6 Fun November Things to Do in Butte County
We love November in Butte County: fall colors abound, the weather finally feels like fall, and cities come to life with twinkle lights and festive decorations for the upcoming holiday season. From outdoor adventures to holiday celebrations, these are some of our favorite things to do in November.
Located along the famed Pacific Flyway, Butte County is home to dozens of great birding opportunities in the winter as thousands of birds make their annual migration. From Gray Lodge Wildlife Area in Gridley to the Llano Seco Unit in Chico to higher elevation viewings, there’s a beautiful spot to catch the best views of visiting snow geese, sandhill cranes, grosbeaks, and more (even if you’re not a birder, this is a seasonal must!).
With the holidays fast approaching, it’s time to start checking off your Christmas list. You’ll find plenty of opportunities to find the perfect locally made gifts for everyone on your list at a variety of events in November. Make it an evening out at Oroville’s Christmas Preview or Chico’s Christmas Preview, where you can enjoy carolers, carriage rides, and other entertainment while shopping at some Butte County’s best local shops.
Few things are more wintery than ice skating under the stars, and you have two beautiful spots to choose from—but why choose when you can skate at both?
Opening Friday, Nov. 11, Paradise on Ice is an intimate ice rink nestled among the pines at the Terry Ashe Recreation Center. The Ridge family favorite offers daily skating hours as well as several special events and theme days. Just down the hill, the Chico Ice Rink in the Plaza is a vibrant hub of festive holiday activity in Downtown Chico. Opening Thursday, Nov. 17, this is the spot for a walkable night of skating, shopping, and dining.
Dress up in your favorite vintage tweed-inspired attire for the annual Chico Tweed Ride on Sunday, Nov. 20. This casual ride through Lower Bidwell Park features vintage bicycles and outfits and a whole lot of fun. Don’t worry if you don’t have the right attire—while some effort to recreate the spirit of a bygone era is always appreciated, it’s not required to participate. Remember to pack a picnic for the half-way stop at 5 Mile Recreation Area.
Kick off Thanksgiving with a 5K through Lower Bidwell Park during Chico’s Run for Food. Join thousands of other runners and walkers Thanksgiving morning at this annual fundraising event that doesn’t just support a good cause but also gets you ready for a day of eating.
Get ready to be transported to the 1800s during the Yuba Feather Museum’s Hometown Christmas on Saturday, Nov. 26. Stroll along the boardwalks under lantern light in Gold Trader Flat, the museum’s replica Gold Rush town. Enjoy unique vendors, delicious food, and hot drinks along with characters from the past.