The Nugget Newspaper - Holidays in Sisters 2025 // 2025-12-10
HolidaysSisters
This is the season when we remind ourselves of all we have to be thankful for: the natural beauty that surrounds us; the bonds of a strong community; friends and family who bring us joy. We are also fortunate to live in a community of creative makers, who provide food, gifts, and experiences that offer real meaning and lasting value. Meet them here…
WINTER HAIKU
— By
Daphne Draper —
Sleigh bells flying by Santa delivers presents Snowflakes falling down
Walk into the heart of the holidays: Winter Solstice...14 SHS musicians host holiday showcase...15 High Desert Chorale tradition continues...18 Hearty recipes for cold days...19 Holiday Events...20
Walk into the heart of the holidays: WINTER SOLSTICE
— By T. Lee Brown —
It’s a cold, dark night. The shortest, darkest night of the entire year, to be precise. Under towering pines, people of Sisters Country walk silently, weaving in and among each other, seeming to walk in circles.
They’re actually following a specific design, laid out on the ground among native shrubs and grasses, punctuated by candles.
Last solstice, an out-of-town visitor joined the labyrinth walk for her 50th birthday. After the walk, she wept and wept – for joy, for appreciation of the moment, for marking the big changes of her life with open-hearted strangers. The small-town feeling of friendliness and acceptance was as important as the walk itself.
Their destination? An impressive boulder, sitting at the center of their perambulations. Once they’ve all arrived, a fire is lit.
If all this sounds too serious, never fear: the event is casual and nonreligious. Before the walk, mingling and introductions take place briefly. After the walk, some folks stick around to drink hot cocoa and tea in the park’s sheltered area.
Labyrinth patterns have captured the imagination of human beings since ancient times, all around the world. Sisters Community Labyrinth uses the most famous medieval design, originally laid down on the floor of France’s Chartres Cathedral in the year 1201.
On winter solstice, our labyrinth walkers in Sisters commune with the fire, with each other and the beautiful night. It’s a special moment, one that changes from winter to winter, from person to person.
For one participant, it might simply feel like a calm occasion, a time to peacefully enjoy a short time in nature with fellow locals. Maybe a fun time to chat over cocoa once the walk is over, get to know some neighbors.
For another, the walk is about setting intentions and lighting a candle, a time to meditate or pray.
Others spend the first half of the labyrinth walk – walking toward the center – in contemplation of the previous year. Perhaps they contemplate things they’d like to symbolically let go of in the fire, making room for a whole new year.
Come summer solstice in June, celebrants will sing and drum, blow bubbles and ring bells in broad daylight as they walk the labyrinth, welcoming the hot season to come. For winter? Quiet smiles suit the darkness.
The Winter Solstice Labyrinth Walk takes place Sunday, December 21, 7-8 p.m., at Sisters Community Labyrinth. Dress for warmth and celebration, bring a flashlight, and be sure to wear sturdy shoes. No dogs, alcohol, or smoking please.
The labyrinth, built in 2012 by local folks, sits within Gateway Park and Transportation Hub at the corner of Hwy. 242 & Hwy. 20. The driveway is on West Hood Avenue. It’s free, though the nonprofit labyrinth is always happy to accept donations.
A metal sculpture “finger labyrinth” enables people to participate while sitting in front of the labyrinth instead of walking through it.
More details available online at www.sisterscommunitylabyrinth.org. See you there!
Folks gather at the center of Sisters Community Labyrinth on winter solstice.
PHOTO BY JAN MCGOWAN
The Sisters High School and Sisters Middle School music departments invite the community to bring their holiday spirit and join in the celebration of music at Sisters High School with the annual Holiday Showcase, Tuesday, December 16, 7 p.m., at Sisters High School auditorium. This fun and festive concert will feature bands and choirs from both schools – as well as community members – to celebrate the holiday season.
“The Holiday Showcase lets us demonstrate what we’ve been learning and share a few fun and festive tunes,” said Kayla Golka, Sisters middle/high school band director. Along with lively performances, concertgoers should come eager to help support the music program with a silent auction, raffle, and cookie sales. This concert is one of the only fundraisers for music at both the middle and high schools. A suggested donation of $5 per person is requested at the door. All proceeds will be split between the choir and band programs at both schools. Funds will help support high school students attending competitions and workshops throughout the state. For Sisters Middle School, funds raised will help support purchasing needed percussion equipment and choir
uniforms. Silent auction and raffle items include Hayden Homes Amphitheater concert tickets, a beautiful quilt from Stichin’ Post, a holiday adventure basket, games, puzzles, a karaoke machine, and much more. Choir Director Steven Livingston, who enjoys teaching choir at both Sisters Middle School and Sisters High School, said “working with students at all ages and levels to share the love of music is such an amazing opportunity. Music can add so much to students’ lives – including helping them better understand the importance of being part of a team, hard work, and dedication, and can even improve their creativity and lead to success in other areas of their schoolwork.”
The doors open at 6 p.m. for the silent auction, Sisters Elementary School’s Outlaw Singers will kick off the music performing three songs in the commons at 6:30, then the concert begins in the auditorium at 7 p.m.
For more information on the holiday showcase call 541-549-4045. To make a donation to the music program, mail checks or money orders to Sisters High School, 1700 W. McKinney Butte, Sisters, OR 97759 with “Music Department Donation” noted in the memo line.
Comfort and style are important during the holiday season. At Gypsy Wind Clothing, they go together.
Take, for example, their loungewear, which offers classy, comfortable, allday wear. It’s a step up from your Jammies, but just as comfortable.
Gypsy Wind offers sizes small to 3x across the board, and they specialize in one-size-fits-all items that make your gift-giving pleasantly mistake-proof. There is colorful, comfortable, and fashionable clothing from scarves to shawls to sweaters to hats and more — all at affordable prices. There’s nothing over $100. You can put a lot of check marks on your list — but why not shop for yourself, too, and look fabulous at your holiday parties with something unique and affordable?
Shopping at Gypsy Wind Clothing is an experience. Seeing and touching the fabric gives you a true appreciation for its beauty. Personalized shopping means you can find just what you’re looking for. The folks at Gypsy Wind Clothing love helping men shop for wives, daughters, girlfriends, or moms — and you can always give the gift of a shopping experience at Gypsy Wind with a gift certificate.
PHOTO COURTESY RISE GRAPHIC DESIGN
WINDOWS: Annual
Sisters school tradition is 25 years old
Continued from page 3
put the designs on the windows in black paint,” Warburton told The Nugget. “The kids fill it in with color.”
In many cases, fourth graders are following in the footsteps of siblings who painted a window in the fourth grade.
“It’s kind of a cool family connection,” Warburton said.
That connection is important to the educational philosophy of Sisters schools, who seek to foster a sense of community and belonging in all that they do.
This year, Debbie Ayers joined her son Kayden in painting a window. Debbie painted a window when she was a fourth-grader at Sisters Elementary School.
“She was having a big moment remembering her life as a kid growing up in Sisters,” Warburton said.
All the fourth-grade classes participated, led by Warburton, Mrs. Parsons, Mrs. McMahon, and Mrs. Bearson.
“We had lots of help this year from many amazing parents,” Warburton said. “Mrs. Gunnerson even brought several students from her high school arts class.”
Warburton expressed gratitude to all the Sisters downtown businesses who eagerly participate in what has become a beloved tradition. Many have been involved for 25 years; some are new — and all benefit from the bright cheer brought by happy students and happy parents, sharing in a creative moment.
Where Santa Shops!
High Desert Chorale TRADITION continues
Shortly after the 2024 Christmas concert, Sisters High Desert Chorale members lost their long revered director, Irene Liden.
Fortunately, a new director has emerged to keep the free concert going — on Friday, December 12, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, December 14, 2:30 p.m., at Sisters Community Church, 1300 McKenzie Highway.
Following a period of uncertainty, members were delighted when a fairly new Sisters resident and fellow singer stepped up to tackle the job. With a Ph.D. in Chemistry, Carol Lisek worked as a research chemist until her passion for music earned her an M.F.A in vocal performance and a D.M.A. in Early Music, both focused on vocal performance.
While Lisek’s powerful contralto voice has been featured in solo and group settings, she has also compiled extensive experiences as an educator in colleges, and as a music director.
Knowing the Chorale’s tradition and reputation, Lisek clearly stated that she was totally committed, adding, “Let’s do this!”
With the gracious guidance of Lola Knox, Liden’s long-time partner and an accomplished music educator, director, and performer herself, Knox has helped chorale members adjust to the third change in recent years. She has supported
Stitchin’ Post
Lisek in learning to work with people who love to sing, though have varied musical expertise and aren’t required to audition. Members pay dues, bake all the cookies, rehearse two hours each week for months, and do all the physical setting up and cleaning, simply to share the joy of music.
The dues and donations pay for music, printing costs, church space, some musicians, risers, and scarves.
Following tradition, Director Lisek has selected songs reflecting varied cultures including Ukranian, Austrian, Irish, Czech, German, and English, with Handel’s beloved “Hallelujah Chorus” from “The Messiah.”
Again sharing her expertise on a diverse variety of instruments, Knox will add the drum and flute to some carols, as well as directing the Twelve Tones Bell Choir and the Renaissance Sisters Recorder ensemble. One of the rehearsal pianists, Becky Smith, will also add her talents on the harp.
Two other accompanists have aided rehearsals, Mark Oglesby and Jean Schrader, with Schrader doing the concerts.
All members are grateful for these instrumentalists, who have added “depth and sparkle to the performance,” according to Wendie Vermillion.
“And,” she said, “they keep us on pitch!”
The Stitchin’ Post is one of Sisters’ legendary shops — a craft center that has inspired generations of fabric artists.
The shop really shines at this time of year. The whole back wall is given over to an Employee Boutique, featuring the work of the many folks who work at The Stichin’ Post in part because they are artists themselves.
“It’s so wonderful to showcase our employees,” says owner Valori Wells. “They’re such talented people.”
You’ll find ornaments and Christmas-themed fabric art, as well as gift items that will be appreciated by anyone who loves hand-crafted work made with intention and love.
Shop Stitchin’ Post’s collection of Christmas fabrics, and sign yourself or someone on your list up for Stichin’ Post’s wide selection of classes for 2026.
This year, you can give the gift of the wonderful book “Sisters, Oregon: Five Decades of Quilting in America,” commemorating a half-century of creativity and
HEARTY RECIPES for cold days
KIMBERLY’S CASSOULET
This is something I love to serve on those cold winter nights when we want something warm and hearty – and affordable.
Ingredients:
5 slices bacon, chopped
13 oz. smoked sausage, sliced
1 small onion, finely-diced
1 green bell pepper, finely-diced
2 stalks celery, finely-diced
2 carrots, finely-diced
1 tsp minced fresh garlic
2 Tbs tomato paste
1 (14.5 oz) can petite diced tomatoes, drained
1C chicken broth
½ cup dry white wine
2 (14.5 oz) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
2C cooked, diced or shredded chicken
1 tsp red wine vinegar
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp chopped fresh/dry thyme
In a large Dutch oven, cook bacon and sausage over medium-high heat until
POTUS’ EGGNOG
In the spirit of a historical Christmas, Susan Cobb offers up this recipe based on George Washington’s late-1700s recipe. This is made cold and served cold or hot, yeilding five quarts.
Ingredients:
½ gallon whole milk
1 quart half & half
1 quart whipping cream
½ cup brandy
½ cup rum (Bacardi)
½ cup whiskey (Bushmills, Honey Whiskey)
12 oz. bottle of Nepal’s Cream de Pistachio
2 tsps of vanilla
6 separated eggs
½ cup sugar (or 1 cup if sweeter is preferred)
Dash of Kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon ground nutmeg
Jar of cinnamon sticks
Preparations (need a 7-quart cooking pot):
bacon is crispy and sausage is browned. Use a slotted spoon to remove to a plate, reserving the drippings in the pot.
Add the onion, bell pepper, celery and carrot to the pot. Cook, stirring frequently, until tender, about 6-8 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 more minute
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 more minute
Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth and white wine; bring to a boil, scraping the bits from the bottom of the pot
Stir in the beans, chicken, vinegar, salt, pepper and thyme
Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally for about 20 minutes. Return the sausage and the bacon to the pot. Cook and stir until heated through, about 3 to 5 more minutes.
In a bowl, beat egg yolks with sugar until not grainy.
Add vanilla, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, milk, and half & half to above and beat again, then pour into pot.
In a bowl, whip egg whites to stiff peaks and fold into pot.
Cover pot and store in cool place two to three days – stir gently once in a while.
About 20 minutes before serving, whip the cream with a touch of sugar.
Cup - hot (if heated, keep temp low and stir periodically – DO NOT BOIL) or Glass - cool (not necessary to refrigerate).
Pour eggnog, spoon whipped cream on top, sprinkle with ground nutmeg, and add a cinnamon stick.
Any left over should be refrigerated.
Black Butte Ranch
There is no more magical place in the world than Black Butte Ranch at Christmastime.
The Ranch has been a holiday destination for families across generations, a place where lifelong memories are made in a beautiful and festive setting.
The Ranch is in the midst of 12 Days of Christmas. Whether you need the perfect gift, looking for stocking stuffers, or just want to treat yourself, they’ve got something special each day.
The annual Breakfast with Santa is set for Sunday, December 14, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Lodge, featuring a buffet breakfast, photos with Santa, and cookie decorating. Reservations are required; call 541-595-1260.
For many, Christmas Dinner at The Lodge is a family tradition. Reservations are required at 541-595-1260.
Carriage Rides are one of the delightful activities on the Ranch from December 26 through January 1, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rides are approximately 30 minutes long. Reserve your seats early. Tickets required.
Keep an eye out for an announcement regarding festivities to ring in the new year.
Holidays Events
Daily through December 15
Kids can drop off letters to Santa at The Nugget, 442 E. Main Ave. All letters received by 12/15 (with a return address) will get a reply.
Daily through December 20
Three Sisters Lions Club 14th Annual Holiday Faire
Great selection of handmade items by local vendors.
282 S. Cedar St., M-F 10-5, Sat 10-6, Sun 10-4
Thursday • December 11
Winter Joy: A Performance by Black Butte School 6 p.m. at Camp Sherman Community Hall. Students will perform short plays and songs. Free and open to the public. Information: 541-595-6203
Friday •December 12
Winter choir concert #1 at Sisters Community Church, 7 p.m. Presented by High Desert Chorale & Bell Choir
Casey Parnell & Co Christmas Dance Party at Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards, 5-8 p.m.
Tickets: www.faithhopeandcharityevents.com
Saturday • December 13
Winter Dance Recital: Silver Screen & Snowy Scenes presented by Sisters Dance Academy at Sisters High School auditorium, 1700 W. McKinney Butte Rd., 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m.
Tickets & information: www.danceinsisters.com
St. Lucy Day holiday celebration at Fika Sisters Coffeehouse, 6:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Christmas reading from Melody Carlson, gingerbread decorating, music, a St. Lucia children’s craft, and more. Santa Claus is Visiting Sisters Bakery, 251 E. Cascade Ave., from 9 a.m. to noon. Photos and ornament making. Information: www.facebook.com/sistersbakeryoregon
Sunday • December 14
Breakfast with Santa at Black Butte Ranch Lodge. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., reservations required. Information: BlackButteRanch.com/Holidays Winter choir concert #2 at Sisters Community Church, 2:30 p.m. Presented by High Desert Chorale & Bell Choir.
Ladies Ornament Exchange at Friends & Vine, 2-4 p.m. Bring an ornament to exchange. Wine for sale.
A festive showcase of students and local talent! An unforgettable night of entertainment plus silent auctions and more to raise funds for Sisters High School music programs. Suggested donation of $5 at the door. Info: kayla.golka@ssd6.org or steven.livingston@ssd6.org
Wednesday • December 17
Solstice Book Flood Community gathering and paperback book exchange at Paulina Springs Books, 252 W. Hood Ave., 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Information: paulinaspringsbooks.com
Thursday • December 18
Snow Much Fun
Winter songs, crafts, stories, and more, for ages 3–11. 3 to 4 p.m. at Sisters Library. Information: https://dpl.libnet.info/event/14386221
Christmas Renaissance Sisters Concert at Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration, 121 Brooks Camp Rd., 6 p.m. Includes many audience carol sing-alongs. Reception to follow. Information: 541-390-4615
Hoodoo Wintervention at Three Creeks Brewing presented by Hoodoo Ski Area. Win lift tickets, gear, skis, boards, and more. Free for all ages. 6 to 8 p.m.
Friday • December 19
Christmas Movie & Ugly Sweater Contest at Cold Springs Resort 6 to 8:30 p.m.
Information: www.coldspringsresort.com
C4C Hosting Let’s Sing! at The Lodge, 4–5 p.m., 411 E. Carpenter Ln.; sing along at this free family-friendly caroling party! Information: www.citizens4community.com/ events/lets-sing-dec-25-2
Saturday • December 20
Wagon Rides & Photos with Santa at Cold Springs Resort 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Information: www.coldspringsresort.com
Breakfast With Santa at Frankie’s 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Two seatings at 10 and 11:30; can book in advance. Information: www.sistersdepot.com
Jessie Leigh Christmas Concert at Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards 5 to 8 p.m. Tickets: ww.faithhopeandcharityevents.com
Sunday • December 21
BREATHE Ice Skating Day
for high school students, meeting at Sisters Community Church then going to The Pavilion (Bend), 5:30 to 9 p.m.
Blue Christmas at Sisters Community Church, 4 to 5 p.m. A special service of worship, prayer, and a message of hope for those whose hearts are hurting in this season.
Information: www.sisterschurch.com/events/
Winter Solstice Celebration at Sisters Community Labyrinth 7 to 8 p.m.
Christmas Eve Celebration at Sisters Community Church, 3-4 p.m.
Celebrate the birth of our Savior with scripture, candlelight, a dramatic monologue from Jesus’ Mother, Mary, and worship. Coffee & cookies afterwards.
Information: www.sisterschurch.com/events/
Christmas Eve Service in the Park at Fir Street Park, 5-6 p.m. hosted by Sisters Community Church. Celebrate the birth of our Savior with scripture, candlelight, a dramatic monologue from Jesus’ Mother, Mary, and choir singing. Hot cocoa, coffee, and candy canes. Information: www.sisterschurch.com/events/
Candlelight Christmas Eve Service at Sisters Church of the Nazarene, 5 p.m. Information: www.sistersnaz.org/christmas-eve
Thursday • December 25
Community Christmas Dinner at Sisters Firehouse, 301 S. Elm St., 1-3 p.m. Free. Information: www.sistersfire.com
Christmas Dinner at BBR at Black Butte Ranch Main Lodge, 12-4 p.m. Reservations required, call 541-595-1260
Outlaw Jazz Combo Plays Festive Jazz at The Lodge at Black Butte Ranch. Jazz renditions of festive tunes on guitar, bass, and saxophone. For dinner reservations, call 541-595-1260.
