As the days grow longer and the temperatures drop, we may be looking for ways to make our days merry and bright. One of the wonders of celebrating the holidays in Portland is the wide variety of holiday lights. Bundle up and head out to take in the twinkling lights of the city you call home.

Winter Wonderland at the Portland International Raceway has one of the largest holiday lights displays in the area. Grab your coats and mittens and drive or walk through the more than 250 light displays and fully animated scenes that glimmer and glow.

The spectacle is held through January 2nd and you can purchase tickets ahead of time. 

The Oregon Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with ZooLights. This family favorite is a great way to see the zoo all aglow. Listen to the music of carolers, gaze at the brightly lit trees and enjoy the illuminated, animatronic animals. ZooLights 2020 will be a safe drive-through experience. 

Get more information and tickets on the Zoo website.

Don’t miss a Portland holiday tradition, the Christmas Ships Parade. This long-running tradition includes more than 60 festively decorated boats floating along the Willamette River. Spectators are delighted by the sights and sounds of these boats as they light up the night. 

The event will still be held this year, but please check out their website for more information and Covid-19 safety protocols. 

Don’t miss out on one of Southeast Portland’s most decorated neighborhoods! Peacock Lane, just 15 minutes from your Linc 301 apartment,  has been delighting Portlanders since the 20s. Twinkling lights dazzle visitors through December 31st. Check out their website for more information on this tradition for celebrating the holidays in Portland.

Celebrating the holidays in Portland is a magical time of the year and these are just a few of the many ways to turn the season merry and bright. Don’t forget to take a walk by the White Stag building to take in the Red Nose of the stag. Happy Holidays!