The holiday season is here, and it’s the perfect time to create magical memories with your little ones! From dazzling light displays to festive community events, the Portland metro area is brimming with family-friendly activities. Whether you’re in Beaverton, Tigard, or Portland, there’s something for every family and kids of all ages to enjoy this holiday season.
At Pediatric Associates of the Northwest, we know how important it is to find events that entertain, inspire, and bring families together. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best holiday happenings in the area. These activities aren’t just fun—they’re opportunities to connect, learn, and make the season extra special.
Holiday Light Displays and Festivals
ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo
A dazzling display of over a million lights transforms the zoo into a magical wonderland. This event runs from November 22, 2024, to January 5, 2025, with options to explore on foot or from your car.
Drive the Lights at Portland International Raceway
A drive-through light show featuring two miles of colorful displays runs from November 29 to December 31. Proceeds support the Sunshine Division Food Bank.
Peacock Lane Holiday Lights
Portland’s iconic Christmas Street, where every home is beautifully lit, is open December 15-31.
The Grotto’s Christmas Festival of Lights
Known for its tranquil atmosphere, this event features over 500,000 lights, choral performances, and nativity scenes at a serene Catholic shrine. All faiths are welcome. November 29–December 30.
Performances and Shows
The Nutcracker Ballet
Oregon Ballet Theatre presents George Balanchine’s classic production, perfect for young audiences, from December 7-24 at Keller Auditorium. A special shortened, sensory-friendly performance, Nutcracker in a Nutshell, will be held on December 20.
Singing Christmas Tree
This beloved tradition combines music, theater, and festive cheer. Performances run from November 30 to December 8 at Sunset Church in Beaverton.
NW Children’s Theater
Enjoy Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, running from November 30 to December 29, for an engaging theater experience most enjoyed by ages three and up.
Special Events
Pittock Mansion Home for the Holidays
Tour this historic mansion transformed into a holiday showcase with themed rooms and activities from November 18 to January 9. Check the website for dates of visits with Santa.
Holiday Express Train Along the Willamette River
Hop aboard the 1912 Polson #2 steam locomotive for a festive train ride with Santa and his elves, departing from The Oregon Rail Heritage Center. Runs from November 29 through January 4.
Polar Express Train Ride on the Mount Hood Railroad
Kids can dress in pajamas and enjoy a magical train ride with Santa, hot cocoa, and music inspired by the beloved book and movie.
Tree Lighting and Community Celebrations
Pioneer Courthouse Square
The annual tree lighting on November 29, public Menorah lighting December 25-January 2, and the Tuba Christmas Concert on December 21 are highlights, along with numerous holiday performances throughout the month of December.
Beaverton Winter Lights and Tree Lighting
Enjoy local tree-lighting ceremonies and family activities in Beaverton on December 6. The night includes live performances by local musicians, crafts and activities for all ages, and vendors selling seasonal items. Light displays will be on until January 3.
Holiday Tree Lighting and Market in Downtown Tigard
For the first time the festivities will be held at Universal Plaza! Join the Tigard community on December 6 for a holiday market, choir performance, visits with Santa, and the tree lighting.
Outdoor Fun
Cosmic Tubing at Mt. Hood’s Ski Bowl
Beginning Thanksgiving weekend, this event features tubing under colorful lights with music for a high-energy holiday outing. Children must be over 36″ in height.
The Portland Spirit Cinnamon Bear Breakfast Cruise
This two-hour river cruise is themed after the classic holiday radio series and includes treats, music, and character storytelling, all designed to delight young children. It runs from Thanksgiving weekend through December 27.
Christmas Ships Parade
A cherished Portland tradition since 1954, this event features festively decorated boats cruising the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. It’s a spectacular display of lights and holiday cheer, viewable from several waterfront spots. December 5–22.
Sensory-Friendly Festivities
Here are a few additional sensory-friendly holiday activities in the Portland metro area that are perfect for children who benefit from more accessible environments.
Providence Festival of Trees Sensory-Friendly Experience
Scheduled for December 6, 2024, at the Oregon Convention Center, this event offers a magical, inclusive celebration of beautifully decorated Christmas trees. It’s designed with sensory modifications to provide a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Families can enjoy the sights and sounds of the holidays at a more relaxed pace. Proceeds support Providence Children’s Health
The Nutcracker in a Nutshell
On December 20, 2024, at Keller Auditorium, the Oregon Ballet Theatre presents a sensory-friendly adaptation of The Nutcracker. This performance focuses on Act Two and includes modifications to lighting and sound, a relaxed audience environment, and additional supports like movement allowances and comfort item access. It’s a wonderful introduction to the holiday classic
Sensory-Friendly Holiday Celebration at the Providence Child Center
On December 7, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., this in-person event invites families to enjoy a sensory-friendly holiday experience. Hosted at the Swindells Resource Center, it provides a low-stimulation, welcoming environment for families to celebrate together. Advance registration is recommended.
Cultural Festivals
These festivals add variety to the holiday offerings and allow families to explore diverse cultural traditions.
Lucia Fest
Held on December 14 at Moreland Presbyterian Church, this Swedish festival celebrates the light during the dark winter months with performances by children, choirs, and traditional dances around the Christmas tree. Guests can enjoy Swedish treats and learn about this unique cultural tradition
Dongzhi: Winter Solstice Celebration
Held at the Lan Su Chinese Garden December 13-14 and 20-21, this event honors the winter solstice with traditional Chinese activities. It features the “Tangyuan vs. Jiaozi” weekends, where guests can sample sweet rice balls and savory dumplings, and illuminated evenings in the garden.
We hope this guide helps you and your family discover the joy and magic of the holidays right here in our community. At Pediatric Associates of the Northwest, we’re here to support your family’s well-being year-round—whether it’s through exceptional care or by helping you find moments of joy together.
From our family to yours, we wish you a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season! 🎄✨
