From holiday events in Bend to the Harlem Globetrotters in Redmond, there are a lot of great events happening around Central Oregon this weekend.
Community Christmas Tree Lighting
November 30 | Downtown Bend | Free
Bundle up in a puffy coat, stocking cap and gloves and head to Drake Park in downtown Bend. The Community Christmas Tree Lighting is a long-standing tradition in town and the kick-off to the holiday season. Carolers will be singing until Santa arrives and the tree is lit at 5:28 p.m. There will be activities and warm drinks from 4 to 8 p.m.
Jingle Bell Run
December 1 | Downtown Bend
Put on your holiday costumes and tie bells to your shoelaces for the Jingle Bell Run. It takes place first thing in the morning of the annual Christmas Parade in downtown Bend. Register online at JBR.org/Bend. All proceeds go to the Arthritis Foundation.
Bend Christmas Parade
December 1 | Downtown Bend | Free
The Bend Christmas Parade is an annual tradition that draws crowds on a typically chilly December morning. Make sure you bring some hot cocoa to keep your hands warm while you watch the float-filled procession.
TEDxBendWomen
December 1 | Redmond Technology Center, Redmond | $43
TEDxBendWomen is an opportunity to watch the like TED Women conference with others in Central Oregon. There will also be panels and workshops all day to join as well as catered food onsite. The one-day event aims to inspired local men and women to engage in conversation and action.
Crown String Quartet
December 1 | Central Oregon Community College | $10 for students, $42 general
High Desert Chamber Music brings back Central Oregon favorite Crown City String Quartet for a performance at Central Oregon Community College. They will be joined by special guest, clarinetist Donald Foster. Don’t miss your chance to see and support classical music in Central Oregon.
The Nutcracker
December 1-2 | Bend Senior High School | $10-$24
Watch local dancers perform the classic holiday ballet, The Nutcracker. This is the thirty-third annual performance and will also feature guest appearances by professional performers. The Nutcracker is a ballet that the entire family will enjoy.
Harlem Globetrotters
December 3 | Deschutes County Fairgrounds | $17-$221
Bring the whole family to see the Harlem Globetrotters performance taking place at the First Interstate Bank Center at Redmond fairgrounds. The world-renowned basketball entertainers will only be there for one night, so get your tickets early.
