Today's Vibe: Roots Rhythms & Winter Wanderlust
Thursday in the High Desert hits different. We’re balancing the deep soul of American roots music with the itch to escape the January chill—whether that’s on the slopes or dreaming of summer road trips.
Outdoor Fun: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Culture: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Nightlife: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Editor's Pick
JD Simo & Luther Dickinson Live
🕒 7:30 PM | 📍 Tower Theatre | 💵 $30 - $61
Prepare for a masterclass in guitar performance at the historic Tower Theatre in the heart of downtown Bend. JD Simo (psychedelic soul) joins forces with Luther Dickinson (North Mississippi Allstars) for an evening of heavy grooves and improvisational brilliance. According to Central Oregon Daily, this is the premier musical event of the week for fans of authentic blues-rock.
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Hoodoo's Thrifty Thursday
🕒 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM | 📍 Hoodoo Ski Area | 💵 $39 Lift Tickets
The best deal in Oregon skiing is back. Located just west of Sisters at the summit of the Santiam Pass within the Deschutes National Forest, Hoodoo offers all-day and all-night access for just $39. Expect a "steep, deep, and cheap" vibe that brings out the soul of the local ski community. Check KTVZ’s snow report before you head up!
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Cabin Fever RV & Boat Expo
🕒 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM | 📍 Deschutes County Fairgrounds | 💵 FREE - $20
Ready to trade the January frost for dreams of summer? Head to Redmond for the Cabin Fever RV & Boat Expo. This massive indoor showcase at the fairgrounds features the latest in outdoor recreation, travel trailers, and luxury boats. It’s the perfect way to beat the "winter doldrums" while planning your next Central Oregon adventure.
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The Thursday Rundown
🎶 Music & Nightlife
- Fireside Concerts: Soulful folk/punk with Jeshua Marshall at The Suttle Lodge (6:00 PM | $12.24).
- Disco Fever: Dance the night away with Ron Moshier at Blacksmith Public House in Redmond (Evening | $12).
- Eastside Grooves: "One Mad Man" loops acoustic beats at River's Place near Costco (6:00 PM | Free).
- NW Crossing Live: Bill Powers brings Americana vibes to Mountain Burger (6:00 PM | Free).
- Underground Rock: Sweet Motor performs at The Commonwealth Pub downtown (7:30 PM | Free).
- Boot Scootin': Partner Dance Lessons (Two-Step & Swing) at Cross-Eyed Cricket (6:00 PM | Varies).
🧠 Arts, Learning & PubTalks
- Art Reception: "Vistas & Vineyards 2026" opening at OSU-Cascades. Wine-centric art and local landscapes (5:30 PM | Free).
- PubTalk: Networking and local innovation lectures at Worthy Brewing (4:30 PM | Ticketed).
- Literary Vibes: Romance Authors Panel at Roundabout Books in NW Crossing (6:30 PM | Free).
🎲 Games & Community
- Middle-earth Trivia: Lord of the Rings movie trivia paired with Belgian ales at The Abbey at Monkless (6:00 PM | Free).
- Family Trivia: QuizHead Games takes over Ponch's Place on the Eastside (6:00 PM | Free).
- School Info: Highland Magnet Information Night at Kenwood School for prospective parents (4:30 PM & 5:30 PM).