Illustration of Santa greeting families at long breakfast tables with pancakes and cocoa (Old Mill District Holiday Happenings)

Old Mill District Holiday Happenings

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Experience the magic of the holiday season in Bend, Oregon, at the Old Mill District's festive celebrations. Santa makes a grand arrival by helicopter, followed by visits to SantaLand for photos and letters. Participate in the heartwarming Tree of Joy tradition to help local families. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and find perfect gifts.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Last year

Tickets

$

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Old Mill District

Food & Drink

Restaurants and beverage vendors available

Going?

Location

Old Mill District · 550 SW Powerhouse Drive, Bend, OR 97702 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, children, holiday enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive, cheerful, community-oriented

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early for Santa's helicopter landing on November 28th to secure a good viewing spot.
  • Include a return address on your child's letter to Santa to ensure they receive a reply from the North Pole.
  • For the Tree of Joy, select a gift list early (available Nov. 28) and return unwrapped gifts to SantaLand by December 14th.
  • Check the specific dates and times for SantaLand visits, as they are not daily throughout the entire period.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially experience shorter wait times for photos with Santa.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Santa's grand arrival via helicopter
  • Letters to Santa with reply
  • Tree of Joy gift donation program

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Santa arrive?

Santa makes his grand arrival by helicopter on Friday, November 28, 2025, at 10 a.m.

Where is SantaLand located?

SantaLand is located on the second level of the Old Mill District, above Lush Cosmetics and Budd + Finn.

What are the hours for SantaLand?

SantaLand is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on select dates between November 28 and December 23, 2025.

How can I donate to the Tree of Joy?

Select a gift list from the Tree of Joy in SantaLand, purchase a non-violent, unwrapped gift, and return it to SantaLand by December 14, 2025.

Can I send a letter to Santa?

Yes, children can drop off letters to Santa in the North Pole Express Mailbox at SantaLand from November 28 to December 17, 2025, and receive a reply if a return address is included.

Browse Christmas in Bend

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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