The nose of the deer on the famous Portland Oregon sign turns red every holiday season.

Credit: Torsten Kjellstrand/2011

New Year’s Eve Events in Portland

From music to dancing, Portland offers plenty of ways to welcome the New Year.

Updated June 7, 2022

From chocolate buffets to spiritual dance parties to champagne balls, Portland offers all sorts of ways to herald the start of the New Year. Read on for our editors’ picks of the top events to ring in the New Year.

Know Before You Go

The statewide mask mandate has been lifted. However, some event organizers may request or recommend mask-wearing at their events.

Additionally, some event organizers and venues may require proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID test, for admission. Other events may be canceled, postponed or held virtually. Please check individual event websites for the most up-to-date information.

Champagne Ball

Going strong since 1990, the Champagne Ball has helped nearly 40,000 people ring in the New Year in style. Held at the Hilton Portland, this “dress to impress” party features 18 bars so you can spend your night on the dance floor (instead of in line).

The Governor’s Ball

Don your finest black tie or your sparkliest dress and ring in the new year in style at The Governor’s Ball, held every year at the Sentinel Hotel. Dance the night away at Portland’s largest philanthropic gala, where part of the proceeds goes to the Children’s Cancer Association.

Alcohol-Free Fun in Portland

Just because you're older than 21, doesn't mean you have to act like it. Portland has a wide range of events that require no alcohol whatsoever to enjoy.

Explore More

Sobriety Powwow

The Native American Rehabilitation Association (NARA) has hosted an annual Sobriety Powwow for more than 30 years. The Powwow is one of the largest sobriety new year celebrations in the country.

Portland New Year’s Eve

What is Portland weather like around New Year’s?

Temperatures get to an average low of around 40 degrees Fahrenheit (5°C ), so bundle up for any outdoor activities. You can also expect heavy rainfall over the winter with high humidity as a result. So, don’t forget your umbrella.

What other New Year’s celebrations are happening in the region?

The region around Portland is packed with places to ring in the new year. On Mount Hood, New Year’s Eve is celebrated at the Timberline Lodge with festivities and fireworks over the historic building. Mt. Hood Meadows also celebrates with music and fireworks above the ski lifts. Or maybe take a romantic cruise along the Columbia River with Portland Spirit and watch the fireworks from the water.

New Year’s Eve Party Cruise

Soak in the city lights while cruising on the river in style on Portland Spirit Yacht New Year’s Eve Party Cruise. Three public decks give many opportunities to twirl your partner around the marble dance floor, bask in music from baby grand pianos or sip bubbly while watching the city pass by.

New Year’s Eve Murder Mystery

The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Show takes over the Portland Embassy Suites on the last day of the year to bring you mystery, intrigue and (of course) murder. Enjoy a night of laughs and let your inner gumshoe shine while savoring a three-course meal and beverages. Heighten the hijinks by upgrading your ticket and get an unsuspecting person in your party involved in the show as a prime suspect.

Events, Winter, Winter Holidays