Spectacular Seasonal Illuminations: Portland’s Best Holiday Light Shows
As the holiday season approaches, Portland transforms into a winter wonderland filled with dazzling light displays that capture the magic of this festive time of year. From classic drive-through spectacles to charming neighborhood showcases, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you prefer to stroll through twinkling pathways or drive through enchanting displays, Portland’s holiday light shows promise to delight your senses and create lasting memories. Here’s a guide to some of the best holiday light shows in and around Portland this season.
Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway
Dates: Nov 29–Dec 31
For over 30 years, the Portland International Raceway has hosted the spectacular Winter Wonderland, a drive-through holiday light show that claims to be “the largest light holiday show west of the Mississippi.” With more than 250 light displays and animated scenes inspired by beloved Christmas carols, this event is a must-see. Tickets are priced at $38 per car on weeknights and $49 on weekends. If you arrive in a larger vehicle, like a limo or a bus, expect to pay $80 or more. Unique to this event, three nights are designated as car-free: December 1 is for bikes only, while December 2 and 3 welcome dog walkers.
Zoo Lights at the Oregon Zoo
Dates: Nov 22–Jan 5; closed Christmas Day
The Oregon Zoo has been illuminating the holiday season since 1988 with its enchanting Zoo Lights. This year, the zoo will showcase 1.5 million lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can marvel at vibrant displays featuring purple hippos, swimming penguins, and exotic jungle animals. Delightful seasonal treats like elephant ears and hot cocoa are available, along with beer and wine for the adults. Ticket prices vary by date, with adult walk-through prices ranging from $13 to $35 and children’s tickets from $13 to $30. Zoo members enjoy a 20% discount, making it an excellent time to visit with family. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are assigned to specific entrance times.
Festival of Lights at the Grotto
Dates: NOV 29–Dec 30; closed Christmas Day
The Grotto presents the Festival of Lights, one of the largest Christmas choral festivals globally. Visitors can enjoy nightly indoor concerts featuring choirs from schools and churches. The serene grounds are adorned with over two million lights, creating a peaceful backdrop for various events, including caroling and puppet shows. General admission is $16.50 for those aged 12 and above ($18 at the gate), $7.75 for ages 3 to 11 ($8 at the gate), and free for children under 2. For budget-conscious visitors, value nights on December 2–5 and 9–12 offer discounted admission.
Peacock Lane
Dates: Dec 15–31
Since 1932, Peacock Lane has been a beloved Portland tradition, where neighbors compete to create the best holiday decorations. This year, the block will feature enthusiastically decorated houses, some with interactive displays perfect for Instagram. The cocoa booth offers free cocoa and cider on pedestrian-only nights, December 15 and 16. While driving through can be slow-going, it’s recommended to park a few blocks away and walk to fully enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Christmas Ships Parade
Check website for daily schedules
One of Oregon’s oldest holiday traditions, the Christmas Ships Parade, sets sail for its 70th year on December 1. This annual event features up to 60 uniquely decorated boats that light up the Columbia and Willamette rivers. Each vessel boasts imaginative holiday scenes, such as Santa fishing or a whimsical Loch Ness Monster donning a Santa hat. The parade runs on various dates, and you can find detailed schedules online to catch the boats as they traverse the waterways.
Beyond Portland
Beaverton Winter Lights
Dates: Dec 1–Jan 3
The downtown area of Beaverton lights up with free winter displays and festivities, beginning with a tree-lighting ceremony on December 6. This event features live music, craft activities, and local vendors, making it a perfect outing for families.
The North Pole at Eagle Crest
Dates: Fridays–Sundays, Dec 6–22
Just 45 minutes southwest of Portland, the North Pole at Eagle Crest offers a free display where visitors can peek inside Santa’s toy factory. Guests can sip hot cocoa and even write letters to Santa, with a mailbox that guarantees delivery to the North Pole. Donations are accepted to benefit St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, and new this year is a market featuring handmade crafts and baked goods.
Silverton Christmas Market
Dates: Nov 21–Dec 31; closed Nov 28, Dec 24 & 25
Located 45 minutes south of Portland, the Silverton Christmas Market dazzles with over one million lights. Visitors can stroll through the Oregon Garden Resort, enjoying a biergarten, a snowless tubing hill, and an authentic German market filled with artisan vendors. Admission prices range from $15 to $22 depending on the day, with discounts for children under 12.
Keizer Miracle of Christmas
Dates: Dec 6–26
Similar to Peacock Lane, the Keizer Miracle of Christmas began as a friendly competition among neighbors in 1984. This suburb near Salem has transformed into a charitable event that raises nearly $50,000 annually for the Marion Polk Food Share nonprofit. The event encourages visitors to bring donations of food and funds.
Umpqua Valley Festival of Lights
Dates: Nov 24–Jan 1
The Umpqua Valley Festival of Lights, organized by the Roseburg Rotary Club, features over 90 light displays, including what is claimed to be the world’s largest nutcracker. For $10 per car, visitors can enjoy the festive lights and access the nearby Dutch Bros Holiday Village. This festival is a great excuse for a weekend getaway, located about two hours and 45 minutes south of Portland.
Shore Acres Holiday Lights
Dates: Nov 28–Dec 31
Located between Coos Bay and Cape Arago, Shore Acres State Park is home to the Shore Acres Holiday Lights. Thousands of lights adorn the formal gardens, creating a magical display with a marine theme featuring jellyfish and spouting whales. A parking permit is required for $5, making this an affordable outing for families and friends alike.
Conclusion
Portland and its surrounding areas offer a spectacular array of holiday light shows that cater to every taste and budget. From the dazzling drive-through displays at the Portland International Raceway to charming neighborhood traditions like Peacock Lane, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the season. Gather your loved ones, bundle up, and immerse yourself in the enchanting spirit of the holidays as you explore these magical light displays. Whether you’re sipping cocoa, enjoying live music, or marveling at the creativity of local displays, these festive events will surely fill your heart with holiday cheer.
