Get into the Holidays in PDX
The holidays are firmly here again, now with Thanksgiving already done and more cheer on the way, well, it’s always fun to find a few, festive events to attend. Amping up your holiday spirit just makes all of the upcoming gatherings and events just that much more fun (at least in my esteemed opinion ;). So, here are three of my very favorite options, all affordable, all just so darn cool. Enjoy!
TUBA CHRISTMAS
I know it seems a bit odd, but hey, it is Portland and we dig on that. And if you’ve been to Tuba Christmas in the past, well, you already know…this is one very fun event. I mean how can it not be amazing when over 200 tuba players gather in Pioneer Square to blast one holiday tune after another? So grab your friends, family, warm coats and hot chocolate. Take advantage of this unique event for FREE….or bring your tuba and join the music jam for only $10. Tip: If you’re over 21 you can watch the action from high above at the Departure Lounge in the Nines Hotel. The railing there will be crowded though, so arrive early! Otherwise, the steps of Pioneer Square are easy, free and close-up. Tuba Christmas is on Saturday, December 14th at 1:30 p.m. Read more here. Enjoy!
HOLIDAY ALE FESTIVAL
From December 4-8th the 24th Annual Holiday Ale Festival will be held at Portland’s Pioneer Square. Over 50+ exclusive beers and ciders will be flowing from the taps, all alongside the giant, lit tree (see Portland Tree Lighting Ceremony). Since it’s pretty darn cold out these days, the beer will be served under a heated tent. Fees to get in vary, depending on your appetite for the cold, bubbly stuff. See more details here, and check ticket prices (which can be purchased in advance (recommended)).
CHRISTMAS SHIP PARADE
For 63 years Portland’s Christmas Ship Parade has graced the shores of both the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, creating a visual spectacle that is hard to match. Something about that freezing water, often with a layer of fog on it, permeated by the glowing lights of all different colors, well, it’s spectacular…as long as you’re somewhere warm. A nice, toasty jacket, hat and gloves will do the trick though, and there are many great spots to catch this parade from inside or out of an establishment. Catching the ships on their route is the trick as they indeed move up and down the rivers at specific times. Rather than trying to help you solve the time/location issue here, check out the Christmas Ship website for planning and details. That said, there will be a “meet and greet” with the ships (a great way to see them up close) at the public dock in front of the Riverplace Hotel. You can even meet the captains as well as Mr. and Mrs. Claus! The Christmas Ship parade runs several nights, from December 5th through December 22nd. Get more details here.
I hope you had a great Thanksgiving and that you’re well on your way to amping your spirit for the season. Me? This is my favorite time of year, hands down. It’s just too fun to see all the little ones so dreamy-eyed and excited. Makes me excited too! Enjoy!