MEDIA ADVISORY: Snow Day Village Opens With Whimsical Kickoff Event — November 21st 11:00 A.m. At Director Park (Photo) - 11/19/25
MEDIA ADVISORY: Snow Day Village Opens with Whimsical Kickoff Event — November 21st 11:00 a.m. at Director Park
Director Park transforms with whimsical, holiday magic including firepits, timed snowfalls, letters to Santa, Las Posadas, Mike Bennett’s Holiday Gift Shop, and more.
(photos attached)
Portland, OR — Nov. 21, 2025 — Snow Day Village, hosted by the award-winning Downtown Portland Clean & Safe, opens this Friday, November 21st at 11:00 a.m. with a grand kickoff event, including the opening of local artist Mike Bennett’s interactive Holiday Gift Shop. From cozy firepits to timed snowfalls and even goats in holiday attire, this free, festive wonderland invites locals and visitors to experience the heart of the city during the holidays.
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When: Opening event on Friday, November 21st at 11:00 a.m. The Village will remain open Wednesdays through Sundays, 12–5 p.m., through December 24th.
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Where: Director Park (815 SW Park & Yamhill), which is managed by Downtown Portland Clean & Safe in partnership with the City of Portland.
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Who: Free, family-friendly experiences for all.
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Why it Matters: From timed snowfalls to goats in holiday attire, this unique seasonal experience activates the center of Downtown Portland with holiday magic, reminding locals and visitors of the whimsical, creative spirit that sets Downtown Portland apart.
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Note for Media: Media are encouraged to attend and cover the opening event, as well as the Village during opening hours through December 24. If you plan to attend, please let our team know by emailing Monice Wong at mwong@portlandalliance.com.
Key Holiday Events in Director Park:
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Snow Day Village
November 21 – December 24 | Wednesday–Sunday, Noon–5 p.m. | Free
Timed snowfalls, firepits, and festive décor bring winter magic to downtown, alongside more holiday activities by Downtown Portland Clean & Safe and Mike Bennett.
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Letters to Santa
November 21 – December 24 | Wednesday–Sunday, Noon–5 p.m. | Free
Kids and kids-at-heart can drop off their letters to Santa. Letters received by December 14 (with a return address) will receive a reply before the holidays.
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Mike Bennett’s Holiday Gift Shop
November 21 – January 4, 2026 | Daily from 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
Step inside Mike Bennett’s whimsical world of art, collectibles, and holiday cheer. Central City Concern will host a Giving Tree in the gift shop for those wanting to spread holiday cheer to other families.
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Goats in Holiday Attire
November 21st 11 –2 p.m. | Nov. 22nd, Nov. 29th, Dec. 6th, & Dec. 20th 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Enjoy the festivities alongside goats donning holiday accessories!
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Pixie Bazar December 6th | Noon – 5 p.m. | Free
A festive holiday market brimming with medieval flair, artisan treasures, and a touch of magic.
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Las Posadas December 13th | 1 - 9 p.m. | Free
A traditional Mexican celebration featuring music, food, singing, and kids crafts.
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Wine Walk December 18th | 5 – 8 p.m. | Starts at Director Park
Experience the magic of the holidays in Downtown! Sip, stroll and shop at our festive pop-ups and beloved retailers.
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PDX Pop-Ups: Now in its 16th year, the PDX Pop-Up Shops program transforms vacant storefronts into vibrant retail destinations, featuring emerging small businesses, artists, and makers. This year’s cohort includes eleven locally-owned shops—more than half women-owned—bringing creativity and fresh energy to Downtown and Old Town Portland. Mike Bennett’s Holiday Gift Shop is one of these magical locations.
INFO:
For more event details and downtown holiday programming, visit downtownfortheholidays.org or follow @downtownpdx.
