As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, the Klamath Basin transforms into a cozy winter wonderland filled with festive lights, snowy adventures, and heartfelt community spirit. November and December bring a special kind of magic to this Southern Oregon destination — one that invites you to slow down, savor the season, and experience the simple joys of the holidays. Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving getaway, looking for winter recreation, or hoping to shop and celebrate local, Klamath offers endless opportunities to make your holidays unforgettable.
November 6th, 2025
Every trip begins with the perfect place to stay, and the Klamath Basin offers plenty of cozy accommodations to choose from. Book a rustic cabin at Lake of the Woods Resort, surrounded by snow-dusted evergreens and the serene beauty of the lake, or settle into a warm, inviting lodge like the Red Cone Lodge or Odell Lake Lodge & Resort with a crackling fire and views of the pines. For those who prefer to be in the middle of the action, downtown Klamath Falls offers charming inns and hotels that keep you close to dining, shopping, and the area’s most festive events. Wherever you choose to stay, book early — this is one of the most popular times of year to experience the region.
Before winter fully sets in, November brings a last burst of fall color to the Basin. Take a scenic drive or hike along Upper Klamath Lake or the Link River Trail, where golden aspens and crimson oaks line the water’s edge. As the temperatures drop, trade your hiking boots for skates at the Bill Collier Ice Arena, where families and friends glide beneath the open sky. And when evening arrives, stroll downtown Klamath Falls to see historic buildings and shopfronts glowing with early holiday lights — a magical prelude to winter.
When winter rolls in, Klamath’s outdoor adventures truly come alive. Bundle up for a snowshoe trek or cross-country ski outing at Summit Sno-Park, or make the scenic drive north to Crater Lake National Park — Oregon’s only national park — where snow-blanketed cliffs encircle one of the deepest and most mesmerizing lakes in the world. For a rejuvenating twist, soak in the natural warmth of Umpqua Hot Springs, surrounded by forest and snow for a truly unforgettable winter escape, then take a short trek to Toketee Falls, where icy cascades tumble dramatically through a basalt amphitheater. Whether you’re gliding through powder, exploring frozen waterfalls, or simply sipping cocoa by a cozy cabin fire, Klamath’s winter landscapes are nothing short of spectacular.
Of course, the holidays wouldn’t be complete without festive feasts and community meals. Enjoy a Thanksgiving spread without the cleanup at the Lake of the Woods Grand Buffet, complete with traditional favorites and mountain views. Those seeking a heartwarming community gathering can join the Klamath Gospel Mission’s annual Thanksgiving meal, where everyone is welcome to share food and fellowship. Around town, local restaurants and cafés roll out special holiday menus and desserts, giving you even more ways to indulge in seasonal flavors throughout the holidays.
The holiday calendar in Klamath is packed with cheerful events and timeless traditions. November kicks off with the Veterans Day Parade, honoring local heroes, followed by Thanksgiving morning’s Turkey Trot race — a fun way to start the day before your feast. Get into the spirit (and your silliest sweater) at the Ugly Sweater Fun Run, where participants dash through town decked out in festive and hilarious holiday attire. Soon after, the beloved Snowflake Festival transforms downtown Klamath Falls into a winter wonderland with a parade of lights, floats, and community cheer. December brings festive markets and creative showcases, from the 2025 Gingerbread House Contest to the Klamath Basin Senior Center Christmas Bazaar on December 6 and Christmas at the Center on December 19. Don’t miss the World Ballet Company’s performance of The Nutcracker at the Ross Ragland Theater, or browse handmade gifts at the Spirit of Christmas Market and the Annual Christmas & Craft Bazaar — perfect places to find something unique for everyone on your list.
As you celebrate, be sure to support the small local businesses that bring Klamath’s charm to life. Take a leisurely stroll through downtown Klamath Falls, where shop owners decorate their storefronts with lights and festive displays. Explore boutiques, galleries, and local makers selling everything from artisan gifts to handcrafted home goods. The holiday season is also a wonderful time to enjoy cozy cafés, family-owned restaurants, and tasting rooms offering warm drinks and seasonal treats. Shopping small doesn’t just make your trip more personal — it helps keep the spirit of the community shining bright. With so many unique offerings, you’re sure to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.
Whether you come for a weekend or stay for a week, the Klamath Basin offers countless ways to make lasting holiday memories. From ice skating under the stars and exploring snow-covered forests to savoring festive meals and local music, every moment here feels like a celebration of winter’s beauty. So book your stay, pack your warmest coat, and come experience the cozy escapes and holiday magic that make Klamath truly unforgettable this season.
Klamath's winter is not merely a dip in temperature but a call to the wild-hearted and the spirited adventurers. As the snow blankets the landscape, it transforms peaks and valleys into a canvas of boundless potential. The area comes alive with the roar of snowmobiles, the crunch of snowshoes, and the laughter from the ice rink. It's a place where each activity offers a different way to enjoy the season's chill and where every visit is an opportunity to create lasting memories.
