Christmas In The Garden At The Oregon Garden

Last weekend we spontaneously (as per usual) decided to drive an hour and a half to the Oregon Garden in Silverton to experience some Christmas spirit and we sure found it. “Christmas in the Garden” is basically what it sounds like… It is Christmas lights, Christmas music, German Christmas Market style Shops, Food and Drink, fire pits, Santa and (real!) reindeers, and ice skating. All it was missing was a little snow!

We arrived early to avoid the large crowds (about 20 min after they opened) and shortly before it got dark. We enjoyed walking around the foresty garden filled with Christmas lights, though the trees and through light tunnels.

The spirit was definitely very festive and there were people there of all ages.

The ❤ Oregon light installation was one of my favorites.

Then we walked by the waterfall and the rainboot-wearing forest animals.

We got some Gluhwein (German mulled wine), I had been waiting to get my hands on some all winter. Oh wait, it’s technically only been winter for a couple of days.

This walrus, or unicorn dolphin or whatever it is scenery was a little confusing to me but cute nonetheless. The sign next to it says: “Hope you find your dad.” Is this a children’s story I don’t know about?

All over the place we found fire pits with benches to sit down and enjoy the warmth of the fire and the gluhwein on hand. A very nice addition.

We had fun inside the candy cane tunnel.

We got some food to go along our gluhwein: sausage with sauerkraut, and cheese fondue with apples, sausage, and bread. To be honest the food could’ve been a little better. For dessert, I headed to the drink shop and ordered a hot cocoa with a shot of Bailey’s because why not.

We also listened to the carolers which were actually really good. We enjoyed them.

And after over 2 hours of holiday cheer, we decided to get back. By the time we left it was pretty crowded and the entrance ticket lines were a lot longer than when we arrived.

On our way back we both agreed that we were glad we had come.

Tip: Because the event takes place mostly outdoors (with roofs above the music area, the skating rink, and the beer garden), make sure to dress snuggly and be prepared for some rain. We only got a few sprinkles, I feel we got lucky with the weather, but it was definitely chilly. The gluhwein, the hot cocoa with Bailey’s and the hot apple cider with whiskey help too.

Christmas in the Garden Info

Admission: $6 per person. With discounts for garden members and Silverton residents.
You can still go see most of this!: November 27, 2015 – January 3, 2016
Or wait till next year. This year, they added an ice skating rink for the first time. So, I’m sure that in upcoming years and as the event gains popularity, they’ll be adding to and improving the experience even more.

Check the website schedule because activities and hours vary daily.

Have you visited any Christmas markets this year?