The magic of the holiday season is a gift that gives all throughout the winter months and not just beginning at Santa’s arrival. For many, the first unforgettable twinkle of the enchantment of a Portland Christmas begins with attending a Portland Christmas tree lighting ceremony. This year, COVID has changed the way your family will experience our local Christmas tree lightings. Many of them have gone online where they can be experienced in the comfort of your very own home. Find out which lightings you can watch every night of the week if you choose. Read on to find out more.
Pioneer Courthouse Square Tree Lighting & Sing Along
On Nov. 27, this time-honored tradition was broadcast in an hour-long special featuring a caroling sing-along with Pink Martini. Lyrics appeared on the TV screen so viewers could sing along from home. It is now available to watch online. Your family can enjoy it every day of the season from the comfort and safety of your home.
Online: thesquarepdx.org
Lake Oswego Holiday Tree Lighting
This 40 plus year-old tradition includes watching the Mayor of Lake Oswego light the giant Sequoia tree that stands in Bigelow Plaza. This year, there will be no public tree lighting ceremony or parade. Instead, you can enjoy a virtual greeting card on behalf of the City of Lake Oswego, the Chamber of Commerce and the sponsor, Director’s Mortgage. Your family can watch an online viewing and enjoy “Company” from Lakeridge High School, “Windjammers” from Lake Oswego High School, and the talented community members who perform in the Millennium Concert Band as they give you a flavor of what you would have heard in person. The elves have told us that Santa will make a special guest appearance at the end!
Online: lake-oswego.com/Holiday-Tree-Lighting
Vancouver Rotary Foundation Community Tree Lighting
The Esther Short Park community tree will glow throughout the holiday season in downtown Vancouver. Concern about community health and Covid-19 have cancelled many community events including the annual Rotary Community Tree Lighting ceremony. However, the downtown will be aglow 24 hours per day with thousands of lights hung on a new tree for all to stroll or drive by throughout the holiday season through New Year’s Day Jan. 1.
Online: rotaryfestivaloftrees.org
Gresham Spirit of Christmas
While there will be no live, in-person Spirit of Gresham Tree Lighting event, due to state restrictions on events to prevent the spread of COVID-19, you're invited to experience it virtually as through a special tree lighting video. Watch anytime and get in the holiday spirit. Your kids will love the annual tree lighting countdown with Mayor Karylinn Echols and Santa!
Online: greshamoregon.gov/Spirit-of-Christmas
Hillsboro Holly Days and Tree Lighting
Celebrate the holiday season at the annual Holly Days Celebration in historic Downtown Hillsboro. Although Downtown merchants will be open for business the rest of the event will be broadcast virtually this year to keep our community healthy. Filmed Nov. 21, your family can enjoy holiday music from Leah & Austin, a local favorite band. The Mayor will be joined by Santa and Mrs. Claus to light the tree. All this mixed in with fun things happening around Downtown including our annual Excellence in Downtown Awards and a cameo from a local celebrity.
Online: hillsborohollydays.org
Holiday Lights
Your family doesn’t have to miss seeing fantastic light displays in person. Portland has some amazing light displays going on around town. We’ve rounded them all up right here for you. Make sure to check websites for updated information and COVID safety rules before you venture out.
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—Annette Benedetti
