Thanksgiving weekend in the Rogue Valley offers more than just turkey and traditions—it’s a time to connect, explore, and make unforgettable memories in the heart of Southern Oregon. Whether you’re visiting family, traveling with friends, or looking for a cozy getaway, Medford is the perfect base for a weekend packed with adventure, indulgence, and seasonal charm. From savoring local wines and exploring holiday markets to enjoying outdoor adventures and festive activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Embrace the spirit of gratitude and discovery as you dive into our curated list of things to do this Thanksgiving weekend in the Rogue Valley!
All aboard the Polar Express! Come on down and enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday train display at the Rogue Valley Mall, presented by the Medford Garden Railroaders. This is the perfect activity for kiddos fascinated by trains or just a wholesome holiday experience for the entire family. The display will be open during mall operating hours between Friday, November 29th and Tuesday, December 31st.
Let the holiday shopping begin! Make a visit to The Village Medford Center this December for their Winter Market in partnership with Rogue Valley Growers & Crafter Market. Every Sunday in December until Christmas you'll have the opportunity to shop and dine through The Village at this special Rogue Valley Growers Winter Market. Find handmade gifts, local produce and art for everyone on your list. Shop local this holiday season at the Winter Market! The market will be open from 2-6 p.m. but be sure to check out the other amazing offerings at The Village including Tinseltown Cinemark Theater, Violets & Cream Handmade Ice Cream, and more. Whether you're looking for a girls' group shopping day or a family outing with a variety of fun, The Village is the place to be this holiday season.
Photos with Santa have been a cherished holiday memory for generations. Come take your free Selfies with Santa at The Village Medford Center. Starting Black Friday, November 29th and continuing into December, every Saturday and Sunday from 4-6 p.m., Santa will be making a visit to Medford to visit all the good boys and girls of the Rogue Valley.
It wouldn’t be Christmas without A Christmas Carol. In this new stage version, Patrick Barlow takes Charles Dickens’ classic story of greed, grief, ghoulish ghosts and eleventh-hour redemption, and makes it feel brand new again. Our holiday gift to you and your family! Located inside The Village Medford Center, the Collaborative Theater Project will be showing, "A Christmas Carol" from Thursday, November 21st to Sunday, December 29th. Food and drink are available for purchase for a delightful evening of holiday magic, tucked right inside of Medford.
Experience the full magic of Victorian Christmas this December as lights shine bright at up to 35 stops along the Jacksonville Holiday Trolley Lights Tour. For 45 illuminating minutes, the classic trolleys will whisk you through town along charming streets that feature boutique inns, beloved businesses, churches, wineries, historic residences and grand City landmarks decorated especially for the season. While on board, sip on hot cocoa and coffee, enjoy the festive music and marvel at the twinkling lights. Everyone is welcome, adults and kids alike, to enjoy this truly special experience and the old-fashioned goodness that makes Jacksonville the perfect place to celebrate the holidays. The tours will run every evening in December except for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
The time has come for young and old to relive the childlike joy of holidays past during Jacksonville’s Victorian Christmas Celebration! Jacksonville comes to life during the holiday season and there are a variety of activities to enjoy during your visit. The celebration kicks off with the festive tree lighting, caroling and storytelling, followed by holiday shopping at local shops and boutiques in the historic downtown. Come out on Saturday, November 30th to the City Hall for the evening's festivities. Starting Sunday, December 1st and continuing into December every Saturday and Sunday, Father Christmas will be at the U.S. Hotel from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. to update his lists of the good boys and girls of the Rogue Valley. No fees, just holiday cheer. Located just 10 minutes from Medford, it's the perfect little visit during your stay.
On Friday, November 29th, downtown Ashland kicks off the holiday season at 5 p.m. with the complete illumination of the city in holiday lights and Santa's parade through town with live music provided by Rogue World Music. During your time in Medford's neighbors to the south, you can also lace up your skates at the Ashland Rotary Centennial Ice Rink or shop local artisan goods at the Lithia Artisan Christmas Faire. There is plenty of holiday magic for everyone in the Rogue Valley this holiday season.
Come to the Austrian Alps and experience the magic of The Sound of Music on the Camelot Theatre's stage! Immerse yourself in the heartwarming story of Maria, a spirited young woman who brings joy and harmony to the von Trapp family against the backdrop of a changing world. With its unforgettable melodies like “Do-Re-Mi,” “My Favorite Things,” and the iconic title track, this musical masterpiece captures the magic of a bygone era while remaining relevant to audiences of all ages. Perfromances will occur all Thanksgiving weekend and througout the month of December to ensure no one misses out on the opportunity to watch, cry, and sing alongside this amazing cast. The perfect holiday activity for couples, families, or any fan of musical theater.
Explore everything winter in the Rogue Valley has to offer. From light festivals to candy cane hunts to tubing near alpine lakes, plan your visit to Medford this winter.
