The winter holiday season is in full swing now (how long does Black Friday/Cyber Monday last these days?!), but if you look closely, they’re celebrated a little (or a lot) differently in various cultures and parts of the world. This weekend, take some time to explore Christmas and Chanukah through lenses old and new.

Dec 4

Beaverton Tree Lighting

Welcome this joyous time of year with a tree lighting in downtown Beaverton, with special guests Santa and Mrs. Claus, Anna and Elsa, and local bands and choirs. Shop at the German Holiday Market and indulge in festive treats. Free, beavertonoregon.gov

Dec 5

Christmas in the Country

Get a taste of pioneer Christmas at Philip Foster Farm! Visit with Santa in the parlor, drink hot cider and eat sweets, and get your Christmas tree to take home. Free, philipfosterfarm.com

Dec 5-6

ScanFair 2015

Scandinavian Heritage Foundation brings Nordic tradition to Portland each year with this colorful, cheerful festival. Nosh on yummy baked goods, shop the handmade market, enjoy music and dance entertainment, and visit Finnish Santa in front of a viking ship! $6-15, kids under 12 free, scanheritage.org

Dec 6

The Magical Tinker Fairy Story Time

Join the Tinker Fairy for dancing, face painting, and learning how to fly! $6, amazingfairytaleparties.com

Dec 6

Chanukah: First Night at Director Park

Gather downtown for the live carving and lighting of the ice menorah, latkes, kids’ activities, and music to celebrate the first night of Chanukah. Chabad Oregon will be collecting toiletry donations for VA hospitals and military events. Free, chabadoregon.com