✨ Updated for 2025 ✨
Welcome to Portland, Oregon's most comprehensive guide to Christmas lights and holiday displays! Whether you're a local looking for new displays to explore or visiting Portland for the holidays, this guide will help you find the perfect festive experiences throughout the Portland metro area.
I've been covering Portland's Christmas light scene for years, and each year I'm amazed by the creativity and spirit our community brings to the season. From iconic displays like Peacock Lane (Portland's historic Christmas street since 1932) to the massive Winter Wonderland drive-through at Portland International Raceway, Portland transforms into a winter wonderland every December.
This guide includes everything from free neighborhood displays like Peacock Lane and Lightopia Hillsboro to ticketed events like The Grotto's Festival of Lights. You'll find drive-through experiences perfect for rainy Portland evenings, walkable trails at The Grotto and ZooLights, and neighborhood displays throughout the metro area. I've covered Portland proper as well as nearby cities like Beaverton, Hillsboro, Milwaukie, Tualatin, Vancouver WA, Hood River, Camas, Forest Grove, and many more. Each listing includes practical details like dates, times, parking tips, and what makes each display special.
If you're looking to avoid the crowds, discover something new, or just want to make the most of your holiday light adventures in Portland, Oregon, I hope you'll find this guide helpful. If anything is missing or incorrect, please let me know through the contact form!
Quick Answers
When do Portland Christmas lights start?
Most major displays in Portland, Oregon begin the weekend after Thanksgiving (around November 28th). The Grotto's Festival of Lights and Winter Wonderland both open on November 28th. Neighborhood displays like Peacock Lane typically start December 15th and run through New Year's Eve.
What are the best free Christmas light displays in Portland, Oregon?
Portland offers several fantastic free displays: Peacock Lane (historic Southeast Portland street), Portland Winter Light Festival (citywide celebration), Lightopia Hillsboro (free drive-through, reservations required), Beaverton Winter Lights, and Schilling Lights on Lark in Milwaukie (animated music-synchronized display).
Are dogs allowed at Portland Christmas light displays?
Service animals are always welcome. Pet policies vary by event—many neighborhood displays like Peacock Lane are perfect for walking with your furry friends! Drive-through displays like Winter Wonderland allow pets in your car. Check each listing for specific details.
What's the biggest drive-through light display in Portland?
Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway is the largest drive-through holiday light show in the Pacific Northwest, featuring over a million lights along two miles of displays. It's perfect for rainy Portland evenings since you stay in your car!
⭐ View All 40+ Confirmed Events for 2025 ⭐ 🌟 Featured Displays 🌟
Peacock Lane Christmas Lights
Historic Tradition Step back in time to 1932 and experience Portland's longest-running holiday tradition! Peacock Lane is a magical four-block stretch where every single home participates in creating an unforgettable holiday experience. From vintage 1950s-style decorations to elaborate modern displays featuring Disney characters and nativity scenes, this entirely volunteer-driven neighborhood celebration showcases the true spirit of Portland community. Best visited on foot during the pedestrian-only nights for the full immersive experience.
Learn More & View Details → Safeway Winter Wonderland
Drive-Through Experience the Pacific Northwest's largest drive-through holiday light spectacular right here in Portland! Located at Portland International Raceway, Winter Wonderland features over a million brilliant lights creating shimmering tunnels, animated holiday scenes, and festive displays along a two-mile route. This is the perfect family adventure for Portland's rainy December evenings—stay cozy in your car while enjoying 35 minutes of pure holiday magic. The drive-through format means you can enjoy the lights regardless of weather conditions!
Learn More & View Details → The Grotto's Christmas Festival of Lights
Walk-Through Discover one of Portland's most enchanting holiday experiences at The Grotto, where thousands of twinkling lights transform this peaceful sanctuary into a festive wonderland. As you wander the illuminated pathways, you'll be serenaded by local choirs performing in the Chapel of Mary, creating an atmosphere of both celebration and reflection. The festival combines stunning light displays with live musical performances and family-friendly puppet shows, making it a perfect outing for all ages. Plan for 60-90 minutes to fully experience this magical evening.
Learn More & View Details → Home for the Holidays at Pittock Mansion
Historic Estate Journey through Portland's history at the magnificent Pittock Mansion, where each room tells a story of holidays past. This beautifully preserved 1914 French Renaissance-style mansion is adorned with period-appropriate decorations that transport visitors to different eras of Portland's rich history. From Victorian elegance to mid-century charm, each space offers a unique glimpse into how Portland families celebrated the holidays throughout the decades. The mansion's hilltop location also provides stunning views of the city below.
Learn More & View Details → Portland Winter Light Festival
Citywide Event Celebrate Portland's creative spirit at this remarkable 10th anniversary citywide festival that transforms the darkest days of winter into an illuminated celebration of art and community. This free, all-ages event showcases innovative light sculptures, mesmerizing fire art performances, and interactive installations across multiple iconic Portland locations. The festival's community-driven approach means you'll discover something new around every corner, from Pioneer Courthouse Square to the World Trade Center. It's Portland's way of brightening the winter season together!
Learn More & View Details → Beaverton Winter Lights
Community Event Just west of Portland, Beaverton transforms into a festive wonderland during this beloved community celebration. The entire city comes alive with brilliant holiday illuminations that create a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for families and visitors. Stroll through beautifully lit areas and experience the community's dedication to spreading holiday cheer throughout the season. This free event showcases the best of Beaverton's holiday spirit and is easily accessible from Portland.
Learn More & View Details → 🗺️ Explore the Interactive Map 🗺️
Planning your route? Our interactive map shows you exactly where every light display, event, and festive attraction is located around Portland and nearby areas!
Click on any marker to see photos, dates, times, and get directions. Perfect for planning your holiday lights road trip!
View Interactive Map → 🎁 More Free Displays 🎁
Lightopia Hillsboro
Free Drive-Through Experience a completely free drive-through holiday light display in Hillsboro! This community celebration features dazzling light installations that you can enjoy from the comfort of your car. Reservations are required for this popular free event, so plan ahead to secure your spot. It's a wonderful way to enjoy holiday lights without spending a dime, perfect for families looking for budget-friendly festive fun.
Learn More & View Details → Schilling Lights on Lark
Music-Synchronized Discover Milwaukie's animated music-synchronized light display that brings holiday magic to life! This free neighborhood display features lights that dance to festive music, creating an enchanting experience for visitors of all ages. The synchronized light show is a labor of love from local residents who transform their home into a holiday spectacle each year.
Learn More & View Details → 🚗 Additional Drive-Through Options 🚗
Glow Oregon Christmas Lighting Festival
Keizer Take a magical journey through Oregon's premier drive-through holiday light spectacular at Roto-Rooter Park in Keizer. This family-friendly adventure features elaborate light displays, animated scenes, and festive decorations that capture the essence of the holiday season. The drive-through format makes it perfect for all ages and weather conditions, allowing you to enjoy the magic from your vehicle.
Learn More & View Details → 🎅 Nearby Portland Metro Area 🎅
Magic at the Mill - Salem
Historic Mill Venture south to Salem for this enchanting holiday celebration at a historic mill location. This event combines the charm of historic architecture with brilliant holiday lighting, creating a unique festive experience. Perfect for a day trip from Portland, this celebration offers something special for the whole family.
Learn More & View Details → Tualatin Light Parades
Parade Event Join the community celebration in Tualatin for their annual light parade, featuring festive floats, marching bands, and holiday cheer. This family-friendly event brings together the community for an evening of celebration and lights, making it a perfect addition to your holiday calendar.
Learn More & View Details → I've made a new site that features holiday events from over 7000 cities across the world – including Portland, of course.
See what's happening in Portland this holiday season – or wherever in the world you'll be at Christmas Events Near Me!
🎄 From the Editor: I started this site because I love exploring Portland, Oregon's holiday displays with my family. Each year, I personally visit these locations—from the historic charm of Peacock Lane to the grandeur of Winter Wonderland—and update the information. This isn't just a directory—it's a guide from someone who genuinely loves the Portland Christmas lights scene and wants to help you discover the best displays in the Pacific Northwest!
