Cozy Winter in Portland
Dial into the Pacific Northwest version of hygge, where rainy winter days meet Portland’s expert take on cozy culture.
Yes, it does rain in the winter in Portland, not all the time, but plenty. However, the rain and cooler temperatures provide the perfect excuse to do as locals do and indulge in Portland’s legendary culinary scene, sample craft beers from our 70+ breweries, drink a few extra cups of locally roasted coffee, check out live music performances, explore live theater, and get lost wandering aisles of our independent bookstores.
Several locally beloved events return every winter season, including the vibrant Portland Winter Light Festival, a dazzling display of light installations around the city; the epic PDX Jazz Festival; and multiple art, film and music festivals like Portland Old Time Music Gathering, Fan Expo Portland and the Winter Blues Music Festival.
Winter in Portland Quick Facts
What is the coldest month in Portland?
Does it snow in Portland?
Does it rain every day in the winter in Portland?
What is the winter weather like in Portland?
What to Pack
For a wintertime visit to Portland, anytime from November through March, we recommend packing a waterproof or water-resistant coat, a jacket you can layer with, and rain-friendly shoes. If you’re a skier or snowboarder, don’t forget your gear since rain in Portland means plenty of snow on Mount Hood.
Some other useful items to pack if you’re a pluviophile (one who loves rain) are rainboots for jumping into puddles, a yellow rain jacket for a classic Portland photo shoot, and your favorite umbrella, preferably clear, to watch the rain under.
Favorite Winter Events
These locally beloved events and festivals return every winter in Portland.
Cold-Weather Food in Portland
Warm yourself from the inside out at these local hot spots.
Portland Soup Spots
Whether you’re craving ramen, Mexican pozole or classic chicken noodle, these local soup spots will warm you from the inside out.
Tea: Portland’s Other Hot Brewing Scene
Tea drinkers can enjoy a favorite cuppa or sample exotic varietals in Portland's teahouses. Chai tea, bubble tea and classic green tea are just a few of the many teas brewed in and around Portland.
Asian Bakeries in Portland
Find your next favorite Asian bakery in Portland, with options like bulgogi croissants and mochi doughnuts; you’ll want to try them all.
Soaking Pools and Spas in Portland
Thaw out from the chill, tune into your body and drop into pure comfort.
Indoor Activities in Portland
Prefer to shelter from the elements? Portland’s got you covered.
Cozy Coffee Spots
Sample flavors from around the world and unique coffee concoctions at these one-of-a-kind cafés in Portland.
Spend the Winter Outdoors
Discover evergreen forests, urban hikes, and neverending views.
Winter Walks in Portland
Trade muddy trails for winter walks along the smooth, paved walkways of Portland's parks, then treat yourself to a warm mug of coffee or tea.
Whale Watching on the Oregon Coast
Up to 20,000 gray whales migrate along Oregon's coast every winter and spring — this handy guide to whale watching on the Oregon Coast covers prime spots to see migrating whales, top whale-watching charters, when to go and more.
Winter Sports on Mount Hood
Just a 90-minute drive from downtown, Mount Hood sits right in the city’s backyard and makes for a heck of a winter playground.
Events By Month
Every month of winter in Portland offers its own unique array of events and experiences.
December Events
Favorite December events in Portland include annual traditions like tree decorating and lighting displays, holiday shopping and cheering on your favorite teams.
January Events
From folk music to dog shows, Portland kicks off the year with an eclectic assortment of events.
February Events
February in Portland is the perfect month to explore live music, dancing, cultural festivals and more.
Winter Events
Portland comes to life every winter with festive events and activities around the city.
Portland Saturday Market
Open every Saturday from March–December, Portland Saturday Market is the largest arts-and-crafts fair in the U.S.
Comfort and Joy
Make memories together as your Oregon Symphony creates a magical winter wonderland through classic sing-alongs and your favorite holiday music. And, just in case you forget how many fa-la-la-las are in “Deck the Hall,” lyric sheets will be provided. Artists Deanna Tham, Conductor Oregon Chorale
Gospel Christmas
Feel the spirit of the holiday season with the 25th annual performance of this beloved concert, featuring the region’s premier gospel singers alongside your Oregon Symphony. Experience the joy and uplift of gospel music, performed with passion and feeling by some of the finest musicians in the region. Artists Charles Floyd, Conductor NW Community Gospel…