Light The Bridges

City bridge illuminated at night with purple and pink lights — Photo by James AM Crawford

Illuminate Bridge City: The Morrison Bridge as a year-round light art installation

By Therese Gietler

Every night, the Morrison Bridge lights up Portland’s skyline — but did you know those colors tell a story?

A bridge that connects art and community

More than an architectural landmark, the Morrison Bridge is a year-round light installation that honors local causes, celebrations, and moments of remembrance. From Pride Month to World Pancreatic Cancer Day, from cheering on the Timbers to celebrating the Waterfront Blues Festival, the bridge shines a spotlight on the people and organizations that shape our city.

Why lighting the bridge matters

For nonprofits, advocacy groups, and community events, lighting the Morrison Bridge is a powerful way to spark awareness. Each color scheme has meaning, and our website makes it easy to discover why the bridge is glowing a certain way on any given night. The program also ties into Portland’s broader public art landscape — from the Portland Winter Light Festival (PDXWLF) to light sculptures and artist spotlights such as Heron’s Embrace and The Lanterns.

The Morrison Bridge will be red for all Blazers’ home games!

Who has lit the bridge?

Over the years, the Morrison Bridge has lit up for dozens of organizations and causes, including:

These moments remind us that the bridge is more than steel and light. It is a beacon for the values, voices, and milestones of our community.

couple kisses at twilight with illuminated bridge behind them — Baby gender reveal bridge lighting! Photo by Sammi Ayers

Portland is Bridge City

This glowing tradition gives our community a place to come together, reflect, and celebrate. It highlights Portland as a city that embraces creativity and participation, where light installations and festivals invite everyone to be part of the story. Learn more about the organization that lights the bridge here.

See your cause in lights

Want to light the Morrison Bridge? Learn how at lightthebridges.org. Together, we’ll keep Portland’s skyline bright with meaning and community spirit.

LIGHT THE MORRISON BRIDGE

A FREE chance for you to light the bridge

We’re currently running a giveaway on Instagram where two followers will win the chance to light the Morrison Bridge in the colors of their choice. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to make Portland’s skyline your canvas — details are on our Festival IG Account and the Willamette Light Brigade IG account.