Good morning, Bend.

United Way of Central Oregon (UWCO) has launched the CARES Collection Drive this holiday season to gather essential items for local families facing financial strain.

Donation drop-offs are available at banks and credit unions in Bend and Redmond.

Throughout 2025, several Central Oregon restaurants closed, with venues such as Domaine Serene Wine Lounge and Nome Italiano replaced by new dining concepts including Amaterra Kitchen and Social Club and an upcoming restaurant at 900 Wall (opening date pending).

The changes mark a transformative year for the local culinary scene.

Bend’s oldest restaurant, The Pine Tavern, founded in 1936, will celebrate its 90th anniversary in 2026 — it is known for its happy hour menu, holiday feasts and famed fry bread style scones served after 5 p.m.

The Bulletin launched its series on joy yesterday, sharing insights from St. Charles Health chaplain Scott Johnson + OSU-Cascades professor Dennis Lynn as they explore how meaningful connections help people find relief during challenging times.

First graders at Ponderosa Elementary performed an abbreviated version of The Nutcracker in the school gym, drawing cheerful reactions from parents and older students.

Meanwhile, students from Silver Rail and Bend Technical Academy express their joy through art, soccer, and creative projects + a gingerbread building event is planned for Friday.

North Unit Irrigation District is upgrading its decades-old fish screen at its main canal diversion in Bend, which will cause temporary road closures — increased congestion along north Division St. The $11 million project is scheduled to start after the holidays and continue until June 2027.

Former Bend High softball star Addisen Fisher coached youth pitchers at Bend Fieldhouse Monday (sharing tips from her state title run) and is set to join the SEC at Georgia after transferring from UCLA.

Mt. Bachelor opened today to welcome skiers and snowboarders with a banner breakthrough at 9 a.m., free cake, beer plus music at Rock Bar at 10:30 a.m., and a toast at 11 a.m. The resort requires an Uphill Pass on early season conditions with snow showers expected after noon.

Christmas in July with Central Oregon Holiday Toy Drive Santa

Central Oregon Holiday Toy Drive has taken over for the Toys for Tots which has suspended operations in Central Oregon and Marines from MCL 1308 with support from Summit Health are taking over with our Santa on the 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st of July and 7 of August every Thursday at 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm BRING A TOY PLEASE its needed

Tony Smiley Live Performance

7 p.m. — McMenamins Old St. Francis School — Cost Info Not Provided — Experience a vibrant evening of live music from Tony Smiley.

JuJu Eyeball New Year's Celebration

8-10 p.m. — The Commonwealth Pub — Ticket information not provided — Celebrate the year's end with live Beatles tunes from Bend's very own JuJu Eyeball.

Sunday Swim: Cold Plunge in the Deschutes

7:30-8:00 a.m. — Riverbend Park — Free entry — Start your Sunday with a refreshing cold plunge in the beautiful Deschutes River for an energizing morning experience.

Beertown Comedy Open Mic

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Silver Moon Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy a hilarious night of local comedy at Bend's favorite open mic night.

New Year’s Eve 2026 Celebration with Watkins Glen

9 p.m. — McMenamins Old St. Francis School — $28 — Celebrate the New Year with live music, specialty cocktails, and a midnight champagne toast.

Gino Vannelli Concert

8-10 p.m. — Oxford Hotel Bend — Ticket price unknown — Experience the timeless jazz vocals of Gino Vannelli at this unique venue.

Certified Irrigation Contractor (CIC) Class

8 AM - 4 PM — Ewing Outdoor Supply — Exam registration required (additional fee) — Gain essential skills for irrigation contract execution with provided lunch.

Bend Thirsty Third Thursday Networking

4-6 p.m. — The Cellar — First drink free for registered attendees — Network with design and construction professionals in a relaxed atmosphere.

Maxwell Friedman Group Concert

7 p.m. — McMenamins Old St. Francis School — $19.25 — Enjoy an evening of live music in a vibrant local venue.

CORK Mom Squad Running Group

9-10 a.m. — Miller's Landing Park — Free entry — A welcoming running group for moms of all running levels to connect and share experiences while staying active.