Celebrating the Holidays in a Winter Wonderland

It happens around the same time every year. As the holidays approach and we head into November, images of gingerbread houses, playing in the snow, caroling and parties with loved ones begin to fill the mind.

This holiday season you can enjoy them all at the Sunriver Resort. From Nov. 28 through Jan. 1, Traditions at Sunriver Resort provides easy access to an array of classic holiday activities, excursions in the snow and festive parties where you and your family can make lasting memories. Traditions kicks off with the Grand Illumination each year on the Friday following Thanksgiving.

“Grand Illumination signifies the start of the holiday season in Sunriver,” said Sunriver Marketing Coordinator Whitney Whitehouse. “The event is intended to get people into the holiday spirit and create a joyful atmosphere.”

Enjoy delectable bites from local vendors and the delightful sound of Victorian carolers as you gather with other locals and resort guests to celebrate the lighting of the resort and get in the mood for the holidays. One of the biggest holiday light displays in Central Oregon, Grand Illumination always draws a crowd. There is plenty to keep you busy earlier in the day as well with crafts, face painting, live entertainment and food — starting at 3 p.m.

“It is nice to see some of the same families every year at the celebration,” said Owl’s Nest staff member Laura Netcher.

Netcher has been spending her holidays in Sunriver for many years now and loves sharing such a special time with the staff, locals and visitors in the community.

Grand Illumination is the biggest Traditions event, but there are plenty of other activities to keep you busy throughout the holiday season. Wander through the Abbot Room on Dec. 5-Jan. 1 and find tables full of structures made from all sorts of candies, cookies and other edible delights. Gingerbread Junction is the Northwest’s largest collection of intricately designed candy creations.

Artisan candles, high quality stoneware and beautiful jewelry can all be found at the Holiday Marketplace on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 28 and 29. Regional artists gather to showcase and sell their one-of-a-kind products and provide demonstrations.

Other activities include daily snowshoe and snowmobile tours, viewings of Warren Miller films, crafting in Santa’s Workshop, making stuffed animals at The Bear Factory, Magic Shows by Mr. Magic and gingerbread cookie decorating.

But here’s a truly unique favorite, at least for the kids: Elf tuck-ins.

“Guests and residents at Sunriver Resort have the opportunity to have an elf come and tuck their child into bed,” said Whitehouse. “It is so much fun to see the excited look on your children’s faces when an elf shows up to say good night.”

Before they go to sleep, the Elf will read a holiday story and give the children a goodie bag, ensuring a long, dream-filled sleep.

Clearly, Traditions is the perfect place to make new memories.

For a detailed schedule and to register for events, visit www.sunriver-resort.com.