The holiday season brings a magical transformation to some of Oregon’s most charming towns. From vibrant light displays in Portland to cozy Victorian festivities in Ashland, each destination offers a unique way to celebrate the spirit of Christmas. Whether you’re looking for snowy mountain adventures, coastal holiday cheer, or the cozy ambiance of wine country, Oregon’s Christmas towns deliver memorable experiences for everyone. Here are five of the best places to enjoy Christmas in Oregon, each brimming with holiday events, festive markets, and local charm that will make your holiday season unforgettable.
Read: Glamping in Oregon
Top 5 Christmas Towns in Oregon
1. Portland – A Vibrant Holiday Hub
Portland is known for its eclectic holiday celebrations that blend traditional festivities with a unique, local twist. The Grotto’s Festival of Lights is one of the largest holiday events in the area, featuring more than a million lights, live choral performances, and a peaceful garden setting, perfect for a serene holiday experience. Visitors can also enjoy the Portland International Raceway’s Winter Wonderland, a drive-through light show with over 250 displays, including animated scenes and themed installations.
The holiday spirit also spills over to Pioneer Courthouse Square, known as “Portland’s Living Room,” where the city’s grand Christmas tree is lit in a ceremony that includes local choirs and music. Nearby, the Portland Saturday Market transforms into a holiday bazaar where artisans and makers sell locally crafted items, perfect for unique gifts.
- Additional Events: Don’t miss ZooLights at the Oregon Zoo, a dazzling display of lights winding through animal habitats.
- Where to Eat: Screen Door for Southern-inspired holiday brunch, or Blue Star Donuts for seasonal flavors like gingerbread and eggnog.
- Where to Stay: The Nines Hotel, with holiday-themed decor and views of downtown Portland.
2. Bend – Snow-Covered Scenery and Festivities
Bend’s picturesque mountain backdrop makes it a winter paradise with plenty of outdoor adventures and seasonal activities. The town’s unique Holiday Lights Paddle Parade sees kayakers and paddleboarders dressed in light-up costumes as they float down the Deschutes River, creating a magical display on the water. Additionally, Old Mill District hosts a family-friendly holiday scene with visits from Santa, holiday movies, and decorated shopping areas.
Nearby, Mt. Bachelor offers skiing, snowboarding, and even snowshoe tours, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. For a more relaxed holiday experience, many visitors head to Sunriver Resort, where you can enjoy ice skating, hot cocoa, and horse-drawn sleigh rides through snow-covered forests.
- Additional Events: Bend Christmas Parade features local floats, marching bands, and Santa’s grand arrival.
- Where to Eat: Jackson’s Corner for hearty, locally-sourced winter dishes, and Dudley’s Bookshop Cafe for cozy coffee breaks.
- Where to Stay: The Oxford Hotel for a chic and eco-friendly downtown stay or Tetherow Lodge for a lodge-like experience with mountain views.
3. Ashland – A Victorian Christmas Village
Ashland’s historic downtown is known for its Victorian architecture and cozy, old-fashioned Christmas charm. During the Festival of Light Parade, the entire town lights up with thousands of holiday lights and decorations, and Santa arrives to officially begin the season. A highlight of Ashland’s holiday season is the Dickens’ Christmas Feast, a unique dinner theater experience that transports visitors to the Victorian era with actors in period costumes, carolers, and traditional holiday fare.
In addition to the holiday theater scene, the town’s famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival stages Christmas-themed productions, adding a cultural touch to Ashland’s festivities. Lithia Park, a beautiful, tree-filled park in the heart of town, is lit up with holiday lights, creating a magical spot for evening strolls.
- Additional Events: Caroling groups and street performers line the downtown area, offering festive music and entertainment.
- Where to Eat: Alchemy Restaurant for a seasonal menu in a historic setting, and Mix Bakeshop for handmade holiday treats.
- Where to Stay: Lithia Springs Resort offers cozy accommodations and natural hot springs for a relaxing winter getaway.
4. McMinnville – Wine Country Wonderland
McMinnville, situated in Oregon’s lush Willamette Valley wine country, offers a laid-back yet festive holiday atmosphere. The town’s Holiday Parade features local floats, live music, and treats from local bakeries. McMinnville is known for its charming main street, lined with boutique shops and decorated storefronts, perfect for leisurely holiday shopping.
Many of the area’s wineries participate in the holiday spirit by hosting open houses with tastings, holiday décor, and exclusive wine releases. The McMinnville Christmas Market, held on select weekends, offers handmade crafts, holiday decor, and seasonal foods, making it easy to find one-of-a-kind gifts.
- Additional Events: Holiday wine tours and tastings are available at several wineries, including Willamette Valley Vineyards and Sokol Blosser.
- Where to Eat: Community Plate for a cozy, farm-to-table experience, and Thistle for a memorable meal with local flavors.
- Where to Stay: The Atticus Hotel, offering holiday-themed rooms and easy access to the town’s festive main street.
5. Seaside – Coastal Christmas Cheer
Seaside’s holiday celebrations combine a classic beach vibe with festive decorations and family-friendly activities. The Holiday Lights at the Seaside Aquarium creates an enchanting holiday experience with lighted displays themed around sea life. Local shops and eateries also participate in the holiday spirit with decorated windows and special seasonal offerings.
The town’s Seaside Museum hosts a gingerbread decorating contest, while nearby Cannon Beach offers its own holiday lights display and craft fairs. Families can enjoy a variety of seasonal events, from Christmas movie screenings to holiday craft workshops held at the Seaside Civic and Convention Center.
- Additional Events: Holiday Gift Fair in Seaside offers unique coastal gifts and crafts from local artisans.
- Where to Eat: Dooger’s Seafood & Grill for fresh, local seafood, and Pacific Way Bakery & Cafe in nearby Gearhart for seasonal pastries.
- Where to Stay: Seaside Oceanfront Inn offers rooms with ocean views and is close to local holiday activities.
Content creator and writer for multiple websites including All About Glamping, Fit Living Lifestyle, and Live Dream Discover. A full-time traveler who has spoken at various travel conferences around the world.
