4 Fabulous Fall & Winter Events to Enjoy in Portland, TX

2000 Billy G. Webb
Portland, TX 78374
shelby.obrien@portlandtx.gov
361-777-4650
www.portlandtx.com

By Maggie Heyn Richardson

Situated between the Corpus Christi and Nueces Bays, the picturesque, waterfront community of Portland, TX combines the best of coastal beauty with memory-making fun. Known nationwide for its kite- and wind boarding scenes, it’s also a great place for an easy family getaway. Schedule a trip around fall events like Kid Katch, where youngsters learn about responsible fishing and compete for the biggest fish from Portland’s iconic Indian Point Pier. Popular Halloween and Christmas celebrations also appeal to visitors of all ages. Anytime of the year, sink your teeth into lip-smacking local cuisine like authentic Tex-Mex and fresh seafood. Don’t miss a stroll along the two-mile coastal marsh trail in Sunset Lake Park to enjoy the area’s rare ecological features and some of the best birding anywhere.

Boo Bash

What’s a little bit spooky, a little bit creepy and a whole lotta fun? Portland’s annual Boo Bash Festival, a Halloween gathering complete with thrills, activities and some chills. Held on Saturday, October 19, this old-fashioned community festival features a wide variety of outdoor Halloween activities, including a Trick-or-Treat trail with plenty of candy, games, a Halloween costume contest, live music, food trucks, arts and crafts and ghouls, goblins and ghosts galore. All ages are sure to have a spook-tastic good time.

Boo Bash Triathlon

Triathlons aren’t scary! Well…maybe just a little. Portland’s festive and fun Boo Bash Triathlon combines the magic of autumn with the satisfaction of completing a triathlon. The event takes place on Saturday, October 12 and is open to athletes 15 and older of any ability level. The Newbie category is just right for first-timers, with a 200-yard swim, 6-mile bike and 1-mile run. Meanwhile, the Sprint group welcomes seasoned participants eager to take on a 400-yard swim, 12-mile bike and 5K run. Groups of 2-3 can also participate as a relay team. The festivities begin at the Portland Aquatic Center for the swim leg. Following the event, pat yourself on the back and enjoy food, drinks and live music.

Kid Katch

Young anglers will love a chance to reel in the big one at Portland’s annual Kid Katch a free gathering at the iconic Indian Point Pier held on Saturday, September 14. Young people 17 and under participate in three different age categories, with prizes awarded for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place biggest fish in each age group. Feel the cool breeze and enjoy the warm sun as kids drop a line into the glistening bay and wait for a nibble. Clean your catch at the newly upgraded fish cleaning stations along the pier. Be sure to also enjoy adjacent Indian Point Park, where a sail shade structure makes a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch.

Christmas on the Coast

Ho! Ho! Ho! Christmas in Portland brings glad tidings to the Portland community and its many visitors. Christmas on the Coast starts on December 7 with the Christmas in Portland festival featuring the city’s official tree lighting and the illumination of twinkling lights downtown. The holly jolly kick-off event also includes the opening of Portland’s annual ice-skating rink where friends and families strap on the blades and enjoy a turn on the ice—no experience necessary! Santa is on site to hear Christmas wishes from the young and young-at-heart. Kids will have a ball making Christmas crafts—and Christmas snowballs from the real snow brought in for the event’s super fun snow slide.

Christmas in Portland is just part of what’s in store for visitors throughout the rest of December. Enjoy a classic small town parade with the Christmas Parade of Lights on December 9, featuring a caravan of illuminated floats—one of which hosts Santa!

Runners and walkers love the Illuminated Tinsel Trot + Concert on December 14, offering 10K, 5K and 1-mile race options. The races take place in the evening and runners are encouraged to make it festive by wearing lights. Afterwards, enjoy mouth-watering local eats from food trucks and kick up your heels to live music featuring Kevin Fowler!

From December 2-12, enjoy the free Christmas Tree Forest, a showcase of trees decorated by volunteer organizations and donated to disadvantaged families. Take a tour and vote for your favorite.

Christmas is all about anticipation, and kids can’t wait for Breakfast with Santa on December 21. Create Christmas crafts to bring home, savor fluffy pancakes and, of course, nab a photo op with jolly ol’ St. Nick. Meanwhile, pet lovers won’t want to miss Pooch-a-Palooza at the Portland Farmers Market, a chance for your fur baby to pose with Mr. Claus himself.

Throughout the month, each event features opportunities to drop off toys for local families in need.

With mild weather, friendly people and lots of good fun, Portland is a terrific spot for a fall or winter getaway. Select from a variety of places to stay, including national chain hotels that offer free breakfasts and welcome pets. Book your stay in Portland today.

About the Author: A lover of all things Lone Star, Maggie is an award-winning features writer covering the Gulf South and the author of Hungry for Louisiana, An Omnivore’s Journey.