Nothing says holidays in Portland like the annual Pioneer Courthouse Square tree lighting.

Thousands of people filled parking garages and nearby streets to watch this year’s 75-foot Douglas fir light up, standing central in the square at over 9,000 pounds.

KGW anchor Christine Pitawanich hosted on stage. Pink Martini’s Thomas Lauderdale made a musical appearance. Local choirs performed with a screen displaying karaoke-style lyrics behind them, encouraging the audience to sing along.

Around 6:15 p.m., Santa Claus led a countdown. After 10 seconds, nearly 10,000 of the tree’s colorful lights illuminated the square.

It’s not the only event surrounding the beloved Douglas fir. You can also catch a brew festival, figgy caroling competition, tuba concert and Portland’s Public Nightly Men

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