Winter at Lewis & Clark can be a peaceful and restorative time, especially if you are staying in Portland over break while many students scatter to go home. Fortunately, the city is anything but sleepy in its colder months. From taking in the dazzling lights to visiting eclectic cafes, there is plenty to do to keep your winter full of fun Portland charm. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy the holiday season.
Portland’s Public Menorah Lighting: Dec. 14-21
If you are looking for a meaningful cultural event that brings community warmth to the winter chill, head downtown to Pioneer Courthouse Square for the lighting of Portland’s Public Menorah. The celebrations stretch across the eight nights of Hanukkah, each featuring music and traditional foods. This event is a welcoming space for all, and whether you observe the holiday or simply want to experience something uplifting, it is a wonderful way to connect with the city’s community.
For something on campus, LC’s annual Kwanzaa celebration is a fantastic way to start off the holiday season. Held on Dec. 8 in Stamm Dining Hall at 11 a.m., the event brings students, faculty and staff together to reflect on the seven principles of Kwanzaa through food, storytelling, music and community building hosted by the Inclusion and Multicultural Engagement office.
No Portland winter is complete without a visit to Zoo Lights. The Oregon Zoo gets transformed into a glowing landscape of animal-shaped lights, tunnels of color, animated displays and cozy holiday vibes. Bundle up, grab some hot chocolate and enjoy a stroll through one of the city’s most beloved seasonal traditions. Zoo Lights are one of the most budget-friendly nighttime activities in town — and going on a weekday is a great strategy for avoiding crowds.
If you are looking for quirky gifts, unique jewelry, handmade art or the kind of Portland-made crafts that make winter feel special, Crafty Wonderland is a must-visit event. Held over three days in mid-December, this iconic makers’ fair is filled with hundreds of artists and creators. Even if you are not gift shopping, it is a fun place to browse, people-watch or pick up something small for your dorm.
Holiday Marketplace at Artifact: Nov. 4-Jan. 4
If you want craft shopping without the hassle of event crowds, Artifact’s Holiday Marketplace is an outstanding choice. Open every day from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. from now through Jan. 4, the marketplace features rotating goods from local artists and vintage curators. This market is less chaotic than some big craft fairs, and the selection is fantastic for finding quality items you will not see anywhere else.
Pittock Mansion Home for the Holidays: Nov. 17-Jan. 11
For a more laid-back holiday experience, head up to the West Hills to visit Pittock Mansion, a historical estate decked out in its Home for the Holidays decor. Every room is elaborately themed, bringing a different part of the season to life. The mansion feels magical year-round, but during the holidays, it becomes something straight out of a Hallmark movie — and the sweeping view of Portland from the grounds is one of the best panoramas in the city.
Rimsky-Korsakoffee House: All Year, Wednesday–Sunday
Few places capture Portland’s eccentric spirit better than Rimsky-Korsakoffee House. Open nightly from 7 p.m. to 12 a.m., this late-night dessert and coffee spot is host to vintage wallpaper, shelves stuffed with knickknacks and various eclectic art pieces, channeling the Portland spirit. Expect rotating and musical tables, and an atmosphere that is equal parts cozy, spooky and delightful strange. Everyone can find something to love here — bring a friend or bring your whole pre-finals study group.
“A Christmas Carol” at Portland Playhouse: Nov. 25-Dec. 31
If theater is more your vibe, Portland’s annual production of “A Christmas Carol” is a heartwarming classic. Directed by Charles Grant with original music by Rick Lombardo and Anna Lackaff, this long endured tale takes on a new life under Portland Playhouse’s creative team. This year will be the debut of charismatic actor La’Tevin Alexander as Ebenezer Scrooge. It is a perfect way to get into a festive mood and gives you a great excuse to dress up for an evening out. Regular tickets retail for $59.95, but discounted CARE tickets for $25 are available for those who find price to be a barrier.
“A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage”: Dec. 27, 3 p.m.
For something sweet and lighthearted during the quiet week between Christmas and New Year’s, the Keller Auditorium’s “A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage” offers a charming way to spend the afternoon. The performance is a part of a national tour, bringing the cast of Peanuts to cities across America to search for the true meaning of Christmas. Accompanied by Vince Guaraldi’s score, this play is a nostalgic treat ideal for unwinding before the new semester picks up.
Whether you prefer twinkling lights, cultural festivities, quirky cafes or seasonal markets, Portland offers endless ways to enjoy winter break. Staying local does not mean missing out on seasonal joy — in fact, it might be the best way to experience the city at its coziest and most vibrant. Grab a warm jacket, call up a friend and explore everything this winter has to offer.
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