The Portland Grotto Day of Service is a Remarkable Tradition

Since 1988 (35 years) our team has shown up to install the electrical supply for an amazing local Choir Festival held at The Portland Grotto. 

John Klein of Portland productions tells us “The Grotto is one of the largest choir festivals in the world, /with around 176 choirs this year. The grounds feature a 1/4 mile of lighting, with yes, 2 million lights, and we usually see 90,000 attendees throughout the season. The festival runs from the day after Thanksgiving through December 30th. "

This day of service is an IBEW 48 tradition and a well oiled machine. It was a great turnout, great spirits, the task got done so that thousands of people may enjoy the beautiful lights display throughout the holiday season. 

IBEW Local 48 organizer Steve Hussey had this to say: We had almost 50 volunteers show up the day of. Everyone was in good spirits and really had a good time. The weather held out, no one got hurt, we got the job done and there was even a baby and a dog in attendance!

We want to make sure to thank everyone that showed up and volunteered their skills and day off to help make this year's event a success, we couldn’t do this without them. 

Some of our Local 48 volunteers have been a part of this effort for decades. Steve Martell, a retiree and longtime member of Local 48, is someone who has volunteered and really has headed up this event since the 1980’s.

From the grotto, Jane Tokito and Samantha Kocher. John Klein and his awesome crew with Portland Productions, these folks actually install all those strings of lights and the displays. Dan Rhein (local 48) and the fine folks at Christenson Electric who worked with North Coast to supply new panels and equipment. 

Special thanks to Sandoz Zimmerly and Larena Manzo, who helped wrangle almost 50 volunteers and organize catering. 

The rest of the staff at IBEW local 48 who had a hand in making the day a success. The BALMCC helped to sponsor this event again this year. Their support helped to provide new cable and equipment. Hollywood Impress Printing donated new banners."

There will be a 25’ lighted tree that you can walk through, as well as a puppet show. Read more Grotto Choir Festival Schedule 

Thank you to everyone! Don't miss the photo gallery from the Grotto Day of Service.