Portland, Oregon, is a vibrant city that offers a wide range of activities and events on Christmas Day. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In this article, we’ll explore the best things to do in Portland on Christmas Day, from outdoor activities to cultural events and family-friendly fun.
Outdoor Activities
Portland is known for its natural beauty, and Christmas Day is a great time to get outside and enjoy the city’s parks and green spaces. Here are a few outdoor activities to consider:
Visit a Portland Park
Portland has numerous parks that are open on Christmas Day, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Some popular parks include:
- Forest Park: One of the largest urban forests in the United States, Forest Park offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and stunning scenery.
- Washington Park: Home to the Portland Japanese Garden, the International Rose Test Garden, and the Oregon Zoo, Washington Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Mount Tabor Park: This scenic park features hiking trails, a playground, and stunning views of the city.
Go for a Winter Hike
If you’re looking for a more adventurous outdoor activity, consider going for a winter hike in one of Portland’s many nearby natural areas. Some popular hiking spots include:
- The Columbia River Gorge: Just outside of Portland, the Columbia River Gorge offers stunning scenery and a range of hiking trails for all skill levels.
- Mount Hood: About an hour and a half outside of Portland, Mount Hood offers skiing, snowboarding, and hiking opportunities in the winter.
- The Willamette National Forest: Located just south of Portland, the Willamette National Forest offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives.
Take a Christmas Lights Tour
Portland is known for its festive holiday lights displays, and Christmas Day is a great time to take a tour of the city’s most spectacular displays. Some popular neighborhoods to visit include:
- Peacock Lane: This charming neighborhood is famous for its over-the-top holiday lights displays, featuring animatronic animals, festive music, and more.
- The Grotto: A peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, The Grotto features stunning holiday lights displays, a life-size nativity scene, and a beautiful chapel.
- The Oregon Zoo: The Oregon Zoo offers a festive holiday lights display, featuring animal-themed lights and decorations.
Cultural Events
Portland is a culturally rich and diverse city, and Christmas Day is a great time to experience some of the city’s unique cultural events. Here are a few events to consider:
Attend a Holiday Concert
Portland is home to a thriving music scene, and Christmas Day is a great time to attend a holiday concert. Some popular venues include:
- The Portland Symphony Orchestra: The Portland Symphony Orchestra offers a range of holiday concerts, featuring classical music and festive favorites.
- The Oregon Repertory Singers: This professional choir offers a range of holiday concerts, featuring classical and contemporary music.
- The Portland Jazz Orchestra: The Portland Jazz Orchestra offers a range of holiday concerts, featuring jazz and blues music.
Visit a Museum
Portland is home to a range of world-class museums, many of which are open on Christmas Day. Some popular museums include:
- The Portland Art Museum: The Portland Art Museum features a range of exhibitions and collections, including works by local and international artists.
- The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry: The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry offers a range of interactive exhibits and displays, featuring science, technology, and industry.
- The Japanese American Historical Plaza: This unique museum features exhibits and displays on the history and culture of Japanese Americans in Portland.
Take a Brewery or Winery Tour
Portland is famous for its craft beer and wine scene, and Christmas Day is a great time to take a tour of one of the city’s many breweries or wineries. Some popular options include:
- Widmer Brothers Brewing: This Portland institution offers tours of its brewery, featuring samples of its famous beers.
- Deschutes Brewery: This award-winning brewery offers tours of its facility, featuring samples of its beers and a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process.
- King Estate Winery: This Oregon winery offers tours of its facility, featuring samples of its wines and a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process.
Family-Friendly Fun
Portland is a family-friendly city, and Christmas Day is a great time to enjoy some of the city’s many family-friendly activities. Here are a few ideas:
Visit the Oregon Zoo
The Oregon Zoo is a popular destination for families, and Christmas Day is a great time to visit. The zoo features a range of animals, including elephants, lions, and monkeys, as well as a festive holiday lights display.
Take a Trip to the Children’s Museum
The Portland Children’s Museum is a great place for kids to learn and have fun, and Christmas Day is a great time to visit. The museum features a range of interactive exhibits and displays, including a mini-grocery store, a doctor’s office, and a construction zone.
Go Ice Skating
Portland has several outdoor ice skating rinks that are open on Christmas Day, offering a fun and festive activity for families. Some popular options include:
- The Rink at Lloyd Center: This outdoor ice skating rink is located in the heart of the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding skyline.
- The Rink at Pioneer Courthouse Square: This outdoor ice skating rink is located in the heart of downtown Portland and offers a festive holiday atmosphere.
Other Ideas
If you’re looking for other ideas for things to do in Portland on Christmas Day, here are a few more suggestions:
Take a Day Trip
Portland is located near a range of natural attractions, including the Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood, and the Oregon Coast. Consider taking a day trip to one of these destinations for a fun and memorable Christmas Day outing.
Go Shopping
Portland is a great time to get some last-minute holiday shopping done, and Portland has a range of unique and eclectic shops to explore. Some popular shopping destinations include:
- The Pearl District: This trendy neighborhood is home to a range of high-end boutiques and art galleries.
- Hawthorne Boulevard: This eclectic neighborhood is home to a range of vintage shops, record stores, and boutiques.
- Pioneer Courthouse Square: This bustling public square is home to a range of shops, including a Christmas market featuring local artisans and craftspeople.
Take a Food Tour
Portland is famous for its food scene, and Christmas Day is a great time to take a food tour of the city. Some popular options include:
- A food cart tour: Portland is home to a range of food carts, offering everything from gourmet grilled cheese to Egyptian koshari.
- A brewery tour: Portland is famous for its craft beer scene, and Christmas Day is a great time to take a tour of one of the city’s many breweries.
- A chocolate tour: Portland is home to a range of artisanal chocolatiers, offering tours and tastings of their delicious creations.
In conclusion, Portland is a vibrant and eclectic city that offers a wide range of activities and events on Christmas Day. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural events, or family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this unique and special city.
What are some popular Christmas events in Portland on December 25th?
Portland offers a variety of Christmas events on December 25th, catering to different interests and age groups. Some popular events include the Christmas Day Brunch Cruise, where you can enjoy a delicious meal while cruising along the Willamette River, and the ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo, featuring over a million lights and animal-themed displays. Additionally, many local theaters and performance venues host special Christmas Day shows and concerts.
Other events include the Christmas Day Skate at the Lloyd Center Ice Rink, where you can enjoy ice skating with family and friends, and the Christmas Day Train Ride at the Oregon Rail Heritage Center, offering a festive train ride through the city. Be sure to check the schedules and ticket availability for each event in advance, as they may vary from year to year.
What are some fun activities to do on Christmas Day in Portland?
Portland offers a range of fun activities to enjoy on Christmas Day, both indoors and outdoors. If you’re looking for some fresh air and exercise, consider going for a hike at one of Portland’s many nearby parks and nature reserves, such as Forest Park or the Columbia River Gorge. Alternatively, you can visit the Portland Japanese Garden, which is open on Christmas Day and features beautifully landscaped gardens and tranquil water features.
For indoor activities, consider visiting one of Portland’s many museums, such as the Portland Art Museum or the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry. Many of these museums offer special Christmas Day exhibits and activities, and some even offer extended hours on December 25th. You can also visit the iconic Pittock Mansion, which is decorated for the holiday season and offers stunning views of the city.
What are some Christmas Day dining options in Portland?
Portland is known for its food scene, and Christmas Day is no exception. Many of the city’s top restaurants offer special Christmas Day menus, ranging from traditional holiday fare to more modern and innovative cuisine. Some popular options include the Christmas Day Brunch at the Heathman Restaurant, the Holiday Dinner at the Portland Grill, and the Christmas Day Feast at the Benson Hotel.
In addition to these upscale options, many of Portland’s food carts and casual eateries are also open on Christmas Day, offering a range of international cuisines and comfort foods. Be sure to check the hours and menus for each restaurant in advance, as they may vary from year to year. You can also consider ordering takeout or delivery from one of Portland’s many food delivery services.
What are some Christmas shopping options in Portland on December 25th?
While many retail stores are closed on Christmas Day, there are still some shopping options available in Portland. Some pharmacies and convenience stores, such as Walgreens and 7-Eleven, are open on December 25th and offer a range of last-minute gift items and essentials. Additionally, many of Portland’s boutique hotels and resorts offer gift shops that are open on Christmas Day, featuring unique and local products.
If you’re looking for a more unique shopping experience, consider visiting one of Portland’s many holiday markets, which often take place in the days leading up to Christmas. These markets feature local artisans and vendors selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and other gifts. You can also shop online from Portland-based retailers and have your gifts shipped to your doorstep.
How can I get around Portland on Christmas Day?
Portland offers a range of transportation options on Christmas Day, including public transit, ride-hailing services, and taxi cabs. The city’s public transit system, Tri-County Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon (TriMet), operates on a reduced schedule on December 25th, but still offers bus and light rail service throughout the city. You can plan your trip using the TriMet website or mobile app.
In addition to public transit, many ride-hailing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in Portland on Christmas Day. You can also hail a taxi cab on the street or book one in advance through a local taxi company. If you prefer to drive, be aware that some streets and parking garages may be closed or have limited access on December 25th, so be sure to plan your route in advance.
What are some tips for visiting Portland on Christmas Day?
Visiting Portland on Christmas Day can be a fun and festive experience, but it’s also important to be prepared. Be sure to check the hours and schedules for any attractions, restaurants, or events you plan to visit, as they may vary from year to year. Additionally, consider booking tickets or reservations in advance, as some popular events and restaurants may sell out quickly.
It’s also a good idea to dress warmly, as Portland’s weather can be chilly and rainy in December. Bring an umbrella and wear layers to stay comfortable. Finally, be respectful of local residents and businesses, and consider supporting local and small businesses during your visit. With a little planning and preparation, you can have a wonderful and memorable Christmas Day in Portland.
Are there any free Christmas events in Portland on December 25th?
Yes, there are several free Christmas events in Portland on December 25th. One popular option is the Christmas Day Concert at the Portland Spirit, which features live music and stunning views of the Willamette River. Another option is the Christmas Day Open House at the Pittock Mansion, which offers free admission and tours of the historic mansion.
Additionally, many of Portland’s parks and gardens are open on Christmas Day and offer free admission. You can visit the Portland Japanese Garden, the International Rose Test Garden, or Forest Park for a peaceful and scenic stroll. Some local churches and community centers also offer free Christmas Day events and services, which are open to the public. Be sure to check the schedules and details for each event in advance.