This holiday season, Bridgeport Village delivers sweet, nostalgic vibes mixed with modern-day magic that help make the time of year feel especially merry and bright. Year-round, the property’s trees and rooflines are wrapped in white lights, but during holiday months, this twinkly ambiance is further supplemented by holiday trim and greenery, along with overhead starbursts adding to the enchantment and whimsy. 

The site’s 40-foot-tall tree, a prime spot for memory-making photo shoots, marks Bridgeport Village’s convenient location just off I-5. The towering tree’s warm glow beckons those who come to this community gathering space for the center’s many special events or to simply enjoy seasonal lights and sounds. 

Stroll through the heart of the village with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or a scoop of Salt & Straw’s sought-after holiday flavors in hand. Throughout December, visitors can enjoy live performances from local children’s choirs and Bridgeport Village’s beloved caroling quartet, Plaid Tidings, known for their signature red plaid coats and festive renditions of seasonal classics.

The retail options are plentiful as we head into gift-giving season, thanks to the center’s bounty of beloved local brands, exclusive-to-market stores, and curated mix of national retailers. Small Business Saturday proves the perfect time to support Pacific Northwest shops like Portland Gear, Miss Hannah’s Popcorn, and Tender Loving Empire. Or pop into one of the Village’s newest retail destinations, including Oregon’s newest LEGO® Store, Vuori, and a Rivian showroom where guests are invited to explore the cutting-edge EVs, schedule demo drives, and engage with the brand in a unique, immersive setting.

Don’t forget about your own needs as you wander around Bridgeport Village, since stops into Oregon’s only Crate & Barrel might just help with holiday entertaining. And finds at Oregon’s only Container Store may help you put everything away in an organized, efficient manner after the festivities have come to a close.

Reservation-only Santa visits are well worth booking, and special events can add to the experience, like a Mrs. Claus meet-and-greet during Silent Santa (a sensory-friendly experience), which puts youngsters at ease before chatting with the jolly, bearded man of the hour. Book special pet photo sessions with Santa for the fur babies in your life, too. You can drop a letter to Santa in his North Pole mailbox, or find heirloom-worthy outfits at Le’D Bug Boutique, ideal for photos with the red-clad star of the show. Families looking for a little extra magic can also attend weekly Holiday Storytime at Barnes & Noble.

There’s no better time to gather with friends and family you see regularly or not nearly enough, and special events like candle-making parties and wreath-making classes offer fresh ideas on how to savor quality time as a group. And since these months place great emphasis on eating and drinking well, head inside for cheery libations and signature cocktails during a happy hour gift exchange, or find delicious fuel to break up a shop-till-you-drop afternoon at hot spots like Kona Grill and Fogo de Chão (opening later this winter). You can also head to Pastini to pick up catered fare for a cozy hosted party at home. If you’re needing a breather before or after all the socializing and shopping, consider diving into a buttery tub of popcorn as you catch the most anticipated holiday releases at Regal Cinema.

In even better news: The property’s recent refresh has made it all-weather-friendly, thanks to additions like fire tables and overhead canopies with remote control-powered screens that can block out the wind and rain. Complimentary umbrellas might just come in handy in these wetter months as well. 

Bridgeport Village is ready to welcome all guests with a warm and cozy embrace, spreading light and love to anyone looking for a boost as we bring 2025 to a close — and gaze with hope to the fresh year ahead.