This week marks the last Oregon Fall Foliage Update of the season. While the warm September tested our patience by delaying the color change, it was well worth the wait. The explosion of autumnal splendor lasted almost until Thanksgiving. And we couldn’t have told the fall story without you. Your pictures helped us show readers that some of Oregon’s finest and most breathtaking moments come with the change of the seasons. As we bid adieu to fall, let’s welcome in winter with these last-minute leaf peeping ideas and holiday-themed festivities.
Eugene, Cascades & Coast
In Eugene, and spanning to the Cascades and coastal regions, beautiful fall colors continue to glow. Leaves are on trees, but now the color coat has doubled as they also speckle the ground.
There’s no better way to transition into winter than by holiday shopping at the Eugene Saturday Market’s Holiday Market, which runs through Christmas eve. Find locally-made, one-of-a-kind gifts from more than 300 booths staffed by the artists or their family members.
Spot late foliage on the vineyards while you celebrate Thanksgiving on the Territorial Thanksgiving Wine Trail. Enjoy the South Willamette Valley’s beautiful views from the tasting rooms as you listen to live music, taste wonderful foods, and sample award-winning wines.
If the meal is on your mind, there’s still plenty of time to secure your Thanksgiving dinner plans. Visit our Thanksgiving Dinner page to find a restaurant open on the holiday or one that offers a pre-made meal for you to enjoy at home.
The holidays aren’t the holidays without the lights. There’s no better place to experience glowing displays than at the Village Green Resort and Gardens, in the All-America City of Cottage Grove. Join them next weekend for Thanksgiving Dinner, and stay for their spectacular display of Christmas lights! Every Friday, starting November 28 and ending the day after Christmas, the resort will have weekly showings of festive movies. Toast s’mores over an open fire, sip a hot beverage, and remind yourself what this time of year is all about.
Oregon Coast
The Oregon Coast is ringing in the holiday season with all things festive and fun! Local artists will display their wares at the Waldport Holiday Market, happening now through December 20. Experience the Yachats Winter Celebration, kicking off Thanksgiving Day with various feasts and activities. In Seaside, the Chamber of Commerce hosts their 30th Annual Holiday Gift Fair in conjunction with the Parade of Lights. Santa will be there and so will Frosty the Snowman, as well as a parade of elves! After the parade, unwind from the glitz of a million LEDs with Gingerbread Tea at the Butterfield Cottage every Saturday from now until December 20, no reservations needed.
Willamette Valley
One of the best things about cold weather is finding comfort in well-made clothing. Melting into a hug from your favorite sweater, wrapping yourself in the embrace of a soft blanket, the feeling of warmth that insulated gloves provided to chilly hands, these are things that make us smile. Now through the end of January, Willamette Heritage Center in Salem presents From the Sheep’s Back to Yours: Pendleton Blankets, an Oregon Tradition. Find a brilliant array of fall colored textiles at this exhibit, featuring more than 20 rarely displayed pieces of Pendleton product from the museum’s collection. While in Salem, treat yourself to an award-winning Sunday Brunch at Orchard Heights Winery.
Greater Portland
Rain is in the forecast, but that shouldn’t stop you from getting one last glimpse at fall color. Visit Portland’s Laurelhurst Park. The paved path that winds through the park and borders the pond is littered with yellow leaves, so take a stroll, and break bread with the ducks that live there. Thanksgiving is fast approaching, and you can celebrate its passing with a self-guided tour of Washington County’s Wine Country. Over seventeen wineries will participate in the 30th Annual Thanksgiving Wine Weekend in Cornelius.
Mt. Hood/ The Gorge
Fall foliage is out, but the mountains are gearing up for their prime. Get a jump on holiday shopping for the snow junkies in your life and visit the retail shops at Mt. Hood Meadows. Keep a beat on the weather forecast, and check the website for road closures as the season progresses.
Central Oregon
Snow has arrived, ushering out the fall color with a cold coat of white. For a hybrid of seasonal experience, go back to Bend’s Drake Park. Though completely affected by last weekend’s mini blizzard, the orange of birch trees continue to shine on in vivid contrast. Wear layers, and prepare yourself for the elements at hand.
Eastern Oregon
Eastern Oregon has entered into winter weather. It is cold and snowy in Baker City, so do something active to stay warm! Get your blood pumping and sign up for the 11th Annual Turkey Trot, a 5K run/walk to feed the hungry. After the run, visit the fabulous Geiser Grand Hotel. Treat your family to the best, and join the hotel for their eye-popping Thanksgiving feast.
Southern Oregon
The weather is dreary in Southern Oregon. Liven up your gray day with a visit to DANCIN Vineyards in Medford, where dots of bright fall color can still be discovered. Imbibe with an exquisite pinot noir as you walk the yards, or join in on the Salinity Salt Tasting, offered this Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. In Ashland, the Rotary Centennial Ice Rink is now open for the season. Lace up your skates and hit the slick! This fun family activity is an excellent prelude to the 22nd Annual Festival of Lights, which will commence with a parade the day after Thanksgiving.