The weather has been sunny and mild, which doesn’t necessarily conjure feelings of winter, but nevertheless, come mid-February we celebrate the season with Oregon WinterFest! WinterFest has been a staple of the Bend events calendar for many years, taking place over President’s Day Weekend, this year February 18-20, 2022. The festival originally took place in downtown Bend before moving to the Old Mill District. This year, the popular festival moves to the Deschutes County Expo Center in Redmond.

Three Days of Oregon WinterFest Fun

OnPoint Oregon WinterFest 2022 comes to the Deschutes County Expo Center on February 18-20 to celebrate the magic of winter. There’s something for everyone to enjoy at WinterFest, from live music and ice carving to the Kid’s Hot Cocoa Run on Saturday at noon.

Live Music at Oregon WinterFest

All of the concerts at Oregon WinterFest are included in the price of entry, which adds a great value to the cost of admission! On Friday night, hip-hop superstars Bone Thugs-N-Harmony headline the main stage. Rockers Quiet Riot take the headlining slot on Saturday night, which promises to have you dancing in your snow boots. Local favorites including Blackstrap Bluegrass and Toast & Jam, among others, will be rocking the Sparks Stage Friday night and all day Saturday.

2022 10 Barrel “Desert Storm” Rail Jam

The 10 Barrel Brewing Rail Jam has been a favorite of attendees year after year. Skiers and snowboarders get their shot at showing off their skills while competing to win cash prizes. Each night, there will be three separately judged contests with skiing on Friday night and snowboarding on Saturday night. Riders will compete in ollie contests, jam sessions in the Rail Garden and a Dual Pump Track Race. You won’t want to miss the big air these skiers and snowboarders get!

Fine Arts and Crafts Pavilion

More than 50 local and regional artists display their work in the Fine Arts & Crafts Pavilion at Oregon WinterFest. From fine woodwork, intricate ceramics, stunning handcrafted jewelry to paintings, illustrations and more, you’ll find a beautiful array of finely crafted art. This is the perfect place to find a gift or keepsake. In addition to the Fine Arts Pavillion, The Wonderland Marketplace will showcase brands from all over the region.

Fire, Ice and Light Exhibits

One of our favorite parts of Oregon WinterFest is the different pieces of art made from the elements. Watch as artists transform blocks of ice into beautiful, intricate masterpieces. The Central Oregon Light Art exhibit will mesmerize you as you see the creative way that artists use light. You’ll also be able to warm up in front of stunning fire pits and sculptures that have been handcrafted by local artisans. All while listening to live music like Precious Byrd and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony.

Events for Kids at Oregon WinterFest

Oregon WinterFest does a great job creating an event that caters to all ages. Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) brings a collection of hands-on brainteasers that challenge visitors to think critically. Kids will enjoy playing educational games and interacting with STEM-based activities, sponsored by Lonza.

The Kid’s Hot Cocoa Run takes place on Saturday, February 19, at noon. Kids run from station to station collecting cocoa ingredients. As they cross the finish line, they will each receive a splash of hot cocoa and a finisher ribbon. Costumes are encouraged for aspiring young princes and princesses.

Celebrate Winter Over President’s Day Weekend

Oregon WinterFest is an annual tradition that draws visitors from all over the region to celebrate the wonder and magic of winter. Whether you want to rock out to Quiet Riot next to an artisan fire pit or your kids want to assemble the perfect hot cocoa while running, your entire group will find something to love at Oregon WinterFest. Don’t forget, there will also be plenty of great food trucks and libations scattered throughout the festival grounds to meet your cravings!

Book your President’s Day Weekend lodging from Sunset Lodging in Sunriver now and enjoy winter in Central Oregon.