Holiday Happenings in the Gorge: Events, Lights, and Local Festivities
Hood River: Tree Lighting, Markets & Festive Cheer
Hood River Tree Lighting & Festival: Friday evening (5:00–7:00 pm) downtown. The streets of Hood River light up with music, festive décor, and community spirit. The tree lighting is scheduled between 5:45–6:00 pm at 2nd & Cascade Ave. Expect holiday shopping, cheerful storefront displays, and even a visit from Santa & Mrs. Claus (there will be candy and photo-ops!). Streets will be closed to traffic on Oak Street (between 1st–6th) and parts of 2nd & State St. to create a cozy pedestrian holiday zone.
Ruins Winter Market: Also Friday (and continuing Saturday) at 2nd & Cascade. It’s a great place to find unique artisan gifts from across the Gorge, handmade crafts, local goods, and holiday treats. Great for early holiday shopping and supporting local craftspeople.
Weekend Options: If you’re in the mood for winter magic beyond the street-festival vibe, don’t forget the holiday-themed experiences that run throughout the season in Hood River, from scenic train rides to Christmas events tied to the season.
Why it’s great: Hood River turns into a walkable, twinkling holiday village. Perfect for cozy evenings, window-shopping, cocoa, and holiday photos with friends or family.
Downtown White Salmon, Washington decorated for Christmas with holiday lights and winter scenery in the Columbia River Gorge. Photo by Robby Miller.
White Salmon: Lights, Market & Community Spirit
Just across the Columbia on the Washington side, White Salmon is hosting its inaugural festive holiday celebration for the season:
White Salmon Village Lights: This weekend the town transforms downtown into a winter wonderland with sparkling lights, carolers, and cozy community vibes. Expect a warm, small-town holiday glow.
Winter Wonderland Market at the White Salmon Masonic Hall, Saturday & Sunday (Dec 6 & 7): shop local handmade goods, art, décor, clothing, ideal for holiday gift hunting. There will be seasonal treats and a cheerful vibe. Plus, all proceeds support a community nonprofit.
Community + Creativity: On Saturday there are additional events like a “Festival of Making” at the local MakerSpace (great if you love DIY/arts), a Santa photo-op at Ace Hardware (with cookies, cocoa, and coloring stuff for kids), and even a wine + oysters pairing at local wine-country spots for grownups.
Warm & Cozy Indoor Option: The White Salmon Valley Community Library hosts a “Winter Celebration” a relaxed afternoon of music, crafts, refreshments, and a holiday quilt show. A good fallback if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Why it’s great: White Salmon brings a relaxed, community-centered holiday vibe, perfect for families, friends, or anyone who wants cozy, local-town warmth without too much hustle.
