The Lights on Peacock Lane Friday, December 22, 2006

(right) Sightseers admire decorated houses on Peacock Lane. Every year thousands visit the four-block street in SE Portland to see the light show, a Christmas tradition since the 1920's.

Described by some as "no doubt, the most well-known Christmas tradition in Portland," the lights on Peacock Lane draw thousands of visitors every December. Every evening from Dec. 15 through Dec. 31, the street is chockablock with cars, limousines, handi-trans buses, and even a horse-drawn carriage. The best way to see the lights, though is on foot.

Every home on the street is decorated, with themes running from nativity scenes to Santa Claus's to grinches. Hot chocolate and cider are available, served by volunteers from the neighborhood.

Brian Peterson serves hot chocolate and cider to sightseers on Peacock Lane on Dec. 21, 2006. He was helping his friend, Michelle Cairo, who lives on Peacock Lane.

Peacock Lane runs between SE Belmont and SE Stark, one block east of SE 39th (map). The light show continues nightly from 6 to 11 through Dec. 31. The lights will be on until midnight on Dec. 24 and Dec. 31.