Discover the Best Things to Do in Sunriver OR This Holiday Season 

As the holiday season approaches, Sunriver, OR transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive activities and events for visitors of all ages. From enchanting light displays to heartwarming traditions, Sunriver offers a unique holiday experience that will create lasting memories for you and your loved ones. When planning your visit, guests should consider staying with Cascara Vacation Rentals, offering a wide range of accommodations to suit every need. With a convenient location and excellent amenities, Cascara Vacation Rentals ensures a comfortable and enjoyable holiday experience.

Whether it’s participating in the exciting Sunriver events or exploring the various things to do in Sunriver, staying in one of our Sunriver rentals, provides the perfect home base for your holiday adventures.

Christmas Traditions at Sunriver Resort

Holiday Light Show

Discover the best of Christmas at Sunriver Resort, with all activities open to the public! Experience the magic of Sunriver Resort transformed into a holiday wonderland with their spectacular light show set to festive music. Join us three times a night at The Backyard Cafe & Bar from November 19th to January 1st. The light show will dazzle you at 5:30 pm, 6:30 pm, and 7:30 pm, creating a mesmerizing display that captures the spirit of the season.

Story Time with Mrs. Claus

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with a festive storytime in the Lodge with the one and only Mrs. Claus. On December 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd, starting at 5 pm and 6 pm, Mrs. Claus will entertain guests with tales of the North Pole and holiday cheer. Located in the cozy living room of the main lodge, this heartwarming experience is perfect for families looking to add a touch of magic to their holiday season.

Gingerbread Junction

Join us at Sunriver Lodge for the 27th Annual Gingerbread Junction fundraiser event. On display from December 9th to January 1st, this display allows you to create wonderful memories by building your own spectacular gingerbread house. In the spirit of giving back, proceeds from each “mini lot” sale at Gingerbread Junction are donated to Habitat for Humanity of La Pine Sunriver, making this event a delightful way to support the community while celebrating the holiday season.

sleigh ride near Sunriver, OR

Grand Illumination

Mark your calendars for Saturday, November 18th, and join us at the Lodge and Backyard for the Grand Illumination tree-lighting ceremony and fireworks show. This signature Sunriver tradition has been captivating visitors for 25 years and promises a night of festive fun for the whole family. Enjoy a visit from Santa, live music and entertainment, train rides, telescope viewings, hot cocoa, holiday shopping, and more. Indulge in a meal from one of the resort’s restaurants or explore a selection of offerings from local vendors to make the most of this magical evening.

Sleigh Rides & Dog Sledding

Go on a winter adventure with Oregon Trail of Dreams’ Mt. Bachelor dog sled experience. Traverse the snowy landscapes of Central Oregon with an authentic Iditarod dog sledding team that promises an unforgettable winter tour. From December 16th to 24th and December 26th to January 1st, indulge in the timeless holiday tradition of sleigh rides by a team of beautiful Haflinger horses. These open sleigh rides offer a scenic ride through the winter wonderland of Sunriver, allowing you to embrace the season’s charm in a truly unique way.

Skiing in Sunriver

Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort

As the sixth largest ski resort in the United States, this iconic mountain offers over 4,300 acres of lift-accessible terrain with 12 lifts, magic carpets, terrain parks, and rental shops. With over 100 runs to explore, skiers and snowboarders of all levels will find something to suit their abilities. While the winter sports enthusiasts in your group hit the slopes, non-skiers can enjoy the warmth and comfort of the base lodges, savoring hot or cold beverages and delicious snacks.

Central Oregon Backcountry Skiing

For those seeking a more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path skiing experience, Central Oregon’s backcountry beckons. The allure of untouched powder and the freedom of skiing through untracked wilderness make backcountry skiing an unforgettable experience. Oregon Ski Guides offers guided backcountry adventures for those new to the experience. Local organizations such as the Central Oregon Avalanche Center and Three Sisters Backcountry Access provide valuable resources to ensure the safety of backcountry skiers. 

Wanoga Snow Park

Wanoga Snow Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities suitable for all ages. This increasingly favored sno-park provides access to both motorized and non-motorized dog-friendly trails, making it an ideal spot for family snow adventures. In addition to skiing and snowshoeing, Wanoga Snow Park also offers opportunities for sledding and tubing, making it a perfect destination for winter play. Located approximately 15 miles from downtown Bend, Wanoga Snow Park is a versatile area that also attracts summer mountain biking enthusiasts. 

Ice Skating

One of the must-try activities during the holidays in Sunriver is ice skating at the Village at Sunriver Ice Arena. This delightful family favorite allows you to glide across the ice while enjoying outdoor music. If skating isn’t your thing, you can also watch the skaters from the comfort of the viewing area. Don’t worry if you don’t have skates – they have a wide range of sizes available for rental. Do remember that all skaters must have a waiver filled out with the day’s date listed. For those under 18, a parent or guardian must fill out the waiver. The prices are quite reasonable, with $17 for adults (ages 13+), $13 for children (ages 5-12 years), and free admission for ages 4 and under. Please check the arena’s website for exact skating times as the hours vary.

Sunriver Village Festivities

Rockin’ Holiday Kickoff

Kick off the 2024 Holiday Season with the Rockin’ Holiday Kickoff at the Village at Sunriver. This free event is happening on Saturday, November 25th, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Grab a cup of coffee or cocoa and enjoy the performances by various artists and carolers. Make your way to Santa for free photos with the man himself and indulge in free carnival-style games organized by Santa’s elf helpers. The evening is then topped off with the grand lighting of the Village Christmas tree, marking the beginning of the holiday season. Don’t miss the chance to explore and soak in the festive decorations.

Plan Your Next Visit!

Are you ready to start planning your next adventure in Sunriver, OR? Browse our entire selection of Central Oregon rentals today and find the perfect match for your stay!

Sunriver Rentals at Cascara Vacations

While experiencing the holiday magic in Sunriver, choosing the perfect vacation rental plays a key role in ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. Look no further than Cascara Vacations for a wide range of Sunriver vacation rentals. From cozy cabins to spacious lodges, they have something for every traveler, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable holiday experience in Sunriver. Sunriver offers a delightful mix of holiday activities, making it an ideal destination for families and friends looking to create special memories during the festive season. Whether you’re a fan of traditional holiday events or are seeking new and exciting experiences, Sunriver has something to offer. Embrace the joy of the holidays in this beautiful Oregon destination! Book one of our Sunriver vacation home rentals with recreation passes for the ultimate comfort and convenience with Cascara Vacations!