Waldport keeps Grinch at bay
Waldport is putting on its best fir coat to help celebrate the holiday season this year, with four events to highlight the decked-out town.
“We’ve got lighted garlands wrapped around our light poles and lighted wreaths all through downtown,” said Jody Sturtze, one of the event organizers. “We haven’t had decorations like this in a long time. It looks really great."
The events begin with a fun raffle event throughout December that encourages people to check out the holiday decor at many local businesses; a bazaar with an impressive number of vendors; and opportunities to walk around with other celebrants across the iconic Alsea Bridge or drive around the Port of Alsea in decked-out cars.
The 12 Trees of Christmas
Residents and visitors are invited to visit participating businesses during December and enjoy their trees and decorations. Visit 12 and have them sign off on the Christmas Passport, available at local banks and online at beachcomberdays.com, to get in the running for a $50 gift certificate for the Adobe Restaurant in Yachats.
Submit completed passports to the Waldport Public Library, located at 460 Hemlock Street (Hwy. 34).
Christmas Bazaar
The annual craft bazaar is being held this year on Saturday, Dec. 11, from 9 am to 2 pm in the Crestview Heights Elementary School Gym.
“We have more than 60 vendors signed up,” Sturtze said. “There’s going to be an amazing variety of gift possibilities.”
Vendor fees will go to supporting the 2022 Senior Class Safe Night Out. Canned food donations to support Operation Santa will be accepted at the event.
Crestview Heights School is located at 2750 S Crestline Drive.
Lighted Christmas Bridge Walk
Bring flashlights, battery-powered candles or any kind of light you choose and join the walk over the Alsea Bridge and back on Sunday, Dec. 12, beginning at 4 pm. Receptions will follow at Our Savior Lutheran Church, located at 38 N Bayview Road and at the Alsea Bay Bridge Interpretive Center.
Owners of four-legged friends, some who might have costumes and lights saved from previous Waldport Lighted Dog Parades, are welcome to dress them up and join the walk.
“Dogs are going to get some kind of recognition,” said TiAnne Rios, another organizer of the event. “They are definitely welcome, in costume or not.”
Christmas Light Parade
Decorate your car as festively as you desire and join a driving tour of one of Waldport’s most scenic areas for the Christmas Light Parade on Thursday, Dec. 16, beginning at 5 pm at the Port of Alsea, 365 NE Port Street.
“Many homes in that area are decorated,” Rios said. “It’s going to be a lovely night. Santa is even going to be in one of the cars. We’re partnering for that with Central Fire and Rescue, so we’ll have fire trucks joining the parade too.”
For more information, go to beachcomberdays.com.
