Thanksgiving is just about here and with that comes some fun traditions here in Portland, Oregon!

After you have enjoyed Thanksgiving Dinner with family and friends, the Holiday Season kicks off the morning of Friday, November 29th with the annual Macy's Holiday Parade in downtown Portland. Kids and parents alike will enjoy the festive parade floats, marching bands and gigantic inflatables! This free holiday celebration will get started at 9:00 AM and last approximately an hour, giving your little ones just enough excitement for the morning. The parade will begin at the downtown Macy's, located at 621 SW 5th Avenue, and will wrap its way through the streets of downtown Portland. You can take a look at the parade route on Macy's website.

Later that evening, head out to Pioneer Square for the classic Tree Lighting Ceremony. The 75-foot Douglas fir tree was already erected on November 15th, but it remains to be decorated with lights and ornaments! The free celebration is set to start at 5:30 PM, but event goers are encouraged to show up early to get the best spot. There will be a visit from Santa for the kids, a marching band, carolers and a sing-along led by several special guests, including Pink Martini's Thomas Lauderdale, the 234th Army band and the Pacific Youth Choir.

This will be an exciting way to start the Holiday Season! Have a great Thanksgiving!