— from the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau —
Why not stay home or visit a neighboring island to ring in the season? Eastsound Village Green, Lopez Village and Friday Harbor will all sparkle during their signature lighting events with singing by local choirs, cookies and hot cider to brighten spirits. There’s so much to do during the Island Lights Festival and beyond, with holiday plays and concerts; wine tastings and dinners; special restaurant and lodging packages and more. Take a walk on a stormy beach, cozy up to glass of local wine by the fire, or get a rejuvenating massage. Shop small-scale at artisans’ fairs, boutiques, galleries and independent bookstores for one-of-a-kind gifts.
For the first time ever, the San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau is running a small campaign to entice visitors here during November and December – our quiet season. Visitors are invited to: “Make everyday a celebration in November and December. Savor the simple pleasures of carolers, tree lightings, quiet bookstores, uncrowded shops featuring local artists and artisans, and snug firesides. Make the San Juan Islands your personal holiday retreat.” Find more suggestions for a Cozy Island Holiday on our “Featured Itineraries” section at www.visitsanjuans.com.
Orcas Island Events:
• Holiday Tree Lighting on the Village Green & Santa, Dec. 4
• Orcas Choral Society Holiday Concert, Dec. 5
• Artisan’s Faire, Dec. 5-6
• Orcas Island Chamber Music Festival – Leaves of Gold, Dec. 10 -11
Lopez Island Events:
• Lopez Village Holiday Lighting & Gathering, Nov. 27
Friday Harbor/San Juan Island Events:
• Artisans Holiday Marketplace, Nov. 27-28
• San Juan Vineyards Holiday Wine Tasting, Nov. 28
• WaterWorks Holiday Show, Nov. 28 – Jan. 3
• San Juan Historical Museum Old-Fashioned Christmas Celebration, Dec. 3
• Tree Lighting & Caroling, Dec. 4
• Holiday Social at English Camp, Dec. 15
• Island Stage Left “Christmas Memories”, Dec. 17-24
• Lighted Boat Parade & Santa’s Arrival, Dec. 19
Additional holiday events and specials, as they are added, may be found at: https://www.visitsanjuans.com/events/island-lights-holiday-events-specials. Dropbox photos: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/56nqkr7rrhyofan/AADYai6SQyIHfcORtj7oW0Qaa?dl=0
**If you are reading theOrcasonian for free, thank your fellow islanders. If you would like to support theOrcasonian CLICK HERE to set your modestly-priced, voluntary subscription. Otherwise, no worries; we’re happy to share with you.**
Please attend the Holiday Faire at the Orcas Senior Center this Saturday, Nov. 28, from 10a-4p! We are thrilled to kick-off the season with this wonderful annual event!!!
San Juan Island Vistor’s Bureau: Please know the Orcas Island Community Band’s annual holiday concert is Saturday, December 12 at 2:00pm at Orcas Center. Admission by donation and free dessert party afterwards for all in the audience! Come tap your toes, clap and sing with the Band.