The Christmas season is upon us and there is no greater way to get into the spirit than by checking out some of the best Christmas lights near Portland. With many starting just the day after Thanksgiving, it's time to fish out your warm jacket and gloves to bundle up and hit the streets for an after-dark tour of Christmas in Portland and these brightly lit spots around town.

1. Christmas Festival of Lights at the Grotto

Billed as the largest Christmas choral festival in the world, the Grotto comes alive with lights at Christmas. This Christmas light display near Portland opens the Friday after Thanksgiving and continues until the end of December. Admission varies based on age. Learn more about The Grotto.

2. Zoo Lights at Oregon Zoo

The Oregon Zoo's holiday spectacular of lights is a great place to get in the holiday spirit and catch a glimpse of a couple sleeping animals while you are at it. Zoo Lights runs from the Friday after Thanksgiving until early January. Prices vary, with value nights during the week. This experience will truly make your Christmas in Portland unique. Get more information about Zoo Lights.

3. Christmas in the Garden

In Silverton, the Oregon Garden goes all out with lights and fun, with ice skating included in the admission price, too. Christmas in the Garden takes place from the end of November through early January. Ticket prices for this Christmas light display near Portland vary by age. Check out further reading on Christmas in the Garden.

4. Christmas Ships Parade

Dating back to 1954, the Christmas Ships Parade features Christmas-decorated ships cruising on the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. The free event takes place at different locations on the rivers from early December until before Christmas. Get more details on the Christmas Ships Parade.

5. Peacock Lane - Portland's Christmas Street

One of the busiest streets in the city come holiday season, Peacock Lane features some of the best Christmas lights near Portland. The free event is open from mid-December through the end, with certain days being only for pedestrians. Find the most up-to-date information about Peacock Lane and its Christmas lights.

6. Sunshine Division Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway

Considered the largest light show west of the Mississippi, the annual event has been held since 1993. These drive-thru Christmas lights near Portland are lit from the end of November through the end of December. The cost is per car. Learn more about the Winter Wonderland event and what you can expect when you visit.

What do you think are the best Christmas lights near Portland? Let us know in the comments below!

Yearning for more Christmas in Portland? Check out these Christmas towns near Portland.