Portland has so many amazing events that it is hard to stay up to date on what is going on! From art shows to food festivals, seasonal activities to shopping events, find all my top choices each month with my To Do posts!

Below, all of the events you can't miss this December. I'm sure your month will be booked up with holiday parties and family obligations, but check out as many as you can to really get you into the holiday spirit!

Christmas Ship Parade

Through December 18. Check out over 50 decorated boats every night along the Willamette and Columbia River. This event is free and is perfect for families!

Christmas Festival of Lights

Through December 30 at the Grotto. The Grotto in NE Portland offers amazing Christmas lights, holiday performances and more! This is another great family event.

Zoo Lights

Through January 1 at the Oregon Zoo. One of my favorite holiday events, zoo lights offers a great light display, a fun train experience, and the ability to see some zoo animals at night.

Portland Artisan Festival

December 6-9 at Pioneer Courthouse Square. Get your holiday shopping taken care of by shopping from over 40 different local artists and vendors.

St. Johns Winter Beer Fest

December 9-11 at the Plaza in St. Johns. Sample over 20 winter beers and grab lunch or dinner at this fun local brew festival.

East Portland Holiday Bazaar

December 10 on NE Division.

Holiday Half Marathon & 5k

December 11 at the Adidas Campus. Burn off those holiday calories by participating in this holiday run, sponsored by Foot Traffic.

Peacock Lane

December 15-31 on Peacock Lane (SE Portland). Every house on Peacock Lane gets into full Christmas Spirit and decorates their home to the nines. The street is closed for a few weeks to car traffic so visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the lane.

Ciderfest

December 16 at EastBurn. Sample the best local ciders while listening to live music!