Oregon’s ski resorts host events throughout the winter season, from skiing with Santa during the holidays to live bands and celebrations. Whether you’re seeking friendly competition or lively social gatherings, the slopes have something for everyone. Here are some of the annual events held at Oregon’s mountain resorts.
December
Dirksen Derby, Mt. Bachelor
This annual pre-holiday snowboard banked slalom race, hosted by professional snowboarder Josh Dirksen, draws riders from around the world, including Japan and Scandinavia. Racers must balance carving skills with speed as they navigate the banked turns. The event features categories for all ages, with the fastest times taking the win!
Christmas Tree Lighting, Timberline Lodge
Get into the holiday spirit at Timberline Lodge & Ski Area, nestled high on the snow-covered slopes of Mt. Hood. The annual tree lighting in the lodge’s foyer marks the start of the season, featuring tree decorating and caroling. Guests can also enjoy dinner, drinks, or even book an overnight lodging special to complete the festive experience.
Ski with Santa
Catch Santa skiing (or snowboarding!) on the slopes ahead of the holidays. You can find him spreading holiday cheer at Mt. Bachelor, Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort, and Mt. Hood Meadows, where kids can even make reservations for breakfast with Santa.
New Year’s Eve in the Mountains
Ring in the New Year on the slopes at Timberline, Mt. Hood Meadows, Mt. Hood Skibowl, or Hoodoo mountain resorts. Each celebration is unique, offering activities like night skiing, Cosmic Tubing, live music, DJs, and fireworks. Some resorts even offer winter camping for those looking to extend their celebration into the night.
January
Friday Night Lights, Hoodoo Ski Area: Every Friday night, visitors can enjoy night skiing and snowboarding under the lights (and the stars!) at Hoodoo. The event also features live music in the lodge and bonfires.
February
VertFest, Mt. Bachelor
Join the fun at this annual celebration of the backcountry community. VertFest is an uphill ski and splitboard race that combines a challenging course with a festive atmosphere, making it a perfect event for those who love a fun challenge.
Valentine’s Day, Mt. Hood Skibowl
Celebrate Valentine’s Day on the slopes with themed costumes, night skiing, and a festive gathering at the Beer Stube. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a romantic (and adventurous) night in the mountains.
March
Winter Carnival, Hoodoo
A beloved tradition for over 40 years, Winter Carnival at Hoodoo offers family-friendly fun all weekend long. Many activities are free and don’t require a lift ticket. Try ax throwing, frisbee golf, musical chairs, a three-legged obstacle race, team tube racing, a pie-eating contest, ski javelin throw, archery, and more.
Bendi Gras, Mt. Bachelor/Bend
This unique celebration blends winter fun with the vibrant energy of Mardi Gras, offering a lively cultural experience for locals and visitors alike. On and off the mountain, enjoy live music, bead tossing, masquerades, dancing, Cajun-inspired cuisine, and more.
Winter PrideFest, Mt. Bachelor/Bend
Join this annual celebration of LGBTQ+ pride and inclusivity, hosted by Out Central Oregon. Winter PrideFest brings together over 1,400 participants for one of the region’s largest pride events, featuring outdoor winter sports, on-snow activities, ice skating, and social events in Bend.
Taste of Nordic, Anthony Lakes Mountain Resort
Enjoy a day exploring the cross-country trails by Nordic ski or snowshoe, all while sampling local food and beverages along the way. It’s the ultimate combination of fitness and foodie fun.
Rodeo Day, Hoodoo
Embrace the spirit of the Wild West on the slopes! This all-day event includes a chili cook-off, free mechanical bull rides, and live music. Don your best western wear for the costume contest and compete for prizes.
Viking Fest, Hoodoo
Get ready for a Nordic-inspired day of fun with free-heel skiing, arrow shooting, ax throwing, and a torchlight tour followed by an after-party. The family-friendly Viking Fest also offers free instruction and a racecourse for those looking to test their skills.
Pride Day, Mt. Hood Meadows
Celebrate pride with discounts on lift tickets, learn-to-ski and snowboard packages, and snowshoe tours. The day culminates in a celebratory group ride and photo op at the mountain’s summit.
Oregon Cancer Ski Out, Mt. Hood Meadows
This annual fundraising event combines skiing and snowboarding with fun and philanthropy. The unique race format emphasizes consistency and teamwork over speed, allowing participants of all skill levels to join in the fight against cancer. Teams compete for prizes, and all proceeds go to cancer research.
Spring Brewfest, Mt. Hood Meadows
Sample craft beers from some of the best breweries in the Pacific Northwest while enjoying live music and raffles. Admission includes a mug, taster tickets, and raffle entries, making this the perfect way to kick off the spring season.
Dummy Downhill, Mt. Ashland
Watch homemade “dummies” mounted on skis or snowboards race down the slopes at this creative end-of-season celebration. Cheer from the sidelines, or hit the slopes yourself and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Prizes are awarded at the end of the event.
