PDXWLF 2020 FESTIVAL FAQ
When was the festival?
The fifth Portland Winter Light Festival was February 6 - 8, 2020.
Is the festival free?
Yes! The festival is not-for-profit, and is presented for free to attendees. It is made possible by generous support from our sponsors and donations from community members like you. Thank you for helping to keep the festival free for all!
Where Is the festival located?
The festival takes place at locations across the city of Portland, Oregon, and is centered along the banks of the Willamette River.
Wait, most of the festival is outside during the winter?
Yes! Isn’t that great? The festival is a reason to get out of the house and celebrate winter with the entire community. Please dress appropriately for Portland’s winter weather!
How do I get there?
We encourage everyone to walk, ride, or take public transportation to our various festival locations. Keep an eye on our website for plenty of information on low-cost and free public and alternative transportation options.
Where should I stay?
If you are coming from out of town, consider staying with one of our Hotel Partners. These local accommodations are knowledgeable about the festival and can provide you with an authentic experience of Portland!
Will there be food?
Yes! We have food and hot beverages available for sale from local food cart vendors.
Can I bring my kids?
Absolutely! The festival is family-friendly and has a number of interactive activities for people of all ages. We especially encourage families to participate in our Educational Programming and the Lantern Parade.
Can I bring my dog?
The majority of the festival is outside on public land where you are welcome to bring your leashed pets. Dogs are not allowed in the World Trade Center Plaza. For festival events and exhibitions that take place inside, pets will not be allowed. Note that the festival can become extremely crowded and difficult to navigate; we recommend lighting up your pup for style and safety, or leaving them in the comfort of home.
Can I dress up?
Yes, please! In addition to dressing warmly for our winter weather, we always encourage attendees to participate by donning festive accessories. For sustainability concerns, we suggest avoiding single-use glowsticks (that you “crack” to activate) and instead using reusable, solar- and battery-charged LED lights, el-wire (electroluminescent wire), and other light accessory options.
Are you accepting vendors?
There are no vendor opportunities at PDXWLF except for limited food vendors.
I lost an item at the festival. How do I find it?
During the festival, lost and found items will be turned in at the closest Info Booth. Outside of festival hours, contact info@pdxwlf.com to inquire.
This festival is amazing! How do I get involved?
We are always looking for volunteers! Click below to find out more and sign up to help! If you are interested in participating as an artist, we will be posting the call for 2021 submissions in the summer of 2020.
This festival is amazing! Can I give you money?
Yes! The Willamette Light Brigade / Portland Winter Light Festival is a small non-profit organization. Our success is completely dependent on the generous support of our community.
Donations directly support the incredible art and design on display as well as the critical infrastructure needed to present a festival of this magnitude. Donations help keep the Portland winter Light Festival free and accessible to all. All donations are tax deductible, and help ensure that the festival will continue to thrill and inspire. Click below to make a donation to support this dynamic free event.
Any other tips on how I can participate at the festival?
We listed some ideas below, but feel free to be creative and become part of the Festival experience!
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Decorate yourself with lights
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Donate to support the Festival
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Join the Illuminated Bike Ride
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Be a part of the Lantern Parade
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Become a Volunteer!