New Year’s Eve in Bend, Oregon

A person cross country skiing in the snow in Bend, Oregon — Our photo

Mt. Bachelor Nordic Lodge

Dec 31 · early evening

Best for: A magical early evening on the snow before dinner

Mt. Bachelor lights a lantern trail through the Nordic trails on New Year’s Eve. Ski or snowshoe the loop at your own pace, warm up at the bonfire, then drive down for dinner or a party in town. Costumes and glow-in-the-dark gear are encouraged.

Last yearDec 31, 5 to 8 p.m. A candlelit 2 km loop for skiers and snowshoers, an on-snow bonfire and the Nordic Café open. Entry was a half-day Nordic trail ticket ($24 adult, $16 senior and youth) or a Nordic season pass.

Good to knowMt. Bachelor has scheduled opening day for December 4, 2026, but snow decides everything. Bring a headlamp and check road conditions on Century Drive before you go up.

SnowOutdoorsKid-friendlyUnder $50

A fire dancer performing in the snow in front of a crowd at Hoodoo on New Year’s Eve — Photo: Hoodoo Ski Area

Santiam Pass, about 1 hour northwest

Dec 31 · all day into midnight

Best for: Night skiing, fireworks and a band, all in one place

A long-running mountain tradition: ski into the night, watch fireworks over the hill around the East Coast countdown, then stay for live music in the lodge until midnight. It’s one of the few NYE fireworks shows anywhere near Bend.

Last yearHoodoo’s NYE page describes lifts from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., a special dinner menu, free live music in the lodge until midnight with non-skiers welcome, and professional fireworks shortly after 9 p.m.

Good to knowHoodoo’s page is up, but it hasn’t labeled those details as the 2026 schedule yet, and the area depends on early snow. The drive home over Santiam Pass after midnight can be icy, so plan to stay nearby or leave after the fireworks.

SnowLive music or DJKid-friendly9 p.m. East Coast toastMidnight countdownOutdoors

Mt. Bachelor reflected in Elk Lake at sunset — Photo: Elk Lake Resort

Cascade Lakes, reached by snowcat

Thu, Dec 31, 2026 · dinner at 6:30 p.m.snowcat seats still open

Best for: A snowcat ride to a lodge dinner in the middle of nowhere

In winter the Cascade Lakes Highway closes to cars past Dutchman Flat, so Elk Lake’s historic lodge is reached by snowcat or snowmobile. Their NYE dinner times the toast to New York’s midnight, so you’re back out by about 9:30.

2026Dinner is at 6:30 p.m., and Elk Lake says there’s still room on the snowcat. Email reservations@elklakeresort.com for a private snowcat booking link. A card holds your seat, and cancellations need 14 days’ notice. Pricing hasn’t posted.

Last yearseating from 6:30 p.m., $95 per adult and $30 per child, a wood-stove dinner in the restored lodge with a champagne toast at the 9 p.m. ball drop. Guests ride a heated snowcat 11 miles in from Dutchman Flat, booked separately.

Good to knowSnowcat seats are round-trip only and booked separately after your dinner reservation is confirmed. The lodge closes early on holiday dinner days.

SnowDinnerChampagne toast9 p.m. East Coast toastSplurge

Sunrise over a snow-covered Mt. Bachelor — Photo: Mt. Bachelor

Century Drive, 30 minutes west

Dec 31 and Jan 1 · during normal hours

Best for: Skiing the last day of the year, then a nap before the party

The classic Bend way to spend Dec 31 or Jan 1. Ski or ride, use the Nordic Center, or just ride the lift for the view of the Three Sisters, then head back to town well before dark.

Good to knowHoliday week is one of the busiest of the season. Buy lift tickets online ahead and arrive early. Mt. Bachelor hasn’t announced a special NYE countdown or fireworks for 2026.

SnowOutdoorsKid-friendly

Somewhere to be at midnight

NYE parties, live music and countdowns 10

The ticketed parties that have become Bend traditions, plus the bars and music rooms to watch. Most 2026 parties announce in November and December, so this list shows what each one did last year and what we know so far.

The small wood-paneled Broom Closet Bar at McMenamins Old St. Francis School in Bend — Photo: McMenamins

Downtown

Thu, Dec 31, 2026 · doors 8 p.m., music 9 p.m.21+ · tickets via McMenamins

Best for: A downtown party with a band, under $40

McMenamins turns the old schoolhouse into a two-stage party every year, and you can book a room upstairs and never touch a car. The Broom Closet and the soaking pool are part of the fun.

2026The New Year’s Eve Bash is on: Watkins Glen’s Soulshine Daydream and Bodhi Mojo, doors at 8 p.m. and music from 9. It’s 21 and over. Tickets are sold through McMenamins’ Etix link, and a New Year’s Eve lodging package is listed.

Last yeartwo bands in two rooms (Watkins Glen in the theater, the Eric Leadbetter Band in Father Luke’s Room) and a midnight champagne toast. $28 online, $35 at the door. Hotel packages were offered.

Good to knowThe hotel packages go first. If you want to stay over, book the New Year’s Eve lodging package now.

Midnight countdownLive music or DJDancingChampagne toastUnder $50Walkable downtown

700 NW Bond St, Bend, OR 97703

The Barrel Room at UPP Liquids set for a dinner — Photo: UPP Liquids

Box Factory

Dec 31 · 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Best for: A cheap ticket with a balloon drop at midnight

The Box Factory brewery formerly known as Immersion throws a dress-up party with a balloon drop at midnight, steps from the Old Mill and downtown.

Last year8 p.m. to 1 a.m., $20 online, 21+, with a complimentary champagne toast, a balloon drop and a photo booth.

Good to knowAt $20 it’s one of the best-value tickets in town. Watch their site and socials in December.

Midnight countdownDancingChampagne toast21+Under $50Walkable downtown

550 SW Industrial Way, Suite 185, Bend, OR 97702

A cocktail being poured from two shakers at Dogwood at the Pine Shed — Photo: Dogwood at the Pine Shed

Central District

Dec 31 · 8 p.m. to late

Best for: A fashion-forward dance party in an inclusive space

Bend’s best-dressed NYE dance party, hosted at Dogwood at the Pine Shed in recent years. Come dressed to be seen.

Last yearthe third annual Eleganza by DJ duo CLICHÉ, mixing fashion, music and an inclusive space for the LGBTQ+ community. $50 general, $100 VIP.

Good to knowThe venue has moved between years, so confirm where the 2026 edition lands before you buy.

Midnight countdownDancingLive music or DJ

821 NE 2nd St, Bend, OR 97701

Downtown

Dec 31 · from 6 p.m.

Best for: Boots, a mechanical bull and a $5 cover

Downtown’s country bar did a rodeo-themed NYE last year for the price of a beer. Easy to combine with dinner anywhere downtown.

Last yeara Rhinestone Rodeo party with DJ Radio Rodd, cocktails from Gompers Distillery and mechanical bull riding. $5.

Good to knowLow cover means it fills up. Get there before 10.

Midnight countdownDancingLive music or DJUnder $50Walkable downtown

910 NW Harriman St, Suite 100, Bend, OR 97703

Greenwood Ave

Dec 31 · evening to late

Best for: A local band and a pint at midnight

Silver Moon has hosted an annual NYE bash led by local musician Jeshua Marshall, running from early evening to 1 a.m. One of the most local-feeling countdowns in town.

Good to knowWatch their events page in December for the 2026 lineup and ticket details.

Midnight countdownLive music or DJDancingWalkable downtown

24 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend, OR 97703

Watch for 2026

Midtown, NE 8th Street

Dec 31 · watch for a show

Best for: A full concert to ring in the year

Bend’s mid-size concert rooms. Last year the Domino Room hosted a Grateful Phish NYE party with Grateful Dead and Phish tribute bands and a champagne toast. Expect a ticketed show again.

Good to knowShows here can sell out. Check the venue calendar in November.

Midnight countdownLive music or DJDancing

51 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend, OR 97703

Directions

A crowd watching a band on stage at Volcanic Theatre Pub in Bend — Photo: Volcanic Theatre Pub

Century Drive, west side

Dec 31 · watch for a show

Best for: A rowdy live-music countdown on the west side

A beloved west-side music room that regularly books shows on big nights. A good bet if you’d rather see a band than wear a suit.

Good to knowTickets for holiday shows go on sale through their site.

Midnight countdownLive music or DJDancing

70 SW Century Dr, Bend, OR 97702

A River Pig pint glass in front of the back bar at River Pig Saloon in Bend — Photo: River Pig Saloon

Arizona Ave, south downtown

Dec 31 · late

Best for: A rowdy downtown bar that stays open late

River Pig has thrown an 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. NYE party in past years, one of the latest-running in downtown Bend.

Good to knowPair it with The Coyote or Velvet for a downtown crawl that never needs a car.

Midnight countdownDancingWalkable downtown

555 NW Arizona Ave, Suite 40, Bend, OR 97703

Downtown

Dec 31 · regular hours, usually busy

Best for: A drink and a toast without buying a ticket

No ticket, no theme, just a good bar at midnight. Velvet, San Simón and the Broom Closet are all walkable from each other downtown. Arrive early and stay put, because by 11 every good bar has a wait.

Good to knowSee every downtown bar, by type, in our Bend bars guide.

Midnight countdown21+Walkable downtown

805 NW Wall St, Bend, OR 97703

Open our guide Directions

Want a bar instead of a ticket? Every downtown bar, by type, is in the Bend bars guide.

Book the table early

New Year’s Eve dinners, tasting menus and toasts 10

Bend’s NYE dinners fill fast and many are set menus at set seatings. Here’s who has done a special NYE dinner before and what it looked like, so you know where to watch. Reserve the moment your pick posts its 2026 menu.

A plated dinner and wine glasses on the table at Lady Bird Cultural Society in the Old Mill, Bend — Photo: Lady Bird Cultural Society

Old Mill District

Thu, Dec 31, 2026 · 3 to 10 p.m.$115 prix fixe

Best for: A dressed-up Gatsby dinner with live jazz

The Old Mill supper club goes full Roaring ’20s for New Year’s Eve, with a set menu, jazz and a bubble bar.

2026New Year’s Eve Extravaganza, 3 to 10 p.m.: a $115 prix fixe menu, live music, a bubbly bar, caviar service, wine pairings and a specialty à la carte bar menu. Reserve on Lady Bird’s site; the Old Mill says spots fill quickly.

Last yeara Gatsby-style soirée with a four-course menu, live jazz, toasts, prizes and a bubble bar, $95 per person.

Good to knowDress the part. It’s half the fun.

DinnerLive music or DJChampagne toastSplurge

375 SW Powerhouse Dr, Suite 130, Bend, OR 97702

Golf course grounds at sunset at Juniper Preserve east of Bend — Photo: Juniper Preserve

East of Bend (formerly Pronghorn)

Dec 31 · two seatings

Best for: A resort dinner with a room upstairs

The resort has offered a New Year’s Eve dinner with early and late seatings in past years. Book a lodge room and skip the drive back to town.

Good to knowIt’s about 30 minutes from downtown Bend, so plan a ride or stay over.

DinnerSplurge

65600 Pronghorn Club Dr, Bend, OR 97701

Downtown

Dec 31 · prix fixe

Best for: A smaller, more intimate prix fixe downtown

Dear Irene has done a prix fixe New Year’s Eve menu in recent years. Inventive small plates and great cocktails in a cozy room.

Good to knowSmall dining room, so it fills fast.

DinnerWalkable downtown

926 NW Brooks St, Bend, OR 97703

A drink being poured over ice at the bar at Roam in the Oxford Hotel, Bend — Photo: Oxford Hotel Bend

Downtown

Dec 31 · dinner service

Best for: Dinner and a hotel room in the same building

The Oxford Hotel’s restaurant has served an all-day NYE dinner in past years. Stay upstairs and you’re steps from every downtown party.

Good to knowAsk about room-and-dinner packages when you book.

DinnerWalkable downtown

10 NW Minnesota Ave, Bend, OR 97703

The long bar and arched windows inside the Monkless Belgian Ales Brasserie in Bend — Photo: Monkless Belgian Ales Brasserie

Box Factory

Dec 31 · candlelight dinner

Best for: A candlelit Belgian brasserie dinner

The Box Factory brasserie has hosted a candlelight NYE dinner from late afternoon to close, with Belgian-style food and its own ales.

Good to knowA strong pick for an early dinner before a party at UPP or Stoller, both in the Box Factory.

DinnerWalkable downtown

803 SW Industrial Way, Bend, OR 97702

Annual · 2026 TBA

Box Factory

Dec 31 · evening, 9 p.m. toast

Best for: Bubbles and oysters with an early toast

The Box Factory wine bar celebrates on New York time, so you can toast at 9 and still be home or at a party by 10.

Last yeara 9 p.m. New York countdown with the toast included, plus a bubbles flight with oysters and caviar for purchase. Festive attire encouraged. Reservations and walk-ins.

Good to knowWalk-ins were welcome last year, but reserve if your group is bigger than four.

9 p.m. East Coast toastChampagne toastWalkable downtown

555 NW Arizona Ave, Bend, OR 97703

Two glasses of red wine and a charcuterie board at Put A Cork In It wine bar in Bend — Photo: Discovery West

Discovery West, west side

Dec 31 · limited-seat tasting

Best for: A tiny, chef-driven tasting with wine pairings

Last year this west-side wine bar hosted a limited-seat tasting menu pop-up with a guest chef and planned wine pairings. Very few seats.

Good to knowIf it returns, it will sell out quickly. Follow them before December.

DinnerSplurge

Downtown

Dec 31 · tasting menu

Best for: A Korean tasting menu that’s different from everywhere else

Yoli offered an intimate, limited-seat Korean tasting menu last New Year’s Eve. The pick for food people.

Good to knowSmall and popular. Reserve early.

DinnerWalkable downtown

1133 NW Wall St, Suite 100, Bend, OR 97703

Downtown

Dec 31 · watch for holiday hours

Best for: The big steakhouse splurge

No special NYE menu announced, but Bend’s top steakhouse is a natural for a celebratory dinner downtown.

Good to knowHoliday tables go fast. Call (541) 241-2735.

DinnerSplurgeWalkable downtown

163 NW Minnesota Ave, Bend, OR 97703

Visit website Call (541) 241-2735 Directions

More options for the night: the Bend restaurant guide and our date night guide.

Bed by 10, no regrets

Family New Year’s Eve: early countdowns, skating and fireworks 4

Midnight in New York is 9 p.m. here, and a lot of Central Oregon plans around that. These are the easiest ways to give kids a real celebration and still get everyone home before the late-night crowds.

Sunriver

Dec 31 · 9 p.m. countdown

Best for: A free pool party with a kid-sized countdown

Sunriver Resort’s pool complex turns into a family dance party with a sparkling cider toast at 9. A great pick if you’re staying in Sunriver for the holidays.

Last yeara free, all-ages poolside party at The Cove, Sunriver Resort’s aquatic center, with lights, music, treats and a sparkling cider toast at the 9 p.m. New York countdown, with extended hours.

Good to knowAsk the resort whether 2026 entry is limited to resort guests before you plan around it.

9 p.m. East Coast toastKid-friendlyFree

The covered ice rink at The Pavilion in Bend lit up at night — Photo: Bend Park & Recreation District

Southeast Bend

Dec 31 + Jan 1 · check the public skate schedule

Best for: An afternoon skate before an early dinner

Bend’s covered outdoor rink runs November through April. A public skate session is an easy, cheap win for kids on New Year’s Eve afternoon or New Year’s Day.

Good to knowHoliday sessions are busy and the schedule changes for holidays, so check public skate times and buy ahead.

Kid-friendlyUnder $50

1001 SW Bradbury Way, Bend, OR 97702

Annual · 2026 TBA

Santiam Pass

Dec 31 · shortly after 9 p.m.

Best for: Real fireworks at a kid-friendly hour

Hoodoo’s professional fireworks go off shortly after 9 p.m., early enough for kids. Bend itself doesn’t do a big downtown fireworks show, so this is the closest regular NYE display. See the full Hoodoo card above.

Good to knowIt’s about an hour from Bend over the pass. Leave right after the show to beat the late-night ice.

9 p.m. East Coast toastKid-friendlySnow

Annual · 2026 TBA

Mt. Bachelor Nordic Lodge

Dec 31 · early evening

Best for: A glow-stick ski or snowshoe for kids who can handle the cold

The Nordic Luminaria was 5 to 8 p.m. last year, with a bonfire and costumes encouraged. Short, magical and done by bedtime. See the full card above.

Good to knowKids’ snowshoes are available at Nordic Rentals.

SnowKid-friendly9 p.m. East Coast toastUnder $50

Friday, January 1, 2027

New Year’s Day in Bend 4

New Year’s Day 2027 is a Friday, which makes it a three-day weekend for a lot of people. Get outside early, then go easy. Many offices and some restaurants are closed, so check hours.

A trail through the woods in the snow in Bend, Oregon — Our photo

Tumalo, La Pine, Smith Rock and more

Fri, Jan 1, 2027 · morning

Best for: Starting the year outside with a ranger

Every Jan. 1, Oregon State Parks runs free guided First Day Hikes led by rangers and volunteers, and the $5 day-use parking fee is waived at parks that charge it. Central Oregon parks like Tumalo, La Pine and Smith Rock have hosted them.

Good to knowThe 2027 list usually posts in December, and a few hikes need registration. Dress for winter and bring water.

OutdoorsFreeKid-friendly

Open NYE · check hours

East Bend

Jan 1 · sunrise or any time

Best for: A first sunrise over the whole Cascade range

The cinder cone in the middle of town. Walk the trail to the top for a 360-degree view of the Cascades and the city. It’s the classic Bend New Year’s Day resolution hike.

Good to knowThe summit road closes to cars in winter, so you walk up. It’s steep, and the trail can be icy, so bring traction.

OutdoorsFree

Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint, Bend, OR 97701

A wooden table topped with plates of food and drinks in Bend, Oregon — Our photo

All over town

Jan 1 · holiday hours vary

Best for: The long, slow breakfast you earned

Bend’s breakfast spots are packed on New Year’s Day, and some close. Our breakfast guide lists every good option by neighborhood.

Good to knowGo early or late. The 10 a.m. to noon window has the longest waits.

Kid-friendly

Open our guide

A river flowing through a forest filled with trees in Bend, Oregon — Our photo

Drake Park, Old Mill, Shevlin Park

Jan 1 · any time

Best for: Clearing your head without driving anywhere

Walk Drake Park and Mirror Pond downtown, the Deschutes River Trail through the Old Mill, or the Tumalo Creek trail in Shevlin Park. Free, flat-ish and close to coffee.

Good to knowSidewalks and bridges can be icy after a cold night. Wear traction shoes.

OutdoorsFreeKid-friendlyWalkable downtown