Some communities celebrate the start of the New Year with an official party or a parade.

Not here. On New Year’s Day, we gather in swimwear at the beach below Neahkahnie Mountain and, at the signal, make a mad dash into the Pacific Ocean. Afterward, we huddle around a bonfire and feel proud of ourselves for taking part in the annual Polar Plunge. Organized by locals, the first plunge, held in 2004, saw about a dozen participants. Today, hundreds of people join in.

Several organizations sponsor events year-round: the North Tillamook Library,  Hoffman Center for the Arts, and Nehalem Valley Historical Society. And the North Country Recreation District Performing Arts Center, you can enjoy live theater by the Riverbend Players and music concerts.

If you are a dog lover, you can bring your furry, four-legged companion to Muttzanita, an annual celebration of all things canine. Muttzanita takes place in downtown Manzanita. It is a day filled with doggy activities, including a fashion show, parade, games on the beach and the election of a local canine for Mayor of Muttzanita. Look for pet-oriented vendors, and be sure to visit the event sponsor, Four Paws on the Beach, Manzanita’s boutique pet store. Proceeds benefit Animal Haven by the Sea. 

In October, discover new short films and filmmakers at the annual Manzanita Film Festival. This two-day event sells out every year and brings the art of documentaries to the town known for its arts scene, and the rich cinematic heritage of the Pacific Northwest

In November, prior to Thanksgiving, the annual North Tillamook County Women’s Association Holiday Fair is chance to do some unique shopping for handmade gifts for family friends. Held at the Pine Grove Community House.

Finish the year by joining the Manzanita Tree Lighting event, where you can have your photo taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus who arrive by fire truck driven by Nehalem Valley Fire and Rescue, enjoy a performance by the Neahkahnie Choir, and enjoy hot cocoa and cookies. Event takes place behind City Hall on Manzanita Avenue.