Oregon abounds with festive holiday spirit at this time of the year, and whether you’re snowbirding and just passing through, or you’re a native Oregonian, it’s time to pack up your RV and head to the festivities happening around the state this month. From quaint, historic villages decked out in holiday cheer to craft markets, parades and stunning displays of lights, there’s plenty to get you into the holiday spirit. We’ve put together a list of some great events to catch and sights to see as you head south on I-5. And while you’re out touring, gift shopping, ogling beautiful holiday displays and enjoying December in Oregon to the fullest, don’t forget to swing by Guaranty RV and say, “Hi,” check out our end of the year RV specials, stock up on supplies or book a service appointment. We can’t wait to see you, and happy holidays!
Northern Oregon Cascades: Mt. Hood
Just an hour east of Portland, Mt. Hood’s Government Camp is Oregon’s winter playground. With activities both for athletic snow lovers and the more relaxed set, there’s something for everyone. With several ski resorts nearby, visitors can do all the skiing and snowboarding they want and you can even take the grandkids to play in the snow and go tubing at the Mt. Hood Skibowl. A great stop if you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love Cosmic Tubing and you’ll want to plan your visit for a time when Santa is visiting. Or enjoy a romantic getaway with your special someone; there’s plenty to see, eat and drink, and you can even take a ride in a horse-drawn sleigh. If you happen to be passing through on December 20, don’t miss the traditional Government Camp Tree Lighting ceremony and an evening fireworks show.
Nearby Accommodations: The Mt. Hood Village Resort, just a few miles down the road from Government Camp, offers year-round RV camping.
Central Willamette Valley: Silverton and the Oregon Garden
As you continue to head south, you may want to deviate a little from I-5 once again to visit Christmas in the Garden at the Oregon Garden in Silverton. A charming small town, Silverton is filled with beautiful historic homes and friendly local shops. Christmas in the Garden features a traditional German holiday market, festive holiday music and carolers, a beautiful light display with over 300,000 Christmas lights and delicious German-themed fare including sausages and traditional German glühwein, a mulled spiced wine.
Nearby Accommodations: The Silver Spur RV Park in Silverton has fantastic reviews, but be sure to visit the website or call ahead to reserve your spot.
South Willamette Valley: Eugene & Junction City
Next on your trip south, stop by Guaranty RV in Junction City. You can book a service appointment if you need one through your RV Owner app or on our website and park for free at the Travel Center while your RV is receiving service. You can also do laundry, shop for RV parts and other essentials for the road, fill up your propane, and give your pets a break; our entire facility is pet-friendly.
As you’re passing through don’t miss the Junction City Parade of Lights on December 12. An annual tradition that’s fun for the adults, kids and grandkids, the Parade of Lights is a sight to behold. Check out photo highlights of past parades here. Additionally, if you need to do any last-minute holiday shopping, stop by Eugene’s Holiday Market. Just 13 miles south of the Guaranty RV Travel Center, the market features locally-made crafts and artwork and is open Fridays and Saturdays this month and the whole week leading up to Christmas from December 20 – 24.
South Oregon Coast: Coos Bay and Shore Acres Holiday Lights
If you want to detour to the coast and continue south on Highway 101, a stop at Shore Acres State Park near Coos Bay, Oregon for their annual Holiday Lights display is a must. The dazzling display features over 300,000 lights, almost all of which are LED. All you have to do is pay for parking; viewing the lights is free.
Nearby Accommodations: Sunset Bay State Park has 30 full RV hook-ups and year-round camping.
Celebrate the Holiday Season in Oregon this Year
From all of us at Guaranty RV, we wish you a happy and healthy holiday season and safe travels. Stop by if you’re passing through Junction City and contact us if you have any questions.
Photo: Mike McCune
