Christmas Festival of Lights at The Grotto
The Grotto's Christmas Festival of Lights transforms the grounds into a magical winter wonderland. Visitors can wander through a mile of illuminated pathways, enjoying dazzling light displays synchronized to holiday music. The event features continuous entertainment, including live choir performances in the Chapel of Mary, caroling, and puppet shows in the plaza. Warm up with hot chocolate and snacks available for purchase.
What to Expect
Illuminated botanical gardens and chapel performances
Event Details
Duration
60-90 minutes
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Parkrose
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
The Grotto
Food & Drink
Snacks and drinks available for purchase inside the Interpretive Center, including hot chocolate, donuts, bottled water, and assorted bagged salty snacks.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, individuals seeking festive holiday experiences
Vibe
Magical, serene, festive, community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low (tented areas available, but dress for weather)
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$
- Parking: Parking is free in the main parking lot and on the adjacent streets. Parking attendants will assist you. An overflow lot with a free shuttle is available at Parkrose/Sumner Park&Ride on Sandy Blvd. ADA parking spots are available but can fill up on busy nights. Guests can pull up to the entrance to unload passengers.
- Accessibility: The Festival pathways and grounds are all paved, however there is some slope in a few places. Wheelchairs are available to borrow in The Grotto Gift Shop on a first come-first served basis. There are ADA parking spots in the main parking lot, but on a busy night, they can fill up. Guests are welcome to pull up at the entrance to unload their passengers before finding a spot to park. Contact events@thegrotto.org for additional questions or assistance.
- Pets: Properly restrained pets are allowed on the grounds of the lower level. No pets are allowed on the upper level or in buildings. Service animals are allowed in all areas.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early for specific concerts to ensure a good viewing spot.
- Dress in layers and wear comfortable, rubber-soled shoes, gloves, and ear coverings, as entertainment areas are tented but the grounds can be cold.
- Consider using the free shuttle from the overflow parking lot on busy nights to avoid parking delays.
- Wheelchairs are available for free loan at the Gift Shop on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Plan for approximately 60-90 minutes for your visit to fully enjoy the lights and entertainment.
Special Events & Promotions
- Thank you to the performers, volunteers, sponsors and guests who made the 2025 Christmas Festival of Lights a success.
- Stay tuned for more information on the 2026 festival.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the accessibility like at the Festival of Lights?
All areas of The Grotto are handicapped accessible with paved pathways, though some gentle slopes and uneven surfaces exist. Wheelchairs are available for free loan on a first-come, first-served basis.
Can I bring my pet?
Properly restrained pets are welcome on the lower level grounds, but not on the upper level or in buildings. Service animals are permitted in all areas.
What should I wear to the event?
Visitors should dress for the weather, as entertainment areas are tented but the grounds can be cold. Rubber-soled shoes, warm socks, gloves, and ear coverings are recommended.
How long does a typical visit take?
The average visitor spends between 60 and 90 minutes exploring the grounds and enjoying the festivities.
Is there food and drink available?
Yes, snacks and drinks such as hot chocolate, donuts, and bottled water are available for purchase inside the Interpretive Center.
More Christmas Events Near Portland
More Christmas Events near Portland
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.