Celebrate Wine Country Thanksgiving in the Willamette Valley at The Holman Hotel
Autumn in Oregon’s Willamette Valley is more than colorful leaves and harvest wines, it’s Cellar Season, a time when the pace slows, fireplaces crackle, and winemakers’ welcome guests behind the cellar door for intimate tastings, barrel samples, and stories from the vine. From November through February, Cellar Season offers a rare opportunity to experience the heart of wine country in a more personal, relaxed way. Savor new releases, explore small‑production labels, and discover cozy tasting rooms glowing with holiday warmth.
Make The Holman Hotel Your Home Base
The centrally located Holman Hotel puts you just minutes from some of the region’s most celebrated wineries. Here are a few nearby destinations to explore:
| Winery | Location | Tasting/Experience Notes |
| Cristom Vineyards | 6905 Spring Valley Rd NW, Salem, OR 97304 | A pioneer estate in the Eola‑Amity Hills AVA. Known for Pinot Noir, Gris, and Viognier. Elegant setting ideal for behind‑the‑scenes tastings. |
| Bethel Heights Vineyard | 6060 Bethel Heights Rd NW, Salem, OR 97304 | Historic vineyard on the Eola Hills’ west slope; known for distinctive single‑vineyard Pinot Noirs and Rieslings. Great for a quieter, refined tasting. |
| Ankeny Vineyard | 2565 Riverside Dr S, Salem, OR 97306 | Urban‑adjacent vineyard with intimate tasting room setting. Ideal for a convenient stop before or after your stay. |
| Cória Estates | 8252 Redstone Ave SE, Salem, OR 97306 | Boutique tasting experience featuring locally‑influenced wines; good for exploring smaller production labels during Cellar Season. |
Join us Thanksgiving Weekend (November 29th – December 1st) for Oregon’s beloved Wine Country Thanksgiving, when more than 150 wineries open their doors with special pours, food pairings, and festive experiences. Then, stroll through downtown Salem for charming holiday shopping and local dining, all just steps from your cozy guest room. Whether you’re sipping bold reds, discovering new vintages, or enjoying the warmth of Gamberetti’s seasonal menu, Cellar Season is your invitation to slow down and savor the best of Willamette Valley wine country.
Celebrate Small Business Saturday in Downtown Salem, Oregon
This Small Business Saturday, step into the heart of downtown Salem and experience the vibrant community that makes our city special. Wander charming streets lined with locally owned shops, boutiques, and eateries, each offering unique gifts, handcrafted goods, and festive treats perfect for holiday giving. As you explore, look for special promotions, pop-up events, and seasonal surprises hosted by Salem’s independent businesses. Every purchase you make helps strengthen the local economy, support our neighbors, and keep Salem’s creative spirit thriving.
Enjoy free parking all day on Friday November 28th and Saturday 29th! Make a day of it, shop small, and celebrate the community that makes Salem feel like home.
Local Events & Festivities
- Silverton Christmas Market – Opens November 22 at the Oregon Garden Resort with over a million twinkling bulbs, German‑ style food and drink, handcrafted gifts, and family fun.
- Annual Downtown Salem Main Street Holiday Parade – Friday November 28.
- Federweisser German Festival – November 28‑30 at Springhill Cellars Winery.
- Oregon State Fairground Holiday Village – Opens November 21. Festive Music, Shopping, Food & Drinks. Shop for seasonal goodies from vendors and head outside to the stage to hear community choirs and other musical groups share festive tunes.
Plan Your Cellar Season Getaway
There’s no better time to experience the magic of Willamette Valley wine country than during Cellar Season. From tasting small‑production wines to exploring festive local events, your stay at The Holman Hotel puts you right at the heart of it all.