The Heart of the Holidays

By Megan Carter

Temperatures have dropped, but nights at the Heathman Lodge have grown warmer. Prominent with evergreen trees, dazzling snow in the highest mountain tops and an intoxicating spirit of giving, the holidays were practically invented for the Pacific Northwest. Here at the Lodge, an opportunity arises to rejoice in the year’s accomplishments, celebrate with loved ones and enthusiastically plan for the new year. To initiate this holiday season, we began decorating our Lodge in the last week of November. A life-size Santa Claus, white LED trees, and colorful wreaths now adorn the lobby and hallways, and added a special buzz to this year’s Thanksgiving buffet and festivities. Paired with our magnificent piano players’ featuring of classic Christmas tunes, the atmosphere is unbeatable.

Recently, rainfall has dramatically increased and we’ve weathered massive flooding in our parking lot. It has made the trip into town difficult for some guests, but fortunately there has been an unparalleled liveliness in the air, enhanced by Christmas carolers from local high schools, a busy restaurant and elaborate lineup of holiday parties. Perhaps most excitedly, we’ve hosted our first annual gingerbread house competition, where five contenders are fervently competing for the title. With Christmas and New Year’s around the corner, Vancouver isn’t the only place for entertainment. Downtown Portland, just a short jaunt away, hosts countless events annually, including the Zoolights, Christmas Ship Parade, the Nutcracker at the Oregon Ballet and light festivals at both Portland International Raceway and The Grotto. Should you have the chance, venture over the river and see for yourself the extravagant happenings of the city.

With an abundance of cedar trees and a cozy interior, the Lodge provides delightful undertones for the holidays. A sense of time is lost, an unspoken warmness embraced. Whether it be a holiday party, family gathering or mini vacation that brings you to town, we invite you to experience Heathman’s signature rustic ambience and be merry with us this season.

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