Lloyd Comes Alive with Holiday Magic!

image of the Lloyd Center Ice Rink, with a christmas tree set up in the middle.

By Kristin Leiber

The holiday season is here, and Lloyd is buzzing with festive events, creative markets, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate. This year, the Lloyd Center and surrounding areas are showcasing the incredible talent of local makers, young entrepreneurs, and cultural communities. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift, a fun experience, or simply a way to get into the holiday spirit, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We’re even throwing a special Holly Jolly Pickleball Party.

Let’s dive into the details of this year’s festivities, starting with the markets that provide not only shopping opportunities but also a platform for makers to share their work and earn income.

Holiday Markets at the Lloyd Center

The Lloyd Center is hosting a wide variety of markets this year, each with its own unique flair. These events are perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting local businesses, artists, and organizations. The three we’re most excited about:

  • Sustainable Holiday Market (December 7)
    Celebrate the season sustainably at this eco-friendly market featuring unique gifts, holiday decor, and fun activities. Don’t miss Lloyd EcoDistrict’s booth—we’d love to meet you! Info.
  • I♡Youth2 First Annual Holiday Youth Arts Market (December 8)
    Support the next generation of makers and entrepreneurs at this inspiring market featuring 15 young vendors and groups, ages 7–16. It’s an opportunity to find creative gifts while encouraging young talent. Info.
  • NAYA Native Made Winter Marketplace (December 14–15)
    A community favorite, this market hosted by the Native American Youth & Family Center showcases 45+ Native vendors offering beautiful, handcrafted items. Enjoy activities, delicious treats, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Info.

More Lloyd Center Markets
The Lloyd Center is also hosting these exciting markets and events:

  • HOLIGAY Markets (November 30 & December 14): Celebrate LGBTQ2SIA+ artists and their incredible talent. Info.
  • Queer All Year Holigay Art Market (December 7): A debut market celebrating queer creators year-round. Info.
  • Good Market (December 7): Discover one-of-a-kind goods crafted by Portland State University students and alumni. Info.
  • The Spot Market (December 14–15): Explore gifts and creations from over 60 talented artists. Info.
  • The Winter Market (December 19–22): A four-day extravaganza with 125+ local makers, holiday cheer, and even Santa himself! Info.
  • Mall Rats Winter Market (December 21): A day of quirky, creative shopping in true Portland style. Info.

Other Holiday Events at the Lloyd Center

Beyond shopping, the Lloyd Center is brimming with festive activities for the whole family:

  • A Walk through Winter Wonderland Immersive Art Experience (November 21–December 21)
    One of the most unique events this season, this immersive art experience by Artists Off the Page takes you on a journey through winter woods, candy forests, and holiday magic. Featuring over 40 local artists across disciplines like puppetry, sculpture, and illustration, it’s a self-guided exploration of winter’s stories and traditions. Info.
  • Mrs. Claus Tree Lighting (November 23)
    Kick off the holiday season with a magical tree-lighting ceremony at Lloyd Center Ice. Enjoy music, skating performances, and even a sprinkle of snow! Info.
  • Holiday Photos with the Grinch (December 7)
    Snap a festive photo with the Grinch for a $10 donation that benefits Howard’s Heart and supports local foster teens and young adults. Info.
  • Photos with Santa (December 14–23)
    Capture the magic of the season with Santa himself! A $10 donation goes to the Salvation Army. Info.
  • Skate with the Grinch and Cindy and Friends (November 30)
    Skate alongside the Grinch, Cindy Lou, and other Whoville characters while enjoying crafts, music, and the holiday spirit. A portion of your skate fee benefits the Salvation Army. Info.

Year-Round Shopping at the Lloyd Center

While these seasonal markets are a highlight, don’t forget that the Lloyd Center is home to a variety of fantastic shops that are open year-round. These include small, local businesses like Floating World Comics, Brickdiculous, Secondhand Pet Supply, Stackin Kickz, and Gambits Cards and Hobbies. Whether you’re looking for collectibles, comics, or unique gifts, the Lloyd Center has you covered. Explore the full directory here.

Lloyd’s Holly Jolly Pickleball Party 2024

Lloyd EcoDistrcit is hosting our own special holiday event this year, too! Get in the holiday spirit at Lloyd’s Holly Jolly Pickleball Party at Jumbo’s Pickleball in the Lloyd Center! Enjoy pickleball, festive games, an open bar, and holiday cheer—all while supporting Lloyd EcoDistrict’s community programs.

🗓 Date: Thursday, December 19, 2024
📍 Location: Jumbo’s Pickleball, Lloyd Center
🎟 Get your tickets here!

Celebrate the season with fun, community, and a great cause!

Holiday Events Around the Greater Lloyd EcoDistrict

The holiday spirit extends beyond the Lloyd Center. Check out these amazing events happening throughout the Lloyd District:

  • My Peoples’ Market (November 23–24): Held at the Oregon Convention Center, this annual holiday market highlights artists, entrepreneurs, and creatives of color. Enjoy live music, shop for unique gifts, and connect with Portland’s vibrant community. Info.
  • Holiday Gift Pop Up at 15th & Broadway: (November 30): Parcere Vintage is hosting a pop-up in the old Capitol Bar space right next to Parcera on Small Business Saturday, There will be handmade gifts, treats, x-mas trees and more. Info.
  • Festival of the Trees (December 6): This Portland tradition features elegant displays and community celebrations at the Oregon Convention Center. Info.
  • Portland Love & Friends Holiday Market (December 7): Swing by The Broadway Grill & Brewery for live music, foods, drinks, and shopping. Info.
  • ScanFair (December 7–8): Celebrate Scandinavian culture with traditional food, crafts, and entertainment at this family-friendly event at the Oregon Convention Center. Info.
  • Unique World Holiday Pop-Up (December 7–8): Shop a curated selection of small businesses offering creative, one-of-a-kind gifts at Veteran’s Memorial Coliseum. Info.
  • Crafty Wonderland Holiday Art + Craft Market (December 13–15): Portland’s largest handmade market features over 275 artists at the Oregon Convention Center. Meet the makers and find truly special gifts. Info.

Celebrate the Season in the Lloyd EcoDistrict

Whether you’re shopping, exploring immersive art, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, the Lloyd District has something to offer this holiday season. These events and markets are a chance to celebrate community, creativity, and the joy of giving.

We hope to see you at one of these incredible events—happy holidays from all of us at Lloyd EcoDistrict!