Last night we left our comfy pocket of country life and headed up to check out the last night of the Portland Winter Light Festival. This is an annual event where light artists present installations and personal performances on both sides of the Willamette River for the public to enjoy for free. The event is a family affair intentionally designed to take place when everyone is weary of the dark, rainy days and long nights of winter that the Pacific Northwest has to offer.
You may walk across one of the bridges to see it all or take a boat that leaves on the half-hour. Another option is to dress up in your best-illuminated paraphernalia and participate in the Light Parade that walks from one side of the festival to the other.
There was not enough time for us to experience more than the west side. (Darn- I really
wanted to see the neon Hoola hoopers) From what we saw, the fire dancer performance was the most impressive. Though I admired the installations, by far the most enjoyable part for us was seeing the children’s delight as they interacted with the light exhibits. Then, of course, was the “Keep Portland Wierd” factor. 
We spied a plethora of illuminated strollers, dogs, and individuals creatively lit up with all manner of LED bulbs. There was an awesome jellyfish gal that got away from me before I could take a picture…
If you happen to be in Portland in early February stop into the Winter Light Festival – a truly unique experience.
By Alanna Pass 
This sounds lovely! I was in the Portland area last summer for a nephew’s wedding but didn’t get to see much. But if I ever move as we are retired and all our kids moved far away (mostly west) from MI, the Portland area is top on our list. I had never heard of this festival so that just adds another plus to moving to that area. These photos are lovely! (I’d like to see the neon hula hoopers, too!)
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It would be such a pleasure to have you in the area!
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