Portland Winter Light Festival photo by Remaining Light Photography
During the darkest time of year, one Portland event brings the city together to celebrate creativity, culture, and community through light.
The annual Portland Winter Light Festival is one of the most popular winter festivals in the city. The citywide outdoor arts celebration features interactive light-based art installations, vibrant performances and kinetic fire sculptures. The festival presents public art installations and performances for the community to enjoy.
For its 8th year, the festival has special anchor sites, events, light displays throughout the city. View the art map and list of special events below.
2023 Portland Winter Light Festival
Diabolus II by artist Moltensteelman. Photo by Emily Shimano.
The Portland Winter Light Festival is taking place February 3-11, 2023. The festival is open to all ages and free to attend.
The festival features more than 100 artworks focusing on the theme The Light of Stars.
The event has anchor sites open on select days with special performances, artwork and activities located in the heart of Portland. These locations will provide a starting point for a night of exploration and celebration of the incredible art displays.
Here are the anchor sites:
- Pioneer Courthouse Square
- World Trade Center Plaza
- The Electric Blocks at SE 2nd and Clay
Anchor sites are hosting fun from 6 to 10 p.m. on February 3-4 and February 10-11.
Festival Art Map
The festival art map lets you click on the pinpoints for more information on each art display around the city. Along with the three anchor sites, you can find light art displays in storefront windows, front yards, and more.
Plan your route using this map:
Special Events
Special events will be held on several days of the festival. I’ve highlighted a few of them here:
On Friday, February 3 at 7 p.m., watch world-class fire performers ignite their flames around and among the propane and fire-powered art at Pioneer Courthouse Square.
On Saturday, February 4 at 7:30 p.m., dress up and join a bike ride across the Hawthorne bridge. Participants will meet at Rose’s Equipment Supply parking lot at 7 p.m.
On Saturday, February 11 at 7 p.m., illuminated costumes, giant puppets, lanterns and lit objects of all kinds are encouraged during the Lantern Walk. Meet at the Salmon Street Fountain in downtown.
Midway Lights at Oaks Park
While the amusement park rides are closed for the season, they still have dazzling lights to admire. Take in the twinkle of the lights as you walk Oaks Park’s midway each night of the festival from 6 to 10 p.m.
Parking is $3 on weekdays and $5 on Saturdays and Sundays. The Roller Rink Cafe is open at 7 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday. After viewing the lights, go roller skating.
Portland Winter Light Festival is happening February 3-11 from 6-10 p.m. For more information and to view all event, visit the festival website.
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