If you’ve spent any time in Central Oregon over the last week here in January, the warm sunshine on your face may be inspiring dreams of summer. While it’s definitely not bathing suit weather, we’re enjoying beautiful, crisp weather in town and bluebird days at the mountain. We’re still definitely in winter, but thought a countdown to summer was in order. What do we mean? We’ve collected five make-the-drive-worthy events to visit Sunriver leading up until summer – one event each month. Plan to join us in Sunriver for one of these must-attend events in Central Oregon this winter and spring.

Must-Attend Events in Central Oregon

February — Oregon WinterFest, Feb 17-19, Deschutes County Expo Center, Redmond

Oregon WinterFest is the Northwest’s largest festival celebrating the magic of winter. A favorite event for visitors near and far, Oregon WinterFest features three music stages, dazzling light displays, food, art, amusement rides, ice craving and so much more. Friday night at Winterfest, Warren G and the Sugar Hill Gang headline the main stage (cost of the concert included in price of entry). Visit OMSI and Bouncing Off the Walls in the Family Play Zone. There’s something for everyone at Oregon WinterFest.

Bonus: 2023 Sunriver Brewing Co. K9 Keg Pull – Feb 4

One of our favorite winter events, Sunriver Brewing’s K9 Keg Pull is a fun event for the whole family, especially dog lovers. Cheer on the competitors, or enter your own “Lightning Fast Fido” into the K9 Keg Pull. Dogs are placed into weight classes and pull a keg specific to their frame (kegs are all empty). The entry fee is $20 per dog and all proceeds benefit Ronald McDonald House. Dogs pull the kegs down a 120 foot snow runway and owners are encouraged to motivate pups down the stretch.

March — Winter Pride Festival March 1-5, Mt. Bachelor and Bend

Winter Pride Festival celebrates pride, inclusivity and the love of the outdoors. The long weekend of events includes a celebration, including film screenings, skiing and snowboarding groups at Mt. Bachelor, Apres Ski party, a Dance Party, panel discussions and much more. The weekend supports the LGBTQ+ community by bringing visibility and inclusivity to Mt. Bachelor and Central Oregon.

April — Subaru Winterfest at Mt. Bachelor – April 15-16

Another Winterfest? Of course, we really love winter here in Sunriver! Subaru Winterfest is a traveling music and mountain lifestyle festival for music fans, skiers, snowboarders, friends, families, dog lovers and winter enthusiasts to bask in their love of adventure and winter. The event features nationally touring musicians, gear demos, tasty treats, warm beverages, dog-friendly experiences and information on how you can support Mt. Bachelor’s Rescue Dogs. Top off the weekend with free music from Big Gigantic (DJ Set) and Simba Siz in Downtown Bend.

May — Sunriver SwimRun – May 7 – Sunriver Marina

Sunriver hosts Oregon’s first ever SwimRun! The race organizers bring this relatively new sport to Oregon after falling in love with it in Sweden. The race explores amazing waterfalls, rolling forests, and lava beds surrounding the Deschutes River in Sunriver. Choose from a long-course or short-course race. Adventure racers who know how to swim and triathletes are encouraged to enter!

Book Your Sunriver Vacation Home Today

We love welcoming visitors to Sunriver year round, not only for the natural beauty and outdoor recreation, but also for great events designed for your whole group. From the K9 Keg Pull to Winter Pride Festival, there’s an event for everyone, including your canine companions. Don’t forget to book your Sunriver vacation home from Sunset Lodging in Sunriver. We have a variety of Sunriver vacation homes to appeal to the needs of your group. We look forward to seeing you in Sunriver as we countdown to summer 2023!