Happy Thanksgiving week!
May you find peace, laughter and gratitude around the table this week. We have a lot to be thankful for in our little area on the north Oregon coast. The beautiful beaches and Bay, mountains, wildlife, and a community of happy, positive people. After all, beach people are that kind of people. While it can feel like the world is in chaos, may we all continue to focus on the positive and on making a difference within our community.
Here’s what to know about local happenings over the next couple weeks.
A big thank you to our local grocers this time of year.
Manzanita Grocery & Deli – The Little Apple will be open Thanksgiving Day from 7am – 1pm
Fresh Foods will be open Thanksgiving Day from 8am - 2pm; note that the store will be closed on Dec. 8 for the employee holiday party.
Get outside and walk off your pie!
On Friday, Nov. 29, do some holiday shopping at the local stores and walk to the 1st Annual Winter Witchy Wonderland and Christmas Tree Sale at the Dirty Birds lot (corner of Manzanita Street and Division) in Manzanita. The event runs from 11am to 6pm, with a bonfire and complimentary cocoa and cider at 3pm, followed by carolers at 4pm. Christmas trees will be for sale and River City Flower Farm will be selling wreaths, ornaments and more!
Did you know that Neakahnie Smokehouse sells charcuterie boards for your holiday needs? Closed for the Thanksgiving holiday, they’ll be open again Dec. 6 from 12pm - 6pm, and Dec. 7 from 12pm - 5pm. Pre-order your customizable smoked salmon charcuterie boxes and party boxes via email at shop@neahkahniesmokehouse.com and you’ll be the hit of the party.
The Nehalem Bay Health District Winter Open House is Thursday, Dec. 5 from 5:30pm -7:30pm at the Pine Grove Community House. Learn about NCRD programs, the Nehalem Valley Care Center’s future plans and learn about the new Nehalem Bay Health Center. More info
Bundle up and join your friends and family for the third annual Holiday Tree Lighting party on Friday, Dec. 6 starting at 4pm.
Held at the site of the new city hall at 655 Manzanita, there will be a holiday DJ, cookies, and warm beverages. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be arriving on the Nehalem Bay Fire and Rescue Big Rig, and the Neah Kah Nie choir will be performing.
Get in the holiday spirit! Join local musician Deb Montgomery for an Advent Concert at 4pm on Saturday, Dec.14 at St. Catherines Episcopal Church on Hwy 101.
You won’t want to miss the Riverbend Players radio production of It’s a Wonderful Life, a heartwarming tale of family, friendship, and finding hope when needed the most. Opening night is Friday, Dec. 6. Get your tickets now for one of the nine performances (Dec. 6 - 22) at the NCRD Performing Arts Center in Nehalem. www.RiverbendPlayers.org
Warmest wishes to all. And, if you’re looking for a last minute Thanksgiving dessert — or a festive yet simple anytime holiday dessert, try this Apple Almond Galette with Sugared Cranberries.
I’m bummed that It’s A Wonderful Life isn’t playing longer!