10 November . 2023
4 holiday events in Hillsboro to ring in the festive season
While Oregon is beautiful year-round, it feels especially magical during the holidays, when twinkling lights appear, the weather turns crisp, and the scents of cinnamon and pine fill the air. Here in Hillsboro, there are a bevy of holiday events to enjoy, from festive light displays to artisan markets filled with local crafts and delicious treats. If you’re new to the area—or just looking for ways to spruce up your seasonal bucket list—read on for some of our favorite holiday activities.
1. Hillsboro Holly Days
A beloved annual tradition, Hillsboro Holly Days is the perfect way to embrace the spirit of the season. Head to historic downtown Hillsboro, and you’ll find a sprawling artisan fair with carolers, live music, and activities for all ages to enjoy. This is an event you won’t want to miss if you love browsing handmade gifts from local makers, perusing charming shops downtown, or humming along to festive tunes.
Running from mid-afternoon to early evening, the event also celebrates the annual lighting of a locally-sourced evergreen tree in Civic Center Plaza. Gather with friends and family at dusk as the countdown begins, and bask in the glory of the brightly-lit tree. Afterwards, be sure to stick around for a fun-filled sing-along led by Hillsboro’s Oregon Chorale.
2. Plaid Friday
Looking to get a head start on your holiday shopping but hoping to skip the lines? Come check out Plaid Friday, an annual event in Hillsboro dedicated to supporting local, independently-owned businesses.
Think of it as the more enjoyable alternative to Black Friday, and a fantastic way to shop local and support your community.
The day after Thanksgiving, head to downtown Hillsboro to find the perfect gifts for loved ones or pick up a white elephant gift for your company party. Bonus tip: make sure to wear plaid while you’re shopping, so you can get in on the special deals offered by participating stores.
3. Snow Much Fun
In rainy Oregon, it’s always a treat to get a few days sprinkled with sparkling snow. But if flurries aren’t in the forecast, you can still head out to Hillsboro’s annual Snow Much Fun event!
This free, family-friendly winter wonderland held in late November features fun activities like horse-drawn wagon rides, carol singing, winter crafts, and more. You’ll even experience a magical snowfall at the top of every hour, a surefire way to get in the holiday spirit. Be sure to bundle up!
4. Lightopia – An Illuminated Journey
If you’re looking for a festive way to spend a winter’s eve, grab some cocoa or hot cider and head on down to Lightopia, where you can marvel at glorious light displays from the warmth and comfort of your car. This gleaming, half-mile drive-through attraction runs through the month of December at the Gordon Faber Recreation Complex, located about 5 miles from Reed’s Crossing.
One of the few free holiday light displays in the Portland area, Lightopia’s vignettes delight visitors of all ages, ranging from funny to awe-inspiring. A Best Festival winner at the Oregon Ovation! Awards, it has featured such popular displays as "Under the Sea" and "March of the Toy Soldiers.” Reservations are required and slots tend to fill up fast, so you may not want to wait to book your time!
Want to learn more about life in Hillsboro, Oregon? Check out our insider’s guide to the city, come by for a visit, or sneak a peek at what’s in store for the future.