Get ready to illuminate your holiday spirit at the Hermiston Tree Lighting Celebration on Thursday, Nov. 30, 4:30-7:30 p.m. in downtown and on Festival Street.

The evening begins with live musical performances and food/treat vendors, followed by the Hermiston Lighted Holiday Parade at 5:30 p.m. Santa Claus will arrive just in the nick of time at 6:15 p.m. for the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree.

For more information, search bit.ly/hermistonrecreation or call 541-667-5018.

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Santa Claus will still be in town this weekend in Hermiston.

The jolly ol’ elf is plugging in the holiday spirit at the Festival of Lights. The special appearance is Friday, Dec. 1, 6-8 p.m. at the Eastern Oregon Trade and Event Center, 1601 E. Airport Road.

The light festival shines Thursday through Sundays, 6-9 p.m. until Jan. 1, 2024. The recommended donation is $5 per car. For more information, search Facebook via bit.ly/3gopqsj or call 541-289-9800.

Also, kids and canines can catch Father Christmas at Northwest Farm Supply, 80411 N. Highway 395 in Hermiston. Cookies with Santa is Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and includes treats for children and dogs. Bring your camera. For additional details, search Facebook via rebrand.ly/g06zu7c or call 541-567-5650.

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Although tickets are sold out for the evening gala, the community can enjoy the Festival of Trees on Family Day. The afternoon of holiday fun is Sunday, Dec. 3, noon to 3 p.m. at the Hermiston Community Center, 415 S. Highway 395.

In addition to tree viewing, it features holiday activities live entertainment, snacks and pictures with Santa. The cost is $5 per family at the door. For more information, search Facebook via rebrand.ly/ek13ylb.

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The creative works of local and guest artisans are featured in “The Art of the Gift.” The annual exhibit/sale continues through Dec. 30 at Pendleton Center for the Arts, 214 N. Main St.

Find unique gifts during gallery hours, Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays, noon to 4 p.m. For more information, call 541-278-9201 or visit pendletonarts.org.

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The Next Chapter Bookstore and Neighbor Dudes Tap House are pouring out a special Holiday Boozy Book Fair. The 21 and older event is Dec. 9, 5-8 p.m. at the Neighbor Dudes, 405 N. First St., Suite 104, Hermiston.

Tip back a brew or two while holiday shopping for books, games and other gift items.

For more information, call 541-667-7080, 541-289-2337 or search Facebook via bit.ly/3kEDobQ.

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The Blue Mountain Community College Rodeo Boosters are wrangling in support during an NFR Watch Party. The event is Dec. 16, 5:30-10 p.m. in the Roy Raley Room at the Pendleton Round-Up Grounds.

In addition to a livestream of the last round of the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, the fundraising party features hors d’oeuvres, drinks and a silent auction. The evening concludes with dancing and live music by Scott Wilson.

Presale tickets are $25 or the NFR Kids Corner (ages 12 and younger) are $15 via pendletontickets.com. Admission at the door is $5 more. For questions, email bmccrodeoboosters@gmail.com.

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Hermiston’s Harkenrider Senior Activity Center serves lunch Thursday, Nov. 30 (baked meal pockets) and Tuesday, Dec. 5 (TBA), 12-12:30 p.m. at 255 NE Second St. For dine-in or takeout service, call 541-567-3582 by 11 a.m.

Also, Meals on Wheels is available in Hermiston. Call before 10 a.m. to place a delivery order.

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The Boardman Senior Center offers dine-in and takeout lunches Thursday, Nov. 30 (grilled cheese sandwiches) and Tuesday, Dec. 5 (TBA) at 100 Tatone St. Meals are $5 for seniors and $6 for others. For takeout service, call 541-481-3257.