Where to Find Santa Around Portland This Holiday Season

The holidays in Portland aren’t just about twinkling lights and cocoa by the fire—they’re about magical moments with Santa Claus! Whether you’re hunting for that perfect (and maybe silly) family photo, a jolly train adventure, or a cozy farm visit, Portland’s got Santa sightings for everyone. Here are 10 local spots where you can catch Santa in 2025—and make some unforgettable holiday memories!

• 1. Cedar Hills Crossing Mall (Nov 28)
  Kick off the season with a classic! Santa touches down at Cedar Hills Crossing on November 28th, ready for photos, wish lists, and plenty of holiday cheer. It’s a must for families looking for that timeless mall Santa experience (bonus: indoor warmth!).


• 2. Bauman’s Farm & Garden
  This charming family farm is a local favorite, and for good reason: they offer free photos with Santa! It’s the perfect spot for budget-friendly fun, fresh air, and a little country holiday magic.


• 3. The Grotto – Christmas Festival of Lights
  Step into a winter wonderland at Portland’s largest Christmas light festival. Santa often pops in to greet families amongst millions of sparkling lights, live carolers, and beautiful nativity scenes. It’s pure holiday magic!


• 4. Oregon Zoo – ZooLights
  When the sun goes down, the zoo lights up! ZooLights transforms the Oregon Zoo into a glowing paradise—and yes, Santa loves to visit. Families can stroll under dazzling displays, sip hot chocolate, and snap a festive photo with the big guy himself.


• 5. Peacock Lane
  A true Portland holiday tradition! Wander down this charming, historic street where homes shine with dazzling light displays. Santa often drops by for photos and waves from his sleigh, making Peacock Lane a magical stop for families and friends.


• 6. Holiday Express Train (Oaks Park)
  All aboard for holiday fun! Climb onto the vintage steam train for a scenic ride along the Willamette River. Santa himself greets passengers with a jolly “ho ho ho,” making this outing unforgettable for kids (and kids at heart).


• 7. Pioneer Courthouse Square
  Right in the heart of downtown, the city’s “living room” transforms into a festive hub with a giant Christmas tree, twinkling lights, and Santa sightings during special events. Don’t miss the tree lighting ceremony for a truly magical evening!


• 8. Lloyd Center Ice Rink
  Lace up your skates and glide around the rink—Santa sometimes joins skaters on select nights! It’s a unique way to meet St. Nick and enjoy some classic wintry fun indoors.


• 9. Alpenrose Dairy Christmas Village
  Step back in time at Alpenrose Dairy’s enchanting Christmas Village. Santa welcomes visitors in his cozy cottage, surrounded by festive displays, model trains, and plenty of treats for little ones.


• 10. Bridgeport Village
  This open-air shopping center goes all out for the holidays, with Santa visits, holiday music, and sparkling decorations. Snap a photo with Santa and enjoy the festive atmosphere as you shop for gifts.

From sparkling neighborhoods to vintage trains and twinkling city squares, Portland is bursting with ways to see Santa this season. Bundle up, grab your camera, and get ready for some holly-jolly adventures!