5 Ways To Experience Portlands Grotto At Christmas

As the holiday season approaches, many of us are looking for unique and festive ways to experience the magic of Christmas. For those in the Portland area, The Grotto is a must-visit destination during the holiday season. This beautiful sanctuary, also known as The National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother, is a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city. Here are 5 ways to experience Portland's Grotto at Christmas:

1. Festival of Lights

One of the most popular ways to experience The Grotto during the holiday season is by visiting the Festival of Lights. This annual event features over 500,000 lights that transform the sanctuary into a winter wonderland. Visitors can walk through the beautifully illuminated gardens and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The Festival of Lights typically runs from late November to mid-January, making it a great activity for families, couples, and individuals of all ages.

Special Events During the Festival of Lights

During the Festival of Lights, The Grotto also hosts several special events, including:

• Christmas concerts and choirs
• Visits with Santa Claus
• Holiday craft fairs
• Special masses and prayer services

These events add to the festive atmosphere and provide visitors with a chance to experience the true spirit of Christmas.

2. The Life-Size Nativity

Another way to experience The Grotto at Christmas is by visiting the life-size nativity scene. This beautiful display features life-size figures of Mary, Joseph, and the baby Jesus, surrounded by angels, shepherds, and animals. The nativity scene is a poignant reminder of the true meaning of Christmas and provides a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere for visitors.

3. Christmas Masses and Prayer Services

For those looking for a more spiritual experience, The Grotto offers several Christmas masses and prayer services throughout the holiday season. These services provide a chance for visitors to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and to experience the peace and tranquility of the sanctuary.

Special Christmas Masses and Prayer Services

Some of the special Christmas masses and prayer services offered at The Grotto include:

• Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve
• Christmas Day Mass
• Advent prayer services
• Special masses and prayer services for families and children

These services are a great way to connect with the spiritual side of Christmas and to experience the beauty and peace of The Grotto.

4. The Grotto's Gift Shop

After exploring the sanctuary and experiencing the Festival of Lights, visitors can browse The Grotto's gift shop for unique and meaningful holiday gifts. The gift shop features a wide range of items, including:

• Christmas ornaments and decorations
• Religious gifts and mementos
• Local artisan crafts and jewelry
• Books and music

5. Visiting The Grotto's Peace Garden

Finally, visitors can experience the beauty and tranquility of The Grotto's Peace Garden, a beautiful sanctuary featuring a variety of plants, flowers, and trees. The Peace Garden is a great place to relax and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.

Special Events in the Peace Garden

During the holiday season, The Grotto's Peace Garden also hosts several special events, including:

• Holiday concerts and performances
• Special prayer services and meditations
• Seasonal flower displays and exhibitions

These events add to the peaceful atmosphere of the garden and provide visitors with a chance to experience the beauty of nature during the holiday season.

As you can see, there are many ways to experience Portland's Grotto at Christmas. Whether you're looking for a festive and fun experience or a more spiritual and contemplative one, The Grotto has something for everyone. So why not visit The Grotto this holiday season and experience the magic of Christmas in a truly unique and special way?