Portal has been bursting with holiday cheer over the past week, hosting a lineup of festive events that brought the community together. From toy giveaways to cook-offs and parades, the town embraced the season with activities for all ages, showcasing the best of small-town charm and spirit.
Portal Heritage Society Christmas Festival and Toy Giveaway
The festivities kicked off with the 7th Annual Portal Heritage Society Christmas Festival and Toy Giveaway on Saturday, December 7th, at the historic Turpentine Still. Families enjoyed a festive day filled with local vendors, delicious food, and holiday activities.
Thanks to a generous silent sponsor, over 300 toys were handed out during the event, bringing smiles to countless children. The remaining toys were donated to Fostering Bulloch and 7th Mile Farm to continue spreading joy throughout the community. The festival has become a beloved tradition in Portal, thanks to the dedication of the Portal Heritage Society, which begins planning the event nearly a year in advance.Portal’s 8th Annual Toy Giveaway & Tree Lighting
The festivities continued on Thursday, December 12th, with the 8th Annual Toy Giveaway and Tree Lighting at Portal City Hall. The event featured a visit from Santa Claus, Christmas caroling by Portal Elementary School students, and refreshments for attendees. Families gathered around as the town’s Christmas tree was lit, marking the official start of the holiday season in Portal. Organized by the City of Portal, this event is a community favorite and a great way to bring everyone together during the holidays.
Click here to watch the livestream
Portal Operation Christmas Spirit BBQ Cook-Off
The holiday excitement carried over into the weekend with the 1st Annual Portal Operation Christmas Spirit BBQ Cook-Off on Saturday, December 14th, at Portal Town Park. The cook-off served as a fundraiser for the Town of Portal Christmas Fund and featured live music by Corey Smith, great food, and family-friendly fun.
Barbecue teams competed in the cook-off, and after the judging at noon, attendees were able to purchase the mouthwatering dishes. With the aroma of smoked meats filling the air and the sound of live music creating the perfect backdrop, the event was a huge hit, raising funds to support holiday initiatives in Portal.
Congratulations to the first place winner, Roy Eric Heffner and second place winner, Harold Guidry.
Portal Christmas Parade
The 8th Annual Portal Christmas Parade brought holiday cheer to downtown Portal December 14. With over 25 participants, the parade featured a mix of local organizations, businesses, and familiar favorites.
Highlights included the Portal Police Department, the Bulloch County Sheriff's Office Color Guard, and the Shriners, who delighted the crowd with their signature antics. The Portal Panthers football team made an appearance, along with beauty queens, local fire departments, the Bulloch County Public Safety Unit and the Grand Marshal, Harold Underwood.
From floats and classic cars to Santa Claus riding with the Grinch and holiday music, the parade celebrated Portal's holiday spirit and left smiles on the faces of all who attended.
