Although the winter season hasn’t officially begun, temperatures in Siskiyou around this time are normally from the mid-20s to the low-50s, with snow likely during the week.
With those brisk temperatures come plenty of winter events throughout California’s northernmost region. Below you’ll find a selection of fun and exciting activities that are perfect for the whole family. Don’t lose those paid time-off hours you’ve worked so hard to earn all year; plan a week or more in our world-class outdoor recreation destination, enjoy the fun events and leave time to see the awe-inspiring wilderness known as Siskiyou.
WINTER FEST
As a way to give back to the community, the McCloud Chamber of Commerce is hosting Winter Fest each Saturday from Dec. 2-16. The family-friendly events will take place in and around downtown McCloud.
Highlights of the Dec. 2 “Kids, Krafts & Kandy Kanes” event include cookie decorating, building gifts in Santa’s workshop, horse-and-carriage rides ($5 per person), face painting, children’s magic shows and a concert by the VOENA children’s choir called “Voices of the Night Before Christmas” (tickets are $12 for adults and $7 for children 12 and under).
On Dec. 9, visit the “Yuletide Bazaar” and find great gift ideas from the merchants and vendors along Main Street. Make sure to attend a tour of 12 houses and churches decorated in their holiday finest, and finish the day with a Victorian Tea hosted by the McCloud Hotel.
During “Holiday Merriment” on Dec. 16, listen to the McCloud Community Christmas Choir as they perform in local churches and inns throughout the day. Horse-and-carriage rides will be offered throughout the day. Start your morning with a character breakfast that will include Santa and Mrs. Claus, the Grinch, Frosty the Snowman and others at the McCloud River B&B (preregistration required), and wrap up the festive day with a “Dickens Dinner” at the Axe & Rose Public House (reservations recommended).
YREKA NIGHT OF LIGHTS 2023
Enjoy an evening of holiday treats and festive events at Yreka Night of Lights 2023: A Verry Merry Miner Street, held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Dec. 2. There will be plenty to do and see, including live street entertainment, a live karaoke band, carolers, artisan craft vendors and children’s activities. The city’s official tree lighting will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the Yreka Volunteer Fire Department. Merchants will be open with fun holiday goodies, so bring the whole family.
CANDLES IN THE CANYON IN DUNSMUIR
The friendly small mountain community of Dunsmuir, situated between tree-covered mountain ridges, will host a celebration of the season on Dec. 9. Candles in the Canyon in Dunsmuir is a free event that includes a community choir singing holiday classics through the festively decorated historic downtown area, a children’s craft area where kids can turn pinecones into snowflakes, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus and the official tree lighting at Pine Avenue Park, located in the center of the town. The joyous event is presented by the Dunsmuir Chamber of Commerce.
IT’S MOVIE TIME!
The weekend of Dec. 16-17 is classic holiday movie time at the Avery Memorial Theatre in Etna. At 5 p.m. on Dec. 16, enjoy Kermit, Miss Piggy and all the gang in the 1992 family favorite, The Muppets Christmas Carol. Then, at 5 p.m. on Dec. 17, see the 2018 animated version of Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch. The 300-seat Avery Theatre, where families have enjoyed many classic movies over the years, is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2023. Movie ticket prices are $10 for adults and $5 for children 5 and under and students with ASB cards.
SHASTA WINTERFEST
The 31st annual Shasta Winterfest will be held Jan. 26-28 at the Holiday Inn Redding. The event is a weekend-long gathering of members and nonmembers of Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon/Alateen. Guest speakers, marathon meetings, resources, merchandise, special events and a prize drawing are part of the memorable event, which is inspired by recovery of many of its attendees. While in Redding, guests can visit great outdoor destinations such as Mt. Shasta Ski Park, Mt. Lassen Volcanic Park and McArthur Burney Falls.
COME FOR A VISIT
Although Siskiyou is known as an adventure seeker’s dream destination – there are many lush forests, amazing waterfalls, caves created by volcanoes and more – the region also features numerous activities that are ideal for families. Sightseeing is one of the most popular activities, and one that makes memories that will last a lifetime. And when you get hungry or thirsty, you’ll find an assortment of wonderful restaurants and other establishments sure to please everyone.
There are plenty of lodging choices in Siskiyou, from hotels to RV parks and everything in between. Come for the holidays, but be sure to stay and experience the beauty that is Siskiyou.