Excited for a magical holiday in Hillsboro? Our guide will lead you to all the festive fun! Whether you're rediscovering Hillsboro or visiting for the first time, our guide ensures you experience all the festive fun.
Embrace the holiday spirit with Christmas in the Garden, featuring enchanting lights and festive decorations. Enjoy a drive-through light show and a visit with Santa at Winter Wonderland at PIR. And the ZooLights event is something you definitely don't want to miss, offering beautiful light displays within the Oregon Zoo. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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The Top Christmas Events in Hillsboro
See these and even more events listed below!Hillsboro Holiday Markets and Shopping
Holiday Marketplace
What to Expect:
Local artisan market in a historic setting
Description:
The Holiday Marketplace in Hillsboro showcases the talents of local artisans and craftspeople. Held in the historic Glenn & Viola Walters Cultural Arts Center, this event celebrates the region's creative spirit. Browse unique, handcrafted gifts while supporting local makers. The marketplace features live demonstrations, allowing you to witness the artistry behind the products. This event harkens back to Hillsboro's early days as a hub for local commerce and community gatherings. The Cultural Arts Center's charming architecture provides a fitting backdrop for this celebration of creativity and holiday cheer.
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Nearby Events
Christmas in the Garden (Silverton)
What to Expect:
Immersive European-inspired holiday village
Description:
The Oregon Garden transforms into a charming European-inspired holiday village during Christmas in the Garden. Stroll through twinkling light displays and artisan market stalls while sipping traditional glühwein. Visitors can ice skate on the outdoor rink, a nod to classic winter pastimes. This event draws inspiration from Germany's famous Christkindlmarkts, bringing Old World traditions to the Pacific Northwest. The garden's natural beauty blends seamlessly with carefully crafted decorations, creating an unforgettable seasonal experience.
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ZooLights (Portland)
What to Expect:
Animal-themed light sculptures
Description:
ZooLights illuminates the Oregon Zoo with over 1.5 million LED lights, creating a dazzling array of animal-themed sculptures. Traverse winding paths adorned with radiant displays depicting creatures from around the world. You'll encounter a towering illuminated elephant and a twinkling penguin colony. The event began in 1988 and has since become a beloved Portland tradition. Visitors can ride the zoo train for a unique perspective of the glowing menagerie. ZooLights not only entertains but also educates about wildlife conservation through its creative displays.
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Winter Wonderland at PIR (Portland)
What to Expect:
Drive-through light show at a racetrack
Description:
Winter Wonderland transforms Portland International Raceway into a glowing spectacle of holiday cheer. This unique drive-through experience allows visitors to enjoy elaborate light displays from the comfort of their vehicles. Marvel at over 250 colorful set pieces and animated scenes along the 1.5-mile track. The event originated in 1993 and has grown to become the largest holiday light show west of the Mississippi. Tune your car radio to a special station for synchronized holiday music as you cruise through the illuminated wonderland.
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Portland Christmas Ships Parade (Portland)
What to Expect:
Fleet of decorated boats on the river
Description:
The Portland Christmas Ships Parade brings holiday cheer to the city's waterways. A fleet of boats, adorned with dazzling lights and decorations, glides along the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. This floating spectacle has been a Portland tradition since 1954, growing from a small group of enthusiasts to a beloved community event. Spectators line the riverbanks to watch the illuminated vessels sail by, creating a unique holiday atmosphere. Each ship's crew designs their own theme, resulting in a diverse and creative display on the water.
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Portland Christmas Ships Parade
Festival of Lights at The Grotto (Portland)
What to Expect:
Holiday lights in a spiritual setting
Description:
The Festival of Lights at The Grotto combines spiritual reflection with holiday illumination. This serene event takes place in a 62-acre Catholic shrine and botanical garden. Visitors can explore the grounds adorned with thousands of lights while enjoying nightly choral performances. The Grotto's unique cave chapel, carved into a 110-foot cliff, serves as a centerpiece for the celebration. This event began in 1988 and has become a cherished tradition for many seeking a more contemplative holiday experience.
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Festival of Lights at The Grotto
Holiday Express Train (Portland)
What to Expect:
Vintage train ride with Santa
Description:
The Holiday Express Train whisks passengers back in time aboard beautifully restored vintage rail cars. This nostalgic journey along the Willamette River features stunning views and a visit from Santa Claus himself. The train, pulled by a historic steam locomotive, departs from Oaks Park Station. Passengers can savor the rhythmic sounds of the rails while enjoying hot cocoa. This event not only provides holiday cheer but also supports the Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation's efforts to preserve Portland's rail history.
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Christmas Fantasy Trail (Oregon City)
What to Expect:
Walk-through forest light display
Description:
The Christmas Fantasy Trail winds through a forested wonderland in Oregon City. This immersive walk-through experience features thousands of lights artfully arranged along a winding path. Discover whimsical vignettes and surprises hidden among the trees. The trail includes a unique "Crooked House" where nothing is quite as it seems. This family-owned attraction began as a small display in 1992 and has grown into a beloved local tradition. Visitors can warm up by the bonfire and roast marshmallows after their enchanting journey through the illuminated forest.
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Miracle of a Million Lights (Portland)
What to Expect:
Massive light display benefiting local charities
Description:
The Miracle of a Million Lights bathes the Victorian Belle Mansion in a sea of twinkling illumination. This historic 1885 home serves as the backdrop for an impressive display of over a million lights. The event supports local charities, embodying the spirit of giving during the holiday season. Visitors can explore the beautifully decorated mansion interior, offering a glimpse into Victorian-era holiday celebrations. Live music performances add to the ambiance as you stroll through the glowing gardens.