Picture this: you’re walking through the crisp winter air, the cold nipping at your neck. You pull your scarf tighter, the fallen leaves of autumn crunching under your boots with each step. As you walk down the side streets of Southeast Portland, you ponder the question: what could make this holiday season any better? For many Portlanders, the answer could lie just off of Sandy Boulevard on NE 85th Avenue, in The National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother, more frequently known as The Grotto, where the Festival of Lights takes place during the holiday season.
Although The Grotto was established in the 1920s, the light festival began in 1988, when the public was first granted access to the grounds during the winter season. Today, we continue to have access to the sanctuary during the chilly season thanks to the newest Servite Friars who minister at The Grotto, and whose dedication allows for many events throughout the year, including choir performances, hosting Mass, Lunch, and Learn events, and even Red Cross blood drives. The Grotto is a place where people can come together in celebration. Executive Director Chris Blanchard says, “People will experience the happiness that comes from seeing the joy others find in celebrating Christmas.” The Grotto has become a hub for communal activity during the holiday season.
The event takes place outside, with pathways illuminated by over 2,000 lights. Because of the cold temperatures, dressing warmly is recommended, so bring your scarves and hats! Visitors are invited and encouraged to walk at their own pace, immersing themselves as they wander through the magical forest of lights, according to Travel Portland.
In addition to the lights, there are many other attractions around the area. The choir
performances are a huge part of the festival, and provide widespread opportunity for the community. A choir that performed recently was “Voices Unlimited,” a group that serves adults with autism and other learning disabilities. The group rehearses weekly at the Multnomah Arts Center, and performs often for the community. According to their website, they strive for “the mission of providing an excellent choral experience for adults with special needs while also offering opportunities to socialize and develop friendships in a safe, positive setting.”
Brian Newcombe, a Portland resident of 45 years, attended the festival for the first time this year. He explains how two of his friends were participating in the “Voices Unlimited” performance, and how much it meant to him seeing them performing for the community, saying that “[seeing the choir] was [his] favorite part.” Newcomb expects to attend next year, and is excited to see what The Grotto has to offer in years to come.
Another attraction the festival offers is a puppet show, which is located under the pavilion tents. The church’s puppeteer presents family friendly stories, and has a variety of different performances to put on throughout the night. Some of the shows include “Kitten’s First Christmas,” presented by Pegasus Puppets and the Grotto Carolers Quartet that perform during the event, each lasting about 30 minutes. The puppets provide something for younger children, who may find less interest in the chapel choir performances or other activities.
Behind the scenes, the festival is run by a mix of volunteers and seasonal employees. Larry Kirby, an employee of The Grotto for 34 years, emphasizes its inclusivity. “What I like about it here is that it’s so welcoming to everyone. Even people who aren’t religious may love it too.” The volunteers and employees strive to bring joy to the community of Portland during the holidays. “It’s so fun to just watch all the kids get excited,” Kirby says.
The Festival of Lights at The Grotto is open until Dec. 30, with hours from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., giving guests a healthy amount of time to explore the grounds. Tickets can be purchased through The Grotto website ahead of time: they are $16.95 for anyone over the age of 12, and $7.95 for children under the age of 12. Tickets purchased at the gate will be $18.95 for adolescents and adults and $8.95 for children under the age of 12. The Grotto also offers Value Night discounts that can reduce online and up front ticket purchases. Value Nights usually occur during less crowded days and are listed on the website under Ticket Information.
Attending the festival can be difficult due to transportation issues for some families and other individuals who want to attend the festival. However, The Grotto offers solutions. If you’re driving, there is free parking and overflow areas nearby, along with free shuttle buses to transport you from the Parkrose/Sumner Park&Ride on Sandy Blvd.
The National Sanctuary of Our Sorrowful Mother is a space of worship and sanctuary for numerous people in the community, and The Grotto Festival of Lights provides a positive atmosphere, creating a shared holiday experience for all visitors. The lights are a great opportunity to spend time with family and friends, and savor the winter season’s joy during the holidays.
