With all the perks of big city life and far fewer crowds, Eugene hosts a mix of off-Broadway classics and unique community theater productions – plus shows and concerts that skip or sell out in bigger cities. Plus, the food scene has garnered national coverage, yet retains its undiscovered vibes with friendly service and easy-to-get tables. Use the event venue guide below to make your winter entertainment plans!

Downtown Eugene

Hult Center for the Performing Arts hosts four resident companies including ballet, symphony and choir. The venue welcomes touring Broadway shows, national acts and local performers. The center features hearing loops, assistive listening devices, wheelchair accessible seating and booster seats for children.

Upcoming shows: Mrs. Doubtfire, Elf in Concert, A Drag Queen Christmas, The Book of Mormon, Beetlejuice

The John G. Shedd Institute for the Arts sits just blocks away in downtown Eugene. Their programming celebrates American music, Broadway and jazz while featuring visiting artists. The venue includes a hearing loop system for improved sound clarity and offers a pre-show dinner option on Fridays when you buy tickets.

Upcoming shows: Oklahoma!, Glad Tidings We Bring, On The Radio with Maris Frantz, For Once in My Life: The Heart, Soul and Style of Vikkie Carr

McDonald Theatre books live music, comedy shows, film screenings and more in the historic theater. The vintage vibe is the perfect backdrop to a night out, with classic marquee signage and warm globe lights inviting you inside. 

Upcoming shows: John Craigie, Steely Dead, Anjelah Johnson-Reyes: The Family Reunion Tour

Actors Cabaret of Eugene combines dinner and theater all in one, for the perfect, low-stress night out. Order meals like lasagna or shepherd's pie when purchasing tickets and get ready for a delicious theater experience.

Upcoming shows: The Medium, Gypsy: A Musical Fable

Oregon Contemporary Theatre (OCT) has been producing diverse, thought-provoking shows for over thirty years. The theater offers an inclusive environment with engaging productions.

Upcoming shows: Wink, The Rocket Men, The Fifth Hypothesis

Stay downtown at The Gordon, an artsy hotel with a speakeasy that is walking distance from multiple venues. Or, head just across the river (a quick drive, we promise!) and stay at Valley River Inn, with river views, roaring fires and a restaurant on the river.

University District

Matthew Knight Arena handles large-scale events including concerts, sporting events, Oregon basketball games and entertainment shows ranging from monster trucks to concerts to exhibition basketball.

Upcoming shows: Women’s and Men’s Basketball, Zach Top, Nate Bargatze: Big Dumb Eyes

Miller Theatre Complex on the University of Oregon campus features student productions from the Theatre Arts Department in the Robinson and Hope Theatres. Come watch up-and-coming talent perform classics in these intimate theater halls.

Upcoming shows: The Moors, Much Ado About Nothing, Radium Girls

Stay near campus at Hayward Inn or the Best Western New Oregon, walking distance from campus and tons of restaurants. 

South Eugene

Very Little Theatre was born in 1929 and is now one of the oldest, continuously-operating community theaters in America. Be a part of their history and catch a show at their recently renovated Main Stage. For dinner before a show, try Mazzi's Italian Restaurant for traditional Italian cuisine.

Upcoming shows: Fermata Ballet Collective, Urinetown, The Found Dog Ribbon Dance

Beyond Eugene

Richard E. Wildish Community Theatre in Springfield on Main Street features strong acoustics and sightlines in a historic setting. The theater includes hearing loop technology. Pre-show dining options include Plank Town Brewing Company and PublicHouse for casual meals, or George + Violet's and Tavern on Main for date night. 

Upcoming shows: Roald Dahl’s Matilda, Christmas Presence 2025

Cottage Theatre is a community theater south of Eugene, recognized for putting on incredible productions powered by volunteers. Cottage Theatre hosts magical live theatre for everyone, with wheelchair accessible seating and hearing loops, as well as programs for kids and teens. 

Upcoming shows: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, A Piece of My Heart, Cabaret

Stay in Cottage Grove at Sweet Springs Family Farm or Lily of the Field Bed & Breakfast for a cozy, quiet getaway. 

Florence Events Center near Historic Old Town Florence is the perfect place to catch a show on a getaway to the Coast. Combine your visit with dinner in Florence. Restaurant options include The Waterfront Depot for date nights, or family-friendly spots like 1285 Restobar, Nosh Eatery and Mo's.

Upcoming shows: Holly Jolly Follies, Pacific Coast Wind Ensemble Winter Holiday Concert, Florence Winter Music Festival

Stay in Florence at the River House Inn in Historic Old Town, or venture south of town into Dunes City to stay on a coastal lake at one of the themed rooms or cabins at Hotel Florentine.

From live jazz to comedy, poetry readings to opera, find your favorite entertainment here! Paired with nearby food trucks or gourmet restaurants and a cozy B&B or a comfortable downtown hotel, you’ve got an unforgettable winter getaway! Check venue websites for current schedules and accessibility features.