Holidays on the coast are not just about shopping and eating, although let’s admit it, that’s a big part of it. The best part of Christmas around Clatsop County is spending time with family and friends to celebrate the joy of the season and build special memories. The holidays are a busy time and go by way too fast, so make sure you plan ahead and enjoy these can’t miss holiday events around Clatsop County.
Old Fashioned Christmas in the Flavel House
Old St. Nick will be the guest of honor at the Old-Fashioned Christmas celebration in the Flavel House Museum from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, December 16th. Visitors will get to see the decorated Flavel House Museum and be treated to delightful holiday music, arts and crafts, games, stories for kids of all ages, and cookies and hot chocolate. Don’t forget your camera so you can capture that photo of your little one on Santa’s lap in front of the beautifully decorated fireplace in the Flavel House library.
Crab Pot Christmas
Come watch the lighting of the world’s largest crab pot Christmas tree made from real live crab pots. Crab Pot Christmas is held annually on the first Saturday of December at the Port of Ilwaco, so this year it’s on December 7th at 5 p.m. sharp. You can also listen to a reading of “A Coastal Christmas,” sing along with crabby Christmas caroling, and see the world’s shortest firework display. After the lighting, visit local shops along the waterfront at the Port of Ilwaco for annual traditions like Santa Claus, hot chocolate, holiday treats, and more.
Gingerbread Tea at Butterfield Cottage
It’s Gingerbread Tea Time at Butterfield Cottage, brought to you by the Seaside Historical Society Museum! Beautiful trees, wreaths, and pine garlands decorate each room of Seaside’s renowned authentic Victorian cottage. Families and friends have been enjoying Gingerbread Tea at the Butterfield Cottage every holiday season for over thirty years. 2019 Tea dates are November 30th, December 7th, December 15th, and December 21st. Time: 1 – 4:00 p.m. $5 per person Located at 570 Necanicum Drive Check the website for more information.
A Winter Gift
On December 6th from 7–9:00 p.m., “A Winter Gift” is brought to you by Partners for the Pac and will be performed by three of the premier Celtic Harpists in the world. Patrick Ball, Lisa Lynne & Aryeh Frankfurter perform their renowned Celtic legends, along with some Irish and English literature woven in between captivating pieces of holiday music. Get your tickets soon as they’re sure to sell out!
Water Music Society Annual Christmas Concert
Celebrate the magic of the season on the Long Beach Peninsula with an afternoon of joyful holiday music brought to you by the Water Music Society. The enthralling voice of Eugenie Jones and her talented instrumental quartet kicks off the season with an intimate concert at The Eagles Nest on December 8th. It’s the perfect way to kick off the season, and tickets are only $10.
Downtown Raymond Lighted Christmas Parade
Join the charming town of Raymond for their annual downtown lighted holiday parade, a beloved Raymond tradition! Bundle up and bring your family and friends to downtown Raymond for the fun of a small-town lighted parade. Bring a thermos of hot chocolate and set up your chairs along 3rd street to watch the entertainment and listen to the announcer narrate the floats. Enjoy some free soup and rolls at New Life Fellowship following the festivities. Mark your calendar for December 7th at 6:00 p.m. It’s fun for all ages!
New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Long Beach
Ready to ring in 2020 in style? Celebrate New Year’s Eve by watching Fireworks at Midnight in Long Beach at the Bolstad Beach Approach. Wrap up, bring your favorite beverage, and head to the boardwalk for an excellent view of fireworks.
It’s going to be another festive holiday season around Clatsop County. From parades to concerts and fireworks, there’s no shortage of fun activities to celebrate the magic of Christmas. Get out there and enjoy it!