As the final bits of Halloween candy are eaten, it’s time to start looking forward to the holidays. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, Clark County offers several ways to get out and enjoy the season.
November
Clark County Turkey Trot
Where: Klineline Pond and Salmon Creek Park
When: Thanksgiving (Nov. 23), 9 a.m.
What: A family-friendly event starting and ending at Klineline Park, the Turkey Trot is a 5K run/walk or a 10K run along the Salmon Creek Trail. A $25 fee covers all races with the proceeds (including t-shirt purchases) donated to the Clark County Food Bank. For those who prefer a nice eye-opener, there is also a Polar Plunge – the $5 registration also goes to the food bank.
Info: turkey-trot.org
Community Tree Lighting
Where: Esther Short Park, Downtown Vancouver
When: Nov. 24, 4-7 p.m.
What: Held the day after Thanksgiving, Vancouver kicks off the holiday season in earnest by flipping the switch on thousands of lights. Vendors will be on hand for hot drinks and snacks, there will be live music and even Santa Claus will make an appearance while community members gather for the annual event.
Info: rotaryfestivaloftrees.org/festival-schedule
Vancouver Rotary Festival of Trees
Where: Divine Consign, 904 Main Street, Vancouver
When: Nov. 4 – Dec. 16
What: For over 20 years, the Festival of Trees has been featuring several trees of different styles, raffling off each tree with proceeds benefitting various Clark County non-profit organizations. This year, 12 trees will be on display at Divine Consign, Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Info: rotaryfestivaloftrees.org/festival-schedule
Other November Events
Nov. 24-26: Thanksgiving Weekend Barrel Tasting (www.swwawine.com)
Nov. 24-26: Holiday Market (www.vancouverfarmersmarket.com)
Nov. 25: Uptown Village Tree Lighting Ceremony (www.uptownvillage.com)
Nov. 25-Dec 10: Chelatchie Prairie Railroad: Christmas Tree Train – Sundays and Saturdays (tickets.bycx.org)
photo credit: www.cityofvancouver.us
December
Christmas at The Park
Where: Esther Short Park
When: Dec. 1, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
What: For the sixth year in a row, Activate Church will be holding their Christmas at The Park event. Featuring a Christmas Village, the event will have several costumed characters, an ornament making tent, a cookie making tent, free hot chocolate and pictures with Santa. If that isn’t enough, 200 free Christmas trees will be handed out this year.
Visit the Facebook Christmas at the Park Event Page for more information.
It’s a Wonderful Life
Where: Magenta Theater
When: Dec 2, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16; 7:30 p.m., 2 p.m. Saturday matinees
What: Frank Capra’s holiday classic is brought to life by The Magenta Theater. The story follows George Bailey who dreams of adventure, only to be brought back to reality by day-to-day obligations. Only a visit from guardian angel Clarence is able to lift George from despair.
Visit the Magenta Theater Shows Page for more information.
Christmas at The Fort
Where: Fort Vancouver National Historic Site
When: Dec. 9, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
What: Christmas in the 1840’s is on full display at The Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. Costumed performers will be acting out holiday scenes from over 160 years ago. For the visitors, there will be wreath making, holiday drinks, caroling and more.
Visit Vancouver USA Events for more information.
Vancouver Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pop Series: Winter Classics
Where: Skyview Concert Hall
When: Dec. 9 – 10
What: Enjoy the sounds of the season from the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, led by Maestro Salvador Brotons. Listen to Viennese waltzes as well as selections from The Nutcracker Suite, Frozen and The Polar Express. This concert is sure to get even the Grinchiest in the holiday spirit.
Visit Vancouver USA Events for more information.
Other December Events
Nov. 25-16: Christmas Tea at Pomeroy Farm – dates vary.
Info: www.pomeroyfarm.org
Dec. 3: Block Party in Uptown Village
Info: www.visitvancouverusa.com
Dec. 8-10: The Nutcracker presented by The Friends of DanceWorks – Info: www.danceworksperformingarts.com
Dec. 9: Ugly Holiday Sweater Pub Crawl
Info: www.visitvancouverusa.com
Dec. 14: WinterVille Christmas Festival
Info: wintervillefestival.com
Dec. 16-17: Chelatchie Prairie Railroad: Steam Winter Finale
