Snowflake Festival Returns with a Season of Jubilee
Arctic Adventures: A two-week community celebration featuring parades, performances, and family activities kicks off Nov. 29.
KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. — One of the Basin’s most beloved traditions is returning this holiday season as the 2025 Klamath Snowflake Festival launches two weeks of events, entertainment, and community celebration beginning Nov. 29.
Now in its 41st year, the festival remains a cherished part of local holiday culture—uniting generations with nostalgic traditions and new memories alike.
“The Klamath Snowflake Festival and Parade is not just an event; it's the beating, festive heart of our community's winter season,” said Snowflake Festival Secretary, Michelle Crane.
First held in 1984, the Snowflake Festival was never designed as a traditional Christmas festival. Instead, it has long celebrated all things snow, welcoming the community to gather for performances, parades, seasonal activities, and a little winter magic—no matter how cold it gets.
For many locals, the festival is woven into childhood memories: sipping hot cocoa along Main Street, bundling up for the parade, and watching the city tree light up the night.
Excited about the festival, Crane said, “As the lights turn on, we are united, turning Klamath Falls into a spectacular, joyful winter wonderland. It’s the beloved moment families and children come together, sharing laughter and creating the precious, lasting memories that truly define the magic of the holidays.”
This year’s theme, “Arctic Adventures,” brings fresh energy to the event lineup, which runs from November 29 through December 14 and includes dozens of community-hosted activities presented by nonprofits, businesses, and local partners.
2025 Grand Marshal: Debi Leighton
Each year, the Snowflake Parade honors a community member whose service embodies dedication and compassion. The 2025 Grand Marshal, Debi Leighton, reflects those values deeply.
Leighton recently retired after 44 years with The Salvation Army, a lifetime of service that began at age 8. In Klamath Falls, she served as the Service Center Coordinator and Service Extension Coordinator for 22 locations across Oregon. Her colleagues describe her as a model of compassion and community care.
“Compassion and caring describe you the best, represented so well by the cross on your chest,” wrote Dave Sampson, retired director of the Klamath/Lake Counties Food Bank, during her retirement celebration.
Leighton’s decades of service have supported families throughout the region, and festival organizers say her commitment to kindness makes her a perfect ambassador for this year’s “Arctic Adventures” theme.
Major Events and Highlights
Santa Lands at the YMCA
November 29 — YMCA of Klamath Falls
Kicking off opening weekend, Santa’s arrival launches the festival’s earliest events with festive fun for families.
Nutcracker Performance
November 30 — Ross Ragland Theater
The World Ballet Company returns with two performances of the holiday classic The Nutcracker, bringing international talent to the local stage.
Tree Lighting Ceremony
December 1 — Klamath Commons
The annual downtown tree lighting includes cocoa, entertainment, Santa, and a community countdown to illuminate the season.
Snowflake Mile & Snowflake Parade
December 4 — Mile at 6:30 p.m., Parade at 7:00 p.m.
The festival’s signature evening draws thousands downtown for one of the largest annual parades in the region.
Ugly Sweater Run
December 6 — Harbor Isles
The 12th annual 5K fun run brings laughter, color, and cheer as participants compete in their most outrageous sweaters.
Holiday Bazaars and Shopping Events
December 6–7 — Klamath County Fairgrounds
The annual Quota Bazaar features handmade items, local art, gifts, and seasonal treats.
Visits With Santa
December 6 — Coldwell Banker
A cherished chance for families to meet Santa and capture memorable holiday photos.
Living Nativity
December 6 & 7 — Mountain Valley Gardens
A walk-through Bethlehem experience with live actors, holiday treats, and family activities. Additional dates continue the following weekend.
Santa’s Arctic Workshop
December 13 — Klamath Basin Senior Center
Crafting stations, music, vendors, hot cocoa, Santa photos, and family fun highlight one of the biggest mid-festival events.
A full schedule of all events is available at KlamathSnowflake.com/events.
A Community Tradition That Endures
Spanning more than four decades, the Snowflake Festival remains one of the Basin’s most anticipated celebrations. Whether it’s bundling up for the parade, attending a performance, or joining one of the many family events, organizers say this year’s festival carries the same spirit of togetherness that has defined it since 1984.
The festival runs November 29 through December 14, inviting the entire community to come together, celebrate winter, and enjoy a Season of Jubilee.
Article updated 11/21/25, 12:53 p.m. to include a statement from the festival secretary.
Photography: Brian Gailey | Festival Flyers: Michelle Crane