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A decades-old Portland tradition: Peacock Lane homes turn on their lights for the holiday season

A trip to Peacock Lane is a Portland tradition that dates back to 1932. The lights will be on through December 31.

PORTLAND, Ore. — A Portland tradition that goes back decades opens this weekend for the holiday season. The homes on Southeast Portland's Peacock Lane will turn on their lights for people to visit and see their elaborate displays through Dec. 31. 

This will be Kelly Walker Jeffers' 15th Christmas celebrating with her family on Peacock Lane.

"You can't escape, so you just spend a lot of time together for two weeks," said Jeffers. "We had a lot of fun; you put your lawn chairs out here and kind of gawk at the people walking by."

Sarah Notton said she just moved into the neighborhood two years ago and knew Peacock Lane was lovely to visit. "But living here, seeing the crowds of people come by night after night — the laughter, the squeals — it's like the most adorable things in the world."

RELATED: Here are some holiday displays across the Portland metro area

Neighbors living on the street say the requirement to decorate is more verbal, and if anyone isn't able to decorate, then they help each other out.

They also have the first three nights closed off from vehicles, so visitors can walk freely and get a close-up view of the displays.

Ellen Leatham said she's been in the neighborhood with her kids for over 40 years. 

"They would sing, and when they got tired, they would wander back to the kiosk and be presented with cocoa. They would come down and get sugared up at Peacock," Leatham said. "We really love the neighborhood, and we love the people that come and go and discover that it's a donation to the city. It really is a gift."

What to know

Visiting Peacock Lane is one of the city's most popular things to do over the holidays. For the past 90 years, nearly every house on Southeast Peacock Lane has been decked out with creative light displays, nativity scenes, and characters like Frosty and Charlie Brown.

The lights will be on from 6-11 p.m. from Dec. 15-Dec. 31. 

The first few nights of opening weekend are designated as pedestrian-only. From Dec. 15-17, the street is closed to vehicle traffic. Visitors can walk up and down the street while sipping cocoa and cider for an up-close view of the decorated homes. 

People who would rather view the lights from the comfort of their car can do so starting Dec. 17.

In 2017, Peacock Lane was added to the National Register of Historic Places. 

Where do you park?

There is no official parking. It is recommended you take TriMet, walk or bike to Peacock Lane. If you ride your bike, it's asked that you walk it while viewing the lights due to crowds and small kids. 

What are costs?

Peacock Lane is free to visit. Hot cocoa or hot cider is provided for free, though donations are welcomed. Neighbors say a portion of proceeds from donations go to a local charity each year. 

Are dogs allowed?

Dogs are welcomed but only on leashes. 

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