Christmas Fun In Portland: Top Activities To Enjoy

The holiday season is just around the corner, and Portland is transforming into a winter wonderland. The city is filled with festive cheer, and there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy during the Christmas season. From ice skating and holiday markets to light displays and festive performances, Portland has something for everyone. In this article, we'll explore the top Christmas activities to enjoy in Portland, so you can make the most of your holiday season.

Ice Skating and Winter Sports

Get ready to lace up your skates and enjoy the festive atmosphere at one of Portland's many ice skating rinks. The Rink at Pioneer Courthouse Square is a popular spot, offering ice skating lessons, hockey games, and public skating sessions throughout the holiday season.

For those who prefer a more leisurely winter activity, try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing at Mt. Hood. The mountain offers a range of trails for all skill levels, and the scenery is breathtaking.

Holiday Markets and Shopping

Portland is famous for its holiday markets, and you won't want to miss the opportunity to browse the local vendors selling handmade crafts, artwork, and unique gifts. The Portland Saturday Market is a popular spot, offering a wide range of goods, including jewelry, clothing, and home decor.

For a more traditional holiday shopping experience, head to the Pioneer Courthouse Square, where you'll find a festive market filled with holiday treats, decorations, and gifts.

Portland Christmas Ships Parade

The Portland Christmas Ships Parade is a beloved holiday tradition that takes place throughout the month of December. The parade features festively decorated boats sailing along the Willamette and Columbia rivers, offering a magical display of lights and holiday cheer.

Festive Performances and Events

Portland is home to a thriving arts scene, and the holiday season is no exception. Catch a performance of The Nutcracker at the Keller Auditorium, or enjoy a festive concert by the Portland Symphony Orchestra.

For a more unique holiday experience, head to the Peacock Lane, a charming neighborhood filled with festively decorated homes and yards. The street is transformed into a winter wonderland each year, featuring animated displays, lights, and holiday decorations.

ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo

The Oregon Zoo is transformed into a festive wonderland each year, featuring over a million lights, animated displays, and live music. ZooLights is a fun event for the whole family, with activities including animal encounters, storytelling, and a festive train ride.

Holiday Light Displays

Portland is home to some of the most impressive holiday light displays in the country. The Grotto's Festival of Lights features over 500,000 lights, animatronic displays, and a life-size nativity scene.

For a more unique holiday light display, head to the Portland International Airport, which features a stunning display of lights and decorations throughout the terminal.

New Year's Eve in Portland

Ring in the new year in style with Portland's many New Year's Eve events. The city's biggest celebration takes place in Pioneer Courthouse Square, featuring live music, food and drink vendors, and a countdown to midnight.

For a more low-key celebration, head to the Waterfront Park, which features a stunning display of fireworks and live music.

In conclusion, Portland is a wonderful place to spend the holiday season, with plenty of fun activities to enjoy. From ice skating and holiday markets to festive performances and light displays, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city.

We hope you've enjoyed this article and are inspired to plan your own holiday adventure in Portland. Don't forget to share your favorite holiday activities with us in the comments below, and happy holidays!