Deck the Halls with Quirky Fun: Your Guide to a Portland Christmas Unlike Any Other
So you're jingling all the way to Portland for Christmas? You, my friend, are in for a treat. Forget the fruitcake and carols on repeat (although, there will be some of that). Portland does Christmas with a sprinkle of weird, a dash of indie, and a whole lot of fun.
 |
| What To Do In Portland Over Christmas |
Lights, Camera, Action! (The Illuminating Kind)
Forget the Rockefeller Center, Portland has got its own glow-up game going on.
- Peacock Lane: This isn't your grandma's twinkle lights. We're talking houses transformed into illuminated masterpieces, a dazzling display that'll have you feeling like you wandered onto a movie set. Just be prepared for potential crowds (and maybe a rogue Rudolph costume or two).
- ZooLights: See your favorite critters bathed in festive cheer at the Oregon Zoo. It's like stepping into a living Christmas card, with reindeer, penguins, and even the occasional scaly friend sporting their holiday best (well, maybe not best, but festive nonetheless). Bonus points for sipping on hot cocoa while you ooh and ahh.
Pro Tip: Pack your walking shoes, these light displays are best enjoyed on foot (or by hopping on the handy Portland Holiday Trolley).
QuickTip: Stop scrolling fast, start reading slow.
Feed Your Festivities (and Your Inner Foodie)
Christmas isn't Christmas without delicious treats, and Portland knows how to deliver.
- Holiday Ale Fest: Forget eggnog, raise a glass of Christmas cheer (or should we say, cheerS?) at this epic craft beer festival. With festive brews and a lineup that would make even Santa do a jig, it's the perfect way to warm up those winter chills.
- Local Eats with a Twist: Portland's food scene is legendary, and Christmas is no exception. Skip the boring dinner and grab some delicious Dungeness crab at a local seafood shack, or cozy up in a gastropub with a plate of gourmet mac and cheese (because, really, is there anything more festive?).
Don't forget the doughnuts! Portland is a haven for independent doughnut shops, so grab a festive fritter or a reindeer-shaped glazed delight.
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
Embrace Your Inner Weirdo (It's Practically Mandatory)
Portland wouldn't be Portland without a healthy dose of quirk. Here's how to get your fix:
- SantaCon: Forget the reindeer, these Santas prefer two wheels (or maybe a bar stool). SantaCon is a hilarious pub crawl where folks dress up as Kris Kringle (and sometimes questionable interpretations thereof) and spread holiday cheer, one bar hop at a time.
- The Grotto Christmas Festival of Lights: This stunning display, nestled in a historic sanctuary, features over 30,000 lights illuminating a breathtaking landscape. Bonus points for the view of the city from the top.
Remember: Portland embraces all things unique, so don't be afraid to rock that ugly Christmas sweater or belt out some carols (even if they're slightly off-key).
QuickTip: Slow scrolling helps comprehension.
 |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Festivities (Portland Style)
How to find the best Christmas lights? Peacock Lane and ZooLights are must-sees, but keep an eye out for neighborhoods known for their festive displays (think Irvington and Alameda).
How to survive the crowds? Patience is key, especially at popular events. Embrace the festive spirit and people-watch – you might just see the most interesting Santa costume ever.
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
How to avoid the crowds altogether? Many restaurants offer special Christmas Eve or Christmas Day brunches, a delicious way to enjoy the holiday without the hustle and bustle.
How to stay warm? Layers are your friend! Portland weather can be unpredictable, so pack a hat, gloves, and a warm coat.
How to embrace the Portland spirit? Be yourself, be merry, and maybe throw in a quirky reindeer joke or two. After all, it's Christmas in Portland, baby!
 |
