With pumpkin spice season ending and candy cane season entering the scene, it’s time to look for tree-lighting events in the city to usher in the winter. It’s time to break out the boots and cute jackets to stay warm and toasty when you go through the city to see everything. Portland does it right, and there are plenty of ways to bring in the Christmas season with each one. So, let’s dive in!
The day after Thanksgiving (November 29th), a tree is lit in the Pioneer Courthouse Square. People come from far and wide to see this because the tree is 75 feet tall, over 35 years old, and has more than 9,000 lights on it! When it lights up, you can see it far and wide! Talk about a special event! In addition, there are live musicians, including Thomas Lauderdale and carol singers. The best part is that Santa himself flips the switch to illuminate the tree. It’s genuinely one giant Christmas party, and it’s great fun!
This is one of the most significant events of the season, and there are great crowds. If you want to get a good spot for the lighting, go a little early, but no matter where you are, the tree is large enough to be seen. It’s a great photo op and will make a lovely family day.
Another community tree-lighting event is at the St. Johns event being held in the Plaza. Everyone loves an ugly sweater event. It’s fun to see what people come up with and what you could think up yourself. There is a tree-lighting ceremony, specialty cookies, and hot chocolate, and you can decorate ugly sweater ornaments and put them on the tree. The IQ Credit Union generously provides ornament kits and treats thanks to Cookie Monsterz and Wonderwood Springs.
The Roosevelt choir will also sing to the crowd. Then, there will be a countdown to light the community tree, which has been left up throughout the entire season. The event is on November 22nd from 5 to 7 p.m., which is plenty of time to have fun with all the activities and have a second cup of cocoa!
This event has a lot going on, and it’s meant to bring the fun. It starts at 1 p.m. at the Lloyd Center Ice Rink on November 23rd. Of course, the tree lighting is the main highlight of the event. However, there is so much more that you can see here. The event has music, snow, Santa’s elves come out to play, and there’s skating! Keep in mind, however, that the event only lasts 45 minutes.
Because many people will be at this event, you should prioritize what you want to do. For instance, if you want to enjoy the snow, go ice skating on a different day. The lines to see Mrs. and Mr. Claus will typically be longer than the area with the elves; everyone always wants a picture. I’d recommend seeing them first before the ice skating and treats.
Hillsboro Holly Days Celebration
This celebration will occur downtown on November 23rd from 2 to 7 p.m. It’s a big event, and it’s great for couples and families alike! The event includes an artisan market where you can shop and have fun visiting local artists, holiday performances complete with a visit from Santa, and lighting the tree.
During the artisan’s showcase, you’ll find unique handmade work ranging from jewelry and handmade beauty items (great for gifts for the family) to carolers and live music. Additional activities for kids and adults ensure that everyone can enjoy this event. The lighting will take place at 6 p.m., giving you plenty of time to explore beforehand, but if you want to head over to get a good spot for the lighting, I’d recommend heading back around 20-30 minutes early.
Explore Christmas
See some of these events when you want to explore Christmas before it happens. Fill up on cocoa and cookies while having a carefree night of the fun you deserve. The best part about these events is that they are free, and you can bring the entire family. So enjoy the winter season and see all the lights!
Also, don’t forget that there are dozens of other significant events for the holiday season, including the lights in the local neighborhoods and at the Zoo. Not to mention that all of these locations have different events throughout the
Jenifer Dale is a writer that has a passion for reading and helping others. When she is not writing, she loves cooking, crocheting, and spending time with her family.