality flooring collection is about more than just delivering a durable flooring product in stunning designer colors, it is about helping homeowners and designers create one-of-a-kind spaces that are healthy for both people and the planet.
“Design has always been a reflection of the times in which people live,” says Senise. “Today people are more environmentally conscious and have an innate desire to bring nature into their daily lives. This collection gives designers a palette of colors that convey a connection to the natural world that highlight the beauty and simplicity of the wood.”
Built by Phil (and Bob, Paul, Jimmy, Ben, Kent, Eric, Cody, Mike & more)
When I was 10 years old, my dad and I drove out Skyliners Road to ride bikes with an old guy who wanted to show us a trail he’d built. The singletrack was new and barely ridden, but it was great fun, with swooping turns through a beautiful canyon. On the way home, I remember thinking, “Awesome trail, but nobody is ever going to ride waaaay out there, old man.”
The year was 1985, and that old man was Phil Meglasson. If you’ve ever ridden a mountain bike, by now you’ve probably guessed that trail was Phil’s Trail.
THE PIONEERS OF 1979: John Bifield and Kate Heber (far right) owners of Bend’s first mountain bike retailer Century Cycles, are joined by friends for a ’70s summertime tour on clunker bikes.
Today, the Phil’s Trail network is one of the most popular trail systems in Oregon and is key to the outdoor lifestyle Bendites hold dear. But back in ‘85, there weren’t many purpose-built mountain bike trails anywhere—after all, MTBs had only been around since 1978. The few trails that did exist around Bend were wilderness hiking trails much farther out or town trails on then-undeveloped Awbrey and Overturf buttes.
So how did a game trail beget a singletrack mecca? What inspired the trail names that have become part of the Bend mountain biking vernacular?Afterall, what is a Storm King? And what does C.O.D even mean? What’s the tale of Phil’s Trail?
Between K.G.B. and Marvin’s Garden, Nola Stryker, Corey Schmid and Lev Stryker ride the twisting terrain. | Photo by Katie Sox
The Visionaries
In 1984, Bob Woodward—who would later become a mayor of Bend—came upon a deer trail through a canyon, and he and his friend Phil Meglasson began making “improvements.” Meglasson had moved to Bend in 1977 for U.S. Geological Survey work to catalog existing roads and trails. His encyclopedic knowledge of every goat track in the region is attributed to his avant-garde use of a bicycle to do what had previously been done on foot. “Back then, the U.S. Forest Service said you could ride your bike anywhere you wanted in the forest. So if you just rode the same way four or five times, you’d have yourself a trail,” he said. “We didn’t use tools. We just rode our bikes through the woods. At that point there were so few people around that the Forest Service didn’t really care.”
A few years later, Jimmy Terhaar created Middle Phil’s (née Jimmy’s), following a fire break from Heater Rock at the top of the canyon to the next road west, where Whoops now ends. Then, in 1990, pro racer and MTB Hall of Famer Paul Thomasberg would take the trail even farther west. Upper Phil’s (originally called Paul’s) became the most difficult trail out there, and not by accident. “You gotta learn to ride hard sh**, you know? I needed that stuff. There was a selfish element to it,” said Thomasberg. At that year’s Mountain Bike World Championships, he finished fourth in the cross-country race and third in the downhill discipline, a combined feat that has never been matched.
Phil Meglasson rides at Phil’s Trailhead | Photo by Cody Rheault
The Outdoors
Better known as one of sport climbing’s OGs, Kent Benesch dabbled in MTBs, eventually spending long days moving dirt west of Bend. His eponymous trail, along with Phil’s, finally gave riders the option of a mostly singletrack loop.
Ben Husaby didn’t even own a mountain bike in 1994, but the brawny two-time Olympic Nordic skier wanted new terrain for dry-land training. Pitchfork in hand, he began work on Ben’s trail adjacent to Skyliners Road shortly after Kent’s was done. Ironically, what he intended as a downhill trail would later become the network’s first one-way ascent. The sport of mountain biking was growing fast; people were filtering in from all manner of athletic backgrounds.
Photo by Cody Rheault
The Founders
In 1992, Central Oregon Trail Alliance (COTA) was founded in an effort to legitimize trail work. But after a few years, COTA’s relationship with the Forest Service (USFS) became strained as trails continued to proliferate under the tongue-in-cheek name early builders gave themselves—SORTA, the Society Of Rebel Trail Alliance. Frustrated by the USFS’ reluctance to acknowledge the value of more trails, the SORTA crew continued to dig, and Thomasberg challenged the USFS to “pay somebody to sit there and count cars with bikes on them.” The two groups counted together, and within weeks of seeing the large size of the MTB user group, the USFS was asking how it could help in a watershed moment. It went on to grandfather in much of the existing renegade singletrack it had earlier condemned.
The FRIENDS: In the ’80s, there were boomboxes, big hair and music videos on MTV. And there was the crew that helped not only build, but ride, the trails that would become Phil’s. Builders cleared the way for informal crews such as the Black Rock Riders (shown) led by Phil, Bob Woodward and Dennis Heater (center, with a bike overhead). While the Sony Walkman may have given way to Bluetooth, Phil’s Trail complex rocks on as an icon in the mountain biking world.
The Encryptors
Prior to this sea change, cagey builders wanted to distance themselves from their SORTA (il)legal work, so the trails were often given code names. Eric Vickers built the now garden gnome-lined E.L.V. trail, while Cody Davis toiled on the adjacent C.O.D.. Fortuitously initialed, Michael Thomas Beall built M.T.B. trail on the other side of the system. They may have been great trail builders, but master encryptors, not so much.
Like Phil’s Trail, C.O.D was at one time several distinct trails that were condensed for mapping purposes. One day, while Jimmy Terhaar and Kent Howes were digging on middle C.O.D., Bob Woodward happened upon them and discovered the trail. He griped about the upper part being a little boring. “You should call this one Y.A.W.N.” he went on to say. “I think we should call it Woody’s,” was Howes’ sarcastic retort. And Woody’s it was for several years.
Lev Stryker gets air at The Lair | Photo by Katie Sox
The Loners
“Whoops” is a perfect colloquialism for a rolling ribbon of trail, but it was originally named “Frizzell-Frazzell” after its creator, Jeff Frizzell. Finding creative routes was nothing new to Frizzell, a world-class rock climber credited with a variety of first ascents at Smith Rock. High-schooler Bryan Harris helped Frizzell with Whoops, and other parts of Frizzell’s “Mt. Bachelor to Town” singletrack project that included significant portions of Flagline Trail. “I was making trail rakes in metal shop at school,” said Harris. “But, we didn’t know that [the trails themselves] existed.” Frizzell and Harris knew other trails were being created nearby, but builders were all working independently of each other. Now, nearly 30 years later, Whoops gets more use than any trail in Oregon, while Flagline, a late-summer classic, connects Bachelor to Bend via 100% singletrack.
Surprisingly, most of these characters are still in Bend. Or perhaps it isn’t a surprise at all. This kind of work breeds community. These guys may have just wanted new trails to ride, but what they created was something more – more meaningful for them and more impactful for the MTB community than anyone could have imagined. It’s hard to leave something like that behind.
A Trail by Any Other Name Would Ride as Sweet:
Illustration by Mona Daly based on map provided by BendTrails.org
Storm King:Layton White built and named this one in honor of nine Prineville Hotshots who died in Colorado’s 1994 South Canyon “Storm King” fire.
Marvin’s Garden:Named for Marv Lange, a former USFS employee who is credited by many for making Phil’s Trail network possible.
Tyler’s Traverse & Larsen’s Trail: Helping hands imparted trails with “more meaning that people know,” Paul Thomasberg said. These two trails invoke spirits of Tyler and Steve to remember their adventurous souls.
Mrazek:Phil’s ode to a quirky Czech-made bike that gained brief popularity in the ’90s.
K.G.B.: Kent Howes built “Kent’s Get Back” (or “Killer Green Bud” if you’re a horticulturist) to get home through what is now Tetherow.
Middle C.O.D/née C.I.A.: Builder Jimmy Terhaar originally named the trail “Cyclists In Action” only because the acronym was a fitting foil to K.G.B. While C.O.D. officially gets punctuation, it’s actually named for Cody Davis.
Grand Slam: Built by skier Scott Schauer, the original name, “Golden Schauer,” didn’t make it onto the official USFS map.
With the arrival of sunny days, many Oregonians are excited to get outside for some fresh air and vitamin D. In Central Oregon, we’re looking to ease back into our favorite activities.
“Whether you are hitting the trails, picnicking at a park, or cleaning up your own garden, remember to stay safe this spring,” saidSarah Cipriano-Stanley, a senior safety management consultant at the SAIF Bend office. SAIF is Oregon’s not-for-profit workers’ compensation company.
Hiking at Smith Rock State Park | Photo by Arian Stevens
Let’s Get Moving
“Walking is one of the best ways to spend time outdoors, and it’s also one of the simplest things you can do for your health,” Cipriano-Stanley said. Bend and the surrounding areas are full of trails to explore. Walk the Deschutes River Trail, including new sections through Drake Park, or via the Old Mill District, through the Historic District. Bend Park & Recreation District also has designated paths.
A jaunt up Pilot Butte in the center of Bend takes 15 minutes to reach the top and 15 minutes back down, with an elevation climb to get your heart rate going. Plus, as a reward the walk provides a view from the peak of surrounding mountain ranges.
When walking in areas with traffic, stay vigilant.“Remember to use sidewalks when available, walk facing traffic, and avoid talking on your phone or texting,” said Cipriano-Stanley. “Take advantage of parks and trails that are closed to vehicle traffic.”
Shevlin Park and Riley Ranch are two examples and are accessible as well. Wherever you step out, remember to dress appropriately to be seen by others. “Even though it’s light outside longer in the evenings, wear reflective clothing at dusk or in the dark,” said Cipriano-Stanley.
Riley Ranch | Photo by Tambi Lane
Bring on the Heat
You’ll also want to dress for the weather. “Warm weather can be a problem for anyone,” Cipriano-Stanley said. “As temperatures climb, keep three things in mind: Water. Rest. Shade.”
“Not drinking enough water contributes to ‘presenteeism’—being physically present but not mentally engaged—which can cause errors, injuries, and even heat stroke during our fun spring and summer activities,” said Cipriano-Stanley.
So, how much should we drink? We’ve heard eight glasses of water a day is the goal, but that total should increase when you’re active, especially in a warmer climate. If you don’t like the taste of water, beverages such as milk, juice and herbal teas are also adequate for hydration.
Remember, no matter how much fun you’re having, take breaks. Give yourself a time out from the sun by seeking cooler, shady spots.
Here Comes the Sun
Seeking the shade is also beneficial for your skin. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), Oregon reported almost 20 out of every 100,000 people of all races and ethnicities being diagnosed with melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, in 2020.
“Dermatologists recommend an SPF of 30 to 50, which blocks 97% of the sun’s rays,” said Cipriano-Stanley. “Consider wearing sun-blocking clothing, a hat with a wide brim, and sunscreen and sun-protective lip balm while outdoors.”She also recommends sunglasses with 100% UV protection and side panels.
Whether your pastime is walking, biking, golf, or other outdoor activities, keep these tips in mind for a safe and enjoyable season. You want to arrive home feeling better than when you left, and you want to show up at your job ready to accomplish your goals. Work smart—play smart!
Anastasia Zielinski, a multidisciplinary artist and arts educator, has been creating for as long as she can remember. “It is a fundamental part of my life,” said Zielinski. “Art has helped me manage grief and depression, as well as been a conduit for joy.” She hopes her creations are a soothing balm for others as well.
“It is easy to become disenchanted with life when you are continuously searching for the next big thing,” shared Zielinski, speaking to contemporary culture’s tendency to overlook life’s small joys. “Depicting and magnifying ordinary areas of foliage highlights the beauty that exists all around us,” she said. Her work gets up close and personal with the natural world to emphasize the beauty often passed over in public spaces such as gardens, parks and open lands. She zooms in on foliage, exploring the various shapes and colors comprising nature.
Influenced by her parents’ artistic pursuits, Zielinski explored painting, dance and music from an early age. She obtained a bachelor of fine arts in painting from Pratt Institute, but Zielinski’s creative identity transcends a single medium. Her career has spanned a diverse range of expressions, and she has earned national and international recognition.
Time spent in nature serves as Zielinski’s infinite muse. It’s the starting point for her creative process which begins with walking meditations in the outdoors. “As I move,” Zielinski said, “I experience a sense of wonder and a desire to share these positive sensations with others.” She captures these moments in photos and notes, which inform her process in the studio.
About the Work
Approaching her work from a painter’s perspective, Zielinski starts broadly and moves from background to foreground. Regardless of the medium—whether it’s paint, fabric or another material—Zielinski said, “It helps to let go of expectations and have the material guide me.” The results are lush, often abstract paintings and eye-catching fiber-work depicting textured landscapes using fabric, paper and reused scraps.
A prime example of Zielinski’s recognizable style is found in her “Pattern in the Forest” series. These vibrant and dense paintings transport viewers into the detailed design and abstract composition of woodlands. In Zielinski’s words, they “transmit the spirit of the source site, without literally depicting it,” a sentiment that can be applied to many of her creations.
The impact of the arts on Zielinski’s life has inspired her commitment to arts education. Soon, Zielinski will open Freak’n Art in downtown Bend. The creative space will foster community through traditional workshops and weeknight classes. Zielinski believes creative expression is essential for human existence and emphasizes the soul-nourishing power of art in all its forms. See more of her work at anastasiazielinski.com.
Running an ultra-marathon or competing in a triathlon takes mental grit and determination. The same could be said for renovating a house. Trever Long regularly runs races up to 100 miles, and his wife, Cherie, who competed in an Ironman in 2022, met after Cherie graduated from the University of Texas. Their love of nature drew them to Portland where Cherie, an anesthesiologist, was accepted to a residency program. They yearned for an even greater connection to the outdoors and eventually moved to Central Oregon.
After living on Bend’s westside for several years, the Longs came across a listing for a Tudor-style eight-bedroom, seven-bathroom home on six acres in Tumalo, a marked departure from the contemporary house the family of six—including the Long’s 14-year-old daughter, 11-year-old twin boys and five-year-old son—lived in at the time. Perched above Tumalo State Park with views of the Deschutes River and multiple snow-capped peaks, the Tudor home was initially built as a bed and breakfast in 1986. It came with an approved permit to be a guest lodge, a vision that never materialized.
Visioning from Abroad
The Longs bought the house in March 2020 but moved five months later to New Zealand where Cherie had a yearlong work contract. In addition to adventuring and exploring, they spent the time abroad honing ideas with their contractor, Nate Connolly of Ridgeline Custom Homesand designer, Lisa Arballo of Bend-based Legum Design. The time to think through their goals brought the home-planning process into focus. “I think we fell in love with it even more,” said Cherie.
In the process of turning the dark home into a sleek family-friendly residence, the couple decided to retain the original staircase and the oversized brick fireplace—learning from a previous owner that the bricks were salvaged from one of Bend’s original mills. The contractor removed the Tudor-motif cross-hatching on the exterior and instead added dark cladding to contrast with brick to create European style. An iron and glass front door gave the facade a modern appeal.
Creating a Family Home
Designing a home that could accommodate the family’s active lives and interests was a priority for the Longs. The kitchen is an example of their desire for both beauty and functionality. Trever thought through the design “drawer by drawer.” The large kitchen island is concrete, a natural material that’s easy to repair. The kids can grab cups and dishes from the open cabinetry and the matte Italian kitchen cabinets have no handles so they can easily be wiped clean. “We did research into how to make everything sort of disappear—including the refrigerator and dishwasher,” said Trever.
But certain things were selected to stand out, such as the Brazilian Matarazzo marble backsplash and cantilever shelf behind the Thermador range and the Argentinian-style Grillworks grill in the back of the fireplace. Details mattered, too, as evidenced in the sparkling water on tap.
The Long children enjoy a suite of rooms on the basement level that was originally created as a space to host bed and breakfast guests. Walls were removed so a large picture window could flood the area with natural light. Today, the “Kid Zone” includes three bedrooms and three bathrooms; the children all had input in the design. Daughter Rowan, for example, chose the floral wallpaper and marble mosaic floor for her bathroom.
There’s also a family room with a reading nook and a vintage chaise lounge recovered in a colorful textile, surrounded by photos representing the family’s adventures. The home also boasts a gym and a laundry room that doubles as an art space.
Heritage and Travel Inspiration
Cherie’s mother, who lives in Europe and is an expert in French and Swedish antiques, offered her expertise. The home is a treasure trove of beautiful art and heirlooms used in unexpected ways, such as a secretary found in the dining room, the mid-century Tom Dixon fixtures in the powder room complementing limewash walls by Bend artist Juanita Perdomo, and the crystal chandelier, a wedding present from Cherie’s parents that dangles near the bathtub in the primary suite.
Heritage pieces are coupled with accents collected from around the world. One of their most prized possessions is the antique rattan furniture from Indonesia in the sunroom that belonged to Cherie’s grandmother. The Longs pair the furnishings with items such as blankets handpicked from a market in Mexico and a ceramic goat sculpture purchased at a pottery shop in New Zealand. It’s an elegant yet approachable home where the family can curl up together to watch a movie; a home layered with meaning in every corner. “I think that is what our house is made of: small little trips and memories,” said Cherie.
Step into Fika Sisters Coffeehouse and be welcomed by a vibrant mural with its kaleidoscope of colorful, floral motifs, light-filled seating area and kind baristas. These elements provide a backdrop for an irresistibly inviting cup of coffee. Fika’s mission distinguishes it from other coffee houses. The design, menu and name are all celebrations of Swedish tradition.
Founded by Renee Reitmeier, the coffeehouse draws inspiration from the Swedish concept of fika–a cherished moment to pause and enjoy coffee and pastries with friends and family. “I wanted a name that included coffee and food. But also the beautiful part of what coffee and food do—they bring people together,” Reitmeier said.
Fika, both the concept and the coffeehouse, are about creating community, which was important to Reitmeier who craved a small-town environment after growing up in Portland. Expectedly, much of Fika’s menu draws on Swedish recipes. “Half of our pastries stem from traditional fikas in Sweden,” shared Reitmeier. “Some come from my mom, our quiche being one of them.” Beyond the quiches, Reitmeier’s family history—her great-grandparents emmigrated from Sweden in the late 1800s—serves as continuous inspiration for developing the signature drinks at Fika Sisters Coffehouse.
One such drink staple is the Cora. A cozy white mocha infused with cardamom syrup. Cora is the name of her great-grandmother, and a nod to Reitmeir’s family heritage as it pays homage to traditional Swedish flavors. “Cardamom is a spice used in so many Swedish pastries,” shared Reitmeier. “When mixed with white chocolate and espresso, it’s divine.” The preparation involves a meticulous blend of white chocolate powder, cardamom syrup and rich espresso, topped with warm, frothy steamed milk. Reitmeier offers the option of whipped cream on top. “It’s something I feel my great grandma would want.”
Maya Moon Bauer, maker of hand-crafted leather handbags coveted as wearable works of art, has been on a lifelong odyssey of self discovery and experimentation that continues today. After 20 years of crafting and selling custom leather goods in Central Oregon, online and in boutiques around the country, Maya Moon bags are easily spotted for their unique style, sophistication and a touch of whimsy.
From a tender age, Bauer’s family played an instrumental role in shaping her creativity and artistic ventures. Her artist parents enveloped her in the bohemian community of West Marin, California, where she went to high school. Growing up with a limited budget for school clothes, she improvised, finding and altering pieces found at thrift stores. “I was always playing around to mix things up and make them my own. I even used safety pins as a decorative way to taper my jeans,” she said, laughing at the memory.
“Maya was always chasing something outside the box,” recalled Katherine, “Kat” Doelger, a childhood friend. “She was always on the edge of what we were headed toward, trending wise.”
As a teen, Bauer was disenchanted with mainstream education and graduated high school through independent study. “I was anxious to have a job, make money and get out of West Marin,” she said. During the next 10 years, she explored a variety of jobs from making ceramic jewelry in Marin, working for a publishing company in Santa Barbara, to marketing for an import company in Richmond, California. In 1998, after a three-month European hiatus, she returned to Northern California and landed a job for a dot-com company where she met her future husband, Brian Buch.
“I wasn’t passionate about the work I was doing, ” she said. “I needed to do something different.” On her 28th birthday, Buch bought her a Viking sewing machine. “He understood I was going crazy and needed a creative outlet.”
Wearable Works of Art
On a work trip to New York, Bauer bought a snake-embossed turquoise leather tote that sparked her imagination. Unaware that her machine wasn’t designed for sewing leather and armed with limited knowledge, she persevered in crafting a pink faux crocodile tote that she took to work. Coworkers loved it, even starting a bidding war and sparking demand for more bags. “In a company of 80 people, I sold 80 bags.”
That early tote bore the hallmarks of a unique style that would become Maya Moon Designs: Leather hides sourced from around the world, contrasting piping, zippered pockets, panels from Pendleton blankets or furry pelts, metal studs and shotgun shells, and most iconic of all, the folkloric and Asian-themed fabric lining that provides “an element of surprise in every bag,” she said.
A Family Affair
In 2002, the couple wed and relocated to Bend. As a wedding gift, Bauer’s godparents gifted her an industrial Juki sewing machine. Working from a home studio, sales were from friends of friends, trunk shows, house parties and local boutiques. As time went on, her bags were in shops in Oregon, California, Utah, Ohio and Texas to name a few. As demand grew, no longer able to keep up, she outsourced production and hired a sales rep in LA. When the first shipment arrived, a box of identical bags, she knew it was a mistake. In pursuit of carving out a niche as an artist who handcrafts each piece, those “homogenized bags represented the polar opposite of Maya’s lifelong identity,” her friend, Doelger said.
In the end, it was her family who enabled her to build the business–her own way. Now the mother of two boys, Dean and Kaden, Bauer recruited her mother-in-law. Michele, to help with the boys while Brian traveled for work. Brian’s step mom, Nancy, sewed bags and Brian’s dad, Jan, set rivets and fashioned the shotgun shells used for tassels. As her sons grew, she would even recruit them to put rivets in straps when big orders came in.
By 2021, Maya Moon Designs transitioned from retail stores to a more one-on-one, personal shopping model to build her business. Today, with a studio in NorthWest Crossing, she works directly with clients by appointment to create custom handbags while also maintaining an inventory of both bags and accessories ranging in price from $20 to $496.
“With support from family, friends and clients, I’ve created a job that I’m passionate about that enables us to live in this beautiful community and constantly challenges me to come up with new designs. I can’t imagine doing anything else.” Whether it’s the personal touch or the affordability of her craftsmanship, Maya Moon Designs are from the spirit of an artist who continues to evolve and inspire. Learn more about Maya Moon Designs here.
The sound of drumming fills the air, a unifying beat pulsing through Bend’s downtown streets. Painted faces of children wearing butterfly wings, furry tails and all the colors of the rainbow dance and twirl and parade to the African rhythm. Standing eight-feet tall in whimsical glory, The Earth Guardians lead the vibrant Procession of the Species as the Bend community gathers, united by a collective love for Mother Nature.
Photo by Elijah Alaka
Bend’s Earth Day Fair & Parade, hosted by The Environmental Center (TEC) the third weekend in April, has been a community celebration since 1990. It is grounded in a mission to honor the Earth by coming together to protect it. “The Environmental Center started the Earth Day celebration to bring the national event to our local community and help Bend feel part of the larger environmental movement,” TEC Executive Director Mike Riley explained. “The throughlines of the original goals have remained, to connect the community to organizations working to protect and restore the environment. All while bringing people together to have fun, play games, eat good food and hear local music.”
What to Expect at the Earth Day Fair & Parade
Priscilla Calleros, TEC’s event and outreach manager since 2020, explored the evolution of the celebration in parallel with the community it serves to inspire. “Covid forced us to take a step back and evaluate how we’ve always done things. We wanted to use Earth Day as an opportunity to make a change. Staying true to the roots of the fair and the beloved things that make it such a well-attended event of the community, while integrating something new,” she said. Driven by the cultural perspective of her Mexican heritage, Calleros wove inclusivity into the celebration. “For many cultural groups, caring for the environment is a way of life. I wanted the Earth Day Fair & Parade to be a celebration of the varied ways all the different cultures who live and thrive in our Central Oregon community honor the environment,” Calleros explained. “So all identities can feel seen, included and welcomed.”
Photo by Elijah Alaka Photography
To make her vision come to life, Calleros commissioned artists representing myriad backgrounds in Central Oregon. Members of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs have led the welcome ceremony and performed Indigenous music and dance. The art of local high school students representing Aztec and Mayan heritage have adorned the posters for the fair. A Latina group has shared Ballet Folklórico de México. And African drummers and a New Orleans-style brass band have led the procession. For Earth Day 2024, Calleros hopes to have a Central Oregon high school marching band and more performances from the diverse community.
A Visual Center Point for the Annual Event
The Earth Guardians stand as iconic symbols of Bend’s colorful festivities. Created by local artist Teafly Peterson in collaboration with TEC and other artisans, The Guardians guide the Procession of the Species alongside the musicians, a march that culminates at Troy Field. There, Teafly ceremoniously narrates the legend of The River Guardian, The Forest Guardian and The Garden Guardian. It’s a tale woven with themes of connectedness, sustainability and stewardship.
Photo by Udara Abeysekera Bickett
There’s a collective energy that characterizes the Earth Day Fair & Parade, from the pre-parade workshops where children design their own costumes to the vibrance of festival-goers’ smiles; it’s a feeling captured in shared moments. “As the crowd gathered in community to watch the Aztec and Mayan dancers and drummers honor our connection to Mother Earth last year, I started to cry happy tears,” Calleros shared. “It was all so beautiful.” See envirocenter.org.
From Hoodies to High Tech, This is Central Oregon’s Startup Scene
Long-distance backpacker James Parsons grew frustrated in his search for performance hiking garb made in an eco-friendly way, so he decided to make something himself. Today, he’s a business of one, sewing and shipping Bend Alpha Hoodies from his garage, the headquarters of his new business, Magnet Designs.
The story is emblematic of others in Bend who solved a problem or filled a market gap with a similar hero’s journey: Bend Research in the ‘70s, Deschutes Brewing in the ‘80s, and in the 2000s, Hydro Flask, Humm Kombucha, Ruffwear and G5 are some of Bend’s success stories. Post-pandemic, the local ranks of aspiring entrepreneurs are growing, and their business ideas are being received in a new era of the Central Oregon startup ecosystem. The long-supportive, talent-packed community is reinvigorated, evolving and growing.
Data Reveals Dynamics
“It’s rare for a city the size of Bend, less than 200,000 (population), to have the amount of startup activity that we have,” said Brian Vierra, venture catalyst director at Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO). In 2022, 3,304 new businesses launched in Deschutes County, compared to 1,613 in 2012, an increase of nearly 105 percent, according to Business Oregon, the state’s economic development agency. This puts the region in roughly the top one-third nationally. At the same time, Bend is one of six small cities of 1,334 in the country that ranked highest for the most startups per capita, according to a report by TheStreet.com.
EDCO takes a specific interest in startups, and Vierra said he is currently working with 80 early-stage startups—companies looking to scale their product beyond Bend and Oregon—connecting them to resources, from marketing and sales to operations and legal services. The numbers support Bend’s self-described startup economy, but what’s the reason? Rankings such as WalletHub’s recent survey placed Redmond 16th and Bend at 23rd among the nation’s “best small cities to start a business,” based on the business environment, business costs and access to resources. Vierra calls Central Oregon’s culture of collaboration its “secret sauce.”
Post-Pandemic Positivity
Since the pandemic, the widespread use of videoconferencing and other online collaborative tools has helped people start businesses anywhere in the country, if not the world, allowing Bend to become a chosen launch pad. “The technology is now available to hire people anywhere, really quickly, really easily and to get them to collaborate and work on a team without being in the same physical location,” Vierra said. “We might not have the capital or equity of a larger market like Seattle or Portland, but our competitive advantage is cooperation. That’s been an intentional push, and we did a lot to build that.”
To create a culture of collaboration for local startups, organizations and incubators have risen to help the region become an entrepreneurial hub. Through events such as Central Oregon PubTalks and Bend Venture Conference to High Desert Innovation Fest, the area’s veteran entrepreneurs are accessible and willing to help. “So many of our current successful startup owners can remember when they were new and looking for connections and resources,” Vierra said.
EDCO has boosted Bend’s reputation as a startup town by hosting the Bend Venture Conference (BVC), which began 20 years ago and has grown to be one of the largest angel conferences in the country. Each fall, finalists vie for investment awards from funds established by individual investors. Since it began, the conference has spurred more than $14 million invested in 59 companies. This interest in the startup economy pencils out. “The ROI [return on investment] justifies our focus on early-stage development,” Vierra said.
This led to the inception of the High Desert Innovation Week, which debuted in the fall, and was held the week before BVC. High Desert Innovation Week connected companies and investors from around the country with startup showcases, networking, talks from leaders in a range of industries, pitch events and investment awards. “In the last couple of years, we’ve started meeting up and connecting with more tech entrepreneurs,” said Kyle McLeod, founder of startup consulting company Cloud99 and one of the week’s organizers. “There are a lot of us, but it hasn’t always felt like an overarching community. We’ve become much more connected in recent years.”
Nurturing a New Local Sector
Fuel for Central Oregon startups also comes from organizations such as Cultivate Bend, which launched in February 2023 with the goal of creating an ecosystem of growth for consumer packaged goods, or CPG, in the natural products sector—think food, beverages, cosmetics and cleaning products. The trade organization’s board of directors includes Thomas Angel, co-founder of Altitude Beverages, and Paul Evers, CEO and co-founder of Riff and Crux Fermentation Project. In less than a year, they’ve attracted 177 new members.
Cultivate Bend is gaining both notice and momentum, with engagement from leaders such as those at the Oregon Department of Agriculture and Oregon State University’s food science department, explained Evers. The office of U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden also contacted the organization about ways to get federal programs to support food and beverage brands in Central Oregon.
Then, there’s Built Oregon, a Portland-based network and accelerator for Oregon consumer product companies, which collaborated with Cultivate Bend for its annual Built Festival, held in Bend this past fall. Marking the first time the event was held outside of Portland, it attracted 200 participants for discussions with industry founders and leaders. “We see people in the food and beverage industry who move here and feel like they need to reinvent the wheel, in terms of figuring out who they need to meet and connect with,” said Angel, of Cultivate Bend. “We’re here to speed up that process by helping plug entrepreneurs into our industry.”
Outdoor Industry Gains Steam
The outdoor sector has been fertile ground for Central Oregon businesses. Bend Outdoor Worx (BOW), a startup accelerator for outdoor-focused businesses, has been supporting entrepreneurs with mentorship, branding, e-commerce coaching, legal consulting and other resources since 2014. Co-founder Gary Bracelin said that during the pandemic, most outdoor-product companies saw business spike as people spent more time outside. Bend Outdoor Worx took a hiatus during the pandemic, then in 2022 launched an in-person and online hybrid version of its four-month program. Companies can participate in three in-person, intensive two-day sessions. The rest of the program is held online or in separate meetings.
Applications doubled the first year of the hybrid program, with roughly half of the startup founders hailing from New York, Austin, Denver and Memphis, and the other half from Central Oregon. “The pandemic spawned plenty of side hustles and latent entrepreneurs to just go for it,” Bracelin said.
Several local companies from the 2023 cohort experienced huge growth, including Broke Supply Company, a Powell Butte-based equine accessories and apparel company. The Robert Axle Project, another born-in-the-garage company manufacturing bicycle parts, upped its earnings to $4 million with BOW’s help. ToughCutie, a company dedicated to designing high-quality socks for women, reported a 10-fold revenue boost thanks to the incubator.
Success Leads to Success
Another indicator of startup significance is the plan for an Innovation District at OSU-Cascades, slated to open in 2028 as a base for research, technology commercialization, incubation and economic development. The 24-acre district will feature 500,000 square-feet of tech, light-industrial, office, commercial, experiential retail and multipurpose event and performing arts space, as well as workforce housing. It will also be the base for SnoPlanks Academy. Entrepreneurs James Nicol and Ryan Holmes founded Bend-based SnoPlanks, makers of bamboo snowboards, in 2012 and in December gifted the company to the campus to allow students real-world operations, leadership and management experience. In 2015, SnoPlanks won an early-stage award at the Bend Venture Conference and completed the BOW accelerator for outdoor companies. Soon, the company will provide training for future entrepreneurs.
It’s this cycle of success begetting success that is a hallmark of Central Oregon’s startup community. For EDCO’s Vierra, that also means seeing startups that scale, become profitable and employ 50 to several hundred workers. “We need more success stories…and recycling of capital,” he said, referring to the process of investors reinvesting capital acquired from successful companies into new startups. “That’s how it was for Silicon Valley,” he said. “It’s this virtuous cycle.”
That cycle isn’t set in motion, though, without ingenuity and support. Tosch Roy is 13 years down the trail of his entrepreneurial journey as founder of Free Range Equipment, maker of sport-specific, art-adorned backpacks. Like apparel-maker Parsons, Roy started out as a one-man show, sewing what he needed for his outdoor adventures. Today, Roy’s packs are sold throughout the United States—growth supported by the local startup landscape. The path to success of a new business is steep, twisting and sometimes precarious, but in Central Oregon, it’s not without a growing number of creative, expert guides to lead the way.
The idea for my company came during my time thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. I came home wanting to do something that kept me involved in trail culture, let me be creative, let me live simply and let me treat other humans and the earth with respect. Magnet Designs is a culmination of all the skills, knowledge and values I’ve accumulated in my adult life.
Who were your early supporters?
I have a lot of trail friends from over the years who help me test gear, give input and model for me. More generally, I take inspiration from all the other cottage companies that are making gear in the USA with ethics and environmental consciousness. They show me it can be done.
What do you see as the biggest challenge or obstacle to success as a small business startup?
The biggest obstacle, in this industry, is competition from huge companies that make their gear overseas for literally less than $1 labor per garment. The amount of money that it frees up for them to use for marketing overwhelms the cottage brands so incredibly.But, there’s a growing market for locally made, craft clothing items using USA-made fabrics, made by craftspeople who live the lifestyle and truly know the products they are making—and why they are making them.
What opportunities are unique to a founding startup in Central Oregon?
For what I’m doing, being here is a fantastic opportunity. Bend is a brand. And it’s a heck of a playground for testing and developing gear to be used in extreme conditions. There is a strong community of backcountry people here to help with a lot of aspects of the business. People here tend to value what I am doing. Not much is made here, especially not outdoor clothing, so I definitely feel a groundswell
of support from the local area.
Triumph Outpost was born during a period of personal struggle and change in my life. My husband and I were raising small children at the time and had just moved to Bend. I ran a successful Etsy business sewing cloth diapers for a few years but was feeling burned out and needed a change. Then came the opportunity to travel to India and support an aftercare facility for young women rescued from trafficking there. My passion for that cause grew and my desire to start a small business to benefit its effort was born. Triumph Outpost is dedicated to serving the anti-trafficking effort, both locally and abroad, while pursuing community and collaboration locally to further benefit women entrepreneurs. It’s a broad vision but it’s been awesome to see what we have accomplished over the past eight years.
What organizations provided mentorship?
As a business, we have benefited from SCORE [mentorship] coaching and have appreciated the support we’ve received at COCC from the business department. Overall, our best support and mentorship has happened through building relationships with other vendors and small business owners that we have met over the years.
What opportunities are unique to launching a small business in here?
Oregon is a wonderful place to start a small business, especially one that is artistic or creative in nature. The small-business community is supportive and forward thinking which makes the process feel less daunting and overwhelming. The coalition of small-business owners, especially in the artistic community, make collaboration and support their first priority over competition, giving this community a unique sense of positivity.
Where do you see Triumph Outpost in the future?
Over the next five-10 years, I see us collaborating with multiple people and businesses to bring new projects to life. I would love to expand our reach into the wholesale market as well. This next year, I plan to work closely with Jill Crotwell of Stitch Leather—who manages the bulk of our production—to bring new ideas to fruition and expand our web offerings. We have big plans for Triumph Outpost and exciting new things on the horizon.
I was on a ride in the Badlands and the saddlebags I was using kept shifting to the side until they were completely sideways on my horse. They essentially were the same style of bags I’d been using since I was a kid. I thought, “this is ridiculous,” Ryan is an industrial designer who specializes in bags! We make rad, premium saddle bags, then literally go right out our back door and test them. I’ve also always wanted to do something to help horses. In order to inspire you need a pretty big platform. What better way than to make badass horse products and then lead by example when it comes to caring for horses.
What are your current plans to scale the company?
We are currently in that process. It’s a huge learning curve but there are so many incredible minds in Bend that are willing to help guide you if you are willing to learn. We will branch into wholesale in 2024 which will help grow the company. Currently, we are only direct to consumers.
What do you see as the biggest challenge or obstacle to success as a small business start up?
Being an entrepreneur takes a completely different mindset. It takes discipline, and you have to be willing to take risks and also work your buns off for not a whole lot of return in the beginning. My parents were entrepreneurs, so I grew up with the mentality a bit or it might have been a real wake up call. It’s a huge learning curve but there are so many incredible minds in Bend that are willing to help guide you if you are willing to learn.
What opportunities are unique to a founding startup in Central Oregon?
Bend Outdoor Worx is invaluable. Right at your fingertips are some of the most talented, brilliant, and giving people in the outdoor industry. It’s surreal that they are all so giving and willing to help.. We’ve lived all over the United States, and Bend has something really special for entrepreneurs.
The external answer is I was frustrated with the backpacks that I was using for climbing and backcountry skiing that were adequately simple and light but inadequately featured for each specific sport. I felt like both could be achieved, and I think I found that balance with our Raven and Big Medicine packs. The internal answer is I was going through the motions at college and looking for something more creative and fulfilling—I found that outlet in the form of stitching up backpacks for friends at school.
Who or what were/are your early mentors/supporters?
Ummm all of Bend? I reached out and talked to just about anyone that had business/life experience and would listen to my questions. Turns out that’s quite a lot of people in Bend. I’d be curious to see what kind of support you receive as a young, aspiring entrepreneur in other cities around the U.S. but I received no shortage of help here in Bend.
What opportunities are unique to a founding startup in Central Oregon?
The business community in Bend tends to be exceedingly giving with its time, and that’s made such a big difference for me. There’s also a decent amount of infrastructure for startups like the Bend Outdoor Worx, the Pub Talks that EDCO puts on as well as the Bend Venture Conference and Breakout events. I could keep going but those were the things that helped me get my foot in the door, learn how to talk the talk, and played a big part in leveling up Free Range.
Where do you see Free Range Equipment in five years, or how about in 20 years?
I just want it to be fulfilling and fun for all parties involved; I want it to produce a healthy profit (mostly so it’s stress-free) and operate in alignment with its mission and values. I’m not exactly sure what that’s going to look like yet, but if we can make those things happen, I’ll call it a success.
Throughout winter, Mt. Bachelor buzzes with activity that most of us Bendites never see. Beyond the groomers and the parking lot plows, teams run deliveries through the night to dole out everything from snowmobile parts to the untold tons of chicken tenders that visitors blow through by day. The effort required to keep the lifts spinning alone is breathtaking. While we sleep, the maintenance folks inspect and de-ice exactly 1,248 chairs on 20 miles of cable across 195 towers. Every last one of the “sheaves,” those wheels that a lift cable rolls over, has to be inspected, too. There are roughly 2,600 of them. Here, meet just a few of the wizards working behind the curtain to make our winters spectacular.
The Power Couple
Every time you hop on a Mt. Bachelor chairlift, offer thanks to Alicia Smith and her husband, Brandon. Waking up at 2:45 a.m. each day, the power couple drives to the mountain long before the plows fire up to make sure the lifts are ready to go—all before most of us are even thinking about getting out of bed. Together, they and their teams strengthen the backbone of what carries us up the mountain.
Alicia and Brandon Smith, make sure the lifts are ready to go—all before most of us are even thinking about getting out of bed.
The Smiths started working at Mt. Bachelor almost 20 years ago as lift operators. But in the years since, they’ve moved into different roles. Brandon is now the mountain’s senior lift maintenance manager and Alicia, who helped install Cloudchaser, is the resort’s life maintenance electrical supervisor for anything under 600 volts, which includes every lift, some of which can produce up to 1,000 horsepower.
Everyday, the team inspects 1248 chairs & 20 miles of cable across 195 towers.
Mount Bachelor’s weather makes things tricky, particularly with ice that can build up on the sheaves. It’s imperative that they spin freely to prevent the cables from damaging them. To clear them, the team will run the lift backwards for a bit to knock off much of the ice without breaking tower sensors which make sure the cables stay in their tracks. Team members will then ski or snowmobile down the lift lines, inspecting each one of the sheaves. If one isn’t spinning, someone will climb up the tower and free it by hand. It can take days during a storm cycle to get them all spinning properly. Summit Express actually rotates constantly at a slow rate, even during the night, to help prevent ice build-up and allow for a quicker opening. Other teams work to clear snow from the terminal stations, making sure all the belts and pulleys are ice-free. There are more than 2,100 belts alone. Many of them have to be cleared by hand.
Chipping ice off lift cables
Meanwhile, Alicia will go around making sure the lift controls are all functioning. Ice can get into those, too, and cause the contacts to fail, which means she has to swap out a lot of switches. Those are easy, Alicia said. The worst is when a communication cable breaks. The cables run top to bottom on every tower, and sometimes right along the ground, because burying cables in volcanic rock is challenging. “They get eaten up,” Alicia explained. When a circuit fails, she has to go find the weak spot in the cable, which can be buried under a winter’s worth of snow. “It can take hours, or even days,” she said. One of the most difficult things she’s ever had to deal with was a time when the Northwest Express motor failed. She’d had it “totally dialed in” as one season came to a close, only to discover something that happened over the summer fried it. “The motor had literally pulled itself apart,” she said. It was too late to buy a new one for the season, and most companies won’t rebuild a motor like that for liability reasons.
Eventually, she did find someone willing to take it on, and now the motor functions like it’s brand new. This year, Alicia has some other challenges to look forward to, namely the new Skyliner Express lift which runs on AC power, just like a home appliance. All of the other lifts run on DC, like most battery-powered devices. The control systems are wildly different, with small “programmable logic controller” cards that replace the thousands of relays and switches. “With the older lifts, I can walk up to them and physically change whatever is wrong,” she said. “Now, it’s more about reading lights and figuring out what they mean.”
Evening comes. The Smiths pile into their Ford F-150 and head home to feed the dogs, eat and wash up. By 8 p.m. they’re fast asleep.
The Wizard of Mt. Bachelor
For the past 24 seasons, Betsy Norsen has been an integral part of Mt. Bachelor, first as a ski patroller and now as senior mountain operations manager. That means she oversees all of the grooming, terrain parks and various maintenance teams. “It’s all encompassing,” she said. “There’s always something that needs to be done.” Norsen is typically on the road up to the mountain by 6 a.m., listening to radio chatter on her Motorola from the maintenance and grooming crews that have been working all night. She gets weather reports specific to Mt. Bachelor, and right away she can tell if it’s going to be a difficult start to the day—say, winds are high or lifts are frozen—or if it’s going to be “a turnkey” kind of morning.
Summit Express rotates constantly, even during the night, to prevent ice buildup.
Norsen was once at the top of Sunrise Express when winds hit 100 mph, which means the lifts couldn’t run at all because they’ll slam into or even miss “the trumpet,” a rail that guides the chair into the station. Many times, it’s a game to figure out how to open what they can as safely and efficiently as possible. Pine Marten Express has 102 chairs—Northwest has 180—and if the radio chatter suggests the crews are stopping the lift to clear each one, she may have to pull people off one job and send them out to another to help. “There are a lot of puzzle pieces,” she said. By 6:30 a.m., the first snow reports and conditions updates will be posted online. By 7:30 a.m., she’ll have a better idea of which lifts will open and when. At 2 p.m., she’ll meet with the marketing team and operations teams to see if there were any surprises and what they can learn from that day. “We’ll come up with a plan for the next day and hope the stars align,” she said. “Then, when all of the guests go home, another whole world begins.”
Time to Clear the Lots
As the director of base operations, Ryan Gage—just “Gage,” to his friends—is in charge of a lot of what skiers first encounter when they arrive at the mountain, namely making sure the parking lots are clear, among his long list of other duties. Gage will start touching base with his team daily at around 4 a.m. All through the night, crews have been working to groom the slopes, restock the lodges, distribute parts and mail, haul out the trash, and make sure no one staying in the RV areas needs help.
The director of base operations at Mt. Bachelor, Ryan Gage
Keeping the West Village parking area clear, however, is a gargantuan task alone. The lot covers 20.8 acres, which means that even a two-inch storm leaves roughly 158,000 cubic feet of snow to push around (enough to bury your average driveway in at least 80 feet of the stuff). In all, Gage will have six or seven operators working the rotary snow blowers, the loader, the plow trucks, and the grader, to clear the four lots at Sunrise, the Skyliner lot, West Village, and all of the service roads while the rest of us are sleeping. “They have to touch every parking lot and every roadway, every night,” he said. “They’re a very busy crew.” To do that work, Gage goes through a massive amount of diesel fuel. One blower working one shift can burn through 400 gallons of it. On a big storm night, it can be even more than that. Oftentimes, the plow or grader can only make a few passes before the snow gets too deep to move and a blower will have to come in to throw it farther out of the way. It’s a never-ending cycle. “The way snow works, the more you touch it, the more air you take out of it and the denser it gets,” Gage said. “It just slows everything down.”
Ski Patrol starting their day at Mt. Bachelor
Preparing for the Party
It’s shortly before 5 a.m. and Dave “DT” Thomas silences his alarm. He makes coffee, then checks the webcams and weather. As Mt. Bachelor’s Ski Patrol director, Thomas faces a similar challenge every morning: to figure out the mountain’s “operational footprint.” Is the plan to get Northwest Express open? Is there a race on Cliffhanger that day? Knowing those facts will dictate a lot of the morning. Most of the patrollers arrive by 7:30 a.m. and are on the mountain by 8. Together, they’ll get to work setting up signage and fencing and stringing up the ropes. “It’s like setting the table for a party,” Thomas said.
Every patroller has medical training, but before the day begins, they’re more focused on the mountain itself. Avalanche work gets a lot of attention. The avalanche teams will show up around 6 a.m. to get a jump on the snow-safety checks. Since patrollers are on the mountain every single day, they have a good sense of the conditions and which areas might slide. Several “indicator” slopes offer a snapshot of what could be going on up high, too. For instance, there’s an area they call Old Downhill near the top of Skyliner Express that can get a cornice on it that may need to be destroyed, lest it collapse and hurt someone.
Avalanche Work at Mt. Bachelor
Up high, teams of two will venture out into the cirque carrying explosives—typically a two-pound emulsion mixture—while wearing float bags and avalanche beacons, just in case they get caught in a slide themselves. One person will ignite the charge by drawing a wire coated with red phosphorus through a cardboard tube that lights the 90-second fuse, a tricky task if your gloves are frozen. Another patroller ties a length of rope to the charge so it can be raised and lowered on the slope to the exact spot. The charge ignites. Everyone in the parking lot looks up. It’s going to be a good day.
Catch extended interviews with the team at Mt. Bachelor. Listen to The Circling Podcast at BendMagazine.com/podcast.
When the days get shorter and colder, many Central Oregonians will trade their mountain bikes for skis and snowboards. While others will ride singletrack year-round. Fortunately, winter mountain biking trails near Bend are abundant. Once our beloved trails in the Phil’s and Wanoga complexes are snowed in, excellent mountain biking awaits east of town. And, with fall and winter bringing a bit of moisture to those desert trails, the riding conditions are often prime.
But, much lower temperatures can make winter mountain biking near Bend more difficult than the summer riding we are used to. Fatigue and dehydration can set in quickly and often go unrecognized.
So, let’s make sure you know not only where to go but also how to be prepared for the cold weather season.
Head to the East of Bend
Cline Butte and Maston Trails
Great winter mountain biking near Bend is found at Maston and Cline Butte. Maston is ideal for beginner riders and families, while Cline Butte is on the opposite end of the spectrum, with fast, technical descents.
Maston Trail | Photo by Caitlin Eddolls
Gray Butte Trailhead
If you are up for a bit more of a drive, Gray Butte may be one of the best-undiscovered winter mountain biking trails near Bend. What is Gray Butte, you ask? It is the tall butte, towering nearly 5,100 ft. behind Smith Rock.
To get there, park at the Skull Hollow Trailhead. From there, you have a couple of options, all on the same “Cole Loop” but broken up into different sections.
Gray Butte trail to Cow Canyon (Cole Loop) is my favorite ride. It begins with a climb on Forest Service Road 5710 for about 2.5 miles. The road ends at FS57, where you hang a left and continue for about 0.5 miles before reaching the Gray Butte trailhead.
A gradual climb continues over manageable rocks, with a techy spot here or there. Nearly two miles in, you reach the Austin Creson Viewpoint. Take in the mountain views before you begin your descent.
Pick your lines carefully as you descend Gray Butte Trail, twisting and turning for about 1.5 miles over chunky, intermediate, technical terrain. Roughly 1.5 miles after the viewpoint, continue your descent onto Cole Loop’s Cow Canyon. This section is faster and flowy and will take you back to the parking lot.
While the Gray Butte area doesn’t get much snow, it has sections that don’t see much sunlight throughout winter. Cow Canyon is one of those places where snow and ice may linger a bit longer. Also, keep in mind that the Pine Ridge section of Cole Loop has a makeshift shooting range about 3.5 miles from the trailhead. People still ride the loop, but the gunshots can be unnerving. Also, Gray Butte is a popular place for trail runners and equestrians. Be on the lookout as you ride!
Horse Butte Trailhead
Horse Ridge Trailhead
Twenty minutes east of Bend on Highway 20 is the Horse Ridge Trailhead. Here, you will find long climbs, fast descents and rocky terrain. However, the shale-like rock at Cline and Gray buttes isn’t present at Horse Ridge. Central Oregon lava rock makes up Horse Ridge’s technical chunk.
Parkway is a technical climb for intermediate riders. Climbing nearly 1,000 feet over four miles, Parkway ends at a trail named Has No Horse, which runs along the top of Horse Ridge. From here, you have a few options:
Descending back down Parkway is excellent for more beginner or intermediate riders; just be careful of others climbing. For more advanced riders, head over to the infamous Sand Canyon trail.
Sand Canyon descends more than 1,000 feet in two miles. Speed is the name of the game. While the trail isn’t overly technical, be prepared to have your arms rattled by braking bumps as you descend.
Climb Parkway, a short and popular loop, until it intersects with Escape From Moscow 2.5 miles up. The 1.5-mile Escape From Moscow trail descends 500 feet, but technical line choice is emphasized over speed.
What You Need for Winter Mountain Biking Near Bend
Staying warm is crucial when mountain biking in the winter near Bend. When our body is cold, blood is sent from our limbs to our vital organs to keep them warm. This can lead to fatigue and late reaction time when on a bike.
Layering is the way to do it. For cold temps, I reach for wool socks and a wool-base shirt. Wool keeps you warm while wicking moisture away. It’s also time to invest in some mountain bike-specific pants. These will not only help keep you warm but are designed with sitting on a bike in mind. They also will have room for knee pads.
Next, get a long-sleeve, warmer top over your shirt. Flannels work great, but make sure it isn’t made of cotton. Cotton soaks up sweat and makes you cold. A packable windbreaker is a great option to have along as well. Lastly, invest in thermal mountain biking gloves so your fingers don’t freeze. Find apparel and further advice on winter layering at local bike shops such as Pine Mountain Sports, Sunnyside Sports, Hutch’s, and Webcyclery.
Making sure you stay fueled and hydrated is equally as important. Not doing so can lead to poor performance and fatigue on the bike.
Along with hydration, pack some carbs. Thirty grams of carbs per hour is a good rule of thumb. It is common not to be as thirsty in the colder weather, which can trick riders into not drinking as much as they should. A good way to combat that is to bring and drink as much fluid as you would on a summer ride. Adding electrolytes is another smart option.
Winter Fat Biking
Mountain biking still happens when snow covers the ground, just with fatter tires. Wanoga and Phil’s trails are popular places where people hit the trails on fat tire bikes. It is also common to see fat tire bikers east, especially at Maston.
Where to Rent Fat Tire Bikes in Bend
Shops such as Crow’s Feet rent fat tire bikes, or rent and take a guided tour with Cog Wild.
As for what to wear, while you don’t want to dress as if you are going snowboarding, you also want to be a bit warmer. These shops are excellent resources for learning what to wear on a snow bike adventure.
Persistence and purpose define entrepreneur Dominiqe Taylor, founder of the sustainable hair products company Consciously Curly Co. A biology and environmental studies graduate of Southern Utah Polytechnic University, Taylor began her venture into the world of beauty products while working in Zion National Park, where she cooked her meals in the shadow of sandstone cliffs. Taylor’s passion for the natural world and sustainable living inspired her to delve into the ingredients that filled her self-care routine, namely products for her kinky-curly hair. She discovered the majority contained properties both carcinogenic and teeming with ground-water contamination toxins. Taylor became passionate about finding cleaner, more inclusive options that were not packaged in environmentally damaging plastics. When she came up empty-handed, she decided to create her own. Determined to help people feel like their best selves without jeopardizing health or the environment, Taylor’s Consciously Curly Co. (CCC) raises the bar for conscious living.
Your story is inspiring and courageous. Walk us through the creation of your products.
I am very much a learn by trial-and-error type of person. Consequently, my products have been made and remade and remade again. They started as painfully simple kitchen concoctions. While I really liked that they were completely natural, I wasn’t in love with the results. Despite this, my curiosity had peaked, and I found myself absolutely loving the experimentation of it all. I decided to take a formulating course online; I read six different textbooks (cover to cover), followed chemist forums, and tested everything I learned. I started expanding the ingredients I worked with–researching each one thoroughly. The formulations today are more sophisticated than their predecessors, but simple in comparison to the products you find in box stores.
I focus on naturally derived, nontoxic and sustainable ingredients to build the formulations that make up CCC products and packaging. Every decision I make centers around inclusivity and sustainability. I don’t want my products to shout, “I’m just for men” or “I’m just for women.” I want them to exemplify what they are–a sustainable option for any race, gender or identity. I really try to hear my customers and give their suggestions a shot. If enough people ask for something, I’ll try to offer it. Changes in the products I offer are a direct reflection of that.
Your logo “Mycohair: Hair on Shrooms,” is intriguing. How did mushrooms become so integral to your product line?
I have always had a deep interest in mycology and spend a lot of my free time foraging mushrooms, so I was thrilled to discover and experiment with the use of mushrooms in haircare. Each mushroom serves a different purpose, but in short, I use mushrooms in the products because they are incredible alternatives to lab-made ingredients–and they work better!
What makes CCC stand out in the beauty product industry?
Consciously Curly Co. brings the intersectionality of environmentalism and inclusivity to the table. I’m a woman of color in the sustainable beauty industry. That brings a whole different dynamic, and begins to fill a hole that is still majorly lacking. Hair products are a big deal in the black community and the lack of products for textured, curly, oily hair just wasn’t acceptable to me. So I started CCC with an aim to bridge that gap. I used what science knowledge I had, took a dive into the formulating world and got to work.
What are your long term goals for CCC?
I want people to have more access to sustainable, nontoxic products as far as affordability and proximity go. I plan to get my products into thousands of eco-shops nationally and internationally. But CCC will always be a small-run, intentionally-led and integrity-driven company. I don’t plan to be present in major box stores, but I want to have more options than online ordering. I also hope to one day offer bottle take-backs to create a closed system of production and waste, and design recycled bottle pumps and spray nozzles–or inspire a developer to create them.
Being an entrepreneur is challenging, tell us: What continues to inspire your journey?
I’ve learned about the power of integrating your passions into your work and how it fuels you to push through really hard times. I promise myself that when I feel the intuitive push to leap, I will without question. That also helps me settle into less than ideal times, trust the process and appreciate the journey. My passion is to connect people to nature through practical means and relatable ways. Mushrooms not only do amazing things for your hair, they get people curious about them. I think the more curiosity we have about nature, the more we are pulled to it. The more we are pulled to it, the more incentive we have to protect it.
When Bend residents Peggy Sherrer and Anna Pollino boarded a high-speed train from Milan to Venice in May 2022, they sat near two Italians who wanted to chat but claimed they couldn’t speak English. For three hours, the Bend residents—both students at the Bend Language Institute (BLI)—spoke with the Italians without once lapsing into English. After exiting the train, Sherrer turned to Pollino and said, “I guess we’re fluent.” The two classmates had BLI, and its founder Christina Cappy, to thank.
Born in the United States to an Italian-American family, Cappy grew up in Florence, Italy. She attended an American university and earned a joint Ph.D. in anthropology and educational policy studies, doing research in South Africa, where she became fluent in Zulu. With family in Bend, she visited several times before making it her home. Fast forward to 2019 and Cappy decided to open a language institute—a model of learning popular elsewhere in the world but somewhat unusual in the United States. “Bend is becoming much more international,” Cappy said.
Through both private lessons and small classes, faculty at BLI teach Italian, Spanish, German, French, Russian, Mandarin, Arabic, Japanese and American Sign Language and English as a Second Language. Bend Language Institute students range in age from teens to octogenarians, and they come from all backgrounds and for all reasons. For some, travel is the impetus. For others, it’s a requirement of their work. School-aged students take classes to advance in a curriculum, to speak with their non-English speaking grandparents, or simply because they are passionate about learning another language.
Each semester, about 150 students enroll at BLI in small classes or private lessons. Language acquisition happens many ways at BLI—film classes, book clubs, game nights and informal gatherings—and all activities are face-to-face.
“The point is interaction,” said Cappy. While online applications can be useful, “there’s nothing like a small class to practice speaking.” She said her older students can face different challenges when learning a language, not just because it is more difficult to develop a native-like accent after teenage years, “but adults allow their egos to get involved. To counteract that, I ask everyone in my classes to pretend as if they are in kindergarten,” she said.
The Bend Language Community and Commitment
Learning another language has endless benefits, attested Cappy, citing the research on enhanced brain health and community building.
To advance conversation skills, students are encouraged to talk about their backgrounds, families and friends. “There’s a vulnerability in sharing personal information with strangers,” she said. Friends are quickly made, and entire cohorts of students progress through the curriculum together.
The commitment to both language learning and their classmates means some students go to extraordinary ends. “One couple dressed up every anniversary in their wedding clothes. And so, when their Spanish class fell on their anniversary, they didn’t want to miss class and let their classmates down, so they came to class in a gown and tux,” Cappy recounted.
Silvi Galmozzi, a native of Argentina and an instructor in Spanish at BLI, began her career at BLI by “teaching under an apple tree in Christina’s backyard” during the first year of the pandemic. “We got very creative,” said Galmozzi. The “walk and talk” classes along the Deschutes River that sprung up during the pandemic continue today. She also runs a Spanish book club, a Spanish game night and a Spanish conversation group at BLI. “There’s a freedom we have here as students and faculty members,” said Galmozzi. See bendlanguageinstitute.com.
With textured layers of oil paint, Jacob Norris creates depictions of animals, people and landscapes. His mission to activate the soul of every subject he paints is evident in each of his pieces. “Mostly going on instinct, I’m constantly asking, ‘What if…?’” Norris explained.
As a native Oregonian, Norris has grew up alongside many of the landscapes he now paints, which inspired and activated his creativity ever since he was young. His childhood was marked by journeys along the Oregon Coast and through Eastern Oregon, courtesy of his father’s endeavors setting up hardware stores around the state. Homeschooled in 5th grade, Norris spent countless hours immersed in field guides on Pacific Northwest birds. This period not only marked a pivotal year in his education, but also ignited an enduring connection with birds, an animal that continues to be a prominent muse for him and his work.
Great Blue Heron Painting
The rich tapestry of nature woven into the fabric of his early experiences served as a wellspring of inspiration for his creative process. It was in his grandfather, a painter and maker, that he first found that magnetic pull toward art. “I remember going into his studio and smelling the paint and seeing all the brushes,” shared Norris. “I felt the bristles and remember being consumed by this overwhelming feeling of wanting to do this. There was something that just struck a chord in me.”
How it All Began
In high school, Norris found solace in a Mountain View High School art class led by Ken Roth, who would become a defining mentor for him. Immediately after high school, Norris began an oil painting apprenticeship under Roth’s guidance. “He opened my eyes to genuine experiences, sharing the authentic struggles inherent in artistic creation.” shared Norris. “He demonstrated a real-life example that one doesn’t need a preconceived plan when painting. Witnessing this unfiltered reality was crucial for me, allowing me to break free from constraints and explore my perspective.”
Norris’ first-ever exhibition was hosted by Roth and propelled him into various pop-up shows around Central Oregon. His work has been showcased at the High Desert Gallery, Sparrow Bakery, Lone Pine Coffee, The Commons Cafe and Taproom, FOUND Natural Goods and Cowgirl Cash. In the broader context of his artistic vision, Norris articulates a profound aspiration for the impact of his art, whether hanging in community spaces or private homes. He envisions his pieces serving as catalysts for a deeper connection to the everyday human experience. “My hope is that even when someone is going about their day-to-day, my piece will inspire them to feel that they are the painter or creator of their day,” he said.
Norris paints in his studio as well as en plein air, allowing him to connect with the natural elements he is working to capture. A viewer can feel the rawness of the natural world in his work.
Shevlin Rim Painting
Another dimension that characterizes Norris’ artistic process is his collaboration with his father, Walt Norris. Jacob paints directly onto hand-built wood substrates made by his father and framed with 100-year-old repurposed barn wood. This collaboration adds a layer of personal connection to his work, amplifying its quality and durability. Family is important to Norris and he dedicates much of his art to his wife and three sons. “Without them,” he shared, “my work just wouldn’t have that pulse of love and energy.” See jacobjnorris.gallery.
There’s a crispness to the air. Every breath produces a wisp of steam. The upbeat music, piped in from overhead speakers, encourages spectators to join the fun. It’s Open Skate at The Pavilion, where skaters of all ages and abilities gather in Bend.
The natural wonders of Central Oregon have inspired enthusiasts since the establishment of the city in the early 1900s. Ranchers sought outdoor entertainment on sunny winter days, and Scandinavian mill workers imported their reliance on what they referred to as friluftsliv—outdoor living—to cure the challenges of those first days.
The abundance of lakes around Bend helped bring ice skating to the region. Local skating enthusiasts favored the upper part of the failed Tumalo Reservoir and the abandoned fish hatchery pond at Shevlin Park. The only requisite was a little help from Mother Nature to bring a freeze to standing water. It would take until the founding of Bend’s first ski club in 1927, Skyliners, before organized skating became a popular winter sport in Central Oregon. Helping the rinks take form was the job of ice makers, and the first was Myron Symons.
Photo from The Deschutes Historical Society
Bend’s First Ice Maker
Born in Stafford, New York, Symons came to Bend in 1915 from Dawson, Yukon. He hit it off with Skyliners’ founders, Chris Kostol, Emil Nordeen, Nels Skjersaa and Nils Wulfsberg, and quickly became involved in the skating community. The Bend Bulletin called him, “one of Bend’s most enthusiastic exponents of the winter sport.”
He began making ice for Skyliners in the 1930s and was instrumental in the creation of an outdoor skating rink at Skyliners’ winter playground located near the upper Tumalo Creek in 1938—where Skyliner Lodge can still be found. The technique he used was the same throughout his career: He flooded the area, building up a 3-inch-thick slab of ice. After the ice was set, he sprinkled hot water to fine-tune problem areas. With Symons’ help, Bend’s first skating rink came to fruition in 1949 at Troy Field, the open area nestled between the original Bend High School (today Bend-La Pine’s administration building) and St. Francis School (now known as McMenamins Old St. Francis School). Symons relied on the Bend Fire Department to flood the field with fire hoses. “The tap to access the water was made from a fire hydrant at the northwest corner of the field,” said Jim Crowell, who used to skate at Symons’ rink during his grade school years. Symons used any excuse to be on the ice himself. Crowell recalled Symons as “the guy who glided around Troy Field, an elder statesman of inner-city skating.”
Ice Master Today
Today, Donne Fox Horne is the maestro of ice as Zamboni operator at Bend Parks & Recreation’s The Pavilion. Growing up in Woodstock, New Hampshire, Horne has skated since his early years. “If the ice on the pond was thick enough, we didn’t go to school that day,” Horne said. After spending 25 years maintaining the ice arena at the Holderness School in Plymouth, New Hampshire, a visit to Bend in 2015 changed Horne’s trajectory. That same year, The Pavilion opened, with its NHL-regulation size rink of 200-by-85 feet of ice. Horne found a home at the new rink, a place to create ice magic with the help of a Zamboni.
From Flooding to Zamboni
Unlike Symons’ flooding technique, Horne relies on the 11,000-pound Zamboni machine to maintain ice at The Pavilion. “I usually get here at 4:30 in the morning to start resurfacing the ice,” said Horne. The technical wizardry happens at the tail end of the Zamboni where an apparatus that touches the ice contains everything needed for producing perfect ice—one-sixteenth of an inch at a time.
First, a knife shaves the ice while an auger removes the slush. Next, wash water is sprinkled onto the ice followed by a vacuum, which removes the dirty water. The final phase is a sprinkler system that sprays hot water onto the ice, followed by a towel that spreads water evenly behind the Zamboni.
Horne also has a secret weapon to battle warming trends, something that wasn’t available to Symons. The cement slab below the ice acts as a giant freezer. “We have between nine-11 miles of pipes that move a 19-degree glycol mix underneath the slab,” said Horne. “Think of it like the back of a refrigerator.”
Bend has come far from its early days of frozen ponds, irrigation ditches and the flooded Troy Field. From late October until early April, the ice at The Pavilion provides a centerpiece for winter sports. Myron Symons would be proud. See bendparksandrec.org.
It’s not just skiers who have wintertime fun on winter trails. Modern snowshoes are now lightweight, rugged and easy to use, making winter adventure more accessible for all ability levels. Throughout the Cascade Range, numerous sno-parks offer excellent opportunities for snowshoers to explore winter wonderlands. So step into some snowshoes and explore these six suggested marked trails, all within a day’s drive from Bend.
Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake averages an amazing 533 inches of snow each year. On a sunny winter day, the 1,943-foot-deep cobalt lake set beneath a snow-covered caldera rivals any vista in Oregon.
The National Park Service maintains the south entrance road up to Rim Village, the starting point to a trek along the West Rim Drive toward Discovery Point. (Note: The rim drives are closed during winter.) Along the way, enjoy incredible views of the snow-capped Wizard Island—a volcano within a volcano—jutting up from the caldera lake. Keep an eye out for “snow rollers,” unique features which start as cylindrical chunks of snow that roll downhill on their own. The rolling action accumulates snow in a similar action to making a snowman.
For those seeking a longer outing, continue to The Watchman Overlook for spectacular views.
Discovery Point: 2.1 miles round trip, easy
The Watchman Overlook: 9.9 miles round trip, moderate to difficult
Photo by Christian Murillo
Willamette Pass, Gold Lake Sno-Park
The Gold Lake Sno-Park (milepost 61.5 on Highway 58) is a winter hub for snowshoers to explore old-growth forests and lakes in the Willamette Pass backcountry. The sno-park’s historic Gold Lake Patrol Cabin serves as the base of operations for Willamette Backcountry Ski Patrol volunteers.
To reach the Eagle Rock Overlook with its dramatic view of Odell Lake, named for Oregon pioneer William Holman Odell, snowshoers begin the trek up to Pengra Pass, then follow the Pacific Crest Trail to the overlook. Massive Shasta red and Douglas fir trees line the trail, and numerous small mammal tracks may reveal nocturnal activity. The return East Overlook Trail descends through the woods and passes the three-sided Westview Shelter. A half-mile side trip up the Diamond View Loop adds nice views of Diamond Peak to this outing.
Eagle Rock Overlook Loop: 3.25 miles, moderate
Santiam Pass, Ray Benson Sno-Park
Named after snowmobile advocate Ray Benson, this sno-park near Hoodoo Ski Resort (U.S. Highway 20) offers a multitude of trails for winter enthusiasts.
The South Loop trail passes through mixed coniferous forests en route to the Brandenburg Butte Shelter. Visual peeks of Mount Washington, Three-Fingered Jack, Hoodoo Butte and the unique Hayrick Butte abound along the trail. Hayrick, known geologically as a “tuya,” is a volcano that erupted beneath a glacier. The lava filled the mold formed by the melted ice.
The Brandenburg Shelter offers a nice spot for lunch or respite from the weather. Several return options exist via the South Loop or Claypool Butte trail, both of which intersect with the Pacific Crest Trail. An après-snowshoe warm up at Hoodoo Ski Resort is a great spot to relive the adventure.
South Loop Trail: 6.1 miles, moderate
Photo by Sofia Gavrishov
Tumalo Falls, Skyliners Sno-Park
The Skyliners Sno-Park, located west of Bend, is a local’s hot spot. In 1927, the Bend Skyliners Ski Club formed and eventually built a lodge and winter ski complex, complete with two large ski jumps, near this sno-park.
On the trail to Tumalo Falls, snowshoers pass by the historic lodge, now leased from the Forest Service by the High Desert Education Service District, and a young forest that continues to regenerate after the 1979 Bridge Creek Fire. After several miles, the trail reaches the Tumalo Falls parking lot where a short trail leads to an overlook of the falls, often frozen in winter and plunging 100 feet over a lip of lava. Snowshoers may follow another short trail uphill to a second viewpoint at the top of the falls.
Tumalo Falls Loop: 6.1 miles round trip, moderate
Edison Sno-Park
The AC/DC Snowshoe Trail is a new reroute trail to the Edison Sno-Park’s AC/DC shelter. Named for Alternating Current and Direct Current, not the popular Australian rock band, it will provide snowshoers with a new opportunity to access this warming shelter. Originally proposed by Dr. Jim Davis (also known as Dr. Snowshoe), volunteers and Forest Service staff established this reroute in 2023 that climbs more than 525 feet from the sno-park to the shelter.
Snowshoers will pass by massive ponderosa pines and gain views of Mount Bachelor along this new trail. Sno-park trail maps are available on the Willamette and Deschutes National Forest websites.
AC/DC Trail: 3.2 miles round trip, moderate.
Photo by Christian Murillo
Cascade Lakes Highway, Mt. Bachelor Nordic Area
The Mt. Bachelor snowshoe trails, which originate from the Nordic Lodge, wind through old-growth mountain hemlock forests and cross the Nordic area’s ski trails multiple times to form a loop trail that is well worth the effort. The well-marked trails are color-coded: red, orange and yellow. A long loop is possible by heading west from the lodge on the orange snowshoe trail, then connecting to the red snowshoe trail which passes by great vistas of Mount Bachelor and South Sister before reaching the warming hut known as Bob’s Bungalow.
From the warming hut, snowshoers return on the red snowshoe trail northward toward the Cascade Lakes Highway (closed in winter), then connect to the orange snowshoe trail back to the lodge. Along the trail, listen for the plaintive cries of Canada jays (also known as Camp Robbers) and watch for tracks of the elusive Sierra Nevada Gray Fox which hunts for small rodents and birds in this snowy paradise. Snowshoe Mt. Bachelor trails here.
Red and Orange Snowshoe Trail Loop: 3.6 miles, easy
Almost nine years since its founding, Harper House Design has hit its stride. High-end builders and their clients are turning to the company for its seasoned design team and proven track record.
Photo by Ely Roberts
Harper House Melds Art and Eras for Timeless Effects
Interior Designer Lucy Roland opened Harper House in 2015 and enlisted Allie Stoddard as her creative partner in 2017, both bringing a wealth of education and experience to the task. Roland’s passion for design emerged during her upbringing in Portland and Central Oregon, living in a design savvy environment created by her mother and grandmother. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in interior design from the Art Institute of Portland. After working for 12 years at Maison, a prestigious interior design firm in Portland, Roland launched Harper House in Bend.
Allie Stoddard earned degrees in fine art, including a master’s in painting and drawing from the San Francisco Art Institute, which brings extra depth in textiles and fine art to Harper House. In fact, since becoming part of the team, Stoddard has been creating custom artwork for clients.
One reason for Harper House’s success is its focus on building trust and rapport with clients. “Establishing trust with clients is our top priority,” Roland said. “Without it, clients may start to question our decisions. A strong relationship is the key to delivering the best design.”
According to Roland, the best time to seek interior design help is during the early stages of a project when clients are choosing their architect and builder. “To create a harmonious design, we like to be involved in the overall direction of each home in conjunction with architects who value our input on selecting hard surfaces, such as plumbing and lighting fixtures, flooring and cabinets,” she said.
Whether engaged in new construction or home renovations, Harper House follows a meticulous process. Through interviews, architectural renderings and detailed questionnaires, the designers gain insight on client preferences. “We want to know whether they have kids or pets, whether they are attracted to natural stone versus a manufactured slab, stained cabinets or painted, and how our clients really live to create the overall feeling of the house,” Stoddard explained. “We get down to the nitty gritty of it.”
After extensive interviews, the Harper House designers then put together a visual presentation for clients in their downtown Bend studio, pulling from an extensive collection of colors, tiles, fabrics, plumbing finishes, wood finishes and flooring. For new construction, they offer two to three distinct styling options for each room. Remodels and renovations follow a similar, albeit more concise, process. “We curate the experience so our clients don’t have to look at 5,000 samples,” Roland said.
“Lucy has an incredible sense of style and an eye for unusual fabrics and details, elevating each individual piece,” said Sarah Goracke who has sought help from Harper House on home projects in Bend and Tumalo. “She’s fun to work with and isn’t someone who dictates her own design sense. She works in a collaborative fashion to come up with something very tailored to your own aesthetic.”
Rather than follow the latest design trends, Roland and Stoddard tend to choose classic and timeless pieces. “There are a lot of hot things now, like curves and arches,” Stoddard said. “The problem with trends is that people don’t know how to be conservative with them, and they take them into the end zone. It becomes overkill, and that’s when everything starts to look dated,” she said. “It’s about balance and not turning your house into a time capsule of 2024.”
The designers enjoy offering clients a fusion of styles that reflect Harper House’s unique aesthetic. “Even if your house is ultra contemporary, we like to throw in an antique piece to give it a more curated look. Likewise, even with a home on Mirror Pond, it’s beautiful to have an ultra modern piece mixed with traditional, historical cabinetry,” Roland said. “The juxtaposition between styles and eras is where the magic happens. We have our own look, which seems to be working well.”
The company doesn’t advertise, but instead relies on referrals from satisfied clients. “Our job is to make the process fun from day one to putting the bow on the house,” Roland said. Given the ever-evolving landscape of Central Oregon’s high-end residential market, Harper House emerges as a distinctive voice, contributing a unique perspective to homeowners.
Jaclyn Walles, Tayla MacPherson and Abbi Hamlin—local Bend skiers—discover joy and forge deep friendships amidst the slopes of Mt. Bachelor. This video offers a glimpse into Mt. Bachelor’s short documentary series titled “Just Northwest of Normal” because, as the Ski Patrol Director aptly notes, “I don’t know of many average days at Mt. Bachelor.” Spanning eight episodes, this series delves into the rich human narratives of the mountain’s ski patrol crew, lift maintenance teams and all the other people that make up the Mt. Bachelor community.
With 7” of snow overnight and 22” in the last 48 hours, the conditions across the mountain at Mt. Bachelor are some of the best of the season. We’ve seen a mix of sun and low clouds throughout the day and expect to see snowfall move in tonight which will mean another day of fresh powder for Mt. Bachelor skiers and riders tomorrow. Our base depth is currently sitting at over 90” – the deepest of the season – and 229” of snowfall to date.
Mt. Bachelor Pass Holders and Ikon Pass Holders can bring a friend any day this season for up to 40% off the window ticket price. Mt. Bachelor Passholders also have access to Early Ups on Red Chair this Saturday and Sunday at 8 AM for an hour of extra skiing. More info here.
In pursuit of their dream retreat, a Salem couple teamed up with JHL Design of Portland and CD Redding Construction of Salem to create a lodge-inspired mountain home amidst the natural beauty of Black Butte Ranch. They envisioned a home echoing the architectural style of lodges in Montana and Idaho where they often stayed during fly fishing expeditions.
The result is a residence that marries Western ranch traditions with elements of contemporary aesthetics. The middle section of the home boasts a striking, soaring peaked roof which commands attention, complemented by wings on either side—one that extends into a two-story structure. The use of natural wood dominates throughout the 4,600-square-foot home, unifying the design with exposed, rough-hewn beams and posts, and finely finished cabinets and flooring. The exterior siding is covered in durable, one-inch board-and-batt cedar, with a type of natural finish that creates a weathered look and requires no maintenance. The home sits on a two-acre lot with the backyard opening to the Deschutes National Forest.
The Home Details
A covered porch and vestibule serves as the front entry, a place where guests can hang coats and hats before stepping into the large-scale dining and living room with its 20-foot gabled ceiling. “It’s the heart of the home,” said Holly Freres, JHL principal and interior designer. The star feature is a Montana moss-stone fireplace that runs from floor to ridge beam. “The homeowners spend a good amount of time sitting near the fireplace in this grand room, reading and taking in the view,” she said.
The ceiling heights are reduced to a more human scale across the two wings. A short hallway off the central room leads to the homeowner’s private bedroom suite. This secluded retreat features an outdoor spa, hot tub and a covered patio facing the forest. Here, the homeowners can enjoy complete privacy, shielded from view with no neighboring properties in sight.
On the other wing, traffic flows into the open kitchen through structural timbers. A blue-painted island anchors the space with stools for seating and is lit by overhead pendants which hang from belted leather crafted by Allied Maker. The wall behind the range displays hand-painted, blue-green ceramic tile by Fireclay Tile, designed to emulate sage brush. Appliances and extra storage are hidden in a large pantry behind the kitchen. A convenient pass-through window blurs indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for the effortless transfer of food and drinks to guests seated on exterior bar stools within the sheltered patio terrace. Complete with its own fireplace, outdoor dining area and barbeque, the terrace is a comfortable and inviting setting for year-round enjoyment.
The design team had fun with the powder room and mudroom, both tucked conveniently off the hallway behind the pantry. The powder room has vintage Zak+Fox wallpaper and an antique vanity with a vessel sink. The mudroom is a space that often gets overlooked, Freres said, but “it’s beautiful in this home.” It features cubbies for boots and hats and a pet room for the dogs. The designers added zing with a white oak bench and an animal skin pillow. “We made sure the mudroom felt clean and bright. It also has a nice view to the front of the house where there’s an outcropping of boulders,” Freres added.
Western-Inspired Bunkroom
The upstairs bunkroom stands out as a highlight for many, including JHL Principal Designer David Horning, who declared it his favorite space. Inspired by the client’s admiration for old cowboy movies, the design team devoted significant effort to crafting a rustic, masculine ambiance. A beverage cooler, comfortable furniture and other amenities make it a go-to spot for the homeowners to unwind, kick off their boots, entertain friends and watch sports. It also transitions seamlessly into a space for the grandkids. Two sets of built-in twin beds have trundles that pull out to accommodate four children. “We aimed to create an environment that feels welcoming to all ages,” he said.
The bunk room’s architecture mimics the gabled ceilings found in the central room, with fully paneled walls emphasizing wood as the predominant design element. A snug window seat at the top of the stairs serves as a charming break-out zone. Notably, the room’s repurposed carpet was salvaged from the original Black Butte Lodge before its demolition made way for the new Lodge, which opened in 2023.
The home took roughly two years to build. Cory Redding, president of CD Redding Construction, said, “The Black Butte project was presented to us with a vision from the start. We assembled a team of experts, including JHL, encompassingarchitectural, engineering, interior design and furniture procurement.” Throughout construction, the clients entrusted the building and design team with the creative freedom to fulfill their dream. JHL’s Horning shared that “they were blown away when they saw the finished home, which was truly gratifying.”
Bend Pet Express Has Cared for Pets and Their People for Over Three Decades
For over three decades, there’s been a place where the focus is on how both pets and their people can lead their best lives together. Since its founding in 1993, the dedicated founders and staff at Bend Pet Express have helped Bend, Oregon pet lovers care for their furry family members. They understand that no two pets are the same. They offer advice on how to tend to the unique nutritional needs of each four-legged friend. Or can recommend best practices for physical exercise and offer a range of toys for creative play and products for leisure. The local business has a dedication to education and confident pet-centric shopping experiences. Dogs, cats and their human companions all benefit from peace of mind by trusting a long history of expertise.
Providing 30-plus years of knowledge, Bend Pet Express (BPE) has also grown and evolved right alongside the community. Not only has it continued to put the optimal health and well-being of pets first, but it has taken strides to incorporate more sustainable practices within the business. And, as always, BPE emphasized community engagement to be part of Central Oregon’s heartbeat. Through charitable giving, and engagement with its customers, it has remained a solid cornerstone of the Central Oregon community. They not only connect people to their pets, they connect them to their neighbors, strengthening the bonds of community. It’s all much like creating a family.
All in a Fur-Family History
When Bend Pet Express Founder Julie Hunter couldn’t find a specially formulated dog food for her ailing dog, she took it upon herself to make the process easier. She wanted all pet owners to have a resource for formulations beyond the standard grocery store big-bag fare.
Seeing first-hand how her dog responded to dietary changes helped her realize that pet lifespans and life enjoyment would be optimized with a high-quality diet of natural ingredients. Before she passed away in 2021, she had said, “I filled my garage with premium dog food, and I decided that my new career goal would entail educating the public and helping our four-legged friends live longer, healthier lives.”
Hunter quickly outgrew garages and warehouses of those first days and opened the first retail space in Sisters, Oregon. The heart of the small business was the way it focused on family and community, and it helped create a new model for pet-human interdependence. BPE defined a family to include four-legged pets. Two stores opened in Bend, in 2001 and 2003. As the business moved into the future, the human family would also be a central tenet. When Hunter retired in 2019, her nephew Ryan Kwaterski began to lead with both a focus on the original mission and a vision toward the future.
Since taking the reins, Kwaterski is highly involved in not only the day-to-day operations, but also in ways the company can support the community it has created. He works with his team to make the best decisions on what products to carry and how to be more sustainable. Before being added to the shelves, items are vetted through personal conversations with industry experts. The staff also often conducts its feeding trials to stand behind its commitment to pet nutrition.
BASS, a massive pit bull, comes by Eastside multiple times a week with his person to pick out a treat and say hi. Every time, BASS makes a point to find each member of staff to ask for love. We always look forward to his sweet face and wiggly butt. – Kiyta, BPE employee
Bend Pet Express Nutrition and Well-Being
Pet health is at the core of the Bend Pet Express mission and quality nutrition is as important to Kwaterski and his team today as it was to Julie Hunter 30 years ago.
“Julie always did her research. She wanted the best of the best and solutions-based formulas,” Stephanie Wright, director of procurement, says about the founder. “We’ve kept that true to form here. We go through a pretty intensive process to bring in products. We don’t carry food just for the sake of brand name recognition or because of a marketing campaign,” Wright says. Products on the retail shelves are ones that BPE stands behind. To create confidence, Kwaterski, Wright, and their team are dedicated to understanding the needs of pets and their owners. It starts with their own education and enthusiasm and the confidence that comes with passing on that knowledge to their customers.
Awareness and education around the ways a raw diet impacts a dog’s longevity is important. “We focus on the benefits of raw diets, and are following the science and the studies behind them,” says Wright. Conversations are continual whether with industry experts, or the pet owners themselves. Only premium-quality pet foods and quality-tested products are found at Bend Pet Express. “If it’s something that we don’t believe in, we won’t use it on our pets, and we won’t sell it,” continues Wright.
The Extra Care at Bend Pet Express
The folks on the retail floor are the ultimate pet people, making them sounding boards to listen carefully and help customers find the right product to meet their pet’s needs. That same care is extended whether in person, online or on a call. However you prefer to communicate, the team is available. And so are options for pick up or delivery. Bend Pet Express strives to make quality care easy by offering free delivery in the Bend area. Within 500 square miles (just over 12 miles) five days a week, they’ll get products from their door to yours. All of this happens either the same day or the next depending on the time of day you place your order. That’s not only white-glove treatment, but the service is at no charge so that your pet will never miss one of their favorite meals of the day!
I remember meeting Baron, a gorgeous long-haired German Shepherd, and his amazing mom who was looking for help. Baron was strong and was almost able to pull his human right off her feet! They became some of my favorite visitors at the store – watching Baron and his mom work together with new tools and ideas made my day every time they stopped by. – Stephanie, BPE employee
Sustainable Future in Bend
It’s not enough to know your favorite locally owned pet store has a shelf stocked with items to keep pets healthy, with happy stomachs and shiny coats. The team makes sure each product also aligns with BPE values. Sustainability is a guiding principle. Making sure food products are ethically and sustainably sourced is part of the team’s vetting process. Optimal care for a pet family extends to optimal care for the planet, too.
Setting up a recycling program to address waste created by the pet food industry was a way Bend Pet Express took practical strides. Recycling pet food packaging is one step, and customers will find drop bins at each location. By utilizing TerraCycle, a national company focused on zero-waste solutions, pet food packaging is repurposed versus dumped in local landfills. Simply bring clean food or treat boxes, bags or cans to the location nearest to you.
Pets Plus People Equal Community
Sustaining healthy lifestyles for people and pets is just one part of what has kept BPE a pillar of the Central Oregon community for 30 years and it’s a legacy Kwaterski and his team continue guided by central tenets. Wright explains its three core beliefs:
First, BPE believes that every pet deserves a healthy and fulfilling life. And a healthy and fulfilling life isn’t about spending more money. Rather, it is about being educated and informed on what high-quality, life-extending products your money is buying.
Second, they believe that pet owners should be able to make decisions free from marketing campaigns and jargon. It believes customers should have access to unbiased, clear information that enables them to make the best choices for their pets’ day-to-day life health and toward a robust lifespan.
Finally, they are committed to strengthening its community by extending help to those in need.
These principles guide every decision they make, ensuring that they take a step towards a healthier, happier life for pets.
Bend Pet Express Dog Wash
The goal of optimal pet wellness is well-paired with Central Oregon’s outdoorsy lifestyle when healthy pets hit dusty trails. They converge at the Bend Pet Express Dog Wash. A series of bays are found within the retail stores with a selection of products to address a pet’s muddy skin or coat. Customers are welcome to wash their companions themselves, either periodically after an especially muddy romp along the river, or regularly to keep a pet’s coat clean and healthy. The dog-washing experience can be bonding and fun when it’s made easy. Need a hand, or a short on time? Schedule an appointment with a concierge groomer to give your dog a VIP treatment. “We even offer calming skin-care solutions, such as a soothing mud bath,” says Wright. Whether rinsing muddy paws, or being treated with a soothing mud treatment, after a rinse and dry, clean dogs leave as happy dogs.
While working in the dog wash, a regular became like a second mom to me. She even remembered my kids’ birthdays, since I’m terrible with memory. For that first Christmas, she gave me a homemade card with a photo of Maggie, her dog. 10+ years later, I still have that card in my new office. – Kim, BPE employee
Charitable Business Creates Community
From its beginnings in Julie Hunter’s garage, and with goals to give pets the healthiest lifestyles, and layers of service for pet families across Central Oregon, BPE has remained devoted to the community.
When looking to offer a wide selection of pet products, BPE also tries to source products locally as much as possible. They participate in community fundraisers and auctions and are consistent in their commitment to charitable giving. Supporting both nonprofits and pets shows up in unique ways, too. It continues to innovate on ways to support pet guardianship and enrich living the best lives for both people and pets. Did you know Bend Pet Express provides kennels at the High Desert Museum? Tour the museum with confidence that your furry road-trip companion is safe and secure.
The Next 30 Years in Central Oregon
Bend, Oregon may be known as one of the most dog-friendly cities in the United States and has been named DogTown U.S.A by Pet Fancy magazine. Its pets may be some of the happiest in the country, too. By supporting people and the four-legged animals that love them, BPE has created a 30-year tradition in Central Oregon. This is part of what makes the region a pet lover’s paradise.
Kristine Ambrose shares her passion for blending natural perfumes.
The parts of the human brain that process emotions and memory are also responsible for the sense of smell, so it’s no wonder that scents such as soup bubbling on a stovetop or a fresh-cut rose can instantly conjure vivid memories. For Bend-based perfumer Kristine Ambrose, the power of scent has been life-altering.
Five years ago, Ambrose was living in Los Angeles when she entered a deep depression, something she soon realized had been impacting her throughout her life. She had recently begun gardening as a hobby, and a friend suggested she take a class on natural perfumes. Ambrose recalled how the friend suggested taking the herbs from her garden and turning them into something therapeutic so the coping skills for dealing with depression would be with her every step of the way. “It helped,” said Ambrose.
Ambrose began to understand the healing power of nature. She and her husband made a move to Bend three years ago, where she knew easy access to hiking and paddle boarding on the river would be beneficial. What had been just a hobby began to flourish into something more.
“Here was this whole new world of herbs and flowers and trees that I could work with: pine needles, Russian sage and lavender,” Ambrose said about Bend’s natural surroundings.
A year after moving to Bend, she established her natural perfume company Hikishémé, a new word she coined by blending the Japanese and French languages, representing two cultures she reveres. To her it means “inspiration of cultures.” She began selling her perfumes, such as Amber Rose and Woodland, on her website and at local farmers markets, then expanded her business with a perfume lab
in 2022.
Hīkishémé Perfume Lab
In the home studio in her garage, Ambrose welcomes guests by appointment to make perfumes and shop. She also hosts natural perfume workshops, including perfume blending and hand-rolling incense cones. The space, inspired by the bohemian vibe of Venice, California 30 years ago, can be described as “modern photography studio meets apothecary,” and is adorned with vintage lamps and rugs. An artist at heart, Ambrose said blending scent notes together is an art form and she likens it to making fine wine. Her workshops bring together groups looking for a sense of community, and the methodical process allows people to be in the moment.
The Art of Scent
To make a natural scent, perfumers typically blend essential oils and dilute them with alcohol. Ambrose takes this a step further, creating her own tinctures by soaking herbs and flowers in grain alcohol and continually adding new ones to the tincture for up to a year and a half. “I’ve learned the more you go into the process, the more of an artist you become. I know I’m doing art when my mind is free of thought,” Ambrose said. Before using the oils, she burns off the last remnants of the alcohol in a reduction process similar to reducing balsamic vinegar. The scents become intensely aromatic and layered. “The lavender tincture smells like a deep dark lavender cotton candy,” she explained.
These tinctures, which Ambrose calls “vintages,” date back to 2019 and include jasmine, mint, oregano, citrus, anise, lavender, pine needle, sage and more. They serve as the base of Ambrose’s perfumes which are then blended with high-quality essential oils that are diluted so they don’t burn the skin. In her workshops, guests craft luxurious, custom blends that could never be mass-produced. “They are truly made right from the garden, right from my trees, just for you,” Ambrose shared.
Her favorite scent, white jasmine, blooms in Southern California in the spring and reminds her of how far she has come. She sees it as her mission to share the mental health benefits of natural scents with a wider audience. “These coping skills are right at the tips of our fingers,” Ambrose said. “Open the door, walk outside and get into nature; take a deep breath, smell something different.” See hikisheme.com.
Jim and Nathalie Peterson left behind Scottsdale, Arizona, and bought the venerable Mockingbird Gallery in 2007. Sixteen years later, Mockingbird continues to reign as a jewel in the heart of downtown, attracting tourists and locals alike keen for an infusion of culture. The pair also runs Peterson Contemporary Art (PCA), a short walk away. In total, the galleries represent about 85 artists, peddling pieces ranging from whimsical bronze animals to large-scale abstract oils. Bend Home + Design talked with Jim Peterson about the galleries’ success, the current trends in Central Oregon art, and why Bend is a perfect spot to sell fine art.
Q: What are the challenges of running galleries, particularly in Bend?
A: High-end, collector-style galleries have to fit a certain demographic, a certain community. We all know about Scottsdale, Santa Fe, Carmel and Jackson Hole—communities that have built reputations as great areas for galleries to thrive. Frankly, when we came to Bend from Scottsdale, which is really a gallery community, one of our concerns was where are these art buyers going to come from? What is it about Bend that can support high-end art sales? Bend offers a microcosm of what Scottsdale offered us—that is, a well-balanced support system built on locals and tourism. This is a growth community, a growth economy. People are moving here because they want to be here, not because they have to be here, and they’re building really beautiful homes. So that supports our efforts, plus the secret is out on Bend as a tourist community.
Where do you see your role in providing the Bend community with cultural enrichment?
We have cultivated a group of exciting artists that we think really interest art buyers, collectors and viewers. We know our cultural role in this community is also a space where people can just come and get their art fix, and we thrive on that. We love those conversations. I know people who come by almost monthly, whose intention is not to come in and purchase art, it’s just to be inspired and maybe talk art. We love to make time for those people.
How are Mockingbird Gallery and PCA different, and how did that separation come about?
As we were building Mockingbird up and growing it, we had two different groups developing under one roof, and that’s really what led us to experiment with another location. Mockingbird would be considered the more representational traditional blend. PCA would be more contemporary and modern. That said, we have hybrid artists in both locations. The goal was never to take the edge out of Mockingbird, it was just to create another venue. At PCA we have abstract art mixed in with more representational touches.
What do Bend homeowners seem to look for in art these days?
A lot of these new homes being built are big. During the pandemic, people were building, they were at home, and artists were asking me, “Are we going to be okay? Do you want me to give you small pieces now?” And I said, “Opposite. Get us big works of art.” And that’s exactly what started selling. These large walls need to be filled up, and [homeowners are] looking for something fun.
Where do you see the art market going in Bend?
It’s only going up because Bend is growing. I talk to people in Scottsdale, I talk to people in Santa Fe, and I know that some of these more established art markets are trying to figure themselves out again. Not everybody in those larger art markets will tell you that all is well, but what I can tell people is that we have the right ingredients here in Bend to thrive. We have been thriving, and it’s exciting. I don’t see anything changing that because this is going to continue to be an appealing place to live. We’ve captured the spirit of the type of person who loves Bend and living here.
How to Get in Touch
Mockingbird Gallery
869 NW Wall St. #10, Bend
mockingbird-gallery.com
Peterson Contemporary Art
550 NW Franklin Ave., Bend
pcagallery.com
While most 13 year olds were doodling in their Lisa Frank notebooks, a young Nickol Hayden-Cady, founder of Foxtail Bakeshop, was elbow deep in a junior high cooking program that would change her life. Beyond the sounds of ingredients bubbling in pots or sizzling in pans, the idea that food could be something truly special is what captivated her.
“My dad often whisked me away to high-end restaurants, introducing me to famous chefs,” she reflected. “Their culinary creations completely shattered my beliefs about food and revealed a level of artistry I didn’t know existed. However, it was my Portuguese grandmother who instilled in me a deep reverence for the food ecosystem and the value of nurturing what sustains us.”
Hayden-Cady’s culinary journey began at a renowned Southern California catering company, where she was eventually handed the role of pastry chef at just 16 years old. Her training at The Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, New York, further honed her skills, allowing her to work alongside some of the world’s best chefs.
“I don’t chase culinary fame,” she said. “What matters most is that people cook with intention, in a way that feels good.” She launched Foxtail Bakeshop in 2013 as a whimsical place for people to slow down and enjoy small-batch, from-scratch food. Despite the physical location closing in 2022, Hayden-Cady’s dedication to reimagining how we eat—in a way that’s both magical and nourishing—endures.
The Future of Foxtail Bakeshop
“Moving forward, I want to do something wildly different,” Hayden-Cady said. “It’s time to reclaim the ancestral legacy of nourishing ourselves. No one sits and savors anymore. We’re not enjoying our food or honoring the journey from farm to table.”
Over the past year, Foxtail Bakeshop has shifted from a brick-and-mortar establishment to a welcoming online hub for culinary connection and education, starting with the basics. “Without cooking skills, people become shackled to processed convenience foods,” she emphasized. Foxtail’s new digital space–affectionately called “The Den,” offers inspiration, recipes, forums, tutorials and online classes designed to equip people with a “kitchen of knowledge.”
Eventually, Hayden-Cady hopes to create a gathering space in Central Oregon that harmonizes food, nature and art. She envisions it as a community haven with room to roam, a farm store with locally sourced products as well as in-person cooking classes which celebrate the bounty of the earth. Seasonal communal dinners will allow guests to gather around long tables to savor a wholesome meal. “Hyper-local is the future,” she said.
Treats From the Den
For the past two years, Hayden-Cady has been creating a cookbook that transcends culinary norms. “Initially meant to be a heartfelt goodbye,” she said, “this book revealed my desire to evolve, not exit the industry.” Treats from the Den—available online and in local bookstores—boasts more than 175 treasured Foxtail recipes spanning brunch, baked goods, desserts and cocktails.
“This cookbook captures the essence of who I am and what I believe food can be,” Hayden-Cady said. An interactive journey for the willing and curious, the elevated recipes are meant to push people beyond their culinary comfort zones. “Take risks, expand your palate and make each recipe your own,” she encouraged.
Recipes from Foxtail Bakeshop
Editors note: In her kitchen, Nickol recommends using the metric system for accuracy. Here, find her recipes along with Bend Magazine‘s volume conversions.
Rabbit Confit
Yields six servings
INGREDIENTS
6 rabbit legs from Steady Home Farm
2 tablespoons kosher salt
1 tablespoon black pepper, ground
1 tablespoon juniper berries, ground
½ tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon juniper berries, whole
4 ½ cups duck fat or chicken fat (1,000 ml)
4 ¼ cups olive oil (1,000 ml)
1 head garlic, halved crosswise
2 shallots, quartered lengthwise
3 sprigs thyme
METHOD
Heat oven to 260°. Combine salt, pepper, ground juniper berries and brown sugar in a small bowl. Place rabbit legs in a large baking dish and season on both sides with the juniper mixture. Let sit for at least three hours, but not more than 24 hours.
Drain any liquid that’s come off the cured rabbit legs and pat dry. Scatter garlic, shallots, juniper berries and thyme around the rabbit, and cover with duck fat and olive oil. Season again with salt and pepper and cover with foil.
Roast for three hours. Remove foil, baste some of the fat on the exposed parts of the rabbit and bake for five more minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. To serve, heat a neutral oil to 360°. Fry for four to six minutes until crispy. Plate immediately.
Shiitake Mushroom Velouté
INGREDIENTS
2 tablespoons dried mushrooms of any kind (25 g) 1 ¾ cups fresh shiitake mushrooms, chopped (325 g)
1 tablespoon olive oil 2 shallots, roughly diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon tomato paste
¾ cup dry white wine (200 ml)
1 teaspoon brown miso paste
1 teaspoon sherry vinegar
¼ cup heavy cream (75 ml)
METHOD
Place dried mushrooms in a bowl and pour 1 ¼ cups of boiling water over them. Set aside for 15 minutes to rehydrate.
Meanwhile, add one tablespoon of oil to a frying pan over medium heat. Add the shiitake mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and turn golden brown, about 15 minutes. Add the shallots, garlic, and tomato paste and continue to cook until softened and just beginning to caramelize, about five minutes. Pour in the white wine and cook until almost all the liquid has evaporated.
Add the rehydrated mushrooms and the soaking liquid and bring to a boil, then transfer the contents of the pan to a high-powered blender. Blend until completely smooth, then return the mixture to the pan. Reduce it to a creamy consistency, then add the miso paste, cream, and sherry. Season to taste and keep warm.
Smoky Potato Mashers
INGREDIENTS
1 ½ pounds petite golden potatoes (700 g)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 onion, thinly sliced
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
½ bunch chives, finely shredded
½ bunch parsley, finely shredded
2 tablespoons aioli or mayo
½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon flake salt
⅛ teaspoon sherry vinegar
METHOD
In a heavy saucepot, add butter and heat on medium until foamy. Add onions and cook for five minutes, stirring occasionally to sweat and reduce the liquid. Add garlic and cook on very low for 1 ½ hours stirring occasionally to caramelize. Once onion and garlic mix is caramelized, remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes, then chop and set aside.
Heat oven to 350°. Place potatoes on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender and soft enough to smash (versus mash). To smash, press on each one with the bottom of a glass. Try to keep some shape to them. Let cool for 15 minutes.
Fill a large heavy bottom pot with two to three inches of neutral oil. Bring temperature to between 355° and 360°. Add smashed potatoes and fry for four to six minutes until golden brown. Drain and set aside for up to 30 minutes ahead of plating; keep warm at 200° in the oven.
In a large bowl, add chopped caramelized onion and garlic mix, chiffonade herbs, aioli, Dijon, paprika, salt and sherry vinegar. Whisk well to make a paste. Fold in the smashed potatoes and mix well, dressing every potato. Finish plating with salt, pepper and chopped herbs.
BUILD THE DISH
Heat mushroom velouté and place a dollop about 1/4 cup size in the middle of the plate and spread about two inches around the middle of the plate. Place smoky smashed potatoes on one side of the mushroom sauce, about four to five potatoes. On the other side of the mushroom sauce, place the rabbit leg vertically. If necessary, place one potato behind the rabbit to help stand it up. Garnish the dish with microgreens, Urfa chili, herbed oil and smoked flake salt.
Yam Croquettes
Yields 30 croquettes
BINDER SAUCE INGREDIENTS
⅔ cup olive oil (100 g) 2 cups medium yellow onion, chopped (300 g) ⅛ cup cane sugar (30 g) ½ tablespoon kosher salt (10 g) black pepper, ground (5 g) ¼ jalapeño chili, minced 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, toasted, ground 1 teaspoon sweet paprika ⅔ cup vegetable stock (150 ml)
METHOD
In a heavy saucepot, toast the caraway seeds, then remove from heat and grind. Add toasted ground caraway back into the heavy saucepot with olive oil on very low heat. Add onions, sugar, jalapeño, salt and pepper and sauté until soft but not brown. Stir in sweet paprika and vegetable stock, then reduce for 15 minutes on medium heat. Remove from heat and place in blender on high until mixture is smooth, then pass through a fine strainer. Set aside to cool and save for the croquette recipe. TIP: This can be made a day ahead and reheated.
Heat oven to 400°. Prick russet potato multiple times with a fork. Place the potato directly on an oven rack. Bake for 50 to 75 minutes, rotating halfway through until the potato gives slightly when squeezed. Do not overbake as it will change the texture into dense versus fluffy croquettes. While still hot, carefully peel the potato and discard skin. Grate and set aside.
Start this next step 25 minutes after the russet potato goes into the oven:Cut washed and peeled yams into small cubes and rinse to remove excess starch. Place yams in a bowl with a half cup of water, cover with plastic wrap, and steam for 10 to 15 minutes on high. Place warm cooked yams into a bowl and mash until soft. It’s important to mash yams while still warm. Gradually work in the strained binder sauce with the mashed yams, grated russet potato, minced garlic, grated cheddar, egg yolk and olive oil until thoroughly and evenly mixed to the consistency of wet dough. Use a spoon to scoop and create individual balls of about 1 ½ inches. Place balls on baking sheet, cover with plastic and chill for two to four hours. After chilling, remove plastic and smooth the balls with lightly moistened hands to prevent the dough from sticking.
BREADING & FRYING INGREDIENTS
¾ cup all-purpose flour (100 g) 1 ¾ cups panko breadcrumbs (200 g) ¾ cup eggs, beaten (200 g) 4 ¼ cups rice bran oil or neutral oil (1,000 ml)
METHOD
Prepare three separate bowls. In one bowl, add flour; in the second bowl add panko; and in the third bowl add the beaten eggs. Line a sheet pan or plate with paper towels. Heat oil in a deep, wide saucepan to 350°; oil should be about 2 ½ inches from the sides of the pot. Dip the balls in this order: flour, egg wash and panko breadcrumbs until coated lightly but evenly. Cook the croquettes for two to three minutes, or until golden brown and warmed through. Transfer to a platter and sprinkle with flaked salt. Serve immediately.
Dandelion Arugula Green Sauce
INGREDIENTS
½ bunch dandelion greens, bottom stems removed ½ bunch arugula ½ bunch cilantro 3 ½ tablespoons soy sauce (50 ml) ¼ teaspoon coriander, toasted and ground ½ teaspoon caraway seeds, toasted and ground ½ teaspoon kosher salt
METHOD
Toast coriander and caraway seeds in a hot sauté pan on medium heat for one to two minutes until golden and aromatic. Make sure not to burn. Process in a spice grinder and set aside. Make a bowl with ice water and set aside. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in dandelion greens only and blanch for one minute. Remove and plunge into an ice bath for five minutes; drain onto a paper towel. In a high-powered blender, combine the blanched dandelion greens, arugula, cilantro, soy sauce, ground coriander, ground caraway seeds and salt, and puree until smooth, about one minute, scraping down in between. Do not over mix as this may lead to a brown sauce. It is ready to serve and best to eat the day it is made. Chill until ready to serve.
Labneh Kefir Sauce
1 cup “Karoun” labneh kefir cheese (240 ml) ½ teaspoon raw honey 1 teaspoon kosher salt ¼ teaspoon pink peppercorn, ground
METHOD
In a small glass bowl, combine the labneh kefir cheese, honey, salt and peppercorn and mix well. This can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
BUILD THE PLATE
1 container of pea tendril microgreens
Add the kefir sauce to a plate. Lightly swirl the dandelion green sauce without incorporating it fully. Transfer three to four croquettes to the middle of the plate on top of the sauce. Finish the plate with microgreens or pea tendrils and flake salt. Enjoy!
Buckwheat Crepe Dessert
INGREDIENTS
1 ¼ cup buckwheat flour (164 g)
1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour (150 g)
1 ½ teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons cane sugar
8 eggs
4 ¼ cups whole milk (1,000 ml)
1 ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (370 g)
METHOD
Melt butter in a sauce pot and keep warm. In a high-speed blender, add flour, buckwheat flour, sugar, salt and eggs. Blend on medium until smooth. Slowly pour in melted butter and blend for one minute. Pour into a large jar, cover, and refrigerate for at least eight hours to create a thinner, more pliable crepe.
Heat an eight-inch nonstick pan on medium heat. Add a thin layer of butter to the pan (or use a pan spray of your choice). Pour about ⅓ cup of batter into the hot pan, working quickly to swirl the batter around creating a round shape that fills the pan. Cook for 45 seconds to one minute for golden crispy edges. Carefully flip the crepe over with a small offset spatula or butter knife to avoid tearing. Cook for 20 seconds on the bottom side and move it to a parchment-lined sheet pan to cool. Repeat the process until there are 24 usable crepes. Stack crepes on top of each other as they will not stick. These can be made three days ahead of time or frozen for up to a month.
Blood Orange Hazelnut Streusel Topping
INGREDIENTS
¼ cup cane sugar (50 g) ¼ cup pastry flour or all-purpose flour (50 g) ½ teaspoon kosher salt ½ cup hazelnut flour or almond flour (50 g) ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold (50 g) 1 blood orange zested 5-6 Speculoos Cookies from Trader Joe’s
METHOD
Cut cold butter into cubes. Place Speculoos Cookies in a plastic bag, pound out to a fine crumble and set aside. In a food processor, add all ingredients except the butter and the Speculoos Cookies. Pulse for one minute and add in butter. Pulse until a sandy texture and dough starts to come together. Scrape dough onto a parchment paper-lined sheet pan and place in the freezer for 15 minutes. Heat oven to 325° and when ready, place the sheet in the oven. Bake streusel for 15 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and mix in the Speculoos Cookie crumble and combine while hot. Let cool.
Confit of Citrus Slices
INGREDIENTS
1 cup water (239 g) 1 cup sugar (206 g) ⅜ cup glucose syrup (85 g) 1 blood orange or 10 kumquats
METHOD
Wash citrus. Cut off and discard ends of the blood orange, then cut into ¼ inch slices. If using kumquats, cut in half or leave whole. Put citrus in a four-quart heavy bottom saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil, remove from heat and drain. Repeat this process three more times using fresh cold water every time. Strain and set aside.
In the four-quart heavy bottom saucepan, combine sugar, one cup of water and glucose syrup, and bring to a simmer. Add the blanched citrus, cover with a lid and return to a low simmer. Simmer citrus for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally without smashing the citrus. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature in the syrup. Store in a sealed container.
Cookie Butter Whipped Ganache
INGREDIENTS
½ cup Speculoos Cookie Butter, Trader Joe’s (107 g) 1 cup Valrhona milk chocolate (169 g) 1 cup heavy cream (225 g) 1 ¼ tablespoon raw honey (28 g) 1 ¼ tablespoon glucose syrup (25 g) 1 ¼ cup heavy cream, cold (325 g)
METHOD
Melt chocolate to 110° over a double boiler. Bring the heavy cream, honey and glucose syrup to 120°. Pour the cream mixture into melted chocolate and emulsify with an immersion blender (hand wand). Add the cookie butter and blend for one minute. Add heavy cream in a very slow and steady stream, then blend. A slow pace will prevent the emulsion from breaking up. Transfer to a container and put plastic wrap directly on the surface of the mixture to prevent a skin; chill overnight to mature. Whip the ganache mixture to medium-stiff peaks when ready to use. Keep for up to one week.
BUILD THE DESSERT
Heat oven to 325°. Cut all crepes into an even circle. Warm the crepes in the oven for six to 10 minutes. Let cool and prepare fillings. Whip cookie butter ganache to medium peaks. Warm the cookie butter in microwave to make it smooth and spreadable. On a serving platter, place the first crepe. Spread a thin layer of cookie butter on top. Place another crepe on top of that, then add two heaping spoonfuls of whipped cookie butter ganache; spread evenly. Place another crepe on top and repeat with every other layer of cookie butter spread and cookie butter whipped ganache. Top and finish with a thin layer of cookie butter leaving two inches of crepe around the side. Place the streusel in the middle covering the cookie butter. Finish with powdered sugar and some confit blood orange slices. Chill until ready to serve.
An easy escape to the vibrant Western-themed town of Sisters, Oregon is a short drive away from Bend. Pack up the skis and fishing reels—or just a wool hat and scarf to keep warm while window-shopping—and head to Sisters for a hassle-free, recharge weekend.
This hotel is located in the heart of East Cascade Avenue, is a central base camp for adventure or ambling around town while unwinding from the busy holidays and continuing to enjoy the season. “If you want that quintessential, holiday season experience, Sisters is tough to beat,” Brady Rhodes, owner of Ski Inn Taphouse and Hotel, said. The city’s lights, paired with the slow pace of the small town waiting just outside the rustic modern motif of Ski Inn, gives the feel of a classic movie.
The original Ski Inn dated back to 1972. For more than 40 years, the breakfast and burger spot, with its retro booths and hearty fare, had been a meeting place for locals and a road trip stop for travelers. In 2013, a ponderosa pine totaled the building during a windstorm. Rhodes and his partner bought the lot and in 2019 began to rebuild from the ground up, reopening the Inn’s doors in 2021 with a larger footprint and upstairs lodgings for guests. Rhodes wanted to pay homage to the restaurant by preserving the name. “I’ve talked to so many travelers and locals who say, ‘Growing up we always stopped at the Ski Inn,’” Rhodes said. “We felt it was a fun tip of the cap to keep the name alive.”
After a quick and easy contact-free arrival, much like an Airbnb check-in, the smell of in-house smoked brisket, pulled pork and ribs has a good chance of leading guests downstairs. A fan favorite is the Eddy burger, a classic bacon cheeseburger named after Rhodes’ daughter.
Things To Do in Sisters, Oregon
As the sun sets, head out onto the 1880s-era main street for entertainment like only Sisters can offer. The Barn—considered a community hub—is just one street over. Depending on the evening, enjoy live music in the open space while choosing from a selection of microbrews or craft cocktails and local food carts. The Belfry, a charming 100-year-old church adorned with stained glass windows and a namesake bell tower, now serves as an eccentric concert venue for shows and festivals, including the Sisters Folk Festival in the fall. Or, head to Sisters Movie House, an independent theater set inside a big red barn, and drink a local beer or have a meal delivered seat side while watching the newest box office hits.
In the morning, wake up in the middle of it all. Find a spot in line early at Sisters Bakery to pick up a local treat—the cinnamon roll or berry scone. Both a resident favorite as well as a road-trip pit stop, the bakery offers pastries, plus local coffee for energy to take on the day. Then, let the town’s Western theme inspire shopping at Baldwin’s, Blazing Saddles or Dixie’s. From leather goods to hats and boots, the fun is in finding a modern cowboy look. Peruse nearly a dozen art galleries featuring local artists, multiple sporting goods shops, eclectic gift boutiques and restaurants.
Sisters is a gateway to outdoor activity, and in the winter, nearby Hoodoo Ski Area tops the winter list for locals. Known for being “cheaper, deeper and steeper,” the five-lift mountain is one of Oregon’s oldest resorts and beloved by many. Located near the summit of the Santiam Pass, Hoodoo is about a 40-minute drive from Sisters.
Take full advantage of winter’s short days and long nights by trying night skiing at Hoodoo Ski Area through late March. Wednesday through Saturday, 4 to 9 p.m., ski 23 night runs lit by overhead lights on the mountain. Skiing under the moon and stars is a unique experience, and snowfall under the lights can be magical. Plus, Hoodoo Ski Area hosts live music with bonfires on Friday nights.
Another favorite winter activity around Sisters is fishing along the Metolius River. “It’s the best in January,” Ski Inn’s Rhodes explained. “Fewer people are fishing it, and it’s a spring-fed river, so the river stays the same temperature within a degree or two. The fish don’t notice if there’s three feet of snow on the ground or it’s 90 degrees. I’ve had some of my best days in the winter.”
The act of gathering in good company to share a home-cooked meal is a simple and universal joy. Picture the dining room of dear friends, where a table is bathed by the warm glow of candles, and the host shuttles between guests and the kitchen, presenting plates that overflow with homemade dishes. The air is rich with the aroma of freshly harvested ingredients and the pleasant hum of overlapping conversation as friends savor a meal together. This is a scene that can be found in many private homes, but is also commonplace in the welcoming dining room of Redmond’s Feast Food Company.
Photo by Tambi Lane
Chris and Emma Leyden, the attentive and kind hosts at Feast, met while working together in kitchens. While he was back-of-house and she was front-of-house, they shared a dream of starting a restaurant together, one that would foster community, support the local food system and celebrate the hard-earned harvest of the region’s producers.
The duo realized their vision by launching Feast in a vibrant red food truck in February 2021. Initially, they expected to operate as a mobile eatery for a few years; however, with overwhelming support from the community, their dream of a brick-and-mortar establishment became a reality in less than two years. In November 2022, they officially opened the doors to the cozy home where Feast is located in downtown Redmond.
Photo by Tambi Lane
Despite Feast’s growth, its foundational ethos remains steadfast. Emma emphasized, “We have always been focused on bringing the people who are often an afterthought of food to the front of your mind.” The seasonal bounty of local farms and ranches heavily influences Feast’s menu. Chris connects with up to 15 local purveyors each week, ensuring diners enjoy plates crafted with ingredients harvested just days or even hours before being served, as opposed to the hundred-plus-mile journey most food takes to reach consumers.
“People want to dine somewhere they feel welcomed, and we intend to welcome everyone into our ‘home.’”
The Leyden’s commitment to local sourcing results in a seasonal and ever-changing menu. “The cool thing about our food is that the products we are using at any given time are meant to go together,” said Chris. “They grow and are beautiful at the same time.” His creative process, which always begins with the vegetable, leads to a constant evolution of dishes inspired by the season.
Photo by Cody Rheault
On the Menu at Feast
Recently, Feast’s menu offered diners dishes such as gnudi with black pepper cream leeks, spaghetti squash, delicata squash, crème fraîche, kale and charred peppers. Also, on the menu: rich squash soup with hazelnut dukkah and kale chips, and a chicory salad with roasted hazelnuts, biscuit crumble, sweet-pickled carrots, apple, bacon and toasted honey vinaigrette. While there’s always a new dish to try, Feast also boasts a few staples, such as the popular fried mushrooms sourced from Deschutes Gourmet Mushrooms in Redmond, as well as the cheeseburger, a locally sourced beef patty topped with Alabama white sauce, house pickles, white cheddar and crispy onions, squeezed between a warm bun.
Feast also offers brunch and lunch service on select days. For brunch, patrons can savor dishes such as a sweet caramel-apple pop tart or a hearty serving of chicken and waffles. Lunch options include a roast beef sandwich with beef, relish, Swiss cheese and the gluten-free muffaletta on sesame focaccia.
When speaking of Feast’s libation philosophy, Emma shared, “We craft our beverages with the same intentions we do our food.” Which means, local reigns supreme. From fresh juices to homemade purées and syrups, the drinks are as thoughtful as the culinary creations. Draft beer is sourced from Central Oregon breweries, and the wine selection exclusively features wines from Oregon and Washington.
Chris envisions the future of Feast with optimism, sharing, “We are taking everything in stride; Emma and I are so elated with the successes we have seen thus far.” The couple is focused on making the existing location into a community pillar. Chris sees Feast as a place where patrons understand the value of their dollar and can support their community while eating good food together. Emma expressed, “People want to dine somewhere they feel welcomed, and we intend to welcome everyone into our ‘home.’”
Just as a good book can take a reader to another place and time, a fabulous meal can transport a diner to another world. Enter Trattoria Sbandati of Bend where guests are transported to the world of peace, love and porchetta.
“I think of my restaurant as an act of love. I can say that we still passionately and stubbornly love what we do,” Chef Juri Sbandati said of his restaurant tucked into an unassuming small business strip on Bend’s west side. “It is a way to celebrate life, family and, of course, the motherland Italia.”
Sbandati’s, as locals refer to the eatery, has been welcoming guests and treating them like family since 2009. That’s when Sbandati opened the doors, uplifting the local culinary scene with foods inspired by his native Tuscany. Sbandati’s cuisine tells a story, a tale of another land–the homeland of Sbandati–the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region and birthplace of the Renaissance–Firenze, also known as Florence. The restaurant’s emblem is the symbol of Firenze, the Florentine red iris.
Dining at Sbandati’s is a joyful trip to the Old Country where artisanship is at the heart of the culture, where creating food with two hands in the pursuit of beauty is still honored and revered. The chef’s craft shines through in his menu, and the food itself comforts and nourishes; simple ingredients meld together in perfection for bites that satisfy the soul. “The core of our menu is a tribute to my family origins. And we have curated an all Italian wine list,” Sbandati said.
On the Menu at Trattoria Sbandati
In classic Italian style, the trattoria’s menu begins with antipasti. Those starters naturally include bruschetta, cured meats and the piatto di formaggi misti which is a selection of imported Denominazione d’Origine Protetta Italian cheeses served with organic Italian fig jam, walnuts, pine cone syrup, sliced pears and aged balsamic from Modena. The combination is simple perfection and just enough to stimulate the appetite for more.
The primi (first course) selections range from soups of the day to pastas. The trattoria regularly has seven different kinds of handmade pasta on the menu, made only with 100% Italian flour and Sicilian sea salt. One of the customer favorites, according to Sbandati, is the pasta dedicated to his wife, the Rebecca Special. The handmade saffron pasta is tossed in a sauce of olive oil, garlic, black olives, oil-soaked sundried tomatoes, cayenne pepper and soft burrata.There’s also the penne pasta tossed in spicy tomato sauce, a hand-cut spaghetti and pappardelle alla Chiantigana. This house made pappardelle is served with a traditional sauce from the Chianti region made with Italian sausage, fennel, tomato, leeks and Chianti wine topped with Parmigiano Reggiano.
Sumptuous secondi courses (main courses) include the restaurant’s well-known polpette, a must-have featuring chef’s family recipe of tender ground beef meatballs cooked and served in tomato sauce with melted mozzarella on top and a delicious side of sauteed spinach. Tuscany is also famous for its beef. The seasonal special Tagliata di Lombatello con Cavolo Verzotto e Acciuga, hanger steak with sauteed savoy cabbage, does not disappoint. Not only are the dishes beautifully plated, the flavors are amazing, transporting the eater with every bite to a place of love and connection.
The final dessert course or dolci, must not be skipped but rather savored and lingered over. The tiramisu, based on a Sbandati family recipe, is made with mascarpone cream, ladyfingers dipped in coffee and a chocolate finish. A sweet cream panna cotta with fresh berry sauce also graces the dolci menu,as well as a bongo, the Florentine version of a profiterole—an éclair stuffed with cream and topped with melted dark chocolate and powdered sugar. Buon appetito!
Those who have lounged on the back patio of Washington Dining & Cocktails, sipped coffee at Thump downtown or cozied up into a booth at Drake or Cascade Lakes Brewing Co. have unknowingly enjoyed the work of Sara Hobin. A local designer, long-time Bendite, and mother of three boys, Sara Hobin creates spaces that speak to people’s desire for comfort, beauty and function not only at home, but in their dining spaces.
Sara Hobin in front of Mountain Burger in Bend
Hobin’s career in design came a bit later in life, but the seeds were planted early on. At age 12, she wrote down “interior designer” when asked what she wanted to be when she grew up. That childhood dream job quietly took a backseat while she pursued a career in the business side of creative work. With a degree in journalism and advertising from the University of Oregon, Hobin launched a successful career working for advertising agencies first in San Francisco and then later in Bend.
Cascade Lakes Brewery
Although immersed in the world of advertising, Hobin continued to nurture her eye for design, remodeling her home several times and assisting friends with their homes’ spatial planning and design. Her talent didn’t go unrecognized by those closest to her.
A DESIGN CAREER BEGINS
Her portfolio began to take shape when her brother-in-law leased the building on the corner of Riverside Drive and Wall Street in downtown Bend in 2013. Hobin eagerly accepted the offer to participate in the interior design of the space that is now known as Drake. The project provided Hobin with valuable experience in spatial planning, materials, branding and marketing.
The spaces she creates are purposeful and intentional to satisfy a range of clients with an inviting and elevated appeal. Sara Hobin Design work is recognizable at multiple other Central Oregon restaurants, including Walt Reilly’s, El Rancho Grande and most recently, Mountain Burger in NorthWest Crossing. There, Hobin and a team managed a comprehensive redesign from concept development, naming, branding, signage, menu creation to the interior design.
In approaching the space’s aesthetic, Hobin found inspiration in modern mountain design, a style that incorporates natural elements of mountain living with contemporary design principles, emphasizing clean lines, open spaces and functionality. The remodel involved substantial spatial and aesthetic changes. “We took an existing space that was beautiful, but it was dark and Old World. We brightened and lightened it up,” said Hobin.
A RESTAURANT REDEUX
The first step was painting the existing red brick a welcoming cream color, accentuating the existing beams on the ceiling and setting the tone for the space’s new identity. Hobin’s experience in spatial planning came into play in the alteration of the kitchen. Her team opened up the exposure of the space with the addition of windows accented by shiplap. The more open concept still allowed for a separation between the bar and dining sections. Down-lighting was replaced with scone fixtures to create a brighter atmosphere.
Inside Mountain Burger Restaurant in Bend
Outdoors, Hobin’s focus was on comfort. “We redesigned the outdoor patio, adding a fire pit and lounge seating, effectively creating an al fresco living room.” The welcoming area beckons those passing by into the space.
Her approach to a color palette is rooted in her marketing sensibility. She explained, “I like to use two main colors consistently throughout the project, colors that we tie into the restaurant’s branding and marketing.” Hobin uses wallpaper in many of her projects as a way to further expand on a client’s individual style and personality.
In design, these small details often elevate a project from good to exceptional. “It’s the little things that add depth and character,” she emphasized. At Mountain Burger, Pendleton fabric accents can be found throughout the space, in bench upholstery and patio pillows. Eye-catching blue and white wicker chairs and regional-inspired artwork by artist Andy Thornton infuse the bar area with personable charm.
Inside El Rancho Grande Restaurant in Bend
ENRICHING SPACES FOR DINING AND LIVING
Hobin’s design philosophy, as she puts it, is to craft spaces and experiences that are both captivating and comfortable while maintaining a classic, approachable and friendly allure. In addition to her restaurant design projects, Hobin has notably worked for more than a decade to build and grow the home-staging business Style 8 Design alongside its owner, Jennifer Thornton.
Hobin’s unwavering dedication to her craft enriches local spaces, making them more welcoming, comfortable and aesthetically pleasing for all. See more of Sara Hobin Design projects or learn more at sarahobindesign.com.
Help Us Select the Cover for the January + February 2024 Issue of Bend Magazine! We’re excited to invite you to participate in the ever-challenging process of choosing our next cover photo. And we’re eager to discover which image resonates with you the most. Please cast your vote by midnight on Thursday, December 21, as we’ll be heading to print the following day.
Now that you have voted, keep an eye out for a grand reveal during the first week of January 2024. Subscribers, you’re in for a treat with an exclusive first look! Spread the word, rally your friends, and get excited to see the winning cover. Both cover images by Cody Rheault.
We created this helpful gift guide for the 2023 holiday season. But this curated Central Oregon list of some of our favorite things would be helpful for gift-givers year-round. Whether shopping from a place of ACTION or AFFECTION; seeking to feather a NEST or NURTURE minds and bodies—remember to PLAY and enjoy the process. Often, it’s the best of times when we give, more than when we receive. Happy giving!
Gifts of AFFECTION
Page 1, from top: SEEING STARS: Each of these pendants allow you to give the moon and beyond. Here, 18kt yellow gold shines bright, along with centerpieces that include mother of pearl and diamond accents. Saxon’s Fine Jewelers, Old Mill District. SAY VOLUMES: If you can’t find the words, there’s a poet that will help. Pablo Neruda’s words in Spanish, translated to English, show affection isn’t lost in translation. Mary Oliver’s connections to nature and the human experience are gathered in Devotions. Find at local bookstores. MIDAS TOUCH: A gold link necklace or geometric earrings are a simple touch of luxury to tuck in a stocking. Saxon’s Fine Jewelers, Old Mill District. GIFT OF TIME: Whether as a reminder of each precious moment or to keep loved ones on time, the gift of a watch is not only old school, it’s always in style. Shinola watches, made in Detroit, are found at Revolvr Menswear, Bend. THE WAY TO A HEART…is likely through chocolate. 80% single-origin Tanzania chocolate is used in this decadent cocoa mix made by Bend chocolatier Seahorse Chocolate. GIVE A HAND: Bangle stacks and rings are affectionate adornments in 18kt gold with diamonds and jade. Artistry from Roberto Coin and other designers is available at Saxon’s Fine Jewelers, Old Mill District.
Gifts for PLAY
Page 2, from left: PLAY WITH YOUR FOOD: Copper and concrete fondue set at Wild Petals Provisions, Bend. FOR KIDS AND COLLECTORS: Breyer horses are beloved, found at Absolute Horse, Bend. MAKE MUSIC: Soprano Carbon Fiber Ukulele, made in Bend by Outdoor Ukulele with packaging illustrated by Megan Marie Myers. Find it at The Bend Store, downtown. GAME TIME: Artisan-made balsa wood backgammon sets in two sizes, for travel or home, found at Merryweather Home Gift Design, The Box Factory. SHAKEN AND SERVED: Rocket cocktail shaker, from Furnish. in Bend; and fish-etched Rolf martini glass from Pomegranate Home & Garden. PET PLAY: Leashes from local brand Spindrift expand up to two feet, making walks safer (and more fun) for dogs and owners. Find them at Bend Pet Express, Bend. SMALL WORLD: Discover the adventurous world of Maileg mice at Hopscotch Kids, Bend.
ACTION Gifts
Page 4, from top: LAYER FOR ADVENTURE: Lined denim jacket from Filson, at Les Newman’s Quality Footwear and Clothing, Bend. WEATHER OR NOT: For rain or style, Ilse Jacobsen boots from North Soles Footwear, Bend. ACTIVITY-FRIENDLY JEWELRY: In a rainbow of colors, hand-woven bracelets from Bronwen Jewelry, Bend, are meant to be worn on all of life’s journeys. POURING FRESHIES: A pressurized growler keeps beer both cold and effervescent, available at The Bend Store. SIP: Refreshments never looked better than in glasses, from pilsner to pint, etched with a pinecone motif, from Pomegranate Home & Garden, Bend. READY FOR SNOW: Find snowy trails on a pair of snowshoes from Mountain Supply, Bend.
RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT: Be ready to meet the fish of your dreams with a waterproof pack from Confluence Fly Shop, Old Mill District. CATCH THIS: A silver flask for good luck or hydration, at Pomegranate Home & Garden, Bend. RUN: Top off the feeling of elated feet with a wicking runner’s hat from FootZone, Bend.
NURTURE Gifts
Page 5, from left, clockwise: PICK A FAVORITE: Floral silk pajamas are just one style from a bouquet of choices in the pajama room of Lulu’s Boutique, downtown Bend. RELAX: Fill a bath, add mineral-rich elixirs from OSEA and hydrate with Salt & Stone body wash of ocean botanicals, and antioxidants found at Wren & Wild Clean Beauty, Bend. REJUVENATE: Spa treatments stay home by give soothing treats—Knesko eye masks, jade roller and Black Pearl resurfacing serum from Evoke Healing Space & Spa,, Bend. BREAKFAST ALL DAY: New, from Foxtail Bakeshop’s Nickol Hayden-Cady is Treats from the Den, a cookbook collection of comfort foods. SLIPPERS ALL DAY: A platform for details of embroidery and full luxury from UGG, Bend Shoe Co., Bend. BALANCING ACT: Tipsy the Bird balancing bottle opener is as much art as utility, from Furnish., Bend. POUR: Share wine from Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards. TEA TIME: Breakfast, herbal or High Tea is served up in a proper English ceramic pot—a classic 1896 design from Great Britain at Kara’s Kitchenware, Old Mill District. MOOD RINGS: Settings and stones as individual as the people who wear them, from designer Jamie Joseph at Silverado Jewelry Gallery, Bend. SAGE THOUGHTS: Clear minds and space with fragrant bundles complemented with gems, Evoke Healing Space & Spa, Bend.
Gifts to NEST
Page 6, from top left: NATURAL GLOW: Zebra agate table lamps bring earthly grounding to a space, The Jewel, Sisters. RETRO VIBES: Countertops become galleries when appliances are art. Smeg toaster from Johnson Brothers Appliances, Bend. GATHER TOGETHER: A sipping tray signals time for a toast or aperitif. Find it at Arrange, Bend. GINGERBREAD HOUSE: For a host gift, or gift to your own holiday home, Gingerbread Coffee Liqueur from Oregon Spirit Distillers. PIECE BY PIECE: Gather around and work together on a German-designed Ravensburger puzzle from Leapin’ Lizards Toy Company, downtown Bend. LET THERE BE LIGHT: Stained glass refracts a rainbow of color in a House of Joy. Find both hanging art and the book from Root Adorned, NorthWest Crossing.
Embrace the Chill: The Winter Benefits of Laser Treatments, Featuring Fraxel® DUAL Laser at Bend Dermatology Clinic’s DermaSpa
As winter blankets the world in a serene, snowy hush, it is not just the perfect time to enjoy cozy nights by the fire; it is also an ideal season for rejuvenating your skin. While laser treatments are suitable year-round, the winter months offer distinct advantages for addressing a variety of skin concerns. DermaSpa at Bend Dermatology Clinic, offers an exceptional range of laser treatments, including the transformative Fraxel® DUAL Laser. Let us delve into the winter benefits of laser treatments and why Fraxel DUAL Laser is your go-to solution for radiant, revitalized skin.
Why Winter is Ideal for Laser Treatments
Reduced Sun Exposure: Winter’s shorter days and lower sun angles mean you are less likely to be exposed to the sun’s intense ultraviolet (UV) rays. This is a significant advantage, as UV exposure can increase the risk of post-treatment complications and prolong healing.
Smoother Recovery: After a laser treatment, your skin may be sensitive and require some downtime for recovery. The cooler, less humid winter air can be more comfortable for this period, reducing the chances of sweating and irritation during the healing process.
Less Risk of Hyperpigmentation: Laser treatments can sometimes cause temporary hyperpigmentation or darkening of the treated skin. With less sun exposure in winter, there is a decreased risk of triggering or worsening this condition.
Collagen Stimulation: Many laser treatments, including Fraxel DUAL Laser, work by stimulating collagen production. Collagen provides structural support to the skin, leading to improved texture and reduced wrinkles. Winter is an ideal time for these treatments, as it allows for the gradual development of new collagen before the skin is exposed to the sun’s harmful rays.
Fraxel DUAL Laser: A Versatile Solution for Winter Skin Woes
Fraxel DUAL Laser is a game-changer in the world of dermatology. It is known for its versatility, effectively targeting various skin concerns. Here are some reasons why Fraxel DUAL Laser stands out:
Improved Skin Texture: Fraxel DUAL Laser excels in enhancing skin texture by stimulating collagen production and encouraging the turnover of damaged skin cells. It can help smooth out rough patches and minimize enlarged pores.
Wrinkle Reduction: Say goodbye to fine lines and wrinkles! Fraxel DUAL Laser stimulates the skin’s natural rejuvenation process, resulting in visibly smoother and more youthful-looking skin.
Pigmentation Concerns: Whether you are dealing with sunspots, age spots, or melasma, Fraxel DUAL Laser can target and break down pigmentation, revealing a more even complexion.
Scar Revision: Scars from acne, surgery, or injuries can be a source of self-consciousness. Fraxel DUAL Laser helps improve their appearance by promoting the regeneration of healthy skin cells.
Customizable Treatment Plans: Everyone’s skin is unique, and Fraxel DUAL Laser offers a customizable approach. Your dermatologist can tailor the intensity and depth of the treatment to address your specific concerns effectively.
Minimal Downtime: With Fraxel DUAL Laser, you can expect minimal downtime, making it an ideal option for individuals with busy schedules.
Long-Lasting Results: The results achieved with Fraxel DUAL Laser are not only noticeable but also long-lasting. The new collagen and elastin fibers continue to develop over the following months, providing a sustained youthful appearance.
DermaSpa at Bend Dermatology Clinic: Your Winter Laser Destination
DermaSpa, located in Bend, Oregon, is your premier destination for Fraxel DUAL Laser and a wide array of other laser treatments. Our team of skilled dermatologists, certified physician assistants, registered nurses, and aestheticians, is committed to providing top-notch patient care and creating personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Whether you are aiming to reduce the signs of aging, address pigmentation issues, or enhance your skin’s texture, Fraxel DUAL Laser treatments can help you attain the radiant, rejuvenated skin you desire. Give yourself the gift of revitalized skin and experience the confidence and radiance that come with it. To schedule an appointment, visit BendDerm.com or call them at 541.382.5712.
ABOUT THE DERMATOLOGY PROVIDER
Mariah Johnson, M.D. – Dr. Johnson is a Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon and a Board-Certified Dermatologist working at our East Bend Mohs & DermaSpa, Redmond, and Klamath Falls locations. She specializes in Mohs Skin Cancer Surgery, Skin Cancer Treatment, Medical Dermatology, and Cosmetic Dermatology. When asked about her passion for dermatology, she answered, “The skin is a fascinating organ as a window into our internal health, genetics, and environmental exposures. A multitude of health information can be gleaned simply by examining the skin.”
December 4, 2023 | Sponsored Content
Unlocking Radiant Skin: The Benefits of Fraxel® DUAL Laser at Bend Dermatology Clinic’s DermaSpa
In today’s fast-paced world, where appearances often take center stage, achieving and maintaining healthy, radiant skin can feel like a never-ending quest. Thankfully, advances in dermatological technology have provided us with powerful tools to address a wide range of skin concerns, from fine lines and wrinkles to sun damage and acne scars. One such groundbreaking treatment available at Bend Dermatology Clinic’s DermaSpa, is the Fraxel® DUAL Laser. This innovative laser technology is revolutionizing skin care by offering a wide array of benefits that can help you achieve the clear, youthful complexion you have always dreamed of.
What is Fraxel DUAL Laser?
Fraxel DUAL Laser is a non-invasive fractional laser treatment that utilizes the power of focused light to rejuvenate and resurface the skin. The name Fraxel comes from, fractional, and laser, highlighting its unique approach of treating only a fraction of the skin at a time, leaving surrounding tissue untouched. This allows for quicker healing and minimal downtime, making it an attractive option for busy individuals seeking noticeable results.
The Benefits of Fraxel DUAL Laser
Improved Skin Texture: One of the primary benefits of the Fraxel DUAL Laser is its ability to address a variety of skin texture issues. Whether you are dealing with rough patches, enlarged pores, or acne scars, this laser can help stimulate collagen production and encourage skin cell turnover, resulting in a smoother and more refined complexion.
Reduction of Fine Lines and Wrinkles: Over time, the skin naturally loses collagen and elastin, leading to the development of fine lines and wrinkles. Fraxel DUAL Laser triggers the body’s natural healing process, leading to the production of new collagen and elastin, which can effectively reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
Treatment of Pigmentation Concerns: Sun damage, age spots, and melasma can significantly impact one’s self-esteem. Fraxel DUAL Laser targets these pigmentation issues, breaking down the pigment and encouraging the body to eliminate it, resulting in a more even skin tone.
