The festive season is upon us! And is there anything better than holidays at the beach in Pacific County? Our small-town vibes and charming local events provide the perfect place to create new traditions. With so many exciting experiences and cozy places to fill your cup, we want to share a few things to look forward to.
Gather ‘Round the Holiday Table
One of our favorite ways to fill our holiday hearts is to fill our bellies. When you celebrate your holidays at the beach in Pacific County, the festive flavors of your seasonal meals take on a whole new meaning.
Photo Courtesy of: Stephanie Forrer
Enjoy a classic Thanksgiving affair with peninsula favorites. A preset Thanksgiving brunch will take place at The Depot Restaurant. Fantastic feasts are happening at Shelburne Pub, Pickled Fish, and Mycovio’s. Head to South Bend, where Willapa Harbor Chamber of Commerce will host its Community Thanksgiving Dinner. And join us in our cozy pubs, cafes, and restaurants as they serve up seasonal specials.
Seasonal Small-Town Events
One of our favorite ways to spend holidays at the beach in Pacific County is with our hometown holiday events. Something about small-town celebrations makes us feel like we’re in a seaside Hallmark movie.
Photo Courtesy of: Jason Hummel
Holidays at the Beach Weekend in Long Beach
Holidays at the Beach weekend in Pacific County is one extravaganza you don’t want to miss. A fun-filled and free family weekend of activities awaits. Catch holiday movies at the Neptune Theater. Join in on the Santa Sunset 5k or Reindeer Trot. Enjoy a puppet show and meet Santa. Capture the holiday spirit with the tree lighting and Christmas caroling. And in true seaside fashion, we’ll have our Holiday Mermaid meet-and-greet.
Annual Crab Pot Christmas Celebration in Ilwaco
One of our favorite traditions during the holidays at the beach is the annual crab pot Christmas tree lighting. Every year, the City of Ilwaco and the Ilwaco Merchants Association ring in the holidays with their yearly crab pot tree lighting. Our beloved crab pots are stacked and tracked with glorious lights to celebrate our maritime holiday heritage. Complete with Santa and the “World’s Shortest Firework Display,” you won’t want to miss this charming Pacific County tradition.
Fireside Inn Christmas Celebration in Long Beach
The darling Fireside Inn is known for its seasonal celebrations. Join them for crackling fireplaces, hot cocoa, and photo opportunities with Santa. Pajama-wearing is encouraged!
Ocean Park’s Community Tree Lighting
Take part in hot cocoa, coffee, and photo ops in Santa’s Workshop at the Fire Hall at Ocean Park’s Community Tree Lighting. Kick off the festivities with a parade followed by Santa’s arrival to do the honorary tree lighting.
Water Music Society Christmas Concert in Chinook
Enjoy musical holidays at the beach in Pacific County at the Water Music Society’s Christmas Concert in Chinook. Treats, beverages, and wine blend with joyful music. You’ll immerse yourself in the music of George Mitchell, a touring pianist for Diana Ross, and Greta Matassa, an award-winning jazz vocalist, for an evening of magical melodies.
Shop for Your Loved Ones
If you’re spending your holidays at the beach in Pacific County, then we know you’ll be stocking up on stocking stuffers during your stay. Finding the treasures that remind you of loved ones is much sweeter when you shop locally. Stores like Alder + Co. are brimming with lovingly crafted items everywhere you turn. Are you thinking of engaging in Jolabokaflod, the Icelandic tradition of giving books to read? Visit Time Enough Books and stock up on tomes for your true love. And don’t forget a stop at Boondocks Marketplace for trinkets in South Bend. We have no shortage of makers and artists on our shores. In addition to our small businesses, our holiday markets and bazaars are also buzzing.
Peninsula Artisans Market
Peninsula Artisans Market is an indoor market featuring local artisans, crafters, and bakers. Find the perfect seaside trinket to bring home to your loved ones.
Holiday Bazaar in Chinook
The historic Chinook School Event Center will be hosting its Holiday Bazaar. Local artists and makers will be showcasing a plethora of present options. And remember to grab a seasonal treat and photo with Santa.
8th Annual Handmade Bazaar
The Sou’wester Historic Lodge & Vintage Travel Trailer Resort is throwing their 8th Annual Handmade Bazaar. Local vendors will be sharing their handcrafted treasures, which make incredible gifts. New this year will be the addition of more vendors at the Ilwaco Artworks.
Ilwaco Holiday Market
Ilwaco’s Holiday Market takes all the fun of their long-running Saturday market and gives it a seasonal spin. Art, food, local produce, and merriment take place at Salt Hotel & Pub on the picturesque waterfront of the Port.
Holidays at the Beach in Pacific County
Photo Courtesy of: Jason Hummel
We couldn’t be more thankful for our holidays at the beach in Pacific County. Discover our coast and create your new holiday traditions in our cozy coastal towns. There’s always a chair at our tables waiting for you.
By: Danelle Dodds
Danelle is an international traveler, road tripper, writer, and artist. She firmly believes in testing the limits of word count, mileage, and AYCE sushi.