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Portland holds Christmas tree lighting ceremony downtown

The 9,500 lights on the 75-foot Doug Fir in the heart of the city's downtown were switched on in a festive party the day after Thanksgiving.
Credit: KGW

PORTLAND, Ore. — It's a sign the holidays are officially here. Portland's Christmas tree at Pioneer Courthouse Square will be lit on Friday in an annual celebration that is returning to in person this year. 

The 9,500+ lights on the 75-foot Doug Fir in the heart of the city's downtown will be switched on in a festive party that includes a sing-along with Portland's own Thomas Lauderdale from Pink Martini and plenty of other local musicians and singers. KGW's own Brittany Falkers will be hosting the event. 

The post-Thanksgiving tree lighting ceremony is a Portland tradition that dates back decades. This year will be the 38th ceremony.  

When: Friday, Nov. 25 starting at 5:30 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Courthouse Square
Cost: Free

Credit: KGW
The 75-foot tall tree was harvested from sustainable forest land in Clatsop County. It arrived at The Square on Nov. 9.

How to watch from home

Can't make it to the ceremony? KGW will be live streaming the whole celebration. You can watch it on all our digital platforms, including our YouTube channel and KGW+, our free Roku and FireTV app. The tree lighting will also air live during our 6 p.m. newscast Friday night. 

You can download the songbook to follow the sing-along from home.  

Other holiday events at The Square

The Portland Bazaar

When: November 27 from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Over 40 vendors will be placed around the Christmas tree. More info here.

The Dickens Carolers holiday performances

When: November 27 from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Enjoy caroling classics performed by A-Capella singers clad in traditional Old English costumes as they stroll around The Square. More info here.

The Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition 

When: December 9 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Brings caroling groups from around the area, with the top three holding a “carol-off”. The winner gets $1,000. KGW’s Drew Carney is hosting. More info here.

31st Annual Tuba Christmas Concert

When: December 10 from 1:30 - 3 p.m.
Experience the sounds of big brass as 200 tubas play in unison. More info here.

Find a full list of performances and events on The Square's website.

 

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