There are so many things to do around town this holiday season. Here are some last minute things in the Portland area that you and your family might enjoy going to (if you haven’t been already!).
Zoolights (at the Oregon Zoo)- My husband and I took our kids to see the zoolights last night, and I must say, we ALL had a blast. They have a million lights (literally!) and you walk around this winter wonderland. There are animated animals, the train is decorated for the holidays, etc. Definitely worth going to for children and adults of all ages.
Peacock Lane- Apparently every year (since the 1920s!) this neighborhood in southeast Portland has been decorating their houses for Christmas. It gets very crowded here, so don’t expect to drive through quickly. It’s definitely worth checking out! I know my kids love driving around and looking at Christmas lights, so it’s nice to find a neighborhood that goes in together like this to make the holidays fun for everyone.
The Grotto- We haven’t been to this yet, but I’m really wanting to go. It looks beautiful, and I think it will be enjoyed by all. The Grotto is having their 22nd annual Christmas Festival of Lights (until December 30th). They have over half a million lights, events, puppet shows, chorus, food and beverages, etc.
The Pittock Mansion- They are having their Tinsel, Trees, and Traditions: 150 Years of Christmas. They have rooms decorated to celebrate the traditions of Christmas. Very interesting, and worth checking out it you can.
The Fantasy Trail (in Oregon City)- This trail is so neat. It’s decorated with thousands of lights, and you walk through a 40 ft castle with holiday scenes. Such fun for the little ones!
Miracle of a Million Lights (at the Queen Anne Victorian Mansion)- We haven’t been to this yet, but I’d really like to go if we can. It looks fun. The mansion is decorated for the holidays (with 2.5 million lights!), and there are 10 uniquely- decorated Christmas trees, homemade apple cider, and more. They have a gift shop with unique stocking stuffers as well.
The Nutcracker (at the Oregon Ballet Theater)- I remember going to see this when I was little (not out here, but back in TN). I was so excited and I’m hoping to take my son this year, as I think it would be a great holiday tradition.
Winter Wonderland (at the Portland International Raceway)- We are actually going to this tonight. It’s known at the “largest light show west of the Mississippi.” It’s a drive-through light show, with over 250 colorful displays and 40 fully animated scenes. Apparently, this year, you also can drive through a tunnel of lights. Should be fun!
There are many more events going on in and around the Portland, OR area as well. Hopefully this list will help you in finding some fun things to do around town. And, as always, if you have any suggestions, please let me know! We love finding new stuff to do around this awesome city!
Here’s a few from the session:
