Hanukkah community party with deli food
2023-12-14 16:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Chabad, 1474 Siskiyou Blvd., Ashland, OR, United States
There will be a Hanukkah party at 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 14, at Chabad, 1474 Siskiyou Blvd., Ashland.
The event will feature games, music, and the lighting of the menorah. Authentic New York pastrami and corn beef sandwiches will be served with latkes, donuts, Matzah Ball Soup, and kugel.
Advance registration is required. Security will be present.
Visit chabadofashland.org/Chanukah2023 for more information.

Monthly Meeting – Guitar Society of Southern Oregon
2023-12-14 18:00 - 20:30 | Paschal Winery, 1122 Suncrest Road, Talent, OR, 97540, United States
The Guitar Society of Southern Oregon meets from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month in the beautiful tasting room of Paschal Winery in Talent.
The gatherings are open to the public, and all are welcome. They start with a set of music by volunteer performers, followed by an intermission to socialize and to discuss Society business and upcoming guitar-related events. The evening concludes with a second set of music, sometimes performed by visiting or local featured artists.
The meeting program includes a wide variety of selections, performed mostly on guitar, and some vocal by amateurs, students and professionals. Anyone may announce upcoming events during the intermission as well.

An Evening Of Christmas Caroling
2023-12-14 19:00 - 20:30 | Havurah Synagogue, 185 N. Mountain, Ashland, 97520
Unity Community of Ashland is offering a joyful Christmas Caroling Sing-Along to the Ashland community at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 14, at the Havurah, 185 N. Mountain Ave.
Join us as we “sing in the season” with a festive evening of song and music. Add your voice to all your holiday favorites and experience this joyous celebration. Recording artists Kathy Zavada and Heather Hutton will lead us through a wonderful selection of familiar carols. Song sheets will be provided. Donations appreciated. For more information see www.unitycommunityofashland.org.

Experimental Singer-Songwriter Ora Cogan at Elder Apothecary
2023-12-15 20:00 - 22:00 | Elder Apothecary, 5 N. Main St., Suite 2, Ashland, OR, 97520, United States
Experimental singer-songwriter Ora Cogan will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15, at Elder Apothecary, 5 N. Main St., Ashland.
Cogan’s music offerings are described as “smoky psychedelic gothic country, post-punk, groove, psych rock & traditional balladry.”

Tickets cost $15 per person. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Visit https://elderapothecary.love/products/untitled-aug24_18-05 for more information.

Snowshoe Hike led by BLM Ranger
2023-12-16 09:00 - 14:00 | Rite Aid, 2341 Ashland St, Ashland, 97520
Embark on a winter adventure! Join BLM interpretive rangers on a snowshoe hike through the enchanting old-growth conifer forest at Hyatt Lake Recreation Area. Suitable for ages 12 and up, these Saturday excursions offer a unique opportunity to explore the biodiversity of a stunning winter landscape.
Rangers will interpret winter adaptations of plants and animals, animal tracks and signs, the basics of snow science, and the environment that hides beneath the snow. Lace up your boots and join us for an unforgettable journey into nature! Snowshoes and poles are provided free-of-cost by the BLM.
We will meet at 9 a.m. at the Rite Aid in Ashland and make our way into the Monument from there. Carpooling is optional. For any questions, please email jduwe@blm.gov.
This program is a collaboration between the Medford District Bureau of Land Management and the FCSNM.
The Friends of Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument’s mission is to support the protection, restoration, and conservation of the Monument through service, advocacy and education. Our Hike and Learn programs are designed to introduce the public to different topics and locations within the Monument. Hike and Learns are co-created with local scientists, historians, artists, students, and more.

Central Point Woodcarvers
2023-12-16 11:30 - 15:00, 2023-12-23 11:30 - 15:00 | Woodcarving, 123 N St, Central Point, OR, 97502, United States
The Central Point Woodcarvers carving group meets from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays at the Central Point Senior Resource Center, 123 N. Second St., Central Point.
There is a fee of $10 per month, or $55 a year if paid annually.
We teach and share ideas for beginners, novices, and intermediate woodcarvers. The various members do several styles of woodcarving. Recommended beginning tool sets are available for purchase. Please call Ron Chappell 541-944-4535 for more information.

Elks Lodge #944 Children's Christmas Party
2023-12-16 13:00 - 15:00 | Ashland Elks, Back Entrance: Will Dodge Way (the alley between E. Main and Lithia Way and 1st and 2nd Sts., Ashland, 97520
Bring your kids down to the Ashland Elks Lodge to meet Santa and have some FUN!
Dec. 16, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Meet Santa at Northwest Nature Shop
2023-12-16 14:00 - 16:00 | Northwest Nature Shop, 154 Oak St., Ashland, 97520
Meet Santa from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 16, in the alley at Northwest Nature Shop.
Enjoy face painting, live music and hot cider. All activities are free.

First Frost community skating event
2023-12-16 16:00 - 21:00 | Ashland Rotary Centennial Ice Rink, 95 Winburn Way, Ashland, OR, 97520, United States
Ashland’s annual First Frost community skating event will be held 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at the Ashland Rotary Centennial Ice Rink, 95 Winburn Way, Ashland.
The event is a special night to enjoy ice skating fun with friends and loved ones in beautiful Lithia Park. Th evening will kick of with figure skating performances from local skaters, including members of the Southern Oregon Figure Skating Association. Public recreational skating will continue into the evening with a live DJ and other fun activities.
Visit ashland.or.us/icerink or call 541-552-2258 for more information.

Sunday Worship: Like the Shamash
2023-12-17 10:30 - 11:30 | Unitarian Universalist Fellowship 87 4th Street, Ashland, 87 4th Street, Ashland, OR, 97520
At Hanukkah, the menorah holds nine candles. But there are only eight nights.
The ninth candle is the shamash and is the candle used to light the others. We will explore stories and lessons of the shamash candle and what it might teach us.
“The Shamash lights the other candles. Be the Shamash.” – Rabbi David Wolpe
Attend in person or watch live or recorded on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@roguevalleyunitarianuniver8871

Ashland Christmas Bird Count
2023-12-17 12:00 - 23:00 | Ashland area, Oregon, 97520
The Ashland Christmas Bird Count will take place on Sunday, Dec. 17. The count circle is centered at the northwest corner of Emigrant Lake, including both the northeastern slopes of Mount Ashland and the western slopes of the Cascades (as far east as Little Hyatt Lake). Also included are the steep Siskiyou Mountain woodlands, extensive farmland, grassland and oak savanna habitats in the eastern section, as well as the entirety of the city of Ashland with its parks, gardens and riparian habitats.
Anyone living in the count circle can participate by doing a feeder watch and adding their sightings to the tally. CBC feeder watch instructions and a tally sheet can be obtained by emailing Cat Gould at cat.gould@gmail.com.
Under the guidance of an experienced area leader, teams go from dawn to dusk regardless of weather. While some leaders welcome volunteers of any skill level, others may need experienced, hardy birders who can cope with difficult terrain and a fast pace. Newcomers welcome! Area birds not sighted on count day but within count week (Dec. 14-21) can be added to the tally.

Annual Abundance Swap
2023-12-17 13:30 - 14:30 | Old Ashland Armory, 208 Oak St., Ashland, 97520
The Annual Abundance Swap will be held 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17, at the Old Historic Armory, 208 Oak St., Ashland.
Event organizers created the Abundance Swap in 2001 as “an alternative to the consumption frenzy that leads up to Christmas,” according to a news release. More information is available at https://abundanceswap.org/.
Attendees are asked to select three quality items they already own that others would like to receive as a gift. The doors to the event open at 1 p.m., and participants are asked to arrive by 1:15 p.m. to set up their gifts.
“Then wait for our introduction before selecting gifts to take home…we all begin together,” the release says.
Hot tea will be available, and participants can bring tasty treats that don’t need plates.

An Introduction to Humanism
2023-12-17 15:00 - 17:00 | Unitarian Universalist Fellowship 87 4th Street, Ashland, 87 4th Street, Ashland, OR, 97520
Many people are uncertain what is meant by the term “humanism.”
Some may think of psychological or perhaps literary, cultural or renaissance humanism. Others consider humanitarian aid services, while still others may dread a “godless” amoral humanism or even imagine a diabolical or pernicious humanism. Nonetheless, there are philosophical, ethical, religious and Christian humanists worldwide.
On December 17 we will explore and discuss the many varieties of humanism with an emphasis on Secular Humanism. We will meet from 3 to 5 p.m. under the balcony at RVUUF. Please see our website Humanism Explorations for reading and resource links.
HUMANISM EXPLORATIONS is part of the Center For Inquiry , CFI Rogue Valley Humanists and Freethinkers and RVUUF

In Times of Softest Snow
2023-12-17 19:30 - 21:30, 2023-12-18 15:00 - 17:00 | 450 S Mountain Ave, Southern Oregon University Music Building, Ashland OR 97520, 450 S Mountain Ave, Ashland, OR, 97520
The 60-voice Southern Oregon Repertory Singers will perform their annual holiday concert, “In Time of Softest Snow” on at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, and at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17 in the SOU Music Recital Hall, 450 S. Mountain Ave., Ashland.
As is their custom, Repertory Singers will perform a variety of musical styles from around the world, singing in French; Old Dutch; Latin; Kituba, an African dialect; and English, of course.
“I guarantee that you will hear music at this concert you have never heard before, as well as new and fresh arrangements of traditional holiday favorites,” says music director Dr. Paul French.
Dutch composer Jetse Bremer’s “In dulci jubilo” (In sweet rejoicing), with its colorful harmonies and driving rhythms, is one of Dr. French’s favorites. The choir will sing a song by John Rutter, who the New York Times described as “the composer who owns Christmas!” His carols are fantastic and his “What Sweeter Music” will be a concert favorite. The Marian poem, “There is No Rose” has inspired composers since the late Middle Ages, and the choir will sing an arrangement of it by Canadian composer Don Macdonald, which is wonderfully atmospheric and haunting.
Dan Forrest is one of the most popular composers of our time, and the Singers will perform his piece “See Amid the Winter’s Snow,” that is sweepingly romantic. The arrangement will feature Grants Pass High School’s Chamber Choir, under the direction of Taylor Pulsipher. This and many other songs in the concert will be accompanied by guest instrumentalists: Kathleen Strahm on violin, Michal Pauzevitch on cello, Sherril Wood on flute, and Brian Jeffs on percussion.
“Composer in Residence” Jodi French will premiere a new work she describes as “a tender lullaby.” Ms. French’s music is always a concert high point, with her beautiful melodies that go straight to the heart.
The concert will also feature new arrangements of more popular holiday songs like “Away in a Manger,” “Jingle Bells,” and “Silent Night” as well as a “not to be missed” moment with a modern arrangement of the spiritual “Children go Where I Send Thee” including a rap solo by tenor Brandt Nakamura.

Intermediate Tai Chi for Older Adults
2023-12-18 09:30 - 10:45 | The Grove, 1195 E Main St, Ashland, OR, 97520, United States
Tai Chi is a moving meditation that strengthens bones and muscles, improves balance and increases flexibility. Qi Gong, the movement of energy through the body, is also incorporated.
Pre-registration required: ashland.or.us/register or 541.488.5342.

Gentle Yoga for Older Adults
2023-12-18 10:30 - 11:30 | Ashland Senior Center, 1699 Homes Avenue, Ashland, OR, 97520, United States
The focus of this one-hour hatha yoga class is to increase strength, flexibility and balance while simultaneously alleviating stress and fatigue. Additional benefits of regular yoga practice include an overall sense of well-being and an increase in self-awareness and self-acceptance. Participants must be aware of their own capabilities in order to participate safely. Ability to get up and down from the floor is required. Each class will conclude with deep relaxation. Ages 50 & up.
$20 per month-long session ($5/class)

Line dancing for older adults
2023-12-18 13:00 - 14:30 | The Grove, 1195 E Main St, Ashland, OR, 97520, United States
Get active through dance! Line Dance is a choreographed dance in which participants line up in rows and follow a repeated sequence of steps to music. It is a great way to keep your brain on its toes!
Line dancing enhances balance, provides fitness and strength and improves mental acuity through complex movement. No partner is required. Pre-registration required: ashland.or.us/register or 541-488-5342.

Creative Writing Workshop
2023-12-18 14:30 - 15:30 | Ashland Library, 410 Siskiyou Boulevard, Ashland, OR, 97520, United States
Have you been waiting for the right time to get back to work on that novel or short story that’s started collecting dust? Or maybe you just need some inspiration to kickstart a new writing project?
Join us at the Ashland library for our biweekly peer support creative writing workshop! Each participant will choose an excerpt from their project to read aloud and receive feedback from the rest of the group to help improve their work in a positive and collaborative environment.
Advance registration is requested but not required. Please bring a copy of your work to the library ahead of time if you need assistance printing extra copies.

Cozy Crafts & Parallel Play at the Ashland Library
2023-12-19 16:30 - 18:00 | Ashland Library, 410 Siskiyou Boulevard, Ashland, OR, 97520, United States
Do you enjoy being around creative people but not so much the social aspects of a crafting group? Come down to the Gresham Room to work on your own latest creative endeavor, with no pressure to interact and be social.
Don’t have a project at this time? No problem! We will also have supplies and instructions available for you to try your hand at something new. We hope to see you there!
Best for ages 16 and up.

Worship for the Weary
2023-12-19 18:00 - 19:00 | First Presbyterian Church, 1615 Clark Ave, Ashland, 97520
A service for those who struggle during the holidays will be held 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 19.

A Deeper Expoloration Into a New Earth by Mark Gibson
2023-12-19 19:00 - 21:00 | Rogue Valley Metaphysical Library, 1757 Ashland St., Ashland, 97520
Are you ready to expand into your next level of consciousness?
In his book “A New Earth, Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose” world acclaimed spiritualist Eckhart Tolle takes us beyond our physical forms to show that we can create a new, more loving world. This involves a radical inner leap of consciousness, from identification with ego to a new way of transformative thinking that few of us have achieved. Mark will present many unique and important Tolle passages from the book, as well as statements that invite deeper interpretation. The ultimate goal of his talk is to inspire participants —spiritual pioneers like you — to more fully embrace their Higher Consciousness.
Mark E. Gibson is a certified life coach who specializes in nurturing Truth, unconditional Love, and fearless living. He earned a master’s degree in science from San Francisco State University. Two spiritual awakenings had a profound effect on his commitment to being of service to humanity. He teaches courses on consciousness and spirituality at Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Southern Oregon University, and he co-hosted the Personal Growth and Empowerment group on Meetup. His two published books include “How to Find Love through Online Dating” and “Living Unconditional Love.” Mark lives with his beloved wife, Francesca, in Southern Oregon, and is blessed that he is living his spiritual calling.
Presenter’s Website: https://YourTruthAndFreedom.com
FREE ADMISSION – 1757 Ashland St., Ashland, OR. One mile west of I-5 Exit 14

Music in the Library: Rogue Valley Symphony
2023-12-21 15:00 - 16:00 | Ashland Library, 410 Siskiyou Boulevard, Ashland, OR, 97520, United States
Take some time out of your Thursday to listen to music in the library. Once a month, musicians from Rogue Valley Symphony will fill the main floor of the library with music. Enjoy it in passing or sit for a while and listen.
This series is presented in partnership with Rogue Valley Symphony.

Severe Weather Overnight Shelter
2023-12-22 17:00 - 2023-12-23 09:00, 2023-12-23 17:00 - 2023-12-24 09:00 | Ashland Street Shelter, 2200 Ashland St., Ashland, OR, 97520, United States
The Ashland emergency severe weather shelter at 2200 Ashland St. will open at 5 p.m.
The doors close and lights go out by 10 p.m.
The shelter closes at 9 a.m. the next morning.
This is a low barrier, no frill, overnight shelter for anyone needing to get out of the cold.
The shelter is managed by OHRA (Opportunities for Housing Resources and Assistance), which will coordinate and staff with OHRA employees and volunteers. OHRA can be reached at 541-631-2235.
To receive notifications when the severe weather shelter opens in Ashland, text 97520SHELTER to 888777.
To volunteer for the shelter, call 541-220-7307 or email avramsacks@gmail.com.

Ukraine: An Update on the Russian Invasion of Ukraine from Lviv CEO Businessman
2023-12-24 08:00 - 09:00
On the 24th day of every month since the Russian Invasion of Ukraine 15 months ago, Medford-based not-for-profit Ukraine Flags for Solidarity hosts a 1-hour online free conversation with Ukrainian software developer and co-founder of the Lviv headquartered company, Euristiq.
Join us so that you can experience the enduring optimism of our friends in Ukraine and have yourself lifted by their character and determination. Invite your friends and family to join in this important show of support for victory. Show your support for a peaceful future of independent Ukraine
Time: 8 to 9 a.m.
Online location: https://meet.google.com/whf-nuvi-jnx
Host: Ukraine Flags for Solidarity https://www.ukraineflags.org/
Ukraine Flags for Solidarity
Sal Edwards and Estelle Gray, Volunteer Organizer
4293 Innsbruck Ridge, Medford, Ore., 97504
Call 916-730-4640 or email Sal.Edwards@HeartZones.com
Visit www.UkraineFlags.org

Sunday Worship: Contemplating Christmas
2023-12-24 10:30 - 11:15 | Unitarian Universalist Fellowship 87 4th Street, Ashland, 87 4th Street, Ashland, OR, 97520
This will be a short, quiet contemplative service for those who need a little stillness amid the holiday rush of activity. We will make space for both the celebration and the pain that may come with the season. (There will be a longer, more traditional Christmas Eve service at 4 p.m.)
A Holiday Prayer: “May all my family members and friends who need miracles be blessed. May whoever is feeling unwell and weak be given strength. May all of those who have heavy burdens have their load lightened.”
Attend in person or watch live or recorded on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@roguevalleyunitarianuniver8871

Sunday Worship: Love is Our Gift
2023-12-24 16:00 - 17:30 | Unitarian Universalist Fellowship 87 4th Street, Ashland, 87 4th Street, Ashland, OR, 97520
In this traditional Christmas Eve service, we will consider the story of the gift of Love that comes in the form of a baby — a refugee, born under both a bright star and the shadow of poverty, rumor, and oppression.
We will consider the love of Mary and Joseph for both their child and for the world he is born into.
“Christmas, my child, is love in action.” – Dale Evans
Attend in person or watch live or recorded on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@roguevalleyunitarianuniver8871

Christmas Eve Lessons and Carols Candlelight Service
2023-12-24 19:00 | First Presbyterian Church, 1615 Clark Ave, Ashland, 97520
There will be a full choir, special music, and the story of the first Christmas held at 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 24.
