Make a new tradition on Christmas day by visiting one of these independent movie theaters in and around Portland. These 13 local theaters are showing new releases and Christmas classics on December 25. All of them have theater snacks and some offer full meals. If you want to take the stress … [Read more...] about Portland Movie Theaters Open on Christmas Day
Family & Parenting
Christmas Day at McMenamins Kennedy School
Once your stocking is emptied, presents are opened and you've eaten your tasty morning treats, what's on the agenda for the rest of your day? Many of us are asking ourselves what we are going to do in Portland on Christmas Day. The McMenamins Kennedy School has us covered. Here are the … [Read more...] about Christmas Day at McMenamins Kennedy School
How to Enter the Portland Snowplow Naming Contest
Here's your chance to put your creativity to work and earn bragging rights for the whole year. Submit your ideas to the Portland Snowplow Naming Contest. Portland Bureau of Transportation invites the public to participate in the second annual snowplow naming contest. Last year’s inaugural … [Read more...] about How to Enter the Portland Snowplow Naming Contest
Holiday Lights at Meinig Park
Every year, Sandy's crown jewel park transforms into a magical holiday experience. Visit the holiday lights at Meinig Park this season. The light display also hosts special events throughout the month. Here are the details about the holiday event. If you're looking for more sparkling lights, … [Read more...] about Holiday Lights at Meinig Park
Holiday Express Train Ride in Portland
Have you ever dreamed of riding on the Polar Express? Here's a magical train ride in Portland this holiday season. Join Santa Claus and his elves on the Holiday Express train ride in Portland. This memorable ride behind Portland’s famous steam locomotives lets you travel inside a vintage rail car … [Read more...] about Holiday Express Train Ride in Portland
2025 Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway
Every holiday season, Portland International Raceway transforms its track into the largest light show West of the Mississippi. Starting the day after Thanksgiving, you can visit Winter Wonderland any day of the week. Since 1993, Winter Wonderland has been one of the must-see holiday light … [Read more...] about 2025 Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway
Christmas on Franklin: A Neighborhood Light Display in Vancouver
View 10 properties come to light this holiday season during Christmas on Franklin. Franklin Street in Vancouver is known for going all out during the holidays. The event features thousands of lights along with themed displays. If you're looking for even more free holiday light displays, … [Read more...] about Christmas on Franklin: A Neighborhood Light Display in Vancouver
Winter Solstice Celebration at Leach Botanical Garden
Leach Botanical Garden invites you to take part in a tribute to the sun's return at the Winter Solstice celebration. Leach Botanical Garden is a natural oasis nestled in Southeast Portland. The 16-acre estate features more than 2,000 plant species growing along the banks of Johnson Creek. Adding … [Read more...] about Winter Solstice Celebration at Leach Botanical Garden
2025 Free Christmas Dinner in Portland
In the true spirit of the season, when community and generosity are the centerpiece, organizations throughout Portland are serving free Christmas dinner. If you're looking for a free hot meal, visit one of these local organizations to enjoy a meal onsite or take it to go. These meals are … [Read more...] about 2025 Free Christmas Dinner in Portland
Trackers Holiday Faire: Craft Fair, Cookies and Archery
Enjoy a craft fair, cookies and archery at the annual Trackers Holiday Faire. Trackers is a team of expert educators who connect kids and adults with real adventures in the natural world. During the holiday party, visit the organization's location at Trackers Lodge for a day of family fun. 2025 … [Read more...] about Trackers Holiday Faire: Craft Fair, Cookies and Archery
Whale Watching Week on the Oregon Coast
Oregon is truly a natural wonder. In Portland, we're lucky enough to live a short drive from the mountain and the ocean. If you're looking for an unforgettable day trip or want to get out of the city during winter break, head to the coast for whale watching. Nearly 20,000 gray whales are … [Read more...] about Whale Watching Week on the Oregon Coast
Where to Go Ice Skating In and Around Portland
If you're looking to try a new activity or wanting to experience some nostalgia from your childhood, plan a day to go ice skating at these Portland ice rinks. The locations below include seasonal ice skating experiences and year-round ice rinks. All of the ice rinks have public skating, … [Read more...] about Where to Go Ice Skating In and Around Portland
Visit Whoville at Watts House Museum
Whoville has landed in Scappoose! Step inside a special Grinch-themed attraction at Scappoose Historical Society’s Watts House. Step into a magical holiday wonderland inspired by Whoville, where twinkling festive lights set the scene for family-friendly fun. Guests can enjoy cheerful … [Read more...] about Visit Whoville at Watts House Museum
Procrastinators Holiday Market at Clackamas High School
Celebrate the season at the 14th annual Procrastinators Holiday Market. Join a celebration of 14 incredible years of bringing the joy of the holidays to Happy Valley at this two-day event. Here are the details about the upcoming market: Procrastinators Holiday Market at Clackamas … [Read more...] about Procrastinators Holiday Market at Clackamas High School
2025 Ukrainian Winterfest
Enjoy entertainment, family-friendly activities and traditional food at the Ukrainian Winterfest. The third annual event invites everyone to celebrate Ukrainian culture while also fundraising for Ukraine's critical needs. Here's what is in store at the upcoming event: 2025 Ukrainian … [Read more...] about 2025 Ukrainian Winterfest
2025 Starkwood Holiday Lights: A 65-Year Tradition in East Portland
Come celebrate 65 years of community and holiday spirit at Starkwood Holiday Lights. Each year, Starkwood HOA brightens East Portland with one of the most cherished neighborhood light displays in the city. What started as a simple tradition has grown into a beloved seasonal … [Read more...] about 2025 Starkwood Holiday Lights: A 65-Year Tradition in East Portland
A Pittock Mansion Christmas: Home for the Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, the iconic Pittock Mansion in Portland gears up to transform into a Home for the Holidays, marking the return of its beloved annual Christmas display. This year promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a festive theme that transports visitors into a … [Read more...] about A Pittock Mansion Christmas: Home for the Holidays
Fort Vancouver Holiday Event
Embrace the festive spirit by stepping back in time during the Fort Vancouver holiday event. Nestled on the north bank of the Columbia River, Fort Vancouver boasts a diverse cultural past, evolving from a frontier fur trading post to a formidable military stronghold. The park unfolds tales of the … [Read more...] about Fort Vancouver Holiday Event
2025 Clackamas County Winter Fair
The Clackamas County Fairgrounds transforms into a winter wonderland. Clackamas County Winter Fair features a walk-through holiday light display, a holiday market and visits with Santa surrounded by the sights and sounds of Christmas. Get all the details on this event below. Now that … [Read more...] about 2025 Clackamas County Winter Fair
Silver Falls Winter Festival
Silver Falls State Park becomes even more magical in December during the Winter Festival. Enjoy fun holiday activities while exploring this incredible Oregon park. Here's what you can enjoy at the free festival. 2025 Silver Falls Winter Festival The Silver Falls Winter Festival is … [Read more...] about Silver Falls Winter Festival
A Christmas Bazaar at Clark College
Celebrate the holidays at A Christmas Bazaar in Vancouver, where festive cheer meets handmade treasures. With an exciting lineup of activities and vendors, make your holiday shopping a wrap at this weekend's market. Here are the details: A Christmas Bazaar at Clark College A Christmas … [Read more...] about A Christmas Bazaar at Clark College
Glow Skate Nights at Oaks Park Roller Rink
Get out of the house and enjoy a fun evening activity at Oaks Park Roller Rink's Glow Skate Nights. Oaks Amusement Park in Portland has been bringing joy to the young and young at heart since 1905. The roller rink is the park's year-round attraction and one of Portland’s last remaining roller … [Read more...] about Glow Skate Nights at Oaks Park Roller Rink
Dongzhi: Winter Solstice Celebration at Lan Su Chinese Garden
Lan Su Chinese Garden invites you to immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Dongzhi, the winter solstice. Originating from the Han Dynasty, Dongzhi holds a special place in Chinese culture, symbolizing family reunions, good fortune and the promise of a bountiful year ahead. Lan Su … [Read more...] about Dongzhi: Winter Solstice Celebration at Lan Su Chinese Garden
Polish Christmas Bazaar in Portland
As the holidays draw near, it's time to immerse yourself in the festive spirit. The Polish Christmas Bazaar brings together the warmth of tradition, the joy of community and the magic of Christmas in one delightful afternoon. Stock up on unique goods at this weekend market. Here are the … [Read more...] about Polish Christmas Bazaar in Portland
2025 Tigard Holiday Lights Walk
This December, you’re invited to celebrate the season of light with friends and family at the Tigard Holiday Lights Walk. Take a stroll through the light route on foot or hop in the car and crank the the holiday tunes. Here's the route and more details the make the night extra … [Read more...] about 2025 Tigard Holiday Lights Walk
Doug Fir Day at World Forestry Center
Get free admission and enjoy family-friendly activities during Doug Fir Day at World Forestry Center. We love our forests in Oregon. The World Forestry Center's Discovery Museum is located right here in our city, inviting visitors to examine forests and consider all the ways they benefit our … [Read more...] about Doug Fir Day at World Forestry Center
Trap Kitchen Christmas Tree Giveaway
For the 6th year, Trap Kitchen is spreading love and joy to Portland families during December. Here's how families can get a free Christmas tree. This year, Trap Kitchen partners with Rose City J.A.M and local sponsors to expand to three pickup locations. Here's what you need to know to get a … [Read more...] about Trap Kitchen Christmas Tree Giveaway
2025 ScanFair: Nordic Christmas Market
Enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes and traditions of a Nordic Christmas market at ScanFair. For more than 40 years, Nordic Northwest has brought Scandinavia to Portland through traditional food, entertainment, goods and activities. Here's what you can enjoy at this year's … [Read more...] about 2025 ScanFair: Nordic Christmas Market
Tuba Christmas Concert at Pioneer Courthouse Square
Head to Portland's Living Room for a special tuba Christmas concert of epic proportions. Have you ever been to a tuba concert? What about 200 tubas play in harmony? The annual Tuba Christmas Concert at Pioneer Courthouse Square gets in the holiday spirit with a free concert for all to … [Read more...] about Tuba Christmas Concert at Pioneer Courthouse Square
2025 Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition
Pioneer Courthouse Square hosts the Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition. Head downtown for a special evening of song and holiday cheer. While you're there, stop by the Gingerbread Masterpiece at The Benson. Here are the details on the 2025 event. 2025 Great Figgy Pudding Caroling … [Read more...] about 2025 Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition
The Benson Hotel’s Gingerbread Masterpiece
The Benson Hotel continues its long-standing tradition of creating a gingerbread masterpiece for the holiday season. For the 54th year, the historic Portland hotel makes a special gingerbread creation the centerpiece of its lobby. Here are details about the 2025 gingerbread … [Read more...] about The Benson Hotel’s Gingerbread Masterpiece
2025 Winterfest at Leach Botanical Garden
Embrace the holiday spirit at Leach Botanical Garden's Winterfest. The magical winter market event is your chance to find unique gifts, connect with local artisans and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the garden. 2025 Winterfest at Leach Botanical Garden Winterfest kicks off with a special opening … [Read more...] about 2025 Winterfest at Leach Botanical Garden
Troutdale Windy Wonderland and Tree Lighting
Celebrate the magic of the holidays at the Troutdale Windy Wonderland and Tree Lighting. The holiday spirit is alive and well in historic downtown Troutdale. The two-day festive extravaganza is packed with holiday cheer and offers something for everyone. Best of all, it supports Snow Cap … [Read more...] about Troutdale Windy Wonderland and Tree Lighting
Portland Drive-Through Christmas Lights
This December, soak in the magic of the season at these Portland drive-through Christmas lights. From the city to the suburbs, a handful of beloved events go all out with glowing arches, animated scenes and tunnels of light. You’ll find everything from classic reindeer and candy-cane themes to … [Read more...] about Portland Drive-Through Christmas Lights
Free Photos with Santa at Gresham Station
Gresham Station transforms into the North Pole for Santa's arrival. Sign up for free photos with Santa. Head to the Gresham shopping center to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and partake in fun activities. This is one of several opportunities to take a photo with Santa for free this holiday season. You … [Read more...] about Free Photos with Santa at Gresham Station
2025 Free Photos with Santa
We're all looking for ways to save during the holiday season. Capturing a moment you'll cherish for years to come should not break the bank. Thankfully, these local events are offering free photos with Santa! These free photos with Jolly Old St. Nicholas are a great deal, yet the events are … [Read more...] about 2025 Free Photos with Santa
The North Pole at Eagle Crest
Visit a truly magical Christmas display during The North Pole at Eagle Crest. This free holiday light display is open on select nights in December. Every holiday season, a local family transforms their home into the North Pole. Here are the details about the 2025 display, including the new … [Read more...] about The North Pole at Eagle Crest
Holiday Light Display Map: Plan Your Self-Guided Tour
Find the best decorated homes in Portland with the Holiday Light Display Map. The holiday season brings with it a sense of magic and wonder that lights up communities around the world. For some, it's not just about celebrating within the four walls of their homes but sharing the joy and spirit of … [Read more...] about Holiday Light Display Map: Plan Your Self-Guided Tour
2025 Fremont Holiday Fest
Get in the spirit of the season at the Fremont Holiday Fest! On Friday, December 5, 2025, from 4-7 p.m., the Beaumont Business Association is hosting an evening full of fun, free activities along NE Fremont from NE 42nd-50th. Most activities are happening for the duration of the event, … [Read more...] about 2025 Fremont Holiday Fest
2025 Beaverton Winter Lights
Every December, Beaverton City Park transforms into a sparkling holiday attraction, Beaverton Winter Lights. The holiday display features the city's Christmas tree along with thousands of lights throughout the park. Here's how you can enjoy this attraction. You may also enjoy … [Read more...] about 2025 Beaverton Winter Lights
Weihnachtsmarkt: A German Christmas Market
Step into the enchanting world of Weihnachtsmarkt: A German Christmas Market hosted by the German American Society of Portland. Since 1871, the German American Society of Portland has connected people to German and American heritage through relationships and cultural understanding. Here are … [Read more...] about Weihnachtsmarkt: A German Christmas Market
Holiday Sparkles at Powerland Heritage Park
Enjoy holiday lights and decorations from the comfort of your car at Powerland Heritage Park. Take a short drive south to visit the free Holiday Sparkles event. Drive through 62 acres of holiday lights and decorations at this free event. Here are some more free holiday light displays you … [Read more...] about Holiday Sparkles at Powerland Heritage Park
Christmas Tree Farms and Lots in and around Portland
Soak in that sweet pine smell at Christmas tree farms and lots around Portland. Nothing rings in the holiday season quite like the smell of a fresh cut Christmas tree. We're fortunate to live in an area where trees are plentiful and grow by the foot. It also means there are plenty of options for … [Read more...] about Christmas Tree Farms and Lots in and around Portland
Portland Movie Theaters Open on Thanksgiving
Make a new tradition this Thanksgiving by visiting one of these independent movie theaters in and around Portland. These 11 local theaters are showing new releases on November 27, 2025. All of them have theater snacks and some offer full meals. Head to your favorite location after you meal. If … [Read more...] about Portland Movie Theaters Open on Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Weekend Events in Portland
You’re finally done grocery shopping. The house is clean. You have a schedule of what's cooking for the next 24 hours. It is officially the calm before the holiday storm. But there is still one thing you might have overlooked: what do to with your guests over Thanksgiving weekend. Make new … [Read more...] about Thanksgiving Weekend Events in Portland
2025 Portland Tree Lighting Ceremony
There is something magical about a tree covered in mesmerizing lights and charming decorations. It is even more impressive when the tree stands at 75 feet tall. Ring in the season at the Portland Tree Lighting Ceremony. On the day after Thanksgiving, Portlanders are invited to kick off the … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Tree Lighting Ceremony
Regal Holiday Classics Movie Series
Regal Cinemas invites you to come out and enjoy your favorite holiday movies on the big screen. Regal Holiday Classics Movie Series shows some of your festive films during the most wonderful time of year. Here are the details about the 2025 event. 2025 Regal Holiday Classics Movie … [Read more...] about Regal Holiday Classics Movie Series
Gresham Historical Society’s Christmas at the Museum
Step into a world of holiday magic this season at the Gresham Historical Society for its annual Christmas at the Museum celebration. After Thanksgiving, the museum transforms into a festive wonderland. View twinkling Christmas trees, whimsical gingerbread houses and a charming winter village. You … [Read more...] about Gresham Historical Society’s Christmas at the Museum
Green Friday at Tryon Creek Natural Area
Skip the stores and online shopping and celebrate Green Friday outside at Tryon Creek Natural Area. Located in Southwest Portland, Tryon Creek is one of Portland’s best urban parks. This beautiful natural area is a great example of our temperate rainforest climate: trees covered in … [Read more...] about Green Friday at Tryon Creek Natural Area
Sign Up for Free Photos with Portland’s Black Santa
Black Santa is coming to town! Participate in this Portland tradition at these free events this holiday season. Leroy Barber, Portland's Black Santa, took on the role in 2016. These volunteer-led Black Santa events offer a diverse representation of Jolly Old Saint Nicholas. In 2025, there … [Read more...] about Sign Up for Free Photos with Portland’s Black Santa
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