Skip to content
Travel Portland logo

The Official Guide to Portland

  • Attractions
    • women dances with large fans outside on a city street surrounded by people in colorful dragon costumesView All Attractions
    • Museums
    • Parks & Gardens
    • Family Friendly
    • Shopping
    • On a Budget
    • EVEN MORE THINGS TO DO
  • Culture
    • people dining at picnic tables in front of a food cartView All Culture
    • Arts
    • Beer
    • Biking
    • Cannabis
    • Cultural Communities
    • Craft Spirits
    • Food
    • Makers
    • Music
    • Nightlife
    • Outdoors
    • Sports
    • Weird
    • Wine
    • MORE CULTURE
  • Neighborhoods
    • aerial view of downtown area with buildings and roadways, bridges crossing a river to a smaller set of buildings that expand into the distanceView All Neighborhoods
    • Alberta Arts District
    • Belmont
    • Central Eastside
    • Division/Clinton
    • Downtown
    • Hawthorne
    • Lloyd
    • Mississippi
    • Northwest / Nob Hill
    • Old Town Chinatown
    • Pearl District
    • St. Johns
    • Sellwood-Moreland
    • Williams
    • ALL NEIGHBORHOODS
  • Region
    • RegionView All Region
    • Near the City
    • Columbia River Gorge
    • Mount Hood
    • Oregon Coast
    • Willamette Valley
    • ALL REGIONS
  • Plan
    • Light rail train car driving past people shopping at an outdoor marketView All Plan
    • Portland Maps
    • Portland Visitor Center
    • Where to Stay
    • Tours & Itineraries
    • Transportation
    • When to Visit
    • Accessible Portland
    • Portland Weather
    • COVID-19 FAQ
    • Safety in Portland
    • Plan a Meeting
  • Events
  • Search
Primary Menu 31 Events Near Me content loading animation Search
  • Attractions
    • women dances with large fans outside on a city street surrounded by people in colorful dragon costumesView All Attractions
    • Museums
    • Parks & Gardens
    • Family Friendly
    • Shopping
    • On a Budget
    • EVEN MORE THINGS TO DO
  • Culture
    • people dining at picnic tables in front of a food cartView All Culture
    • Arts
    • Beer
    • Biking
    • Cannabis
    • Cultural Communities
    • Craft Spirits
    • Food
    • Makers
    • Music
    • Nightlife
    • Outdoors
    • Sports
    • Weird
    • Wine
    • MORE CULTURE
  • Neighborhoods
    • aerial view of downtown area with buildings and roadways, bridges crossing a river to a smaller set of buildings that expand into the distanceView All Neighborhoods
    • Alberta Arts District
    • Belmont
    • Central Eastside
    • Division/Clinton
    • Downtown
    • Hawthorne
    • Lloyd
    • Mississippi
    • Northwest / Nob Hill
    • Old Town Chinatown
    • Pearl District
    • St. Johns
    • Sellwood-Moreland
    • Williams
    • ALL NEIGHBORHOODS
  • Region
    • RegionView All Region
    • Near the City
    • Columbia River Gorge
    • Mount Hood
    • Oregon Coast
    • Willamette Valley
    • ALL REGIONS
  • Plan
    • Light rail train car driving past people shopping at an outdoor marketView All Plan
    • Portland Maps
    • Portland Visitor Center
    • Where to Stay
    • Tours & Itineraries
    • Transportation
    • When to Visit
    • Accessible Portland
    • Portland Weather
    • COVID-19 FAQ
    • Safety in Portland
    • Plan a Meeting
  • Events
  • Search
i
Get into the spirit with a visit to Portland’s holiday tree at Pioneer Courthouse Square.
Portland Events / Winter in Portland

December Events

Celebrate winter with beautiful light displays, belly-warming beer and other great Portland events.

i
Get into the spirit with a visit to Portland’s holiday tree at Pioneer Courthouse Square.

During the year’s final month, Portland overflows with seasonal events and activities. Whether you want to revel in favorite traditional holiday activities, finish shopping for everything on your list or cheer on your favorites, December has it all. Read on for some of our top picks for December events in Portland, or search our full events calendar to see everything on offer.

Holiday Traditions

Revel in the city’s holiday spirit with these Holiday Events and Activities. Portland gets into the season’s spirit with holiday festive decorations at the Festival of Trees at the Oregon Convention Center. Annual performance traditions include Gospel Christmas by the Oregon Symphony and a moving seasonal performance from the Portland Gay Men’s Chorus. See the dazzling display of twinkling cheer at ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo, featuring over a million colored bulbs. You can see the display without children at BrewLights and sample some local brews and ciders at the same time. Stroll down Southeast Portland’s Peacock Lane, where residents have lit their houses with holiday spirit since the 1920s.

More About Portland in December

What is the average December temperature in Portland?

Winter in Portland (December 21–March 19) is the coolest season of the year, with frequent rain showers and mostly cloudy skies (significant snowfall is rare within Portland city limits). The average high in December is 46 degrees Fahrenheit (8°C), and the average low is 37 degrees Fahrenheit (3°C).

Is December a good time to visit Portland?

Yes, December is a great time to visit Portland! Cooler temperatures provide the perfect excuse to do as locals do and indulge in Portland’s legendary culinary scene. Or, take advantage of tax-free holiday shopping throughout the city. Also, the drop in temperature makes for great conditions at Mount Hood, where locals love to ski, snowboard, snowshoe, or just cozy up to a fireplace with a warm drink in hand.

What should I pack when visiting Portland in December?

We recommend packing a coat, a fleece jacket, and rain-friendly shoes for a December visit to Portland. Old-school Portlanders tend to shun umbrellas, but they can come in handy to shield glasses and faces from heavier showers. And if you’re a skier or snowboarder, don’t forget your gear since rain in Portland means plenty of snow on Mount Hood.

Cheer on your favorite carolers at the Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition in downtown Pioneer Courthouse Square, where the winners are selected by crowd applause, or taste an array of winter beers and ciders under heated tents at the Portland Holiday Brew Fest. Also, the Christmas Ship Parade, going strong since 1954, features brilliantly decorated boats on the Willamette and Columbia rivers.

'Tis the Season to Shop Local

Do your holiday shopping for locally made gifts at hip parties, makers' fairs, sprawling sales and garden grounds filled with handcrafted items.

read more

Holiday Shopping

With no sales tax and an extensive variety of holiday shopping events, Portland is a great place to finish up everything on your list for the holidays. Support artists and entrepreneurs of color at My People’s Market, held in the Oregon Convention Center. The Convention Center also holds the popular Crafty Wonderland, the city’s largest arts and crafts market.

At the Oregon Buddhist Temple Holiday Craft Fair, you can peruse handmade goods from local artisans held by the oldest Buddhist organization in Oregon. Scandinavian traditions are showcased at the annual ScanFair, boasting traditional Nordic musicians, dancers, vendors and treats. Find an authentic German nutcracker or sip traditional German mulled wine at the Silverton Christmas Market.

Christmas lights strung on everything in sight, lining trees and buildings as people walk through Zoo Lights
1 of 6
A favorite Portland holiday tradition, ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo features all sorts of animals (real and animatronic) — all illuminated with 1.5 million LED lights.
Credit: Jamie Francis for Travel Portland
people shopping for arts and crafts in a bright space with colorful paper lights hanging from the ceiling
2 of 6
A bustling scene from My People's Market in 2019, where shoppers can buy directly from makers.
Credit: Tojo Andrianarivo, tojofotos.com
Decorated Christmas tree in front of a statue of a man holding an umbrella
3 of 6
The Holiday Tree at Pioneer Courthouse Square is a festive annual Portland tradition.
Two boats adorned with Christmas lights
4 of 6
The Christmas Ships Parade has been a Portland tradition since 1954.
Credit: Sam Churchill, via Flickr
Co-founder Cathy Zwicker
5 of 6
Co-founder Cathy Zwicker shows off some over her favorite Portland-made products sold at Crafty Wonderland.
Families walking in the snow enjoying the holiday lights on houses, trees and arches erected over the sidewalks.
6 of 6
Families enjoy the lights and a little snow on Peacock Lane.

Catch a Game

Want to take a break from the holidays and experience a different kind of cheer? December in Portland offers many opportunities to get on your feet and cheer on some of your favorite teams.

Portland loves their Blazers, and if basketball is also your sport, you can catch one of the Portland Trail Blazers games at the Moda Center throughout December. If you’re more of a winter sports fan, then get yourself a ticket to see Portland’s junior ice hockey team, the Portland Winterhawksplay at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

Sitting trackside at the roller derby can be an exciting (and sometimes dangerous) sport in itself, but it’s worth the risk to see one of Portland’s beloved Rose City Rollers games at Oaks Amusement Park. Or, sit up in the safer bleacher seats and bring the whole family to one of their Rose City Rollers Juniors games.

Events, Winter

More December Events 2023

Check out our editor's picks for top things to do in December in Portland.

Editor's Pick
First Friday PDX
Ongoing

First Friday PDX

Eastside Portland Free

Located in Portland’s vibrant East Side Arts District, the First Friday Art Walk takes place on the first Friday evening of every month year-round. Offering a gateway into Portland’s thriving arts culture, First Friday PDX includes more than 23 independent galleries, shops, and studios and a street exhibition from April to October. The self-guided tour…

Editor's Pick
Art & Design
Editor's Pick
Small Shops Big Hearts: Win Big
Nov. 16–Dec. 10, 2023

Small Shops Big Hearts: Win Big

Shops Citywide Free

Portland’s small business community is coming together to put the fun back into holiday shopping. The annual Portland tradition, Win Big! returns for the 2023 holiday season with more than 100 participating independent retailers and pop-up shops. To participate, download the Win Big Shop Small app to discover participating retailers or pick up a Discover…

Editor's Pick
Shopping
Editor's Pick
Festival of Trees
Friday, Dec. 1, 2023

Festival of Trees

Oregon Convention Center $10

A Portland tradition for over 40 years, the Providence Festival of Trees features a full schedule of elegant events and community celebrations at the Oregon Convention Center. This magical setting is the perfect place to kick off the holiday season. Proceeds benefit Providence Children’s Health. You’ll see stunning Christmas trees and displays decorated by local…

Editor's Pick
Art & Design
Festival
Editor's Pick
 A Pittock Mansion Christmas
Nov. 19, 2023–Jan. 4, 2024

A Pittock Mansion Christmas

Pittock Mansion $12.50 – $16.50

Pittock Mansion transforms into a Winter Wonderland for this year’s Christmas display. Experience this beloved Portland tradition and celebrate the season with the festive and fantastical displays created by volunteer decorators. A Pittock Mansion Christmas: Winter Wonderland will be on view November 19, 2023, through January 4, 2024, at Pittock Mansion (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Day…

Editor's Pick
Art & Design
Exhibition
History
Editor's Pick
Black Artists of Oregon
Aug. 26, 2023–Mar. 17, 2024

Black Artists of Oregon

Portland Art Museum $0 – $25

Black Artists of Oregon, highlighting and celebrating the work of Black artists in and outside the collection, will deepen awareness of the talented artists that have shaped and inspired artists regionally and nationally. The exhibition is the first of its kind to consider the work of Black artists collectively in Oregon, often underrepresented and unacknowledged….

Editor's Pick
Art & Design
Cultural Communities
Exhibition
Editor's Pick
PDX Pop-Up Shops
Nov. 15–Dec. 31, 2023

PDX Pop-Up Shops

Various Downtown Locations

Announcing the exciting unveiling of the lineup for this year’s holiday PDX Pop-Up Shops. This program transforms vacant retail spaces in downtown Portland into vibrant, temporary destinations for local designers and artists. It is a wide range of businesses, from streetwear, ceramics, and gourmet dog treats to a spooky-themed coffee bar. Black Santa and his…

Editor's Pick
Shopping
Editor's Pick
Holiday Express
Nov. 24–Dec. 17, 2023

Holiday Express

Oregon Rail Heritage Center $25 – $99

Join Santa Claus and his elves for a magical ride behind the 1912 Polson #2 steam locomotive. Decorated in festive cheer, the heated vintage rail cars transport you along the Willamette River in the heart of the city. The Oregon Rail Heritage Center is excited to embark on their 18th annual event beginning right after…

Editor's Pick
For Kids
History
Editor's Pick
Portland Night Market
Ongoing

Portland Night Market

Portland Night Market

The Portland Night Market showcases many unique businesses that call Portland home. Blending food, culture, music, drinks and retail for an adventurous evening in the Central Eastside. Meet some of Portland's best makers and creators. With almost 200 hundred makers, the Night Market offers food carts, drinks, clothing, lifestyle goods, home goods, body care and…

Editor's Pick
Food & Drink
Shopping
Editor's Pick
Winter Wonderland
Nov. 25–Dec. 31, 2023

Winter Wonderland

Portland International Raceway Cost Varies

Recognized throughout the Pacific Northwest as the “Largest Holiday Light Show West of the Mississippi”, Winter Wonderland will grab your attention with glimmers and glows around every corner. Since 1993, a journey through Winter Wonderland has become a holiday tradition for many families, friends, and social organizations to celebrate the spirit of the holiday season….

Editor's Pick
Festival
For Kids
Editor's Pick
ZooLights
Nov. 19, 2023–Jan. 7, 2024

ZooLights

Oregon Zoo $12 – $26

Kids and adults agree: it wouldn't be the holidays in Portland without a visit to ZooLights. Enjoy an immersive and dazzling display of millions of lights. Not able to commit to a timed-entry ticket? This year features the ZooLights Any Night ticket, which can be purchased in advance and used spontaneously for any night and…

Editor's Pick
For Kids
Outdoors
Editor's Pick
Christmas Festival of Lights
Nov. 24–Dec. 30, 2023

Christmas Festival of Lights

The Grotto TBA

Presenting the sights, sounds and sensations of the season, The Grotto’s Christmas Festival of Lights is the largest Christmas choral festival in the world. The festival features nearly 160 indoor holiday concerts performed by many of the region’s finest school, church and civic choirs. Offering a family-oriented blend of traditional celebration and serene reflection, the…

Editor's Pick
Festival
Editor's Pick
Silverton Christmas Market
Nov. 17–Dec. 31, 2023

Silverton Christmas Market

The Oregon Garden $0 – $20

Join an awe-inspiring light display and market at the Oregon Garden Resort. This annual event offers a joyous and magical holiday experience for all ages. Stroll along immersive paths draped in more than one million lights. Explore the authentic German Christmas Market for gifts from artisan vendors and imported German nutcrackers, smokers and ornaments. Visit…

Editor's Pick
Outdoors
Shopping
Editor's Pick
Christmas Ship Parade
Dec. 1–17, 2023

Christmas Ship Parade

Willamette & Columbia Rivers Free

What started as a lone ribbon-clad sailboat from the Portland Yacht Club in the 1950s became a decades-long nautical Christmas tradition with dozens of boats lighting up the riverfront.

Editor's Pick
Events
Winter
Winter Holidays
Editor's Pick
Portland's Singing Christmas Tree
Nov. 25–Dec. 3, 2023

Portland's Singing Christmas Tree

Sunset Church $27 – $47

Come celebrate Christmas with Portland's favorite holiday tradition. Let the glory of Christmas come alive as the three hundred-voice choir creates a Christmas extravaganza for the whole family, featuring your favorite holiday songs, dancing Santas and a beautiful cinematic Nativity. It is an awe-inspiring presentation of the true gift of Christmas and an experience not…

Editor's Pick
Music
Editor's Pick
Black Nativity
Nov. 22–Dec. 10, 2023

Black Nativity

Brunish Theater $40

PassinArt: A Theatre Company presents Black Nativity by poet and playwright Langston Hughes. Based on the traditional Nativity story, the spirit-filled, inspiring gospel songplay features traditional Christmas carols performed in a gospel style with a few new songs specifically for the show. Directed by Jerry Foster

Editor's Pick
Cultural Communities
Performing Arts
Editor's Pick
It's a Wonderful Life
Dec. 1–23, 2023

It's a Wonderful Life

Winningstad Theatre Cost Varies

It’s A Wonderful Life is an award-winning musical adaptation of Frank Capra's classic film, with book and lyrics by Janet Mouser, and music and lyrics by Michael Allen Harrison, Alan Berg and Julianne R. Johnson-Weiss. It’s A Wonderful Life is a holiday favorite for all ages. An angel helps a compassionate but despairingly frustrated businessman…

Editor's Pick
Music
Performing Arts
Editor's Pick
Darcelle XV’s Weekend Drag Show
Ongoing

Darcelle XV’s Weekend Drag Show

Darcelle XV Showplace $28

Darcelle XV and Company have been entertaining audiences from all walks of life for over 50 years with Las Vegas-style cabaret revues of Glitz, Glamour and Comedy. Stop by when you are in Portland and you will be glad that you did! We have traveled the United States presenting a show that you have to…

Editor's Pick
Comedy
LGBTQ+
Music
Editor's Pick
Farmers Market at Portland State University
Ongoing

Farmers Market at Portland State University

Portland Farmers Market at PSU Free

The Portland Farmers Market at Portland State University will be open every Saturday, year-round. April through October hours are 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. November through March hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Market at PSU is located in Downtown Portland in the South Park Blocks between SW College & Montgomery Streets.

Editor's Pick
Food & Drink
Shopping
Editor's Pick
Hollywood Farmers Market
Ongoing

Hollywood Farmers Market

Hollywood Farmers Market Free

Year-round on Saturdays, the Hollywood Farmers Markets hosts 50+ vendors, bringing you the best of the region’s agricultural bounty. In addition to amazingly fresh, local food, you’ll find live music, children’s activities, and fun events throughout the season. April through September, every Saturday 8 AM to 1 PM,October and November, every Saturday 9 AM to…

Editor's Pick
Food & Drink
Outdoors
Shopping
Editor's Pick
Portland Spirit Cinnamon Bear Breakfast
Nov. 25–Dec. 27, 2023

Portland Spirit Cinnamon Bear Breakfast

Portland Spirit Cruises $49 – $66

Cinnamon Bear and his friends from Maybeland are back this holiday season to spread holiday cheer. The whole family will enjoy reserved seating and a plated breakfast while a cast of fanciful characters entertains the kids with storytelling, music and magic. Tickets include a picture with Cinnamon Bear atop his magical throne. Cinnamon Bear has…

Editor's Pick
Food & Drink
For Kids
Editor's Pick
Oregon Buddhist Temple Holiday Craft Fair
Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023

Oregon Buddhist Temple Holiday Craft Fair

Oregon Buddhist Temple Free

The Oregon Buddhist Temple will be hosting the 8th Annual Holiday Craft Fair. A wide variety of artisans and crafters will be there to share their wonderful handmade goods at affordable prices. Come enjoy a fun day of shopping.

Editor's Pick
Cultural Communities
Shopping
Editor's Pick
Portland Saturday Market
Ongoing

Portland Saturday Market

Tom McCall Waterfront Park Free

Open every Saturday from March–December, Portland Saturday Market is the largest arts-and-crafts fair in the U.S.

Editor's Pick
Attractions
Events
Shopping
Editor's Pick
My People’s Market
Dec. 2–3, 2023

My People’s Market

Oregon Convention Center

My People’s Market showcases local entrepreneurs and makers of color, connecting them with industry professionals and consumers.

Editor's Pick
Cultural Communities
Makers
Music
Shopping
Spring
Winter
Editor's Pick
Portland Holiday Brew Fest
Dec. 2–3, 2023

Portland Holiday Brew Fest

Pioneer Courthouse Square $10 – $30

Portland Holiday Brew Fest visits Pioneer Courthouse Square on December 2nd and 3rd. Visit Pioneer Courthouse Square under covered, heated tents to enjoy tasty and frosty brews. The Portland Holiday Brew Fest will feature 25+ holiday/winter beers and ciders from around the Northwest — don’t miss this holiday celebration in the heart of Portland.

Editor's Pick
Beer
Food & Drink
Editor's Pick
Portland Winterhawks
Ongoing

Portland Winterhawks

Veterans Memorial Coliseum Cost Varies

Come cheer on the Winterhawks, Portland's junior ice hockey team and three-time WHL champs. Winterhawks games are a great night out for fans of all ages, whether you want to sit right by the glass or a little higher up for a full-ice view.

Editor's Pick
Sports
Editor's Pick
Rose City Rollers
Nov. 3–Dec. 16, 2023

Rose City Rollers

Oaks Amusement Park & Roller Skating Rink Cost Varies

The Rose City Rollers league is made up of over 400 smart, tough, accomplished women, girls and gender-expansive individuals who skate fast, hit hard, and defy stereotypes about athletes in women’s sports. The sport is exciting, the competition is fierce, and special attention is given to lighting, announcers, video, DJ, merchandise, entertainment, giveaways, raffles, fan…

Editor's Pick
Sports
Editor's Pick
Handel's Messiah
Dec. 2–4, 2023

Handel's Messiah

Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall $25 +

No composition kindles the warmth of the holiday season like Handel’s Messiah. Bringing to life the theatrical splendor that’s made Messiah an audience favorite for 300 years, the Portland State University Chamber Choir and a quartet of astounding soloists join your Oregon Symphony for Handel’s meditation on faith, hope, and redemption.

Editor's Pick
Music
Editor's Pick
Laurelhurst Winter Bazaar
Sunday, Dec. 3, 2023

Laurelhurst Winter Bazaar

Laurelhurst School Free

The Laurelhurst Winter Artisan Bazaar is a fundraising event for the Laurelhurst School’s PTA. The bazaar will include over 80 local artisans and crafters, an amazing raffle, a silent auction of artists’ interpretations of wreaths, delicious food, kids' activities, live music, and much more.

Editor's Pick
Shopping
Editor's Pick
Kaliente Drag Brunch
Ongoing

Kaliente Drag Brunch

Stag PDX $25

Kharisma brings the heat with Kaliente, the newest Drag Brunch at your Stag PDX. Start your month with a bit of spice every 1st Sunday, with a show that has that extra kick that only Kharisma and her special guest performers can bring. Enjoy all-you-can-eat brunch options served from the buffet with mimosas available -…

Editor's Pick
Food & Drink
LGBTQ+
Performing Arts
Editor's Pick
Swan Dive Diva Drag Brunch
Ongoing

Swan Dive Diva Drag Brunch

Swan Dive $20

Join Portland’s all-star drag queens and burlesque dancers every Saturday and Sunday for a heart-pumping performance complete with acrobatics, live singing, intricate custom-made outfits and sweat-defying artful makeup. Come prepared to tip generously and have a rowdy good time. The ticket price does not include food or alcohol. Doors open at 11 a.m., and the…

Editor's Pick
Food & Drink
LGBTQ+
Editor's Pick
Rose City Rollers Juniors
Nov. 19–Dec. 17, 2023

Rose City Rollers Juniors

Oaks Amusement Park & Roller Skating Rink Cost Varies

Bring your family to watch Junior Roller Derby. Kids and teens will love watching these youth athletes battle it out on the track. Cheer on the Junior Rosebuds, ages 12-18, with home teams Bleeding Hearts, Death Scar Derby Droids, The Undead Avengers, and the Rainbow Bites. The Junior Rose Petals are ages 7-12, with home…

Editor's Pick
Sports
Editor's Pick
Oregon Repertory Singers: Glory of Christmas
Dec. 3–10, 2023

Oregon Repertory Singers: Glory of Christmas

First United Methodist Church $25 – $45

Oregon Repertory Singers and Youth Choir welcome Union High School’s string orchestra for Glory of Christmas. This year they are not only celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Oregon Repertory Singers and the 30th Anniversary of ORS Youth Choir but also the 40th year of teaching for Tim Siess, Union High School orchestra director and long-time…

Editor's Pick
Music
Editor's Pick
Gay Skate
Ongoing

Gay Skate

Oaks Amusement Park & Roller Skating Rink $12

Roll out with your friends and loved ones to the monthly Gay Skate Session, held the 1st and 3rd Monday night of the month. Everyone is welcome at this all-ages event at this all-ages event. Admission tickets allow the Oaks Park Roller Rink access for the selected Gay Skate Session date/time. Includes standard skate rental.

Editor's Pick
LGBTQ+
Sports
Editor's Pick
Christmas Ships Trolley Excursions
Dec. 5–16, 2023

Christmas Ships Trolley Excursions

Willamette Shore Trolley $40 – $45

Come see lighted Christmas Ships on the Willamette River from the comfort of a trolley. This is a unique experience with a front-row view of the ships, as well as seeing homes decorated for the holidays along the route. All trips depart from Lake Oswego and will last about 60~90 minutes depending on the boats….

Editor's Pick
Guided Tour
Editor's Pick
Portland Indigenous Marketplace
Nov. 8–Dec. 8, 2023

Portland Indigenous Marketplace

Various Locations Free

Mark your calendars with the following dates for 2023. The Indigenous Marketplaces will be held in various locations in Portland, so double-check locations before heading out. The Indigenous and Black Artists and Entrepreneurs this organization serves through the Indigenous Marketplace programming are the greatest partners and contributors to this work. This amazing community of vendors…

Editor's Pick
Cultural Communities
Shopping
Editor's Pick
Menorah Lighting
Dec. 7–15, 2023

Menorah Lighting

Pioneer Courthouse Square

Chabad of Oregon will light Portland’s Public Hanukkah menorah at Pioneer Courthouse Square each night of Chanukah. Aiming to have 1,800 people join the Menorah lighting in Portland's Pioneer Square, the vision is to generate 1,800 points of light, ignite 1,800 Chanukah candles, and join together with over 1,00 voices singing "Maoz Tzur Yeshuati" —…

Editor's Pick
History
Outdoors
Editor's Pick
Crafty Wonderland Holiday Art + Craft Market
Dec. 8–10, 2023

Crafty Wonderland Holiday Art + Craft Market

Oregon Convention Center $4 – $25

Portland’s biannual art and craft fair boasts unique handmade wares from 225+ local vendors.

Editor's Pick
Events
Makers
Shopping
Spring
Winter
Editor's Pick
The Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition
Friday, Dec. 8, 2023

The Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition

Pioneer Courthouse Square Free

Pioneer Courthouse Square is excited to host the Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition — a fun, festive, and joyful competition bringing caroling groups to Portland’s Living Room and extending to a ten-block radius downtown. The top three caroling groups will hold a “carol-off” at the Square hosted by KGW’s Drew Carney, and the grand prize…

Editor's Pick
Music
Editor's Pick
George Balanchine's The Nutcracker
Dec. 8–24, 2023

George Balanchine's The Nutcracker

Keller Auditorium Cost Varies

A treasured holiday tradition continues as Oregon Ballet Theatre returns George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® to the Keller Auditorium. Brave toy soldiers battle mischievous mice, snowflakes dance, and we are carried away to a magical Land of Sweets, all to Tchaikovsky’s unforgettable score! This year, make Oregon Ballet Theatre’s production of Balanchine’s Nutcracker a part of…

Editor's Pick
For Kids
Performing Arts
Editor's Pick
Portland Gay Men’s Chorus
Dec. 8–10, 2023

Portland Gay Men’s Chorus

Newmark Theater Cost Varies

It’s the day of the show, y’all, and the Portland Gay Men's Chorus has set out to put on “the gayest holiday concert of all time”. Inspired by classic variety and sketch shows — with a modern twist — enjoy as PGMC presents a joyous and humorous extravaganza filled with holiday cheer. One of Portland’s…

Editor's Pick
LGBTQ+
Music
Editor's Pick
Unique Markets: Portland Holiday Market
Dec. 9–10, 2023

Unique Markets: Portland Holiday Market

Veterans Memorial Coliseum $10 – $40

Unique Markets Pop-Ups are creative, modern marketplaces that help independent designers, artists and emerging brands sell their products while encouraging people to shop local and support their community. It’s the perfect opportunity for shoppers to find unique and undiscovered gifts and support independent local artists and brands. These unique shopping experiences include a carefully curated…

Editor's Pick
Editor's Pick
ScanFair
Dec. 9–10, 2023

ScanFair

Oregon Convention Center TBA

ScanFair brings Scandinavia to Portland through traditional food and drink vendors, an entertainment program focused on cultural heritage, games, activities, and crafts, and welcoming local community organizations. This year’s offerings include local vendors and organizations, a kids’ craft area, live entertainment, a Finnish Santa, a Viking ship, and Nordic food and drink, including aquavit and…

Editor's Pick
Cultural Communities
Shopping
Editor's Pick
NAYA Native Made Winter Marketplace
Dec. 9–10, 2023

NAYA Native Made Winter Marketplace

Lloyd Center Free

The season of gifting is upon us. Get your holiday shopping done and support local Native artists at the Native American Youth and Family Center’s (NAYA) Native Made Winter Marketplace. You’ll find beautiful jewelry, clothing, crafts, prints and much more. There will be upwards of 50 makers joining for this special event. NAYA Marketplace is…

Editor's Pick
Art & Design
Cultural Communities
Shopping
Editor's Pick
Portland Bazaar
Dec. 9–17, 2023

Portland Bazaar

Premier Gear & Machine Works Building Free

The PORTLAND BAZAAR is the city’s finest holiday gift showcase and sale. Started in 2011, their mission is to create an exciting event highlighting the skilled artists, makers and small businesses of Portland, Oregon. When you shop small, you are putting your dollars directly back into the community by supporting someone’s small business and their…

Editor's Pick
Shopping
Editor's Pick
Gospel Christmas
Dec. 9–10, 2023

Gospel Christmas

Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall $25 +

Bring joy to your holiday season with the 24th annual performance of this beloved concert, featuring the region’s premier gospel singers alongside your Oregon Symphony. Experience the joy and spiritual uplift of gospel music, performed with passion and feeling by some of the finest musicians in the region.

Editor's Pick
Music
Editor's Pick
The Moth MainStage
Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2023

The Moth MainStage

Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall $25 – $85

Literary Arts and The Moth are bringing a new lineup of storytellers to Portland. Each Moth Mainstage show features five tellers who have developed their true stories with help from The Moth’s directors. The Moth features true stories, told live and without notes. The Moth celebrates the ability of stories to honor both the diversity…

Editor's Pick
Performing Arts
Readings & Talks
Editor's Pick
Comfort and Joy
Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023

Comfort and Joy

Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall $25 +

Join the Oregon Symphony for an evening of good cheer with season classics such as “We Need a Little Christmas,” “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” and “White Christmas,” as well as a very merry sing-along. It will be a jubilant celebration sure to put you and yours in the holiday spirit. Artists: Deanna Tham, Conductor

Editor's Pick
Music
Editor's Pick
Peacock Lane
Dec. 14–31, 2023

Peacock Lane

Peacock Lane Free

Each house in this quaint southeast neighborhood has been decorating for Christmas for decades. Mostly Tudors, the houses are adorned with not only beautiful sparkling lights but also nativity scenes, rotating Christmas trees and stunningly life-like replicas of Santa and Frosty. Come see the lights on Peacock Lane and you’ll find nothing but good, old-fashioned…

Editor's Pick
Editor's Pick
Tuba Christmas Concert
Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023

Tuba Christmas Concert

Pioneer Courthouse Square Free

Welcome you back downtown for this holiday tradition. Experience the sounds of big brass as over 200 tubas play in unison for the 32nd Annual Tuba Christmas Concert in Portland’s Living Room. Attending this seasonal performance is FREE for the public.

Editor's Pick
Music
Editor's Pick
Stumptown SantaCon
Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023

Stumptown SantaCon

Various Locations $18.49 – $41.72

Portland's largest SantaCon pub crawl and street party. Your wristband gets you into most participating venues from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., but be sure to check each venue's participating hours. After you receive your wristband, hang out at the street closure for a live DJ and join the next Santa's Sleigh Ride bar crawl…

Editor's Pick
Nightlife

More Portland Events

Visit our events calendar to discover even more things to do in Portland. Search by date, event type and more.

See All Events

New Year's Eve in Portland

When the clock strikes midnight in Portland, you could be dancing to bhangra beats, running through downtown or indulging in chocolate and Champagne.

Happy New Year!

Was this page helpful?

Visitor Information

visitorinfo@travelportland.com
1-888-503-3291 (toll free)
503-427-1372
Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sunday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Portland Visitor Center

1132 SW Harvey Milk St #104,
Portland, OR 97205

Monday–Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Sunday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

guide cover with images of sights around Portland; the white stag sign, the Tilikum Crossing, and food.

Map & Guide

Pocket-sized brochure guide and map.

Get the guide

Screenshot of hand holding mobile phone with Near Me Now Map on the screen

Near Me Now App

An app to explore the best of Portland.




Newsletter Signup

Get your guide to Portland's events, attractions and news.

Follow Us

  • TikTok
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • YouTube
  • LinkedIn

Information For

Local Businesses
Media
Meeting Planners
Travel Industry Professionals
Event Organizers

Brought to you by

Travel Portland Logo

We are a promoter and steward of this evolving city and its progressive values, which have the power to transform the travelers who visit us.

  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Jobs
  • Español
  • Français
  • Deutsch
  • 日本語
  • 汉语
  • 漢語
  • 한국어
Copyright © 2023 Travel Portland
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookies Policy
  • Copyright Policy
Visit The USA Logo