There are lots of ways to celebrate Christmas in Oregon, but the Christmas Ships Parade might just be the most Oregonholiday event ever. This event began in 1954 with one lone sailboat from Portland Yacht Club. Today, 60+ boats take to the Columbia and Willamette Rivers each December; a festive fleet that delights onlookers with dazzling displays and twinkling lights. Portland’s annual Christmas Ships Parade is the longest continually running Christmas Ship parade in America, and this waterfront event in Oregon is one you absolutely must experience.
Portland, Oregon, is always lovely. The city’s riverfront is iconic and charmingly captivating.
From the banks of the two rivers, visitors can enjoy this only-in-Oregon event up close. The parade is free to enjoy, and absolutely worth seeking out. A schedule for each river can be found here.
Thousands come to enjoy the Christmas Ships each year. This Oregon tradition packs restaurants and hotels along the two rivers, so be sure to check out the schedule and plan ahead!
The Christmas Ships Parade is an event that folks from all over the PNW seek out. Once you experience the magic of 60 dazzling vessels parading down the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, you’ll see why it’s become a beloved Beaver State tradition.
Have you been to the Christmas Ships Parade before? What festive fun! This year’s 67th annual Christmas Ships Parade happens for 15 nights in December on both the Columbia and Willamette Rivers in Portland, Oregon, and you can view a full schedule at the event website.