LA GRANDE — La Grande is set to sparkle with holiday cheer Nov. 29-30 as the community comes together for a series of festive events that promise to light up the town and warm the hearts of all who attend.

The Thatcher’s Ace Hardware Holiday Parade of Lights, the Union County Chamber of Commerce Sip & Shop Winter Market, and Plaid Friday/Small Business Saturday are the highlights of this magical weekend, offering a perfect blend of tradition, shopping, and community spirit.

Sip & Shop Winter Market

A highlight of the season on Friday, Nov. 29, is the Union County Sip & Shop Winter Market, hosted by the Union County Chamber of Commerce. This event, which takes place from noon to 5 p.m., offers a delightful blend of holiday shopping and community spirit. For $20, attendees receive a special tumbler and four tokens for beverages. Extra tokens can be purchased, with proceeds supporting a local charity.

Get the tumbler and tokens at the chamber, 207 Depot St.

Participating merchants and vendors span a wide choice of shopping opportunities, ranging from gift emporiums and local artisans to restaurants and pubs. In addition, Mid-Columbia Bus Company will be collecting donations for the Stuff the Bus toy and canned food drive with donations given to Shelter from the Storm and CASA.

The event also features a scavenger hunt throughout downtown and a raffle with prizes. Shoppers can enjoy hot cocoa, cozy heaters and treats from Becky’s Burgers, parked at the Benchwarmers Pavilion.

For more information, visit www.visitunioncounty.org, email info@visitunioncounty.org or call 541-963-8588.

Parade of Lights

The Thatcher’s Ace Hardware Holiday Parade of Lights, presented by La Grande Main Street Downtown, will take place on Friday, Nov. 29. The parade lineup begins at 5:30 p.m., with the parade itself starting at 6 p.m. The theme is “Hometown Holidays.”

The parade will feature a variety of floats, marching/walking participants, and business and community groups, all adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Awards will be given in several categories, including Ace’s Holiday Award for the float that best represents the theme, the Christmas Star Award for the best business entry and the Tin Soldier Award for the best marching/walking group.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will make a special appearance, riding on the Thatcher’s Ace Hardware float at the rear of the parade. The festivities will conclude at Max Square with a tree lighting ceremony and an opportunity for children to meet Santa and share their holiday dreams. Hot cocoa and coffee will be provided by The Press Room.

For more information, visit lagrandemainstreet.org, email director@lagrandemainstreet.org or call 541-963-1223.

Plaid Friday/Small Business Saturday

The holiday weekend festivities carry on Nov. 29-30 with Plaid Friday and Small Business Saturday. These events are designed to promote local and independently owned businesses, encouraging residents and visitors to shop small and support the local economy.

Plaid Friday, which takes place the day after Thanksgiving, is a festive alternative to the chaos of Black Friday. Shoppers are encouraged to wear plaid and explore the unique offerings of La Grande’s local shops.

Small Business Saturday follows on Nov. 30, providing another opportunity to discover the variety of La Grande’s small businesses. Special deals, promotions, and events will be available throughout the day, making it the perfect time to find holiday gifts and support the community.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in Pat’s Alley from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., offering free photo opportunities and a chance for children to share their Christmas wish lists. For more information, visit lagrandemainstreet.org, email director@lagrandemainstreet.org or call 541-963-1223.