Portland Holiday Market returns this weekend with gifts, workshops, and visits with Santa

The Portland Holiday Market returns to the Portland Expo Center Nov. 6–8, giving shoppers a place to start their holiday gift lists while taking part in craft workshops and seasonal activities.

The three-day event brings together vendors selling gifts, food, and handmade items. For Portland-area residents and visitors planning an early November outing, the market combines holiday shopping with activities that extend beyond browsing the booths.

Here’s what to know before heading out.

When and where is the Portland Holiday Market?

The market takes place Friday through Sunday, Nov. 6–8, at the Portland Expo Center, 2025 N. Expo Road.

Hours are:

• Friday, Nov. 6: 10 a.m.–7 p.m.

• Saturday, Nov. 7: 10 a.m.–7 p.m.

• Sunday, Nov. 8: 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

The Expo Center’s event listing confirms the market will occupy Halls D and E.

What can visitors shop for?

Visitors will find holiday decorations, clothing, specialty foods, and gifts from artisans and other vendors, according to the market’s website.

The vendor directory includes categories for jewelry, artwork, books, children’s items, pet products, accessories, home décor, and beauty and body products. Shoppers can use the directory to narrow their search before visiting.

The range gives visitors options for both gift shopping and picking up seasonal decorations for their own homes.

What activities are planned beyond shopping?

Santa will be in the middle of Hall D for visits and photos from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday. His hours end an hour before the market closes each day.

A 25-foot living blue spruce will stand in front of the Yuletide Lounge. According to organizers, the tree is maintained throughout the event and replanted afterward. The lounge offers seating and cocktails featuring some vendors’ spirits, while roaming carolers will perform Christmas songs.

Visitors can also stop at Puppermint Lane to meet dogs and learn about adoption through One Tail at a Time Dog Rescue. This area is open from 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday. Pet food donations will be accepted throughout the show.

Organizers also list Merry Money drawings, with hourly $60 prizes and one $100 prize each day to spend with market vendors. Entry instructions will be posted at the event. The show features page has activity details.

Which workshops can visitors sign up for?

The market’s workshops give visitors a chance to make decorations or practice cookie decorating. Organizers say every prepaid workshop fee includes one adult market admission.

The posted schedule includes:

• Floral candle wreath: Friday, Nov. 6, at noon. Cost is $55 plus tax.

• Living terrarium: Friday, Nov. 6, at 3 p.m. Cost is $65 plus tax.

• Candyland Christmas cookie class: Saturday, Nov. 7, at 11 a.m. Cost is $46.

• Christmas Sweets cookie class: Saturday, Nov. 7, at noon. Cost is $46.

• Pumpkin Fest cookie class: Saturday, Nov. 7, at 1:45 p.m. Cost is $46.

• Holiday ornament making: Sunday, Nov. 8, at noon and 3 p.m. Cost is $30. Participants can make two ornaments.

Forte Floral designer Jordyn leads Friday’s classes, while PDX Sugar Cookie Classes offers Saturday’s beginner decorating sessions. Sunday’s workshop includes supplies and instruction to create two ornaments.

Visitors should register ahead through the links on the workshop schedule. Space is limited, and availability should be checked before planning around a class.

How much are tickets and parking?

General adult admission is $13 online or $14 at the door. Children 12 and younger enter free.

Parking costs $15 online or upon arrival, but organizers list free parking after 4 p.m. Friday.

A limited-quantity $33 bundle includes two admission tickets and a parking pass. Buyers must choose their attendance date for the bundle.

Standard admission covers one day but is not tied to a specific date. Visitors can buy tickets online and check the show information page for current offers.

What should visitors know before arriving?

Guests with online tickets can enter through Hall D, while the box office is at Hall E. Box office sales end one hour before closing. Anyone leaving and returning the same day should request a hand stamp before exiting.

Concessions offer meals and snacks, and outside food and drinks are not allowed. Seating is available throughout the venue.

Strollers and wagons are permitted.

The venue is wheelchair accessible, and complimentary wheelchairs are available at entrances as supplies allow, with a photo ID or major credit card required as a deposit. Personal pets are not permitted; service animals are allowed.

Organizers say crowds typically ease during the final two hours. Keep Santa’s shorter hours in mind when planning a late visit.

Additional visitor information is available in the market’s frequently asked questions.