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7 Essential Things To Know About The Winter Village At Jerry Willey Plaza (2025-2026 Season)

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The Winter Village at Jerry Willey Plaza is Hillsboro, Oregon's most anticipated annual holiday event, transforming the heart of Orenco Station into a vibrant, festive winter wonderland. As of December 26, 2025, the covered outdoor ice skating rink is in full swing, offering a quintessential Pacific Northwest winter experience that runs well into the new year. This guide provides the most current and essential information for planning your visit to this beloved community gathering spot.

The annual event, organized by Hillsboro Parks & Recreation, serves as a central hub for seasonal cheer, drawing visitors from across the Portland Metro Area and Washington County. Beyond the exhilarating 60-minute skate sessions, the Winter Village offers a host of other activities, making it a perfect destination for families, a unique winter date, or a fun outing with friends.

The Man Behind the Name: A Jerry Willey Biography

The plaza that hosts the Winter Village is named in honor of a pivotal figure in Hillsboro's recent history: Jerry Willey. The mandatory dedication of this section provides a full profile of the former mayor whose tenure significantly shaped the city's modern landscape.

  • Full Name: Jerry Willey
  • Born: September 25, 1947
  • Political Career Span: Over 30 years in local politics
  • Hillsboro City Council: Served as a member from 1992 to 1997
  • 41st Mayor of Hillsboro, Oregon: Held the position from 2009 to 2017
  • Current Role: Currently serves as a Washington County Commissioner
  • Plaza Renaming: The Orenco Station Plaza was officially renamed the Jerry Willey Plaza in his honor in June 2017, celebrating his eight-year tenure as mayor and his dedication to the community.

Willey's commitment to the development of Hillsboro, particularly in fostering vibrant community spaces like the plaza, is why his name is synonymous with this central gathering place. His vision helped establish the plaza as a flexible venue for year-round events, from OrenKoFest to the Winter Village itself.

The 2025-2026 Winter Village: Essential Dates and Pricing

Planning your visit is easy with the confirmed schedule and transparent pricing for the current season. This highly anticipated holiday event is a must-see for anyone looking to experience the festive atmosphere of Hillsboro.

Official Season Dates and Duration

The Winter Village at Jerry Willey Plaza offers one of the longest seasonal runs in the region, ensuring plenty of opportunities to hit the ice.

  • Opening Date: Saturday, November 30, 2025
  • Closing Date: Sunday, January 11, 2026
  • Duration: The event runs for over six weeks, covering the Thanksgiving weekend, Christmas holidays, and New Year’s celebrations.

Admission and Ticket Information

All tickets are for 60-minute skate sessions and include the cost of skate rental, which is a major convenience. There are no advance tickets, so all purchases are made on-site.

  • General Admission (Ages 11+): $19
  • Youth Admission (Ages 10 and under or 13 and under): $16 (Note: check the official Hillsboro Parks & Recreation site for the exact age cutoff, but typically covers youth)
  • Skate Rental: Included with the admission price.

The event is managed by Hillsboro Parks & Recreation, ensuring a safe and well-organized environment for all skaters. The covered outdoor ice skating rink allows for a true open-air experience while providing shelter from any inclement weather that Oregon winters might bring.

Beyond the Rink: Winter Market and Themed Events

While the outdoor ice skating rink is the star attraction, the Winter Village is a comprehensive holiday event featuring numerous other activities that bolster its topical authority as a true winter destination.

The Hillsboro Winter Market

The Hillsboro Farmers' Markets extend their season with a special Winter Market held at the plaza on select Sundays throughout December. This is a fantastic opportunity to support local vendors and find unique holiday gifts.

  • Winter Market Dates: December 1, 8, 15, and 22
  • Time: Typically runs from 10 am to 3 pm
  • What to Find: Expect local produce, artisanal foods, handmade crafts, and other festive goods perfect for the holiday season.

Themed Skate Days and Special Programming

To keep the experience fresh and engaging, the Winter Village often hosts special themed skate days and events. These events are designed to enhance the festive atmosphere and provide unique entertainment.

  • Themed Events: Past seasons have included popular events like "80s Throwback Friday," encouraging skaters to dress up and enjoy music from a specific era.
  • Atmosphere: Visitors can expect carolers, Christmas lights, and seasonal music, all contributing to the magical winter wonderland feel.

Tips for Visiting Jerry Willey Plaza at Orenco Station

The Jerry Willey Plaza at Orenco Station is located at 943 NE Orenco Station Loop in Hillsboro, OR. Getting there is simple, and a few insider tips can make your visit even smoother.

Transportation and Accessibility

The plaza's location in the Orenco Station neighborhood makes it highly accessible, especially via public transit.

  • MAX Blue Line: The TriMet MAX blue line is the most convenient option, with a station stop located directly in front of the plaza.
  • Parking: While some street parking is available, taking public transportation is highly recommended, particularly during peak hours and on Winter Market days.

What to Bring

Even though the rink is covered, it is an outdoor event in the Pacific Northwest winter. Dressing appropriately is key to enjoying your 60-minute session.

  • Warm Layers: Bring coats, gloves, hats, and scarves.
  • Thick Socks: Essential for comfort when using the rental skates.
  • Camera: The festive lights and seasonal cheer make for excellent photo opportunities.

The Winter Village at Jerry Willey Plaza remains Hillsboro's premier holiday event, offering a blend of exhilarating ice skating, local market shopping, and a truly festive atmosphere. Make sure to mark your calendar for the 2025-2026 season to experience this beloved tradition.

7 Essential Things to Know About the Winter Village at Jerry Willey Plaza (2025-2026 Season)
winter village at jerry willey plaza
winter village at jerry willey plaza

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