Take a moment this weekend to soak up some end-of-December magic!

All Weekend

Lighting of the Woods

Until Dec 31, Maddax Woods will be all alight and ready to greet you with the warmth of a winter wilderness. Take a stroll down the lighted, accessible path, soaking in the splendor of the woods, and wind up at the viewing platform over the Willamette River. Learn all about this cherished land and the Maddax boat history, and be sure to check out Dorothy’s garden. Virgil and Dorothy loved the land and the animals, and left behind that legacy of love for us to enjoy today. Many different animals can be spotted in Maddax Woods, so keep an eye our for some special critters, like elk, red fox or bald eagle. Free, westlinnoregon.gov

All Weekend

Peacock Lane

When I first moved to Portland, I totally fell in love with this yearly tradition. And whether you’re new to town or you’ve been here since the dinosaurs, Peacock Lane is always magical and is the sure remedy for any holiday Scrooge-ness. Watch the neighborhood come together in this fabulous display of cheer, as all of Peacock Lane gets decked to the nines in the most classic and creative decorations you could hope for. This is a great way to stay in the neighborhood and still get that leisurely holiday stroll on a nice crisp evening. There will also be a cocoa booth with free hot cocoa and cider. Cash donations will benefit the Architectural Heritage Center and support Peacock Lane’s application for National Historic District Designation. Free, peacocklane.org

Dec 23

The Miracle of a Million Lights

This Friday is the last night of The Miracle of a Million Lights. The historic Victorian Belle will be lit up for one last night, and if you haven’t made it out yet, it’s a sight worth seeing! The house and 2.5 acres of land will be all aglow with lights and decorations, plus 10 different Christmas trees and rooms filled with antiques and period pieces. Stroll the grounds, sip some apple cider, munch on holiday cookies and let the lights dazzle you. Each night also features live musical entertainment and a holiday movie! Children under 3 free. $3-6, victorianbelle.com

Dec 23-24

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

This show takes the holidays and jaw dropping acrobatics and mixes them together in one event that is sure to make your Christmas celebration larger than life. Watch more than 30 brightly costumed acrobats, artists and aerialists take to the air, putting a whole new spin on Christmas. Gingerbread men will flip, toy soldiers will tightrope walk, penguins will spin, puppets will dance, and so much more! All done on a stage filled with gigantic gifts, candy canes and 30 foot soldiers. Directed by Neil Goldberg, this show has stunned and charmed audiences around the world…now it’s your turn to experience the magic! $25-75, portland.broadway.com

Dec 23-24

The Grotto’s Christmas Festival of Lights

The Grotto’s Christmas Festival is the largest Christmas choral festival in the world and aims to provide guests with a time of both family entertainment and quiet reflection. The festival features nearly 160 indoor concerts, performed by many of the region’s finest choirs, in The Grotto’s 600-seat chapel known for its cathedral-quality acoustics. Out in the plaza area, there will be caroling, puppet shows and a petting zoo. Seasonal foods and beverages will also be served, and you may even get some last minute shopping done in The Grotto Gift Shop. Children 2 and under free. $6-11, thegrotto.org