As we give thanks for the beauty that surrounds us, many of us are also mindful of the forthcoming quest–pursuing gifts that reflect an authentic expression of our adoration for friends and family. Yes, it’s the holiday season and rather than feel frenzied, we invite you to indulge in fun experiences for the entire family.

Black Friday Bonanza

Shop for the sweetest specials and most delicious deals all weekend long at the Old Mill District. Spectacular sales begin at 6pm on Thanksgiving Day when American Eagle opens their doors. The next wave of savings begins at midnight with amazing door busters and desired items to fulfill even the longest and most varied wish list. You’ll find the full scoop here, do stay tuned for additional details being added throughout today.

For inspiration, we’ve prepared our annual Inspiration gift guide, now available online. Whether you’re shopping for adventurers, socializers, tykes or techies, you’ll find a plethora of ideas at your favorite retailers.

Santa’s Arrival

Santa makes a grand debut via AirLink helicopter on Friday November 28^th in the Les Schwab Amphitheater. Expected arrival is between 10-10:15am. For details, visit this link. We recommend early arrival and a cocoa date at Strictly Organic to get the day started.

Santaland opens November 28th.

Kids will also delight in a trip to the magical place called SantaLand complete with a reading library, arts and crafts and of course the Fat Man to make the moment into holiday history. Santa will be in SantaLand from 11am-5pm every Friday- Sunday through December 21 and then December 22 & 23. You’ll find timing and specifics on the Santaland page. 

Carriage Rides

Snuggle under a blanket and listen to the clipp-ity clop of hooves trotting down the avenue as the lighted trees twinkle. Enjoy these complimentary carriage rides with Cowboy Carriage, brought to you by Brasada Ranch and the Old Mill District. They will pick up and drop off between Francesca’s and Ben & Jerry’s on the following dates (weather permitting): November 28-30; December 6-7; December 13-14; December 20-23; and December 27-28. Hours each day are 2-5pm. For details visit this page. Donations and tips will benefit Kids Center, a local non-profit that helps prevent child abuse.

Carriage rides continue throughout the holiday season

Carolers: Bringing the Joy of the Season Through Song

Enjoy roving musical performances by local groups such as the Summit High School Choir, the Mountain View High School Anadante Jazz Choir, High Desert Middle School Jazz Choir, Sisters High School Jazz Choir, Bend Senior High School Choir, Trinity Lutheran High School Concert Choir, High Desert Harmoneers, Peace Chords of Westside Village Magnet School and School of the Arts. Check the holiday happenings page for a complete schedule of performances.

We’d love to hear about your festive favorites. Please share in the comments and or tag photos with #Bendholidays on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. We’ll be spotlighting selected photos and comments in the days to come.