Thanksgiving weekend in the Portland metro area is one of those perfect in-between times. The rush of summer has passed, the holidays are on the horizon, and there’s a cozy sense of community in the air. Whether you’re hosting family in West Linn or looking for ways to enjoy the extra days off, there’s plenty to do close to home.
If you’re searching for family-friendly Thanksgiving weekend events in Portland, you’ll find everything from festive runs to dazzling light displays and a few surprises in between.
There’s no shortage of fun happening across Portland and nearby suburbs. Here are a few can’t-miss events to help you plan your long weekend:
Thanksgiving & Holiday Kickoff Events
- Nov 22–Jan 5: Oregon Zoo, Portland: ZooLights — Wander through millions of twinkling lights, a Portland tradition for all ages.
- Nov 27: Oregon Zoo, Portland: Turkey Trot at the Zoo — Start your day with a brisk run surrounded by animals and holiday spirit.
- Nov 28 – Downtown Portland: Downtown Portland Holiday Tree Lighting — A downtown favorite that officially kicks off the holiday season.
- Nov 28 – Millennium Plaza Park, Lake Oswego: 61st Annual Tree Lighting — Enjoy music, cocoa, and the magic of community tradition.
- Nov 29 – Embassy Suites Hilton, Portland: Dinner Detective Thanksgiving Show — A family-friendly dinner mystery experience with a holiday twist.
- Dec 1–17 – Wilsonville Parks & Rec: Letters to Winter Wonderland — Kids can drop off letters to Santa at the Parks & Rec office.
Whether you’re in West Linn, Oregon City, or Lake Oswego, you won’t have to travel far for something festive.
Outdoor Adventures and Local Traditions
If your family loves crisp fall air, Thanksgiving weekend is a great time to get outside. Portland’s trails and parks still show off their last bursts of color. Try the riverfront paths at Mary S. Young Park in West Linn, a stroll through Tryon Creek State Natural Area, or a family hike at Cook Park in Tigard.
If you’d rather keep the holiday spirit going, local Christmas tree farms and light displays start opening this same weekend, many with cider, cocoa, and photo ops with Santa.
Tips for Making the Most of the Weekend
A few quick reminders as you plan:
- Dress in layers since Portland weather can shift fast.
- Arrive early for popular events; parking fills quickly.
- Reserve ahead for dining or ticketed shows.
- And above all, enjoy the slower pace. The best moments often happen between the big plans.
Thanksgiving weekend always reminds us what makes our community special — friendly neighbors, small businesses, and local traditions that bring us together. Wherever you spend the holiday weekend, in the city or close to home, we hope it’s filled with gratitude, connection, and a little adventure.
