The Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to creating a sense of community for Portland residents. We strive to enhance the quality of life here by offering diverse recreational programs, unique parks, and memorable special events.
Christmas is Around the Corner
The 5th annual Christmas on the Coast is fast approaching! Christmas on the Coast is a month-long celebration of the holidays with family-friendly events, a real ice-skating rink, concerts, Trail of Lights & more. Start marking the calendar so you don't miss the fun!
Activities begin Monday, November 27. Visit the Portland Community Center to vote for your favorite tree in the Christmas Tree Forest & maybe bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Toy Drive. Both of these activities benefit families in need in our community. The GLOW Portland home decoration competition entry opens, too! Entries will also be added to a Trail of Lights for all to enjoy throughout the holiday season.
Events begin Saturday, December 2! Start off the morning at the special Holiday Farmers Market to find unique Christmas gifts &/or enjoy Breakfast with Santa at the Community Center. Pet parents also have the opportunity to have your fur child's picture taken with Santa at Pooch-A-Palooza at the Farmer Market. That evening, join us for the Portland Tree Lighting Ceremony & opening of the real ice-skating rink. The City Complex will be lit with beautiful lights and picture-perfect Christmas decorations. It'll be a day to remember!
The following weekend is the City's signature Christmas in Portland festival on Saturday, December 9. The Portland Community Center will transform into a winter wonderland featuring pictures with Santa, crafts, letters to Santa, games, market vendors and more. The Aquatic Center parking lot will also be full of fun for all ages featuring ice-skating and snow!
The fun continues the next weekend, December 16, with the 2nd annual Illuminated Tinsel Trot 5k. The Tinsel Trot will feature various race levels and friendly competition for all ages. It'll be dark out, so start assembling your lighted running gear. After the races, Texas country artist, Kevin Fowler, will perform in the Aquatic Center parking lot! Thank you to the Tinsel Trot + Concert sponsor, Al Willeford Chevrolet.
All activity and event details & more can be found at PortlandTx.gov/Christmas
