CHRISTMAS AT PITTOCK MANSION — High in the West Hills, the Pittock Mansion offers views of Portland. Every holiday season, the mansion is decorated with Christmas trees and cheer. Tour the mansion from Nov. 22 through Dec. 27 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The treasured landmark will be decorated inside and out by professional designers and volunteers. Enjoy musicians playing holiday tunes in the music room. For details:pittockmansion.org
PORTLAND SATURDAY MARKET —The country’s largest continuously running outdoor arts and crafts market is in the Rose City. The Portland Saturday Market features hundreds of vendors, Saturdays through Dec. 18. Operating since 1974, the market sprawls throughout Portland’s Old Town and along the waterfront. For details:portlandsaturdaymarket.com
ELF THE MUSICAL — This family-friendly and heartwarming Christmas tale runs through Dec. 19 at the Lakewood Center for the Arts in Lake Oswego. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised — unaware that he is human — until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. For ticket information and performance schedule, visit:lakewood-center.org
ZOOLIGHTS — Celebrate the holidays in Portland with millions of lights at ZooLights. ZooLights takes place at the Oregon Zoo and runs from Nov. 24 through Jan. 9, except Christmas Day. Guests can also enjoy seasonal food offerings from elephant ears and dinner specials to Oregon beer and wine. Tickets are timed entry and must be purchased in advance online. For details:oregonzoo.org
“A CHRISTMAS CAROL, THE MUSICAL” — Charles Dickens’ time-honored tale of bitter miser Ebenezer Scrooge comes to life on the Broadway Rose stage with performances running Nov. 26 through Dec. 23. Renowned theater performers Alan Menken and Lynn Ahrens breathe new life into the classic holiday show with a sweeping score and whimsical storytelling. Watch Scrooge seek redemption for his selfish ways at the Broadway Rose New Stage, 12850 S.W. Grant Ave., Tigard. For ticket information, visit: broadwayrose.org/christmas-carol/
THE GROTTO CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS — Explore a wonderful garden decorated with more than one million holiday lights at The Grotto, 8840 N.E. Skidmore St.in Portland. During the holidays, this expansive shrine is home to puppet shows and choral performances, as well as indoor concerts each evening in The Grotto’s 600-seat chapel. Open from Nov. 26 through Jan. 2, except on Christmas Day. For details:the-grotto.org
WINTER WONDERLAND — Since 1993, a journey through the Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway has become a tradition for many families to celebrate the holiday season. The “Largest Holiday Light Show West of the Mississippi” offers more than 250 colorful light set pieces and many fully animated scenes that can be enjoyed from your vehicle. Winter Wonderland runs from 5-11 p.m. Nov. 26 through Jan. 1, at the raceway, 1940 N. Victory Blvd., in Portland. For tickets, visit:winterwonderlandportland.com/tickets/
THE STORM LARGE HOLIDAY ORDEAL — Storm Large has won the hearts of Portlanders, and now she returns for her annual holiday performance, guaranteed to be a night of music, gags, gifts and some special guests. Plan on an infamous and fabulous ordeal as the multi-talented local favorite charms you into the holidays with her rock, metal and jazz persuasion at the Aladdin Theater, 3017 S.E. Milwaukie Ave., in Portland, at 8 p.m. Nov. 26 and 27. For details: stormlarge.com
HOLIDAY EXPRESS TRAIN — Join Santa Claus and his elves for a magical ride behind Portland’s famous steam locomotives. Vintage rail cars transport you through wilderness in the heart of the city. One-hour round-trip rides run from Oaks Park Station through Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge to the Springwater Trail gateway on the Oregon Pacific Railroad. All trains load and depart from Oaks Park, 7805 S.E. Oaks Park Way in Portland, select days, from Nov. 26 through Dec. 19. For details:www.orhf.org/the-holiday-express
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING IN LAKE OSWEGO — Don’t miss your chance to welcome the holiday season at Lake Oswego’s annual tree lighting ceremony Nov. 26. The festivities begin at Fifth Street and A Avenue for the lighting of the historic tree at Bigelow Plaza. If one tree lighting isn’t quite enough, Lake Oswego will follow up its first tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. with a walk to Millennium Plaza to light up the entire plaza, along with another holiday tree. The Lake Oswego Fire Department will also deliver a special guest straight from the North Pole. For details:ci.oswego.or.us/parksrec/2021-tree-lighting-festival
“A CAROL FOR CHRISTMAS” — Stumptown Stages Musical Theatre presents a twist on the classic Charles Dickens ghost story set in the Midwest during the Depression. The show for young and old alike is filled with new holiday songs that celebrate the season. Performances run from Nov. 27 through Dec. 19 at the Dolores Winningstad Theatre, 1111 S.W. Broadway, Portland. For tickets, visit:portland5.com/winnings-tad-theatre/events/carol-christmas
BETHANY VILLAGE TREE LIGHTING — Local youth will provide live music to ring in the holidays Nov. 27, when Bethany Village gathers to light the community’s tree. The event runs from 5:30-8 p.m. in the parking lot of the Bethany Village Plaza and also features visits with Santa, gift booths, Starbucks hot chocolate and a library crafts table.
ORENCO STATION TREE LIGHTING — Hillsboro Mayor Steve Callaway will throw the switch to officially open the holiday season at this second annual event at Jerry Willey Place Nov. 27. Festivities get underway at 4:30 p.m. with crafting booths for all ages, hot chocolate and treats from local Orenco businesses, an Ugly Holiday Sweater Contest, live music and more. Tree lighting takes place at 5:30 p.m.
CHRISTMAS IN AURORA — Christmas in Aurora will be held Saturday, Nov. 27, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature a visit from Father Christmas, refreshments, activities for all ages, and a wrapping station. For more information, call 503-678-5754 or check the website at www.auroracolony.org
FOREST GROVE HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING — Join friends and neighbors to count down the seconds before the tree is lit outside the Forest Grove Senior & Community Center, 2037 Douglas St., from 6-7 p.m. Nov. 26. Afterward, get into the holiday spirit with Santa, caroling and a coloring contest for the kids.
SCANFAIR — Celebrate the foods, crafts, music, and traditions of a Scandinavian Christmas at ScanFair at the Nordia House, 8800 S.W. Oleson Road in Portland. Get in the Nordic spirit Dec. 3-5, with traditional Scandinavian food vendors, local arts and crafts, a holiday exhibit, and a raffle. For details: nordicnorthwest.org
TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA — Make this 3 p.m. Nov. 28 show a family tradition in the spirit of Christmas. This orchestra blends progressive rock and metal with symphonic instrumentations, pyrotechnics and uplifting voices. Hear classic Christmas hits and discover what keeps audiences coming back year after year. The venue is the Moda Center, 1 N. Center Court St. in Portland. For details: rosequarter.com
A CHRISTMAS CAROL — Attend Charles Dickens’ holiday classic about miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, and three ghosts at Portland Playhouse, 602 N.E. Prescott St. in Portland. Join the spirits who guide Scrooge through a transformative journey towards love. The hopeful musical entertainment runs Nov. 28 through Dec. 31. For details:portlandplayhouse.org
BIKE THE LIGHTS NIGHT — Gather friends, family, and bikes, park inside Portland International Raceway, and pedal around the track to the lights of Winter Wonderland. Cost is $15 for adults, $5 per child, for a fun night dedicated to bicycle riding and the bicycle community (no cars, motorized vehicles, strollers, walkers, scooters or roller blades, for safety reasons). Find plenty of free parking at PIR for the evening of Nov. 29 from 5-11 p.m. For details:winterwonderlandportland.com
WHITE ALBUM XMAS — Be on hand when the Rose City Circus brings in jugglers, aerialists and acrobats for this annual spectacular. The Beatles circus spectacular is the local rendition of the classic Beatles album performed by The NowHere Band. Enjoy a full bar and hum along to your favorite tunes. Show dates are Nov. 30 to Dec. 11, at the Alberta Rose Theatre, 3000 N.E. Alberta St. in Portland. For details:albertarosetheatre.com
LIGHTS & LEASHES DOG WALK NIGHT — Enjoy a festive walk, with or without a canine friend, around the Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway, 1940 N. Victory Blvd., Portland, from 5:30-9:30 p.m. Dec. 1. Cost is $15 for adults, $5 for children and dogs enter free. Visitors are encouraged to bring a bag of quality dog food or cat food to be donated to local animal nonprofits. Cash donations will also be accepted for the Sunshine Division. No cars or motorized vehicles of any kind, roller blades, bikes, scooters or skateboards will be allowed on the track. For ticket information, visit portlandraceway.com
FESTIVAL OF TREES: “ON THIS WINTER’S NIGHT” — The 39th annual Safeway Providence Festival of the Trees Special will welcome the holiday season by inviting the public to participate in the fundraiser from the comfort of their own home. During the Virtual Gala Auction at 7 p.m Dec. 2, guests will have an opportunity to win spectacular raffles, bid in live and silent auctions and see the stunning Christmas trees and displays decorated by local businesses and volunteers. Then, at 7 p.m. Dec. 8, the Festival of Trees Holiday Special will be broadcast live on KATU, Channel 2. Three design teams will share what it takes to create the incredible trees on display every year. There will also be special performances by local and national recording artists. The event supports Providence Children’s Health. Advance reservations for the gala and auction are required. Party attire is also suggested. To RSVP, and purchase a gourmet dinner option, visit:www.providencefoundations.org/festivalgala
CHRISTMAS SHIP PARADE — This beloved holiday tradition began in Portland in 1954 with one lone sailboat from the Portland Yacht Club. Today, the Christmas Ship Parade along the Columbia and Willamette rivers averages about 55-60 boats and takes place at 7 p.m. between Dec. 3 and 21, on select days. Check the parade schedules and prepare for a bright sight. For details:christmasships.org
WEST LINN COMMUNITY TREE LIGHTING AND CELEBRATION — West Linn’s 20th annual Community Tree Lighting and Celebration begins at 5 p.m. Dec. 3, with the coronation of West Linn’s Ambassador. Festivities continue at 6 p.m., when Santa arrives on an antique fire engine to assist in the tree lighting ceremony. Then, warm up indoors with a stop at Santa’s Workshop for a complimentary photo and sweet treat from Mrs. Claus. Visitors can also meet the new West Linn court in their Winter Wonderland. Join friends and neighbors for all the fun at West Linn City Hall, 22500 Salamo Road. For details:westlinnoregon.gov
NATIVITY LIGHTS ON STAFFORD ROAD — The Neighborhood Church on Stafford Road offers a family-friendly walk-thru display of more than a mile of outdoor lighted walking paths, each decked out in Christmas lights and displays. The event runs from Dec. 3-5 at 5:30 p.m. and begins at the church, 21065 S.W. Stafford Road. After your stroll through the lights, popcorn, hot chocolate and cider will be available for purchase in the cafe. An animal viewing area will feature chickens, goats and pigs. A $5 donation per person is suggested but not required to support the church’s ongoing mission to bring cheer to the Portland area during the holidays.
HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING — Wood Village will welcome the holidays with their 11th annual tree lighting ceremony from 5-7 p.m. on Dec. 4. Festivities will be held at the Wood Village Town Center, in front of Fred Meyer, at 22855 N.E. Park Lane.
HANDEL’S MESSIAH — Join the Oregon Symphony, the Portland State University Chamber Choir and four world-class soloists for a celebration of Handel’s masterpiece. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4; 2 p.m. Dec. 5; and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 6 at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 S.W. Broadway in Portland. Ticket information:orsymphony.org
SPIRIT OF GRESHAM HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING — Gresham will welcome the holiday season Dec. 4 with a light parade leading up to the moment Mayor Travis Stovall, city councilors and Santa Claus throw the switch to illuminate the city’s traditional 70-foot ponderosa pine tree. New this year is the Holiday Light Cruise, which runs from 4-5:30 p.m., and begins in the Rockwood neighborhood. Vehicles decorated in holiday lights will weave their way through Gresham’s neighborhoods, ending at the Gresham Arts Plaza, 488 N.E. Third St., where the tree lighting ceremony and live entertainment will take place 6-7:30 p.m. The city of Gresham is partnering with Gresham Ford and Snow-Cap Community Charities to host a canned food drive to support local families in need this holiday season. Non-perishable foods and donations are welcome.
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING — The 15th annual Fairview tree lighting ceremony will be a drive thru event this year, from 5-6 p.m. on Dec. 4. Visitors can drive by the illuminated Christmas tree in Community Park and on the way out, kids will receive a holiday goodie bag while supplies last. The drive-thru entrance will be from Village Street and the only exit will be from Park Lane. To see a map of the entrance and exit, visit: fairvieworegon.gov/ 402/Christmas-Tree-Lighting
“HOME FOR CHRISTMAS” — Live Laugh Love Art Studio is offering an evening of painting with friends or family, themed for the holidays. The instructed class, which runs from 4-6 p.m. Dec. 4, includes all supplies needed to finish a 16-inch by 20-inch canvas featuring a holiday scene and suitable for framing. A studio host will instruct participants through the painting process step-by-step, so no experience is necessary. While aprons will be available, participates are encouraged to wear clothing they won’t mind getting paint on. The studio is located at 9160 S.W. Hall Blvd., in Portland. To register, call 503-244-7811 or visit:livelaughloveart.com/portland/home-for- christmas-canvas-painting-class-258373
HOLIDAY IN THE GROVE — The City Club hosts this annual event that is sure to get you in the holiday spirit from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 4. Start the day with breakfast and photos with Santa, enjoy a hayride and browse the FGSCC Holiday Bazaar for handmade gifts from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All this takes place at the Forest Grove Senior and Community Center, 2037 Douglas St. And don’t miss the Holiday Light Parade in downtown Forest Grove that starts at 5 p.m. For details, visit:www.providencefoundations.org/festivalgala
AN EVENING WITH TONY STARLIGHT — For 27 years, Tony Starlight has been entertaining audiences with his impersonations of numerous celebrities through song parodies, musical impressions and tributes to pop culture. Starlight brings his variety show to the Walters Cultural Arts Center, 527 E. Main St., Hillsboro, for a one-night performance from 7-10 p.m. Dec. 3. The event is a fundraiser for the Hillsboro Arts & Culture Endowment. Tickets are $55 and can be purchased online at:CityOfHillsboro.TicketSpice.com / An-Evening-with-Tony-Starlight
UPTOWN CHRISTMAS AND TREE LIGHTING — The Hillsboro Uptown Business Association and the city of Hillsboro kick off the holiday season with a tree lighting, photos with Santa, a tour of children’s Christmas activities and more. Join neighbors and friends for fun from 5-8 p.m. on Dec. 3.
UNIQUE MARKETS PORTLAND HOLIDAY POP-UP — Find something for everyone on your holiday shopping list at this two-day event that supports emerging local artists and independent businesses. More than 140 vendors will be present Dec. 4-5 at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 300 N. Winning Way in Portland, along with mulled wine samples, wrapping station and much more. To purchase tickets, visit:uniquemarkets.com/portland
TUALATIN HOLIDAY LIGHTS PARADE — Born during the height of the Coronavirus pandemic, Tualatin Parks and Recreation launched a way to connect community members and ring in the holidays. Residents decorated their vehicles with lights and paraded through more than 20 miles of neighborhood streets. This year’s parade runs three Saturdays, Dec. 4, North Parade, includes neighborhoods around Community and Jurgens parks; Dec. 11, South Parade, neighborhoods around Ibach Park and Tualatin High School; and Dec. 18, East Parade for neighborhoods around Atfalati and Browns Ferry parks. All parades begin at 5:30 p.m. and take approximately two hours. To register your vehicle, or view the parade routes, visit:tualatinoregon.gov/recreation/holiday-lights-parade
ST . HELENS REINDEER RUN — Walk or run off some of those calories from Thanksgiving with this annual event that supports the Columbia Pacific Food Bank and the St. Helens Senior Center’s Meals on Wheels program. Participants can run or walk a 5K or 10K road course or sign on for the more intense half-marathon. The Reindeer Run begins and ends at the Columbia River Foursquare Church, 555 Commons Drive. Staggered start times for runners and walkers begin at 7:30 a.m. Dec. 4. To register, visit:crfoursquare.com
WIND-ER WONDERLAND AND TREE LIGHTING — The city of Troutdale and Kiwanis of the Columbia Gorge will host the city’s annual tree lighting, but this year, there’s more to help you find your holiday spirit. Festivities kick off at noon, Dec. 5, with a holiday market under a large tent in Mayor’s Square. Local vendors will offer handmade gifts, but there will also be an activity area for kids and live holiday music in front of the tree. Complete an activity in the Troutdale Teddy Scavenger Hunt and receive a free Troutdale swag bag. Santa will be on hand for photos, but keep your eyes out for the Grinch, who’s rumored to be sneaking around. Troutdale’s official Christmas tree will be illuminated at 5 p.m. The event is a benefit for SnowCap Community Charities and donations of personal care items, non-perishable foods, or warm winter clothing are welcome.
LIGHT UP CORNELIUS — The holidays officially arrive in Cornelius when the community holds its tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. on Dec. 6 at Veteran’s Memorial Park, 1251 Baseline St., in Cornelius.
LIGHTOPIA — Take a break from the holiday frenzy to enjoy a seasonal light display accompanied by a timed audio program. The 1/3-mile drive-thru attraction runs from Dec. 7 through Jan. 2 at the Gordon Faber Recreation Complex (Hillsboro Stadium), 4450 N.E. Century Blvd. A working FM car radio will be needed to hear the audio program. For details, visit:hillsboro-oregon.gov
COMFORT & JOY: A CLASSICAL CHRISTMAS — Join the Oregon Symphony for an evening of good cheer with seasonal classics, a very merry sing-along, and a jubilant celebration sure to put you and yours in the holiday spirit. Raul Gomez-Rojas conducts at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 S.W. Broadway in Portland. For details:oregonsympony.org
GOSPEL CHRISTMAS — Celebrate the joy of the season at the event featuring the Northwest Community Gospel Chorus. Clap your hands and stomp your feet along with the region’s premier singers and the Oregon Symphony at this annual concert, with performances Dec. 10-12. Located at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 S.W. Broadway in Portland. For details:oregonsympony.org
VISIT WITH SANTA — The North Pole’s most famous resident, and Mrs. Claus, will make a stop in Gresham on Dec. 11, offering gift give-aways for youngsters from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Burns Feed Store, 29215 S.E Orient Drive.
TINSELTOWN TROLLEY — Get in the spirit with a yuletide ride on the historic Willamette Shore Trolley, 311 N. State St.in Lake Oswego, at 11 a.m. Dec. 11. Children will enjoy a merry experience aboard the decorated trolley with holiday lights, games, sweet treats, carols and more. A special guest from the North Pole might just make an appearance as well. Rides last around 45 minutes. For details:loparks.org
HOLIDAY ART + CRAFT MARKET — Founded in 2006, Crafty Wonderland is the city’s biggest arts and crafts market, drawing hundreds of vendors and tens of thousands of visitors to the Oregon Convention Center, 777 N.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., in Portland, Dec. 10-12. Find many made-in-Portland gifts at this free event. For details:craftywonderland.com
WEST LINN HOLIDAY PARADE — Join the scores of revelers along Willamette Falls Drive on Dec. 11 for West Linn’s Holiday Parade at 10 a.m. The theme this year is “Magic on Main Street.” Visit with Santa at the Willamette Fire Station following the parade. Donations of new, unwrapped toys and non-perishable food will be accepted for the West Linn Food Pantry. Pre-registration for parade participants is preferred; day-of registration begins at 9 a.m. For details: westlinnoregon.gov
PHOTOS WITH SANTA — Bring your cell phone or camera and have your photo taken with the Jolly Ol’ Elf himself. The Sheraton Portland Airport Hotel will host Santa from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Dec. 11, with staff onsite to take photos for you. The Sheraton is located at 8235 N.E. Airport Way in Portland.
HOLIDAY HALF-MARATHON — One of Portland’s favorite winter races offers a variety of course lengths along scenic views of the Willamette River on Swan Island. Not only that, participants in the half-marathon, 10-miler, 10K, or 5K races are serenaded by carolers and treated to gingerbread cookie aid stations along the course. Don’t forget to stop and have your photo taken with race mascot, Freddi the Yeti. This year’s event takes place Dec. 12, at the Daimler Truck North America Campus, 4555 N. Channel Ave., on Swan Island. For information about registration and entry fees, visit:foottraffic.us/holiday/
ACOUSTIC GUITAR SUMMIT HOLIDAY CONCERT — Terry Robb, Mark Hanson and Doug Smith will bring a stunning arrangement of music from their “O Christmas Three” recording, from 7:30-9:30 p.m. on Dec. 17. The concert will be held at the Walters Cultural Arts Center, 527 E. Main St., in Hillsboro. Tickets are $18 in advance, $22 day of show. For details, visit:cityofhillsboro.ticketspice.com/acoustic-guitar-summit-holiday-concert
link
More Stories
Food Bazaar Will Replace Fairway in Red Hook
Church-related events in Delaware County
What Food Bazaar Is Planning for Its Fairway-Replacing Red Hook Store