Explore Lincoln City received a Travel Oregon grant to produce a new photo and video series celebrating the bounty of our local ingredients. The project follows James Beard–nominated Chef Jack Strong—Siletz tribal member and former Executive Chef at Chinook Winds Casino Resort—as he explores Lincoln City’s markets, seafood spots, and beverage makers before preparing a coastal meal in a short-term rental. The series elevates Lincoln City’s culinary story and invites visitors to create one of their own. This project was funded by Travel Oregon and the Oregon Wine Country License Plate Matching Grant. Watch the full piece here.

Explore Lincoln City had a standout year in 2025. We celebrated the 25th anniversary of Finders Keepers, contributed to a Guinness World Record with the Oregon Coast's first drone show, hosted the 45th annual Fall Kite Festival with a night fly, supported Pride Fest, launched hearing loops in the new park, celebrated the first Osprey Day, and kicked off the Biosphere Ambassador Program in collaboration with the Cascade Head Biosphere Collaborative. Transient Lodging Tax (TLT) dollars continued to fuel community events, improvements, and initiatives throughout the year.

Due to King Tides, Deck the Dock moved from December to November, and from a Friday night to a Saturday night this year, bringing out record crowds and transforming the Taft Pavilion and dock with new lighting, décor, and a festive ornament-themed entryway. Holiday lights will remain up all month long—be sure to check out Jet Ski Santa in front of City Hall for an extra splash of coastal cheer.

Thank you to Lincoln City Parks & Recreation, North Lincoln County Fire District, Public Works and The Chocolate Frog for helping bring this season’s celebration to life.