Both home to the UO and the 5th most affordable place to live in Oregon, Eugene has a lot to offer! Located in the Willamette Valley, Eugene is also one of the best spots for outdoor activities and also has an incredible community full of creativity and innovation.
If you’re in Eugene this holiday season and are unsure what to do, don’t worry, we have you covered! Whether you’re spending your first winter in your new Eugene rental home, visiting your relatives, apartment hunting, or have rung in several new years in your Eugene home, you’re sure to find something on this list to get you in the holiday spirit!
1. Try folk dancing
This season grab a partner (or find a new one) and head to the Eugene Folklore Society. “With no partner needed and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s easy to jump into one of our many folk dancing styles, including Contra Dancing, Morris Dancing, and Scottish Dancing,” says board member and dance programmer Megan Tucker.
“Perfect for long-time residents or newcomers, these joyful community events bring people of all ages together to experience the magic of traditional folk music and dancing,” continues Megan. It’s truly a perfect way to stay active, meet new friends, enjoy Eugene’s art scene, and since it’s held indoors, it’s also a great way to stay warm this winter.
2. Relax with a view
‘Tis the season to be cozy, so why not head to Heceta Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast for the weekend? Picture it: “A cozy room in a cottage next to a working lighthouse, a local wine and cheese social at check-in, the evening walk to the lighthouse tower, a soak in our clawfoot tubs, and an amazing farm and sea-to-table breakfast the next morning.”
Just an hour and a half away from Eugene, this bed and breakfast is the spot to relax this holiday season! We recommend booking for one of their Victorian Christmas Open Houses weekend for live music from local performers, tasty refreshments, visiting with Santa, and of course the beautifully decorated Keeper’s House.
3. See the ballet
A holiday classic for a reason, getting dressed up and attending the ballet never gets old. This year the Eugene Ballet is performing a seasonal favorite – The Nutcracker! From the magical dream world of the Sugar Plum Fairy to the fall of the Mouse King (we’d say spoiler alert, but who doesn’t know the story), you’re sure to enjoy every moment. With the stunning choreography and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, you’re sure to be put in the holiday spirit!
4. See the symphony play
This year the Eugene Symphony is ringing in the new year in a unique way – with the cirque! “This festive concert blends classical favorites with lively popular tunes, while spectacular cirque dancers twist, twirl, trapeze, fly, and contort in perfect synchronization, making it perfect for families, friends, or a memorable date night,” says executive director Dave Moss. So get your tickets and “celebrate the season with music, community, and holiday cheer right in the heart of Eugene.”
5. Get ready for holiday hosting
Located right in the heart of the historic 5th Street Public Market, Provisions Market Hall is your one-stop shop for all things food. Here “You’ll find a food-and-wine lovers paradise, with fine foods from all over the world, a French-inspired artisan bakery and café, a wine shop that reflects the sensibilities of PMH’s sister business, Marché — a nationally celebrated restaurant in its own right — and a stunning retail shop with cookware, gifts, bar tools, cookbooks and more,” says CEO and creative director Jessica Blaine. Whether you’re feeling peckish after exploring downtown Eugene, grocery shopping for Christmas Eve dinner, need a present for your cooking/baking-obsessed friend or want to order your holiday feast, this spot’s got you covered.
6. Hit the slopes
Willamette Pass or Hoodoo, Eugene is arguably one of the best places for skiing or snowboarding this winter. Willamette Pass in particular offers stunning views of the Cascade Mountains along with a variety of runs for all levels.
At Hoodoo Ski Area, however, even “People with disabilities can experience adaptive skiing and/or snowboarding with the nonprofit Oregon Adaptive Sports (OAS),” says marketing coordinator Samy Metcalf. OAS “provides low-cost lessons, scholarships, and volunteer opportunities that remove barriers to outdoor recreation,” since the slopes really should be for everyone!
Photo courtesy of Oregon Adaptive Sports
7. Have a holiday staycation
Just two hours north of Eugene, McMinnville, also known as the “Heart of Oregon Wine County,” makes the best getaway. Perfect for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alive, you’ll find this quaint and quirky historic town truly embraces the best of wine, food, fun, and exploration. For lodging, we recommend The Boutique Retreat for their cool, eclectic, and cozy cottages, and great location for tasting rooms, breweries, restaurants, and shopping. So, what are you waiting for? A visit to McMinnville and staycation may just be what the doctor ordered!
8. Treat yourself to a steak dinner
Another great present or way to celebrate this season is with a fancy dinner out. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, a festive outing with friends or family, or dining alone, Kennedy’s Steakhouse is the best. Their “menu shines with 28-day wet-aged steaks expertly seasoned, an abundant variety of succulent seafood options, classic steakhouse sides, and fresh salads,” says concierge Paige Sarles.
For drinks, they even have a martini cart so you can enjoy your favorite martini tableside along with an extensive wine menu. Regardless of the occasion, why not treat yourself to dinner at one of the best Eugene restaurants this holiday season?
9. Go for an art walk
“When visiting the famous and popular Simpson’s Mural at 500 Main Street in Downtown Springfield, be sure to go inside the Emerald Art Center and see original art by members,” suggests executive director Don Hudgins. “Every month, one hundred or more original works of art are on display for enjoyment and purchase,” says Don. Whether you’re looking for a piece to decorate your new home, a holiday present, or just to be inspired by the amazing works, attending their Friday Art Walk is a must.
10. Shop for holiday gifts
Still looking for presents? Head over to the Whiteaker Community Market’s holiday pop-up! Perfect “for folks craving coziness, live jazz, community connection, and handmade gifts [here you’ll find] lovingly made jewelry, clothing, sweet treats, art, stickers, tea blends, and so much more,” says co-owner Saoirse Scott. If you can’t make the pop-up, check out their calendar for other great community events this holiday season and year-round.
