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Sunriver Resort brings on the fun this Saturday at their annual Sunriver Grand Illumination event. This is an outdoor event featuring a “North Pole” tent, which is heated & offers tons of fun for the little ones! Last year, our kiddos enjoyed holiday crafts, face painting & magic! There were also cool local artisans, a few food trucks and a bar for the adults.
Live music, Victorian Carolers & a live Snowman sighting were just a few of the highlights from last years event. This year, if the weather cooperates, there will also be pony rides, a petting zoo and even sleigh rides!
At just about 5:30 on the dot, you will find the crowd counting down…3…2…1 & then POW…there will be the brilliance of thousands of lights! The illumination of the resort and the surrounding grounds is spectacular! The perfect way to kick off the holiday season. There will also be a short firework display to top it off. The “parade” that follows is super cute. A few decorated golf carts from the local residents followed by a proper parade float with the big guy himself, Santa!
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The event runs from 4:00-8:00. This year, Santa will be available for pictures after the parade from 6-7:30. Want to make the night even more memorable? Sunriver is running a $99 local lodging special to stay on property during the Sunriver Grand Illumination. To take advantage of this amazing deal, call 800-354-1632 or book online using rate code CLOCAL.
Based on our experience last year, I would recommend arriving on the earlier side. That will give the kids an opportunity to take advantage of all the fun events before the parade and lighting begins. It will also give you the opportunity to park in the resort parking area which will make for an easy getaway after the festivities. Sunriver Resort actually closes the main road to the lodge at which point visitors must take the shuttle from the Village Center. I’m not sure exactly what time the road closes, sometime after 4:00. Last year the event actually started at 1, and we arrived at 4 and the road was still open. I do know one thing for sure, I don’t want to be stuck trying to catch the shuttle at the end of the night with all the other visitors. Last year it was a chilly 24 degrees when we arrived….and 10 when we left, so be sure to bundle up properly.
The Sunriver Grand illumination does not disappoint! This has already become one of our family traditions as well. We will definitely be back during the holiday season to take advantage of Sunriver’s many unforgettable Annual Traditions Holiday Celebration events. Which will you choose? Gingerbread Cookie Decorating, Brunch with Santa, Snow Painting or a One-Horse Open Sleigh Ride? Whichever memories you decide to create with your family, we hope to see you out at Sunriver Living the Bend Life!
*Illumination photos courtesy of Sunriver Resort
Just discovered your blog from instagram! Love it so far!
Great! So glad to hear you find it helpful Taryn…Thank you!