PORTLAND SATURDAY MARKET — The country's largest continuously running outdoor arts and crafts market is in the Rose City. The Portland Saturday Market features handmade arts, crafts and foods from the Pacific Northwest Saturdays through Dec. 24. Operating since 1974, the market sprawls throughout Portland's Old Town and along the waterfront.

ELF THE MUSICAL — This family-friendly and heartwarming Christmas tale runs through Dec. 18 at the Lakewood Center for

the Arts in Lake Oswego. Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa's bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised — unaware that he is human — until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa's permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity.

HOLIDAY FLEA MARKET — The annual Holiday Aurora Colony Flea Market will be held Dec. 3-4 at the Aurora American Legion Hall, 21510 Main St. N.E., Aurora. The event features antiques, handcrafted items, artisan creations, local producers, home goods and more.

A VERY BRASSY HOLIDAY — Portland Columbia

Symphony Orchestra gives a brassy holiday show under the direction of conductor Steven Byess, at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 21 at First Presbyterian Church, 1200 S.W. Alder St., Portland.

HOLIDAY FLEA MARKET — The annual Holiday Aurora Colony Flea Market will be held Dec. 3-4 at the Aurora American Legion Hall, 21510 Main St. N.E., Aurora. The event features antiques, handcrafted items, artisan creations, local producers, home goods and more.

CHRISTMAS AT PITTOCK MANSION — High in the West Hills, the Pittock Mansion offers views of Portland. Every holiday season, the mansion is decorated with Christmas trees and cheer. Tour the mansion through Jan. 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Professional designers and volunteers will decorate the treasured landmark inside and out. Enjoy musicians playing holiday tunes in the music room.

PINK MARTINI NEW YEAR'S EVE CELEBRATION — Ring in the new year with Pink Martini, with special guests Ari Shapiro, Edna Vazquez, Jimmie Herrod, the Portland Youth Philharmonic, and more, for a one-of-a-kind celebration. Two performances on Dec. 31 at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 S.W. Broadway, Portland. Ticket prices vary.

MOLALLA TREE LIGHTING — Molalla lights the town tree on Dec. 3, with a ceremony from 5-7 p.m. The event will feature hot chocolate, cider, carols, a dance performance and other events, including the arrival of Santa. Molalla City Hall, 117 N. Molalla Ave.

SANTA SING-ALONG — Santa touches down at the Broadway Rose on Dec. 3 to celebrate the merriest season with a lively sing-along, storytelling, and a special gift for each child. Enjoy singing your favorite Christmas carols, led by performers with live accompaniment, and a special story reading by old St. Nick. Proceeds benefit Broadway Rose's theatrical and educational programs. At the Broadway Rose New Stage, 12850 S.W. Grant Ave., Tigard.

ZOOLIGHTS — Celebrate the holidays in Portland with more than 1.5 million lights at ZooLights. ZooLights takes place at the Oregon Zoo and runs daily through Jan. 5, except Christmas Day. Guests can also enjoy seasonal food offerings from elephant ears and dinner specials to Oregon beer and wine. Tickets for the classic walkthrough display are timed-entry and must be purchased in advance. Or bring the family to explore the lights by car with a drive-through experience on selected nights.

WINTER WONDERLAND — Since 1993, a journey through the Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway has become a tradition for many families to celebrate the holiday season. The "Largest Holiday Light Show West of the Mississippi" offers more than 250 colorful light set pieces and many fully animated scenes that can be enjoyed from your vehicle. Winter Wonderland runs from 5-11 p.m. Nov. 25 through Dec. 31, at the raceway, 1940 N. Victory Blvd., in Portland.

PORTLAND'S SINGING CHRISTMAS TREE — Attend the traditional holiday concert that features the voices of 300 singers for a family-centered Christmas spectacular. Experience your favorite holiday music, dancing Santas, beautiful cinematic nativity, and the same message of peace, joy, hope and love. Catch the voices at Sunset Presbyterian Church, 14986 N.W. Cornell Road, Portland, Nov. 26 through Dec. 4.

A VERY MERRY PDX-MAS — Combining classic carols, holiday pop songs and original offbeat material created especially for Broadway Rose audiences this holiday revue is a celebration of all the things Portland. Evening performances Thursdays — Sundays, with weekend matinee through Dec. 22 at the Broadway Rose New Stage, 12850 S.W. Grant Ave., Tigard.

WINE & CHOCOLATE WALK — Enjoy the holiday spirit while you sample local wines and chocolates at more than 15 locations, including antique shops and the Aurora Colony Museum. The colony's shops and historic buildings will be decorated with holiday cheer. Tickets include wine tasting, chocolates, snacks, a souvenir wine glass, and a reusable Aurora wine shopping bag, and proceeds benefit the museum. Dec. 3-4, Aurora Colony Historic District.

BLACK NATIVITY — PassinArt: A Theatre Company presents Black Nativity by poet and playwright Langston Hughes, a spirit filled gospel song lay featuring traditional carols performed in a gospel style with new pieces specifically for the show. Dec. 1-4 at the Brunish Theatre, 1111 S.W. Broadway Ave., Portland.

BIKE THE LIGHTS NIGHT — Gather friends, family, and bikes, park inside Portland International Raceway, and pedal around the track to the lights of Winter Wonderland. The cost is $15 for adults, and $5 per child, for a fun night dedicated to bicycle riding and the bicycle community (no cars, motorized vehicles, strollers, walkers, scooters or rollerblades, for safety reasons). Find plenty of free parking at PIR for the evening of Nov. 28 at 4:15 and 7 p.m.

PORTLAND'S TREE LIGHTING — Portland's tree lighting will be back live and in-person at the Pioneer Courthouse Square on Nov. 2. Featuring a joyful sing-along with Portland's Thomas Lauderdale from Pink Martini, local musicians and chorale singers, this event is a highlight of the holiday season in downtown. Join in the celebration as Santa flips the switch to illuminate more than 14,000 colorful LED lights on the city's 75-foot Douglas fir tree.

THE STORM LARGE HOLIDAY ORDEAL — Storm Large has won the hearts of Portlanders, and now she returns for her annual holiday performance, guaranteed to be a night of music, gags, gifts and some special guests. Plan on a fabulous evening as the multi-talented local favorite charms you into the holidays with her rock, metal and jazz persuasion at the Aladdin Theater, 3017 S.E. Milwaukie Ave., in Portland, at 8 p.m. Nov. 25-26.

THE GROTTO CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS — Explore a wonderful garden decorated with more than 1 million holiday lights at The Grotto, 8840 N.E. Skidmore St. in Portland. During the holidays, this expansive shrine is home to puppet shows, choral performances, and indoor concerts each evening in The Grotto's 600-seat chapel. Open from Nov. 25 - Dec. 30, except on Christmas Day.

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING IN LAKE OSWEGO — Don't miss your chance to welcome the holiday season at Lake Oswego's annual tree lighting ceremony, 3-8 p.m., Nov. 25. The festivities take place at Millennium Plaza Park, with extended hours of holiday music, festive vendors, sweet treats and more. Celebrate the lighting of the Millennium tree at 6 p.m. and watch for the Lake Oswego Fire Department to deliver a special guest straight from the North Pole.

HOLIDAY EXPRESS TRAIN — Who doesn't like going on a train ride during the holiday season — and meeting Santa Claus? He and his elves join you on a 45-minute roundtrip ride on the Oregon Rail Heritage's Holiday Express Train. The train departs from The Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Avenue and runs along the Springwater Corridor through to the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge. From Nov. 25-Dec. 18, the trains load and depart from Oregon Railway Heritage Center, 2250 S.E. Water Ave.

HARRY CONNICK, JR. — Grammy and Emmy award-winning musician, singer and composer Harry Connick, Jr. celebrates the holidays with a performance on Dec. 22 full of fan favorites, traditional, classic and Connick originals. Dec. 22 at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 S.W. Broadway, Portland. Ticket prices vary.

WOODBURN TREE LIGHTING — Gather in the Woodburn Downtown Plaza on Dec. 4 for the Mayor's Tree Lighting Ceremony, 4:30-8 p.m. Enjoy music from carolers, hot cocoa, and lots of holiday cheer from 4:30-5:30 p.m., then festivities move across the street to the library for photos with Santa

and make a craft to take home in Santa's Workshop. For pre-ceremony fun, watch for Santa and the mayor as they tour Woodburn neighborhoods starting at 12:30 p.m. Woodburn Downtown Plaza, corner of First and Garfield streets.

FAIRVIEW TREE LIGHTING — Christmas trees are springing up all over, and the good people of Fairview are ready to decorate. The annual Fairview Tree Lighting is set for 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at Fairview City Hall, 1300 N.E. Village Street. Festivities begin at 3:30 with bilingual story time, songs and winter-themed crafts at the Fairview-Columbia Library. There will be refreshments, games for kids, a photo opportunity, and crafts at Fairview City Hall. And be on the lookout for special guests, Mrs. Claus and Santa. Then, gather at Community Park to hear performances by the Walt Morey Middle School Choir starting at 4:40 p.m., and a countdown with Santa to light the tree at 5 p.m.

UP IN THE AIR — Conductor David Hattner and the Portland Youth Philharmonic present Concert-at Christmas: "Up in the Air," Dec. 26. This post-holiday celebration includes performances by the PYP String Ensemble, PYP Wind Ensemble, an alumni orchestra and the PYP Conservatory Orchestra. Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 S.W. Broadway, Portland. Ticket prices vary.

NEWBERG HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING — See Santa light up Newberg's Christmas tree in a special ceremony at 6 p.m., Nov. 26. Gather at the Chehalem Cultural Center for caroling, hot chocolate, cookies, and, of course, a visit from Santa. 415 E. Sheridan St., Newberg.

BETHANY VILLAGE TREE LIGHTING — Local youth will provide live music to ring in the holidays on Nov. 29, when Bethany Village gathers to light the community's tree. The event runs from 5:30-8 p.m. in the Bethany Village Plaza parking lot and also features visits with Santa, pictures, hot chocolate from Starbucks, and performances by local schools.

NOW MUCH FUN — This free, family-friendly winter wonderland in Hillsboro will feature horse-drawn wagon rides, carolers, crafts, youth vendors, a snowfall every hour, and hot chocolate. Get your picture taken with special guests Anna and Olaf. Reservations are required for the wagon ride. Nov. 26, 1-5 p.m., at the Jerry Willey Plaza at Orenco Station Plaza, 943 N.E.

Orenco Station Loop, Hillsboro.

THE JINKX & DELA HOLIDAY SHOW — The queens of Christmas, DeLa and Jinkx, host an evening of spectacle, comedy, music and annual favorites. Dec. 27 at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 S.W. Broadway, Portland. Ticket prices vary.

THE NUTCRACKER — Oregon Ballet Theatre presents this holiday classic with 12 performances on Dec. 9-24. Visit a magical land of sweets with brave toy soldiers, dancing snowflakes and mischievous mice — all to Tchaikovsky's unforgettable score. Dec. 9-24 at Keller Auditorium, 222 S.W. Clay St., Portland.

JINGLE PARADE AND TREE LIGHTING — The community of

North Plains kicks off the holiday with a Jingle Parade down

Commercial Street beginning at 6 p.m. Dec. 1. The parade will conclude in front of the Jessie Mays Community Hall in time for the tree lighting. Carolers will provide holiday musical entertainment, and refreshments will be served.

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT — The 21st Annual Light Up the

Night will return to Canby's Wait Park on Dec. 2. The evening kicks off at 6 p.m. with a lighted parade that winds through downtown before finishing at Wait Park. The Canby Fire District will deliver Santa and Mrs. Claus. There will be music, and photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The winner of "Who Lights Up Canby" will flip the switch on the lighting display in the park.

WHITE ALBUM XMAS — Be on hand when the Rose City Circus brings in jugglers, aerialists, and acrobats for this annual spectacular. The Beatles circus spectacular is the local rendition of the classic Beatles album performed by The NowHere Band. Enjoy a full bar and hum along to your favorite tunes. Show dates are Nov. 30-Dec. 10 at the Alberta Rose Theatre, 3000 N.E. Alberta St. in Portland.

LIGHTS & LEASHES DOG WALK NIGHT — Enjoy a festive walk, with or without a canine friend, around the Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway, 1940 N. Victory Blvd., Portland, from 5:30-9:30 p.m. Nov. 29. Cost is $15 for adults, $5 for children and dogs enter free. Visitors are encouraged to bring a bag of quality dog food or cat food to be donated to local animal nonprofits. Cash donations will also be accepted for the Sunshine Division. No cars or motorized vehicles, rollerblades, bikes, scooters or skateboards will be allowed on the track.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL — Attend Charles Dickens' holiday classic about miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, and three ghosts at Portland Playhouse, 602 N.E. Prescott St. in Portland. Join the spirits who guide Scrooge through a transformative journey toward love. The hopeful musical entertainment runs Nov. 25-Dec. 30.

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA — Make this 7 p.m. Nov. 28 show a family tradition in the spirit of Christmas. This orchestra blends progressive rock and metal with symphonic instrumentations, pyrotechnics, and uplifting voices. Hear classic Christmas hits and discover what keeps audiences coming back year after year. The venue is the Moda Center, 1 N. Center Court St. in Portland.

FOREST GROVE HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING — Join friends and neighbors to count down the seconds before the tree is lit outside the Forest Grove Senior & Community Center, 2037 Douglas St., 7 p.m. Nov. 25. Afterward, get into the holiday spirit with Santa, caroling and activities for the kids.

SCANFAIR — Celebrate the foods, crafts, music, and traditions

of a Scandinavian Christmas at Scan-Fair at the Oregon Convention Center. Get in the Nordic spirit Dec. 10-11, with traditional Scandinavian food vendors, entertainment, costumes, arts and crafts, holiday exhibits and more.

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS — Grammy-nominated songwriter and pianist Jim Brickman brings his annual holiday tour to Portland on Dec. 1 with daddy-daughter duo Mat & Savanna Shaw at the Newmark Theatre, 1111 S.W. Broadway Ave., Portland.

CHRISTMAS SHIP PARADE —This beloved holiday tradition began in Portland in 1954 with one lone sailboat from the Portland Yacht Club. Today, the Christmas Ship Parade along the Columbia and Willamette rivers averages about 55-60 boats and takes place at 7 p.m., Dec. 2-21, on select days. Check the parade schedules and prepare for a bright sight.

NATIVITY LIGHTS ON STAFFORD ROAD — The Neighborhood Church on Stafford Road offers a family-friendly walk-thru display of more than a mile of outdoor lighted walking paths, each decked out in Christmas lights and displays. The event runs 5:30 - 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, Dec. 2-17, and begins at the church, 21065 S.W. Stafford Road. After your stroll through the lights, popcorn, hot chocolate, and cider will be available in the cafe. An animal viewing area will feature chickens, goats, and pigs. A $10 donation per person is suggested but not required to support the church's ongoing mission to bring cheer to the Portland area during the holidays.

WEST LINN COMMUNITY TREE LIGHTING AND CELEBRATION —West Linn's 21st annual Community Tree Lighting and Celebration begins at 6 p.m. when Santa arrives on an antique fire engine to assist in the tree lighting ceremony. Then, warm up indoors with a stop at Santa's Workshop for a complimentary photo and a sweet treat from Mrs. Claus. Join friends and neighbors for all the fun at West Linn City Hall, 22500 Salamo Road.

HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING — Wood Village will welcome the holidays with their 11th annual tree lighting ceremony from 5-7 p.m. on Dec. 3. Festivities will be held at the Wood City Hall &

Civic Center, 24200 N.E. Halsey, Wood Village.

LIGHT UP CORNELIUS — The holidays officially arrive in Cornelius when the community holds its tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. on Dec. 2 at Veteran's Memorial Park, 1251 Baseline St., in Cornelius.

FIRESIDE BREAKFAST WITH SANTA — Plan a snow day on Mount Hood but fortify first with a yummy breakfast with Santa at Mt. Hood Meadows on Dec. 22 and 23. Breakfast will be served during two seatings, 8:30 and 9:45 a.m.

Reservations must be made online in advance.

HOLIDAY IN THE GROVE — The City Club hosts this annual

event that is sure to get you in the holiday spirit from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 4. Start the day with breakfast and photos with Santa at the Forest Grove Senior and Community Center, sip cocoa and make crafts with police, and browse the Artisans Holiday Market and Ornament Sale for handmade gifts from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Forest Grove Auditorium. And don't miss the Holiday Light Parade in downtown Forest Grove that starts at 5 p.m.

IND-ER WONDERLAND AND TREE LIGHTING — Troutdale's Wind-er Wonderland and Tree Lighting, benefitting Snow Cap Community Charities, will take place in historic Downtown Troutdale from noon-6 p.m. Dec. 3-4. This year's highlight is the holiday market inside the former Troutdale General Store, 289 E. Historic Columbia River Highway, featuring two floors of local vendors selling handcrafted gifts, holiday music and an activity area for kids. The first 500 people through the door each day will receive a free swag bag filled with goodies and deals from local businesses. Follow the signs to the North Pole, where kids can find Santa's Workshop and get selfies with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Other downtown festivities include a holiday window decorating competition and the Troutdale Teddy scavenger hunt. Capping off the weekend will be a traditional tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 4, 5 p.m., in Mayor's Square.

IT'S A TONY STARLIGHT CHRISTMAS — In its 15th season, "It's a Tony Starlight Christmas" is a throwback to the classic television variety shows of yesteryear, when legends like Dean Martin, Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra sang songs and spread holiday cheer. Two performances on Dec. 11 at the Albert Rose Theater, 3000 N.E. Alberta St., Portland.

UMBRELLA PARADE AND TREE LIGHTING — Join the Milwaukie holiday tradition of decorating umbrellas and parading through downtown ending with the tree lighting on Dec. 3. The parade marches at 4:30 p.m., and the city's tree will be lit at 5:15 p.m. Naturally, Santa Claus will attend.

FIRST FRIDAY INSIDE EDITION — Explore Troutdale's art galleries and shops all decked out in their holiday best, and get a head start on holiday shopping. Stay out of the wind and find some great gift ideas, special art exhibitions, live music, wine, and snacks. Donations of cash, toys, canned goods, and winter clothing benefit Snow Cap Community Charities. Downtown Troutdale, 5-8 p.m.

LIGHTOPIA — Take a break from the holiday frenzy to enjoy a seasonal light display accompanied by a timed audio program. The 1/2-mile drive-thru attraction runs from Dec. 3 - 31 at the Gordon Faber Recreation Complex (Hillsboro Stadium), 4450 N.E. Century Blvd. A working FM car radio will be needed to hear the audio program.

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE — Reimagined for the stage as a live radio broadcast, idyllic Bedford Falls is brought to life with an ensemble cast, gorgeous music, lavish costumes, and delightful live sound effects. Small-town everyman George Bailey has a Christmas Eve that can only be saved by a miracle. Enter George's guardian angel, Clarence, who takes him on a heartwarming journey of redemption, proving that "no one is a failure who has friends." With evening and matinee performances through Dec. 24. Presented by Portland Center Stage at The Armory, 128 N.W. 11th Ave., Portland. Ticket prices vary.

AARON MEYER CHRISTMAS CONCERT — "Rock the Holidays!" features concert rock violinist Aaron Meyer performing familiar holiday songs, as well as classical pieces that range from Vivaldi and Mozart, to classic rock pieces ranging from Aerosmith to The Who. Special guests include members of the Metropolitan Youth Symphony, the Aaron Meyer Student Band, and the Brown Sisters. Three shows Dec. 16-17 at the Patricia Reser Center for the Arts, 12625 S.W. Crescent St., Beaverton.

HOLIDAY ART + CRAFT MARKET — Founded in 2006, Crafty Wonderland is the city's biggest arts and crafts market, drawing hundreds of vendors and tens of thousands of visitors to the Oregon Convention Center, 777 N.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., in Portland, Dec. 9-11. Find many made-in-Portland gifts at this free event.

ACOUSTIC GUITAR SUMMIT HOLIDAY CONCERT — Terry Robb, Mark Hanson and Doug Smith will bring a stunning arrangement of music from their "O Christ-mas Three"recording from 7:30-9:30 p.m. on Dec. 16. The concert will be held at the Walters Cultural Arts Center, 527 E. Main St., in Hillsboro. Ticket prices vary.

INTER WONDERLAND — This workshop, geared to families, employs creativity and a lot of holiday cheer. Participants can create ornaments, make nature-themed holiday cards, or sit in on storytime. The event takes place from 1-4 p.m. on Dec. 17 at Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve, 2600 S.W. Hillsboro Highway. The cost is $5 per person; no charge for children ages three and younger.

TINSELTOWN TROLLEY — Get in the spirit with a yuletide ride on the historic Willamette Shore Trolley, 311 N. State St. in Lake Oswego, Dec. 9-11. Children will enjoy a merry experience aboard the decorated trolley with holiday lights, games, sweet treats, carols and more. A special guest from the North Pole might make an appearance as well. Rides last around 45 minutes.

SHERWOOD HOLIDAY FESTIVAL & TREE LIGHTING — Sherwood celebrates the season on Dec. 3 starting at 4 p.m. when a holiday parade winds through downtown. Special guests include the Sherwood High School Marching Band and the junior and senior Maid Marian Court. The parade makes its way to Cannery Square, where festivities begin at 4:30 p.m. Enjoy musical performances at Sherwood High School, Sherwood Middle School, Middleton Elementary, Sherwood Charter School, and the St. Francis School choirs. The marching band will also perform when it arrives in the square. Sherwood's tree lighting ceremony begins at 5 p.m. Kids can visit with Santa and take home a free Santa surprise bag from the Santa tent. Kids can also send their wishes to Santa from a special mailbox. There will also be coffee, hot chocolate, cookies and hot dogs.

COMFORT & JOY — Join the Oregon Symphony for an evening of good cheer with seasonal classics like "We Need a Little Christmas," "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," and "White Christmas," as well as a very merry sing-along on Dec. 7.

LIGHT UP HILLSBORO MENORAH LIGHTING — Join others to celebrate the beginning of the Jewish holiday Hannukah, from 4:15-5:45 p.m., Dec. 18 in Jerry Willey Plaza at Orenco Station, 943 N.E. Orenco Station Loop. Festivities include doughnuts, potato latkes, live music, and a fire juggler.

GIVE N' GOBBLE IN SHERWOOD — Offset some of those holiday calories and participate in Sherwood's annual Give n' Gobble 5K run/walk and 10K run on Thanksgiving at 9 a.m. at the Sherwood High School stadium. Reserve your spot at the "turkey trot style" walk, run and waddle food drive. It starts at 9 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day and includes a 5K walk/run and a 10K run.

GOSPEL CHRISTMAS WITH THE OREGON SYMPHONY — Experience a gospel Christmas in this special performance featuring members of the Northwest Community Gospel Chorus alongside the Oregon Symphony. Performances Dec. 10 and 11 at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall.

PORTLAND TOFURKY TROT — The trot is 5k and is a run, trot, or walk open to all levels of physical fitness. The money raised from the Trot goes to support Northwest VEG, Wildwood Farm Sanctuary, Out to Pasture Sanctuary, Lighthouse Farm Sanctuary, and Green Acres Farm Sanctuary. Support farm animals at Oaks Park on Nov. 24 at 9 a.m.

HOLIDAY MARKET & TREE LIGHTING — Celebrate the season in downtown Oregon City from noon-7 p.m. Dec. 3. Make a day of it with local shops, vendors, food, family activities, and pictures with Santa. Santa will arrive at 5:30 to light the town's tree.

CHRISTMAS IN THE GARDEN — Christmas in the Garden is a charming European-inspired outdoor event featuring ice skating, snowless tubing, an artisan vendor market, photos with Santa, fire pits, live music and more, all in The Oregon Garden in historic Silverton. Upon arrival, you will enter the Garden and follow the lights to the beautifully decorated Rediscovery Forest. Here, you can: shop at our traditional German Christmas Market; walk through 1 million Christmas lights; sit by a firepit and sip gluhwein and other holiday beverages; slide down 150 feet on the snowless tubing track; and listen to live music and carolers. Enjoy holiday foods and hang in the biergarten if you are 21 and older. Explore the holiday garden from Nov. 25 - Jan. 1

CHRISTMAS WITH C.S. LEWIS — Spend Christmas Eve with beloved children's author C.S. Lewis as he hosts a group of Americans who are Christmassing in England. Dec. 15-18 at the Dolores Winningstad Theatre, 1111 S.W. Broadway, Portland.

THE NUTCRACKER — Oregon International Ballet

Academy presents The Nutcracker, Dec. 10-11, at The Reser in Beaverton. This highly acclaimed performance melds the charm and childhood joy of student dancers with stunning appearances from the school's top performers and surprises guest artists and local celebrities of the ballet world. Ticket prices vary. The Patricia Reser Center for the Arts is at 12625 S.W. Crescent St., Beaverton.

WILD ARTS FESTIVAL — Celebrate nature in art and books at the Wild Arts Festival, benefiting the Audubon Society of Portland. Explore artwork, nature-inspired books, an array of silent auction items, and more. Held on Dec. 10-11 at Portland State University's Viking Pavilion.

HOLIDAY SWEATER DASH — Come on out with your yuletide sweater to help raise food and funds for the West Linn Food Pantry and other local charities in this family-friendly 1-mile dash and stroll through the historic downtown. The race start and finish line is located on Willamette Falls Drive next to the fire station in West Linn. Participants receive a commemorative mug. Gather for treats at Willamette Ale & Cider House after event. Register to run Dec. 10.

MT. HOOD SKIBOWL — This snowy season, get in on the skiing, snowboarding, night skiing and more at Mt. Hood Skibowl. The weather's constantly changing, but the opportunity to have a super time is always waiting for you. See information about fun upcoming events, amazing outdoor activities, family fun, Mt. Hood lodging and more. Check out all the latest information about Mt. Hood Skibowl

LIBERACE & LIZA HOLIDAY SHOW — David Saffert and Jillian Snow Harris share the stage as Liberace and Liza Minnelli, creating an exhilarating night of musical and comical fireworks. Bo Ayars, Liberace's actual arranger and musical director, conducts the show for an evening of music and entertainment that includes holiday piano medleys, Liza hits, and enough comedy and sequins to carry you into the new year. Presented by Portland Center Stage at The Armory, 128 N.W. 11th Ave., Portland. Ticket prices vary.

HOLIDAY BRASS — On Dec. 21, feel the power, precision, and prowess of the Oregon Symphony brass section as they fill the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall with a festive mix of classical and popular holiday favorites.

FESTIVAL OF TREES — Wander among more than 100 exquisitely decorated trees, visit Santa, make crafts, and watch entertainment at the 40th annual Festival of Trees at the Oregon Convention Center. Kick-off this holiday season Dec. 2-3 at the annual Safeway Providence Festival of Trees, Portland's premier holiday event filled with fun for the whole family. Stroll through a magical winter wonderland filled with stunning Christmas trees and displays decorated by local businesses, designers, florists, and talented volunteers. Visit the Teddy Bear Hospital, enjoy live entertainment, and get pictures with Santa. Proceeds from the entire event series will benefit Providence Children's Health.

TUBA CHRISTMAS CONCERT — Downtown will pulse with the melodic sounds of big brass as nearly 300 tubas play in unison for the Tuba Christmas Concert in the heart of downtown.

This seasonal performance is free for the public on Dec. 10 at 1:30 p.m. Stop by Pioneer Courthouse Square to hear the music.

ELF IN CONCERT — Nobody spreads Christmas cheer quite like Buddy the Elf. Relive this heart-warming holiday classic on a giant screen as every note of John Debney's score is played live by the Oregon Symphony, Dec. 17-18 at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT MEINIG PARK — Stroll through a lighted winter wonderland Dec. 2-Jan. 2 in Sandy's Meinig Park. The park will be lit up nightly from 6-7:30 p.m. with a variety of Christmas lights, with special events during the season, including pet pictures with the Grinch on Dec. 3; an evening with the Snow Queen Dec. 10 that includes a holiday reading, crafts and performances by the Sandy Actors Theater and Sandy High School Choir and Band; folk dancing Dec. 18 featuring Estampa Mexicana, pictures with Santa, and letters to Santa; the Shortest Day Walkway Dec. 21, featuring booths with arts, crafts, games and refreshments; and Holiday Happy Hour Dec. 28 with a special 21-and-older walk through the lights with hot buttered run and toddies, tamales, DJ and photo booth.

HOW GREAT OUR JOY — Portland Choir & Orchestra presents How Great our Joy, with special guest the Encore Youth Choir, with two performances on Dec. at the Newmark Theater, 1111 S.W. Broadway, Portland. Ticket prices vary.

MULTNOMAH FALLS — The beautiful site is rich in natural, cultural and geologic history. During the frigid holidays, it can be particularly lovely drenched in ice. Discover and uncover many treasures with the help of exhibits, signs, brochures, books, and naturalist activities and programs. The Forest Service information, gift shop and snack bar are open daily.

HOLIDAY HALF-MARATHON — One of Portland's favorite winter races offers a variety of course lengths along scenic views of the Willamette River on Swan Island. Not only that, participants in the half-marathon, 10-miler, 10K, or 5K races are serenaded by carolers and treated to cookie aid stations along the course. Don't forget to stop and have your photo taken with the race mascot, Freddi the Yeti. This year's event takes place on Dec. 11 at the Daimler Truck North America Campus, 4555 N. Channel Ave., on Swan Island.

COMMUNITY TREE LIGHTING — Wilsonville lights up the holidays with a community tree lighting event 5:30-7 p.m. Dec. 1 in Town Center Park. Enjoy performances by local choirs and get pictures taken with Santa.

MICHAEL ALLEN HARRISON — Michael Allen Harrison brings his Christmas at the Old Church show to The Reser on Nov. 26, 2 p.m. Harrison is joined by gospel, blues and jazz singer Julianne Johnson, and a lineup of new, young talent from throughout the area for this classic holiday performance. Patricia Reser Center for the Arts, 12625 S.W. Crescent St., Beaverton.

PEACOCK LANE — See quaint houses adorned for the holidays at the Lights on Peacock Lane, which on some nights is closed to cars. The free drive-through spectacle is open Dec. 15 - 31 from 6 - 11 p.m. For details and pedestrian-only nights.

BEAVERTON HOLIDAY BAZAAR & TREE LIGHTING — Beaverton heralds the holiday season with Winter Lights, a holiday bazaar and its annual tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 3 at City Park. The day will be filled with festivities beginning at 2 p.m. and culminating with the tree lighting ceremony at 7 p.m. Visit the Beaverton High School Holiday Bazaar marketplace from 2-8 p.m. in the parking lot adjacent to the library, where you will find unique gifts, food and beverages, as well as entertainment and activities for the family. The park will be illuminated with a daily winter light display from 4 p.m. to 8 a.m. from Dec. 3-Jan. 5.

TUALATIN HOLIDAY LIGHTS PARADE — Tualatin's Holiday Lights Parade series is back bigger and brighter this December. Join the parade or watch it from the comfort of your home on

three big nights, starting at 7 p.m. On Dec. 2, the parade makes its way through north neighborhoods around Community Park and Jurgens Park; on Dec. 3, the parade travels south around Ibach Park and Tualatin High School; on Dec. 4, the parade travels east around Atfalati Park and Browns Ferry Park. For information on how to join the parade.

TIMBERLINE LODGE AND SKI AREA — Set high on the shoulder of one of the most iconic peaks in the Pacific Northwest, Timberline Lodge and Ski Area continues — after 80 years — to offer one of the most exciting and unique high - alpine mountain experiences in North America.

A HAPPY VALLEY HOLIDAY — Kick off the holiday season with one of Happy Valley's most beloved traditions. Enjoy a variety of festivities, including music, refreshments, photos with Santa, take-home activities for the kids, and, of course, lighting Happy Valley's official holiday tree. Dec. 4, 4-6 p.m., at Happy Valley City Hall. Kids can also send letters to Santa at a special mailbox Dec. 1-15, and Santa has said he will respond to each letter himself; kids can expect to hear back from Santa by Dec. 23, in time for the big night. Operation Santa will also collect non-perishable food and new, unwrapped toys during the event.

THE GREAT FIGGY PUDDING CAROLING COMPETITION — Ramble on over to Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition. The competition is a fun and festive event that brings caroling groups of all ages to the heart of downtown. This free Dec. 9 event at Pioneer Courthouse Square is held rain or shine at 5:30 p.m. Groups must have at least three members and have no more than 25.

COLUMBIA COUNTY REINDEER RUN — Don your running shoes and choose your race style. On Dec. 3, runners have the option of a 5K, 10K or a half-marathon (all either run or walk) that heads out of town into the beautiful countryside (you will probably even see some deer). All funds raised will be donated to the Columbia County Toy-n-Joy, the Columbia Food Bank, and the St. Helens Police Academy. Warm up indoors by the fireplace, sip coffee, cocoa and enjoy snacks.

JINGLE BELL RUN — Put on your favorite holiday costume. Tie jingle bells to your shoelaces. 'Tis the season to live it up and be jolly for a reason: to help raise funds to cure arthritis. Bring a team of friends, family and co-workers to run or walk, and spread smiles and good cheer on Dec 3.

CINNAMON BEAR CRUISE — Celebrate the holidays with a special two-hour cruise aboard the Portland Spirit with Cinnamon Bear and friends. Be an honored guest on this Portland Spirit breakfast cruise. Enjoy holiday treats while a cast of fanciful characters entertains you. Have your picture taken with the Cinnamon Bear atop his magical throne. Sailings are offered from Nov. 25-Dec. 27.

THANKSGIVING WINE WEEKEND — Kick off the holiday season as more than 150 wineries offer special tastings, food pairings, live music, holiday discounts and more. Each winery celebrates the festive weekend with its flare and provides its own experience (this is not a ticketed passport event). The tasting room is open for this event from Nov. 25-27.

ESTACADA TREE LIGHTING — Estacada residents will gather for a community tree lighting event from 5-7 p.m., Dec. 2, outside Estacada City Hall. Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies while listening to the choir perform. Santa makes a special appearance at 6 p.m.

WEST LINN HOLIDAY PARADE — Join the scores of revelers along Willamette Falls Drive on Dec. 10 for West Linn's Ugly Sweater Holiday Parade at 10 a.m. Visit Santa at the Willamette

Fire Station following the parade. Donations of new, unwrapped toys and non-perishable food will be accepted for the West Linn Food Pantry. Pre-registration for parade participants is preferred; day-of registration begins at 9 a.m.

TIGARD TREE LIGHTING — Tigard welcomes the holiday season with a tree lighting ceremony starting at 6:30 p.m., Dec. 2, at Liberty Park, hosted by Tigard Downtown Alliance. Santa will arrive aboard a fire truck, help him light the tree and kickstart the holiday season. There will be visits with Santa, entertainment on the stage, and cookies. After the ceremony, gather at Symposium Coffee, 12345 SW Main St, Tigard, until 9 p.m. for refreshments and holiday cheer.

CHRISTMAS AT THE WATTS HOUSE — Scappoose welcomes the season with a holiday lighting event on Nov. 28, 6 p.m., at the Watts House Museum, adjacent to Heritage Park. Santa will arrive at 6:30 p.m. to greet the children and hear their Christmas wishes. Hot chocolate, cookies and cider will be served under the carport at the Watts House. The event is sponsored by the Scappoose Community Club and Scappoose Historical Society.