Festive in the PNW: Portland’s Holiday Happenings You Can’t Miss

Festive in the PNW: Portland’s Holiday Happenings You Can’t Miss (2025 Guide)
Whether you’re planning family outings, date nights, or solo seasonal adventures, here’s everything you won’t want to miss.



Light Displays That Brighten the Season

ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo
Dates: November 21st - January 4th
Location: Oregon Zoo
-Illuminated walk-through with life-size animal lanterns
-Over 1.5 million LED lights, tunnels, and interactive displays
-Family-favorite for photos, hot cocoa, and a festive nighttime stroll
-Pro tip: Go on weekdays for lighter crowds

Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway
Dates: November 28th - December 31st
Time: Mon - Thu 5pm-10pm, Fri - Sun 4:30pm-11pm + Dec 12th - 25th 4:30pm-11pm
Location: Portland International Raceway
-Largest drive-through holiday light experience in the Pacific Northwest
-Over 250 animated displays and light tunnels
-Great for staying warm—drive in your pajamas with snacks

Festival of Lights at The Grotto
Dates: November 28th - December 30th
Time: 5pm-9:30pm (grounds close at 10pm)
Location: The Grotto
-Walk-through display on peaceful, forested sanctuary grounds
-Nightly choir performances + puppet shows included
-A more contemplative, serene holiday outing



Peacock Lane Christmas Lights
Dates: December 15th - December 31st (pedestrian-only nights December 19th - 20th)
Time: 6pm-11pm
Location: SE Portland
-Historic neighborhood known as “Christmas Street"
-Residents go all-out with nostalgic, themed displays
-Street is closed to cars during pedestrian-only nights—expect crowds but incredible charm

Holiday Markets & Local Vendors



Portland Night Market: Holiday Edition
Dates: December 4th - December 7th
Time: 4pm-11pm
Location: 100 SE Alder Street
-Part street fair, part festival, part craft market
-100+ small businesses, makers, vintage sellers, and food vendors
-A perfect place to grab gifts that feel uniquely Portland

Crafty Wonderland Holiday Market
Dates: December 12th - December 14th
Time: Friday, Dec 12th 5pm-9pm | Saturday, Dec 13th + Sunday, Dec 14th 10am-5pm
Location: Oregon Convention Center
-250+ artists and crafters
-Known for handmade jewelry, pottery, prints, clothing, and one-of-a-kind gifts
-Pro tip: Go early—lines can get long for this beloved event

Portland Bazaar
Dates: December 13th - December 14th + December 20th - December 21st
Time: 11am-4pm
Location: 1715 NW 17th Avenue
-Curated, design-focused market known for high-quality goods
-Expect home décor, leather goods, gourmet treats, and beautifully crafted accessories
-Aesthetic lovers’ paradise



Portland truly comes alive during the holidays, offering a mix of nostalgia, creativity, and community spirit you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re wandering through glittering light displays, picking out handmade treasures from local vendors, or enjoying a festive performance downtown, there are endless ways to make this season memorable.

If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends, family, or anyone visiting the PNW this winter — and let the magic of the season inspire your next adventure.

Wishing you a warm and joyful holiday season here in beautiful Portland!