Christmas In Portland Or: Events, Activities, And Festive Fun

Portland, Oregon, is a city that knows how to celebrate the holiday season in style. From festive events and activities to cozying up with a warm cup of coffee, Portland has something for everyone during Christmas time. Whether you're a local or just visiting, here's a rundown of the best ways to experience Christmas in Portland, OR.

Portland's holiday season kicks off in late November and runs through December, with a wide range of events and activities to enjoy. From tree lighting ceremonies to festive markets, there's no shortage of fun things to do in Portland during Christmas.

Christmas Events in Portland

Portland hosts a wide range of Christmas events, including:

• The Christmas Ship Parade: A festive flotilla of boats that sail along the Willamette and Columbia rivers, decorated with lights and holiday decorations.
• The Portland Christmas Tree Lighting: A annual event held in Pioneer Courthouse Square, featuring live music, hot chocolate, and the lighting of a towering Christmas tree.
• The ZooLights: A festive light display at the Oregon Zoo, featuring over a million lights and animated displays.
• The Peacock Lane Christmas Lights: A neighborhood in Southeast Portland that goes all out for Christmas, with elaborate light displays and decorations.

Festive Activities in Portland

In addition to its many events, Portland offers a wide range of festive activities to enjoy during the holiday season. Some popular options include:

• Ice Skating: The city's Lloyd Center offers an outdoor ice skating rink during the holiday season, perfect for getting into the festive spirit.
• Holiday Markets: Portland hosts a number of holiday markets, including the Portland Saturday Market and the Crafty Wonderland Holiday Market, featuring local vendors selling handmade crafts and gifts.
• Sleigh Rides: Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the city's snowy streets, a fun and festive way to see the sights.
• Christmas Caroling: Join in on a festive sing-along at one of the city's many Christmas caroling events, featuring classic holiday tunes.

Christmas Shopping in Portland

Portland is a shopper's paradise, and the holiday season is no exception. From boutique stores to major malls, the city has something for every budget and style. Some popular options include:

• The Pearl District: A trendy neighborhood filled with upscale boutiques and art galleries.
• The Lloyd Center: A large mall featuring a wide range of retailers, including Macy's and Nordstrom.
• Powell's City of Books: The world's largest independent bookstore, perfect for finding unique gifts for book lovers.
• Saturday Market: A weekly market featuring local vendors selling handmade crafts and gifts.

Christmas Food and Drink in Portland

Portland is known for its food and drink scene, and the holiday season is no exception. From warm cups of coffee to decadent chocolate treats, there's something for every taste and craving. Some popular options include:

• Hot Chocolate: Warm up with a rich and creamy cup of hot chocolate at one of the city's many cafes.
• Peppermint Mochas: A festive twist on the classic coffee drink, featuring peppermint syrup and whipped cream.
• Gingerbread: A classic holiday treat, perfect for snacking on while shopping or browsing the city's many holiday markets.
• Eggnog: A creamy and rich holiday beverage, perfect for sipping on a cold winter's night.

Christmas Accommodations in Portland

Portland has a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and style, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Some popular options include:

• The Heathman Hotel: A luxurious hotel in the heart of downtown, featuring elegant rooms and a world-class restaurant.
• The Hotel deLuxe: A stylish hotel in the Pearl District, featuring chic rooms and a popular bar.
• The Jupiter Hotel: A funky and eclectic hotel in the heart of the city, featuring colorful rooms and a lively bar.
• The Kennedy School Hotel: A unique hotel located in a historic school building, featuring cozy rooms and a popular restaurant.

We hope this guide has helped you plan your Christmas in Portland, OR. Whether you're looking for festive events, fun activities, or just a cozy place to stay, the city has something for everyone. So come and experience the magic of Christmas in Portland!