Portland in December

December is a fun time to be in Portland. Yeah, it’s cold, but it’s also festive! So bundle up and check out what fun things winter has to offer in the Portland area.

WEATHER

December is one of the coldest months in Portland, with average highs in the mid 40s and lows in the mid 30s (ok, let’s just call it freezing). What makes December extra chilly is the low temps in combination with rainfall. On the upside, it feels pretty festive to go Christmas tree shopping in the cold, and every mug of hot chocolate (or whiskey) seems that much more deserved.

>> Learn more about: weather in Portland

DECEMBER EVENTS/CONCERTS

Nov 30-Dec 4: Holiday Ale Fest
Nov 25 – January 1 Oregon Zoo Lights – at Oregon Zoo
through Dec 31: Pittock Mansion Christmas Around the World
Nov 25-Dec 30: Christmas Festival of Lights @ the Grotto
Dec 8-20: Christmas Ship Parade on the Columbia River & Willamette River
Dec 1: First Thursday
Dec 1-4: Singing Christmas Tree
Dec 4: Jingle Bell Run/Walk – Downtown
Dec 17: Santacon
Dec 31: Champagne Ball

>> Learn more about: Portland Christmas events

THINGS TO DO

Enjoy the liveliness of Portland during the holidays — before the dead of winter hits in January. Many Portland breweries have seasonal ales out this month, so if beer is your thing, don’t miss trying some holiday brews. Also on the winter itinerary is a visit to the Columbia River gorge to see frozen waterfalls or a trip up to Mt Hood to catch views or experience a bit of Oregon skiiing/snowboarding.

What’s your favorite thing to do in December?

Photo by: Ian Sane