Kevin Schwarting chalks up one of the pillars in the Bend Visitor center.

Well, not just people. Artists, specifically, and talented ones at that.

Visit Bend launched the Pillars of Art program to introduce tourists to Bend’s unique arts and culture scene, and to support emerging local artists. We pick one local artist every three months to create unique chalk drawings on the cement pillars in our lobby. The artist also has his or her framed work displayed and sold in the visitor center, including First Friday Art Walks.

With Art Walk scheduled for this Friday, February 3, we’d like to introduce you to our latest artist, Kevin Schwarting. A native of Chicago who moved to Montana for college ten years ago, Kevin migrated to Bend last spring. He specializes in winter landscapes, and his artwork on the pillars has drawn rave reviews and gasps of approval from visitors.

Here’s what Kevin had to say about paint, beer, and what it’s like to be an emerging artist in Bend:

Visit Bend: Tell us a little bit about your artistic background.

Kevin Schwarting: I always enjoyed drawing as a kid, and that is half of what I do today. Designing new ideas all stems from sketching. I worked with charcoal for awhile until colors took me into another realm. Pastels, oils and acrylics are what I enjoy most, but I still sketch for fun. It’s the fastest way for me to feel good about my artistic passions.

Visit Bend:Why did you choose to specialize in painting winter scenes?

Kevin Schwarting: There has always been this sense of peace and stillness in cold, snowy winter landscapes. My work either obeys that calming feeling or it breaks it. I get excited to invent new pieces. I try to create the movement in a skier, flying in snow, breaking through thousands of frozen crystals and throwing that majestic spray of snow on each turn. I dream of a never-ending ski run because the way it makes me feel is beyond compare. Since that will never happen, I’ll keep painting.

Visit Bend: Your art is clearly very influenced by winter recreation and the great outdoors. How has living in Bend impacted you from an artistic standpoint?

Kevin Schwarting: Bend is very diverse. If there’s a town that could take on another outdoor sport, it’s this one. Outdoor enthusiasts definitely feed my passions and living in Bend has made me feel more connected to those types of people. Bend has inspired me to keep pursuing those passions.

Visit Bend: What do you love best about Bend?

Kevin Schwarting: The breweries on The Bend Ale Trail. Boneyard’s RPM is my favorite beer. I think it’s the best IPA in Bend.

This painting titled, "The Face Shot," is one of dozens of pieces created by Kevin Schwarting on display (and for sale!) at the Bend Visitor Center.

Visit Bend: What do you like to do when you aren’t painting?

Kevin Schwarting: I enjoy skiing, fishing, travelling, and enjoying the outdoors.

Visit Bend: Tell us your impressions of the art scene in Bend and how Pillars of Art fits with that.

Kevin Schwarting: Bend attracts so many artistic people because it has created an atmosphere that suits an artist. From the festivals to the art walks, Bend has a wide array of talent. The Pillars of Art program is great for emerging artists like myself, and I’m absolutely honored to be displaying my work here.

***

Don’t forget to stop by the Visitor Center from 5-9 p.m. this Friday, February 3, to check out Kevin’s work and say hello to this talented young artist! We’ll also have chocolate by Jem Raw Chocolate and Volcano Vineyards wine on hand to celebrate!

I’m talking about Bend WinterFest, and the fact that we’re rapidly approaching the next installment of this unique annual event. WinterFest kicks off on Friday, February 17 and lasts through Sunday, February 19. You can find a complete schedule of events online, but here’s what looks hot to me:

Calling All Snow Warriors

New this year, Snow Warriors is an outrageous, fun, and challenging event that’s not for the faint of heart. Participants start out sprinting through a course with crazy obstacles and terrain that includes mud, snow, and ice. The ultimate finish includes a climb up and slide down the WinterFest RailJam. The $40 pre-registration fee includes a WinterFest pass, a custom Blackstrap beanie, free beer ticket at the finish line for 21+ participants, and of course, a slide down the RailJam. You can register online or learn more about this super fun event here.

Make Music!

The music at WinterFest is always terrific, but I hope no one minds me saying this looks like the best lineup they’ve ever had. On Friday night, the main stage will feature Larry and His Flask at 7 p.m. followed by MarchFourth Marching Band at 8:30 p.m. Later that night at the Century Center afterparty, Keys N Krates will take the stage at 11 p.m. for a show restricted to ages 21+. Saturday’s lineup is just as impressive, with MOsley WOtta kicking things off at the main stage at 7 p.m., followed by The Coup at 8:30 p.m. The Century Center afterparty that night will feature Buck 65 at 11 p.m. All shows are included with the price of your WinterFest pass, which can be purchased for $5 at OnPoint Community Credit Union in advance or $8 at the gate. Get the scoop on where to get your pass right here.

Fun for the Young’uns

Are the kids disappointed because you can’t make it up to the mountain? WinterFest will bring the mountain to you!

The Kids Snow Games area is a large “snow-box” where kids can make snowmen, snow angels, and frolic to their heart’s desire. The area is packed with oodles of snow toys, and REI will make a life-sized igloo and offer interactive demonstrations throughout the weekend. If you’re in more of a “look but don’t touch” mode, don’t forget to check out the snow sculptures at every WinterFest entrance. You can also watch the ice carving shows on Friday evening and Saturday morning, or check out the sculptures anytime after that.

Did Someone Say Wine?

I confess, this is the WinterFest feature I’m most excited about. From 5-9 p.m. on Friday, the Shops in the Old Mill will be transformed into a mecca for fine wines. For just $15 with your WinterFest pass (or $20 without) you’ll get a commemorative wine glass and ten tasting tickets. Stroll between the shops and sample fabulous wines. The event is sponsored by Trinchero Family Estates (the guys responsible for Ménage à Trois and lots of other great wines) so know the selections will be good. Bottoms up!

The inside of the Sun Bar, Mt. Bachelor's new "umbrella bar" near Sunrise Lodge.

This is great news for the snow enthusiasts among you. I have to confess, I’m not much of a skier. That didn’t stop me from having an amazing time at Mt. Bachelorlast Sunday (where, for the record, it didn’t stop snowing once in eight hours).

I’ve heard lots of buzz about cool things happening at Mt. Bachelor this winter, so I wanted to scope out a few of them for myself. Here’s the skinny:

Put an umbrella in it!

Everyone’s talking about the new “umbrella bar” near the Sunrise Lodge at Mt. Bachelor. At first, I was confused. Umbrella drinks? Like piña coladas?

The scrumptious bloody mary at the Sun Bar.

Er, not exactly. The Sun Bar is an Austrian-made structure with glass walls and a retractable umbrella ceiling for sunny days. It’s one of only 20 in the United States, and seats 40 to 50 people.

It was snowing sideways the day I dropped by, so the umbrella stayed firmly in place and the heaters stayed cranked. The place was packed, but not uncomfortably so. The Sun Bar felt cozy and familiar and within five minutes, everyone around me had made friendly introductions and started chattering about bloody marys.

There’s a reason for the chatter. Bachelor has long been rumored to have the best bloody mary in town, a theory I was happy to test. WOW! Made with Mazama Infused Pepper Vodka and topped off with celery, olives, and pickled asparagus, this is by far one of the most scrumptious drinks I’ve had in a long time. It was perfect paired with their barbecue chicken sliders and a Caesar salad, and I devoured the whole thing before capping it off with a scrumptious hot drink called Chai Haze.

All in all, I was delighted with the Sun Bar, and definitely plan to return when spring skiing arrives. Maybe they’ll let me work the umbrella?

Kids ski free (and not just the little ones!)

When most businesses advertise free anything for kids, you usually check the fine print. Kids under six? Ten? Two? At Mt. Bachelor, anyone 18 and under counts as a kid. You read that right. With a parent purchase of a multi-day lift ticket, accompanying dependent kids get a free lift ticket. You need to snag the tickets online at least four days in advance, but there are no blackout dates or restrictions.

The snow at Mt. Bachelor just keeps coming!

Mt. Bachelor is the only resort in North America offering such a generous promotion, so be sure to jump on it while you can. Check out the Visit Bend site for information on the special and for deals on Ski and Stay packages.

Is it fast up here, or is it just me?

Mt. Bachelor invested $3.5 million in improvements prior to this ski season, and one of the projects involved upgrades to lift systems and grooming equipment. The result? More speed!

Skyliner, Northwest, and Summit Express lifts all got new drives and motors. Bachelor also added three new grooming machines, two of which are state-of-the-art Prinoth Bison Xs that give Mt. Bachelor’s terrain builders greater control over the shape and design of park features.

All this adds up to faster lift rides, better slopes, and more fun for you.

Can I get another bloody mary to celebrate?

There’s a funny phenomenon with the restaurants. Though their menus boast a huge array of selections, locals become fiercely loyal to one dish. We may sample the variety, but we always circle back to our favorite.

Knowing this information might be handy for visitors, I polled my Visit Bend colleagues for their top “I can’t quit you” dishes at local restaurants. Here’s what they had to say:

Kevney Dugan, Director of Sales & Sports Development

Kevney Dugan

I’m a big fan of the Jambalaya at Zydeco Kitchen and Cocktails in downtown Bend. This is a hearty, real meal best saved for when you’re very hungry. The jambalaya includes shrimp, andouille sausage, and crawfish served with rice and homemade cornbread. Some places have jambalaya that’s more on the soupy side, but this isn’t one of those. It’s extremely hearty with plenty of rice and a good kick of spice without being overpowering. It goes great with a local IPA!

Valerie Warren, Operations Manager

Valerie Warren

I’ve recently switched to a gluten-free diet, which means my dining options can be a bit limited. Longboard Louie’s offers a gluten-free, paleo-friendly meal with their Low-Carb Bowl. Here’s how it works: you pick as many fillings as you like from a list that includes lettuce, cabbage, green pepper, spinach, tomatoes, cheese, onions, pickled jalapeño, cilantro, and salsa. Next, you choose a protein from a list that includes a good variety of meat, fish, chicken, and vegetarian options. Last, you pick as many toppings as you like – guac, sour cream, enchilada sauce, or chipotle dressing. Voila! Instant meal, either in a small bowl or a large one. My favorite low-carb bowl includes buffalo, spinach, lettuce, cilantro, pico de gallo, peppers, and mushrooms. Then I hit the salsa bar for their pineapple and mango blend or the fire roasted tomato salsa. You can order this at either their Westside location or on the east side of Bend, so it’s handy no matter where you’re staying.

Lisa Sidor, Visitor Information Specialist

Lisa Sidor

The Caribbean Benedict at the Victorian Café is my go-to choice.  It’s all I’ve ever ordered.  It’s large enough that I can take half home, and have my mouth-watering favorite another day.  It features Cuban seasoned ham, mango, black beans and cilantro with two poached eggs on a grilled English muffin with house-made hollandaise sauce. It’s served with homestyle potatoes or applesauce. I usually get the applesauce, which is homemade and has big chunks of apple and plenty of cinnamon, but the potatoes are terrific, too!

Tawna Fenske, Communications Manager (and blog queen!)

Tawna Fenske

Toomies in downtown Bend is one of my favorite lunch spots, especially when I’m craving warm and spicy Thai cuisine. I’ve tried at least half the items on their extensive menu, but I always seem to circle back to their Green Curry Chicken. It’s the perfect blend of green pepper, eggplant, chicken, bean sprouts, and a scrumptious, spicy coconut broth. The lunch special comes with rice, salad, and a noodle side dish, and it’s large enough that I always end up with leftovers.

One of my most beloved breakfast spots is Alpenglow Café, and though I’m always tempted by the other scrumptious options on their menu, I can’t seem to shake my love for Zeus’s Favorite Frittata. It’s made with fresh oregano, kalamata olives, caramelized onions, fresh tomatoes, feta, cream cheese and scallions and served with a side of Alpenglow’s amazing home fries. You also get your choice of fruit, toast, or their unbelievable coffee cake. It’s the perfect winter breakfast. Or spring breakfast. Or summer. Or…

You can see why I was nervous when someone suggested blogging about ice skating in Central Oregon. I haven’t skated since I was 12, and I wasn’t sure my 37-year-old bones could handle it.

As it turned out, I had nothing to fear. Though I stumbled once or twice, I’m incapable of going fast enough to damage much. Not only that, I discovered ice skating makes the perfect winter outing for fun-seekers of all ages and fitness levels.

My first stop was the ice rink at Seventh Mountain Resort. It’s an outdoor rink right on resort property, which makes it a convenient stop after sipping a fortifying glass of wine in the adjacent Rim Rock Bar. Since I was there with two Visit Bend colleagues, the experience seemed more like a girls’ night out than work.

Communications Manager (and blog writer) Tawna Fenske (left) and Marketing Director Lynnette Braillard on the ice rink at Seventh Mountain Resort.

We rented our skates on site for $6 a pair, paid the $8 per person admission, and headed onto the ice. Though my colleagues are skiers familiar with the sensation of sliding around on a frozen surface, my winter activities are more subdued. On a good day, I like snowshoeing. Most days, I’m partial to sipping a glass of wine by the fire while someone else shovels my driveway. I feared neither made me well-equipped for ice skating, but was pleased to discover otherwise.

I made my first lap clinging desperately to the rail around the edge, but by my second lap, I was all hands-free. Before I knew it, I was gliding around like a pro. OK, maybe not like a pro, but at least not like a person with two broken legs.

(Incidentally, I learned U.S. Figure Skating Champion Tonya Harding was at the resort the same time we were, though we didn’t cross paths on the ice. Bummer).

The rink at Seventh Mountain Resort is large, the ice well-tended, and the overall experience was a fantastically good time. That’s probably why I decided to try again.

I wanted to offer a more family-friendly perspective on the ice skating experience, so I summoned my significant other and his two children (ages 6 and 10). On New Year’s Eve, we made the short 15 minute trek to Redmond, where they recently installed a brand new ice rink in the middle of downtown.

The rink is operated by the city’s Parks & Rec department, which makes it an extremely budget-friendly option for families. Our foursome paid a whopping $12 family rate for skates and admission for all of us. Individuals pay $4 for skate rental and admission, or $1 if you bring your own skates.

The Redmond ice skating rink on New Year's eve.

The rink isn’t as large as at Seventh Mountain Resort, but it’s still plenty big. Though it was the first time either kid had been ice skating, the 10-year-old had roller bladed before and took off like he was born wearing skates. The 6-year-old required a little more hand-holding at first, but within an hour, she was maneuvering herself from wall to wall and gliding for long stretches without any assistance.

I’d like to brag that these are highly skilled children with superior physical capabilities, which may be true. Still, it was clear from watching other young skaters that this is something young’uns take to naturally. It’s a perfect family outing even for those who’ve never tried it before. Be prepared — public restrooms are across the street, and there’s no snack-bar on site, so take care of the little ones’ needs before arriving.

Another ice skating option is the ice rink at Sunriver Resort, which is a recently-remodeled outdoor facility with a nice roof over the top. Where weather might be a prohibitive factor in Redmond or Seventh Mountain, skaters in Sunriver can dodge rain and snow. For rates and hours of operation, visit them online.

As you might imagine, ice skating is subject to temperatures being low enough to actually keep the ice frozen. Be sure to check the links for each venue for hours and weather-related closures.

On that note, I’ll leave you with a short video from our evening at the Redmond rink. Looks like fun, doesn’t it?

Mission accomplished! Bend’s refreshing lack of the soggy stuff is so noticeable, I find myself enjoying the rare occasions it does rain.

But I can sympathize with those who flee the valley for a dry vacation and end up here during one of our rare rainy periods. With that in mind, here are some of my favorite rainy day activities in Bend:

Indoor recreation

Hanging out in a Skeleton Cave with Wanderlust Tours.

Even when it’s pouring outside, it’s always dry underground! Wanderlust Tours is in high demand for snowshoe tours this time of year, but their Lava Cave Tour is the perfect option for drizzly afternoons. This half-day tour kicks off twice a day at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. The caves are a constant 45-degrees, and each tour is led by an uber-knowledgeable naturalist guide.

Since Wanderlust is the only guide company permitted in these lava caves, you’ll get glimpses of rock formations and landscapes you’d never see on your own. The tours are $55 for adults and $50 for kids under 12, and include your guide, gear, and instruction.

If underground exploration isn’t your thing, consider a visit to Cascade Indoor Sports. They’re offering special holiday hours for indoor skating, which means you can plan your skating for afternoon or evening. The $8 general admission includes skate rental, or skate for just $5 if you bring your own equipment. Kids 5-8 skate for $5, or it’s free for those under 5.

For more good times with the family, check out Sun Mountain Fun Center. Choose from bowling, arcade games, billiards, or bumper cars. In between cloudbursts, you can even take a shot at mini-golf. I’m a big fan of the pizza they serve in the café, and they also serve beer and wine for the adults.

Be a little lazy

The saltwater soaking pool at McMenamins is a divine indulgence on a dreary day.

Few things feel better on a lazy, rainy day than a dip in the soaking pool at McMenamins Old St. Francis School. Semi-enclosed in shimmering turquoise tile work, this lovely, non-chlorinated saltwater pool makes for a lovely (and buoyant!) soak. You can admire the stained glass window or watch the rain fall through the open ceiling.

The pool is free for overnight guests, or just $5 for non-guests. It’s open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. for the general public, with slightly different hours for minors or hotel guests. Don’t forget to grab a pint of suds in the Fireside Bar before you leave, or make an evening of it by curling up on one of their theatre sofas and catching a movie.

When you’ve had your fill of McMenamins, it’s time for a bit of shopping. Downtown Bend offers a fabulous mix of new architecture and restored buildings housing art galleries, boutiques, restaurants, gift and specialty stores. Bend’s Old Mill District has an abundance of restaurants and an appealing blend of local shops and large chain stores. You can also check out the Bend Factory Outlets on the south end of town, or head north to shop ‘til you drop at the Cascade Village Shopping Center.

Oh, and don’t forget to fortify your lazy soul with comfort food and tasty beverages. The Goody’s Ice Cream Factory Tours offer a great chance to see the inner-workings of this Central Oregon sweet-spot and sample some delicious treats. At $2 for anyone over 3, it’s a pretty sweet deal! For the grown-ups in the group, a trip around the Bend Ale Trail offers a chance to sample some amazing craft beer and earn prizes for visiting all the local breweries.

See the sights without getting soaked

Rainy afternoons are the perfect time to scope out a museum, and Bend has some great ones. See a wide range of animals and artifacts at the High Desert Museum, where there’s always a cool selection of new exhibits. I always time my visits around 2 p.m. when I’m sure to see the lynx and the bobcat wide awake and waiting for lunch.

The Des Chutes Historical Museum in downtown Bend offers history buffs a chance to connect with the region’s heritage. Learn about Native American tribes, fur traders, homesteaders, and loggers, and learn why Bend was a great place to live even before every car had a kayak strapped to the top.

The Orb I sculpture looks even cooler in the rain, we swear!

If you’re interested in Bend’s vibrant art scene, pick up a Roundabout Art Route map. The Roundabout Art Route is a collection of over 20 pieces of public art on display throughout the city at the center of Bend’s traffic circles. It’s sponsored by Art in Public Places, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing art to the community of Bend. In 2005, Americans for the Arts honored these sculptures as being among the most innovative approaches to public art in the country.

Some of the sculptures look especially lovely on drizzly days. My favorite is Orb I at the corner of Mt. Washington and Skyliner Road, and you’re bound to see more detail when the piece is covered in dew or frost.

You can pick up the map at the Bend Visitor Center and do the route at your own pace, answering trivia questions to earn a fabulous prize. For a guided tour, GETIT Shuttle offers Roundabout Art Route tours like the Bend Art Safari and the Roundabout Art Rodeo daily. If you prefer your art with a glass of wine, The Well Traveled Fork’s Roundabout Bend culinary and art tour is a delicious choice.

No matter how you opt to spend your rainy day in Bend, you’re sure to have a great time. Now get out there—or in there—and have some fun!

I made the mistake of saying this in front of two kids, and was reminded some people still believe Santa is solely in charge of stockings.

If you’re one of those people, I apologize in advance for this post. Or how about we just pretend the following list is a handy shopping guide for the big man himself?

Below, I give you my top ten favorite Bend-friendly stocking stuffers under $25.

1)      The Ruffle Scarf by Utilitu Sewing & Design ($24). I spotted these for sale at Clutch: A Handbag Boutique in downtown Bend and knew I had to have one. Er, I mean I knew I had to generously buy one for my mother. And grandmother. And best friend. They’re stylish, flirty, crafted by a talented local designer, and sold by another fab local business. What more could you want?

2)      The Silipint silicone drinking glass ($10.95). The world’s first and only silicone drinking glass is guaranteed unbreakable and safe for dishwasher, microwave, freezer, and for thwaping people on the forehead after they drink your last beer. I have two at home, and love how well they insulate my ice water. This is a great Bend-based company, and you can even snag a Silipint with a Bend logo.

3)      Token cards from Common Table ($10). A few weeks ago, we shared how this wonderful local restaurant is committed to feeding everyone whether they roll up in a Mercedes or stroll through the door without a dime. While the tokens make great gifts for anyone who wants a delicious meal, they’re great to offer up to that person you see holding a little cardboard sign in the mall parking lot. You know the recipient will get a wholesome meal, and you know your money is going to an excellent cause.

4)      Handmade wooden wine stoppers from Ginger’s Kitchenware ($16). Crafted by a Bend artist, these handy hardwood wine stoppers are just perfect for the wine lover in your life. What better way to preserve that tasty bottle of Swingin’ Zin from Bend’s own Maragas Winery?

5)      Bike chain picture frame from Resource Revival ($18). For the cycling enthusiast in the family, you can’t beat these recycled bike chain photo frames. Feather’s Edge Finery in downtown Bend sells the small round frames for a little bit less than you’ll pay online, plus you can browse other items like bottle openers ($10) and key chains ($4) made from recycled bike parts.

6)      Hydro Flask water bottles ($24). Here’s another innovative Bend business crafting the perfect stocking stuffer. These Double-wall insulated, BPA free, stainless steel bottles are perfect for beverages at any temperature. You can order online, or snag one with a Bend logo at the Bend Visitor Center. They’re $24 for the 18 ounce size, or $28 for the 24 ouncer.

7)      The After Mountain Skincare Gift Set from Angelina’s ($17.14). This Bend-based company specializes in luscious organic bath and body products. The treats in this set are aimed at soothing chapped skin and sore muscles after a hard day of snow-play. You get a 1.7 ounce Sore Muscle Rub, a 2 ounce Sunburn Smoothie, and a .5 ounce Skin Doctor. Best of all, it’s on sale right now for $17.14 (a savings of $6.71 off the regular price).

8)      Handmade ornament from Bend’s sister city ($10). Nicaragua is the second poorest country in the western hemisphere, and Bend happens to have a sister city in Condega. Craftsmen there created these lovely wood ornaments to help fund school supplies for the town’s children. Buy one, buy a dozen, but know your money is going to a fabulous cause – help a sista out! Pick one up at the Bend Visitor Center or online here.

9)      Cool shades from Blackstrap ($12.99). These trendy sunglasses are made even more fabulous by their low price and the fact that you can nab them in a wide array of colors. Since it’s a Bend-based company, The Bend Visitor Center sells a version with a Bend logo for all your gift-giving needs.

10)  Gift box of 9 truffles from Jem Raw chocolate company ($24.99).  For the chocoholic in your life, Bend-based Jem Raw specializes in healthy chocolate made with raw, organic ingredients. They’re gluten-free and made without dairy, soy, or processed sugar. Oh, and they’re ridiculously tasty. The gift box includes a variety of truffles, including their amazingly scrumptious Oregon Hazelnut Mint. You can shop online, or find them at a variety of local Bend shops.

So that’s it for my favorite Bend-friendly stocking stuffers. How about you? Got any great suggestions for $25 or less? Please share!

But some things only come around once a year. If you happen to be in Bend RIGHT NOW (or sometime in the next few weeks) luck is on your side. Here are a few limited-time Bend experiences.

Stuff to see

There’s always something cool happening at the High Desert Museum, from wildlife shows to photography displays. But the exhibit they’re hosting December 17 through January 29 sounds particularly unique.

A quirky Lalooska papoose (say that five times fast!) is one of many never-before-exhibited treasures on display at The High Desert Museum.

Stuff! Quirky Curiosities and Fascinating Finds features a collection of treasures and oddities found deep in the museum’s vault and never exhibited until now. Featured items include native American beaded works, buffalo-head taxidermy, and bizarre instruments of hygiene.

They had me at bizarre.

It’s a great opportunity to see unusual treasures the museum has never displayed before, and you can read more about it here.

Another family-friendly option is “the train guy” at the Deschutes Public Library.

No joke, the two people who called me about it just referred to him as “the train guy.”

For more than a decade, local train enthusiast Michael Lavrich has set up a giant, active-track display of model trains in the Brooks Room at the downtown library. There’s smoke and tooting whistles and a whole lot of entertainment for all ages.

The display will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday with a short break for lunch, from 12-5 Saturday and Sunday, and again from 10-6 on Monday. This is a local favorite, so give yourself plenty of time to get in and enjoy it.

Stuff to do

You probably want to dress a little more warmly to head out with Cycle Pub this time of year. May we suggest an ugly Christmas sweater?

There’s been a lot of buzz about Bend’s wacky bike bar, and it would be easy to assume things taper off in the chillier months. But that’s just when things heat up for the Cycle Pub of Bend!

Cycle Pub is doing Christmas light tours of Bend, and riders are encouraged to don their favorite ugly Christmas sweaters. Cycle Pub offers special holiday playlists for caroling, and there’s even a route that stops at strategic fire pits along the way. Standard group tour booking ratesapply, and they’re always willing to customize routes to suit your needs.

Starlight snowshoe fun!

For another fun way to see Bend sights in style, check out the complimentary carriage rides through the Old Mill District. Wagons Ho is stationed between Ben & Jerry’s and O Mo Mo! and riders can hop on there. Tips and donations benefit the Kids Center, and the service is weather dependent. Free carriage rides are offered this Friday and Saturday from 2-5 p.m., and then again December 21-23 from 2-5. Dress warmly, and be prepared to giggle.

If snow-play is more your style, consider booking a Starlight Snowshoe Tour with Wanderlust. These trips are pretty common in winter months, but they usually just take place on weekends. For a limited time, Wanderlust is doing a Starlight Snowshoe Extravaganza. From December 17 through December 30, tours run every night. Special dates like New Year’s are filling fast, so book quickly to get the date you want. Tours are $65 per person, and include guide, snowshoes, instruction, transportation, and hot chocolate.

Stuff to drink

It’s impossible to talk about unique happenings in Bend without discussing the Bend Ale Trail. I might be biased, but I happen to think this is the best time of year to hit the trail. Seasonal brews offer a chance to sample something you may never try again, and they’re available while supplies last.

At 10 Barrel, the Pray for Snow Winter Strong Ale uses eight different specialty malts and a combination of herbal, spicy, and citrus hops. The whole mix spends several months in brandy barrels, making it a tasty winter warmer.

GoodLife Brewing Company just released a new brew called Scottish Heart Scotch Ale. It’s the first collaborative project between two Bend brewers, Tonya Cornett of Bend Brewing Company and Curt Plants of GoodLife. I got to try it last week, and found it deliciously malty and caramely (I can make up words, right?) Supplies are limited, and brewers expect it to hold out through late January.

At McMenamins Old St. Francis School they’re offering their seasonal Kris Kringle Winter Warmer on draught. For the first time ever, they’re also selling it in 22oz bottles. This win­ter warmer highlights the rich, toasty, chocolaty malt flavors with generous amounts of four different hop varieties. There’s still some ginger and cinnamon, but the spices are more subdued than in past years.

Next up, have a taste of the Slippery Slope at Cascade Lakes Brewing Company. This is a full-bodied ale that uses crystal malt and generous amounts of cascade hops to produce a great seasonal ale. It’s on draft and also in 12oz bottles, and should last through the second week of January.

Rudolph’s Imperial Red is the tasty seasonal offering from Three Creeks Brewing Company in Sisters. It’s a big, malty, hoppy red-style ale with ten specialty malts and over twelve pounds of hops. They have it on draft, and expect the taps to run dry sometime in mid-January.

So did I miss anything? What’s your favorite seasonal experience in Bend? Please share!

That’s a bit like saying, “I love breathing air.”

I’ll admit it, I’m a wine freak with a well-stocked wine cabinet and a fondness for trekking to the Willamette Valley for winery tours and tastings.

While Bend lacks the plethora of vineyards, it does have a robust wine culture with ample wine shops and wine-related events guaranteed to pull your cork.

My favorite recent addition to the mix is the 5 for $50 Wine Dinner Series at Tetherow Golf Club & Resort.

Here’s the skinny: you  pay $50 for a five-course gourmet dinner prepared by Tetherow’s uber-talented executive chef. Every dish he creates is carefully crafted to pair with one of five wines served by the evening’s sponsor winery.

When I first heard about it, I pictured teeny-tiny bites of food offered with a thimbleful of wine. Uh, no. We’re talking a full-on meal here, with more wine than you can politely drink in good company.

The night I attended, I got to enjoy courses like lemon crusted steelhead with steamed potatoes, GoodLife beer blanc, and grilled zucchini. The chef concocted this dish after tasting the 2007 Chateu St. Jean Sonoma Pinot Noir, and I have to tell you it was one of the best wine/food pairings I’ve ever tried.

It was rivaled by the fourth course, which was a duck confit with white wine fettuccini, peas, sautéed Brussels sprouts, and a thyme cream sauce paired with the 2006 Chateau St. Jean Sonoma Merlot.

There were other pairings that included varietals like chardonnay and fume blanc, ensuring the white wine drinkers in the group had plenty to enjoy, too. The chef knows what he’s doing when it comes to creating dishes that perfectly complement each wine, and it was apparent from the comments of my fellow diners I wasn’t the only one who noticed.

The cool thing about these dinners is that they’re not your typical, stuffy, uptight wine event. Everything is served family style at big tables, which allows you to get to know your dining companions over the course of the evening. There’s plenty of time for chatting and mingling, though those who prefer a less social scene can easily sequester themselves at the end of a table or perhaps pretend to speak only Yiddish.

One thing you need to know is that every single one of these dinners has sold out thus far. Make your reservations quickly if you want to attend the December 13 dinner featuring Archery Summit & Pine Ridge, or the January 4 dinner featuring Four Vines. The dinners will continue monthly after that, so call 541-388-2582 ext. 120 for dates and featured wineries.

Oh, and so you know it’s not just me blowing smoke up your skirt about the quality of dining at Tetherow, they just won two categories in Central Oregon Magazine’s readers’ choice awards – Best Dining with a View, and Best Place for a Cocktail. Congrats, guys!

Save a glass of celebratory wine for me, OK?

But maybe you’re looking for something beyond the typical dining experience. Something that allows you to eat great food in a cozy environment while supporting a worthy cause and coming together with people from different walks of life.

Cheers to Common Table from the Visit Bend crew!

Sounds like a tall order for one restaurant, but that’s what Common Table is all about.

First things first – there have been some misunderstandings about this place since it opened a couple years ago. Common Table is not a soup kitchen or a food bank. It’s a non-profit organization that serves extraordinary food to everyone, regardless of ability to pay. Theoretically, someone could pull up in a Mercedes and sit down to dinner with a guy who lives in his Buick.

Sounds strange, but not the way Manager Damon Gautoma explains it. “This is the time we all come back together,” he said. “The human family can join together and enjoy a meal.”

It might seem like lip service from some, but not from a guy like Damon who stood before our assembled group with tears in his eyes and shared his struggles with poverty. When people drop by and request a “grace bowl” – a free meal – Damon understands what a humbling experience that can be.

“It makes you so vulnerable to have to say, ‘I can’t afford to feed myself,’” he explained.

If you’re thinking the free meal consists of a cheese sandwich on stale Wonderbread, think again. The food here is designed to be nourishing and delicious. Picture homestyle comfort food with a gourmet flair.

The scrumptious roasted veggie salad at Common Table.

For paying customers, the prices are perfectly reasonable, with everything priced at $10 or less. I ordered the Gourmet Grilled Cheese sandwich, which was a concoction of fresh-baked local bread with a three cheese blend for $7. It was cooked to perfection, with a side of hearty chili that was the ideal balance of flavors and texture.

That was tons of food right there, but since my eyes are always bigger than my stomach, I also ordered the Roasted Vegetable Salad. It’s a mix of lettuces topped with roasted cauliflower, red onion, corn, and bell pepper, along with a sprinkling of mandarin oranges. The flavors were a lovely blend, and the salad large enough to share between two people for just $8.

Several others at the table ordered the burger, which consists of 1/2 pound of fresh, local ground beef, caramelized onions and garlic aioli on brioche bun for $9.50. A Visit Bend staffer described it as, “one of the best hamburgers in Bend,” which I can believe. The same volunteer added, “This is unlike any restaurant in Bend. The mission is so laudable that you can not only fill your stomach, you can fill your soul.”

I couldn’t have said it better myself.

I won’t lie, the service here isn’t speedy. The thing is, you hardly notice. You’re so busy chatting and sipping tasty craft beer from local breweries, that you almost forget you’re waiting to be fed. Common Table isn’t about stuffing your face as fast as you can – it’s about savoring the experience, and helping a good cause while you do it.

Besides supporting Common Table by dining there, people can help in other ways. There’s a chalkboard near the front counter that lists items they need for donation. You can opt to volunteer for a shift in the kitchen or dining room. You can donate money outright, or purchase meal tokens for others. For more information, visit Common Table online or stop by the restaurant to enjoy a truly tasty meal for your belly with a little something extra for your heart.