The largest holiday light display in the Pacific Northwest kicks off Friday at Portland International Raceway.

PORTLAND, OR. (COIN) — People gathered in their cars to attend the opening night of this year’s annual event. Winter Wonderland event at Portland International Speedway.

The holiday light display is believed to be the largest of its kind in the Pacific Northwest. It also serves as a fundraising event for local charity The Sunshine Divisionfeeding families in need.

“We do it every year, and it’s great, every year. Nothing of the kind!” Dexter Burge said.

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Slow cars with their headlights off slowly cruise around the race track to view hundreds of displays with over a million lights.

“It doesn’t matter if it’s raining or clear and cold like tonight, it’s just a wonderful time,” Rae Burge said. “We’ll get some hot chocolate and some popcorn in the car.”

The 32nd annual Winter Wonderland is expected to draw 100,000 visitors to a two-mile strip of light displays, including new exhibits such as a 16-foot Ice Princess and Field of Penguins.

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All proceeds from the event, which runs through the end of December, will benefit Sunshine Division’s hunger relief programs in the Portland area.

“It’s really cool to be a part of, mainly because I know it’s going to be a good organization and it’s pretty fun to be a part of the biggest light show in the northwest,” said Kevin Blair, local event manager. .

Blair said the whole thing took about two months.

Drivers told KOIN 6 News they love the show and continue to come every holiday to keep the tradition alive.

“We turned on the lights in the house and on the Christmas tree today and we will take it to the finish line here at the park tonight,” Rae Burge said.

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Most event dates spanning this weekend and throughout December are drive-through only. However, there are also several non-car events, including one you can attend on your bike and another where you can walk your dog.

The event will be open from 16:30 to 23:30 this Saturday and Sunday. New events are planned every day for the next month. Information on tickets, special evenings, dates and prices can be found on the website Winter Wonderland website.

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