Posts filed under 'Books'

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Nov 14–16

Admission is free for all events below. Have a great weekend!

Friday, November 14

  • Christmas Tree Arrival at Pioneer Courthouse Square: At noon, a party will be held at Pioneer Courthouse Square to welcome Portland’s 75-foot Christmas tree. Expect Santa Claus, seasonal music and local dignitaries. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Lower Fremont 2nd Friday Artwalk and Sidewalk Sale: 40+ local artists and crafters will display and sell their work outside at this monthly event. NE Fremont at 13th & 14th Avenues, 5:00 pm–9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • Rock Poster Art Show Opening Reception: Artery will open an exhibit of silkscreened rock posters commemorating some of the most influential bands in the past two decades such as Modest Mouse, Bloc Party, Neko Case, Bright Eyes, Cat Power and more. 4114 N. Vancouver Ave, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • Army Navy (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 6:00 pm. All ages. For more information, visit the Music Millennium website.

  • Adam and Kris (website) will perform at East Burn (1800 E. Burnside) at 10:00 pm. Visit the East Burn website for more information.

  • Will West and The Friendly Strangers (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Mark Alan (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • The Checkered Present (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

  • Author Benjamin Parzybok will talk about his book “Couch” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

Saturday, November 15

  • Gettysburg Address Re-enactment, Talk, Film: From 9:00 am to 11:30 am, Lone Fir Pioneer Cemetery (SE 21st and Morrison) will host a re-creation of the Gettysburg Address, including Union soldier re-enactors in full battle gear, authentic military band, Lincoln presenter Steve Holgate, and more. From 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, Portland State professor Elliott Trommald will explain the meaning of the Gettysburg Address, and a “Battle of Gettysburg” video will be shown at PSU Smith Memorial Student Union, room 333 (1825 SW Broadway). For more information, visit the event website. 

  • Oregon Humane Society 140th Birthday Bash: The party includes activities for kids, tours and more. Kids will receive a t-shirt, balloon, and a birthday sticker while supplies last. Presents for the animals are welcome and qualify you to receive a discount on adoptions (see website for details). 1067 NE Columbia Blvd, 1:00 pm–4:00 pm. Cake and ice cream will be served from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • J.D. Roth, author of the blog Get Rich Slowly, will speak at the Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave) at 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • BroadArts Theatre Performance and Discussion: Four speakers from the community will talk about issues concerning Portland, supported by songs and monologues performed by BroadArts Theatre. Afterward, BroadArts will invite the audience to discuss how each of us can contribute to a better future for Portland and our world. Jefferson High School (5210 N. Kerby Ave), 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. For more information and list of speakers, visit the event website.

  • Lighting of Maddax Woods in West Linn: Enjoy a magical walk down a lit, accessible path through the Woods and to the viewing platform on the Willamette River. Free hot chocolate. 5785 River Street, West Linn, 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Bird Walk on Boeckman Road at Coffee Lake Wetlands: The new Boeckman Road extension is an ideal location to view birds such as great blue heron, red-winged black bird, osprey, killdeer and more. Meet Natural Resources Program staff on the bridge (Boeckman Road at Coffee Creek between 95th Ave and 110th Ave, Wilsonville) at 9:00 am. The walk lasts until 11:00 am. Bring your binoculars and dress appropriately for the weather. Kids welcome. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • ”Gourdy Pumpernickel’s Harvest Surprise” Puppet Show: Mudeye Puppet Company presents this all-new, all-original, all-ages puppet show about a determined but slightly silly farmer who never gives up. Most suitable for grades K–5. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Sellwood-Moreland Library (7860 SE 13th Ave), 10:30 am–11:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Children’s Play “Raven Steals the Sun”: In honor of national American Indian Heritage month, the library is hosting “Raven Steals the Sun,” a new play based on a Native American tale. Created and performed by Emily Alexander of Tears of Joy Theatre. Most suitable for grades K–5. Belmont Library (1038 SE 39th Ave), 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • OMSI’s Teen-Only Night: No parents allowed! OMSI invites teens (ages 13–18) to check out Mindbender Mansion and enjoy music by a live DJ, Segway rides and more. 1945 SE Water Ave, 7:00 pm–10:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • Mary Flower (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the Music Millennium website.

  • Miss Michael Jodell, Matt Brown and Allen Hunter (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Lincoln Crockett (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • The Atonements (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

  • Authors Jessica Morrell, Megan Clark, Delilah Marvelle and Monica Drake will speak at In Other Words Women’s Books and Resources (8 NE Killingsworth St) at 4:00 pm. Refreshments and accompaniment music from Vagabond Opera’s Eric Stern. For more information, visit the event website. 

Sunday, November 16

  • Locks of Love Benefit (Free Haircuts): Ruby’s Spa at Edgefield will offer free haircuts to guests of all ages who donate 10 or more inches of hair. These special guests will also receive complimentary refreshments, along with 20% off additional spa treatments for the rest of the day. 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. Appointments are required. Call (503) 665-1357 to make an appointment. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • DIY Stories: DIY (Do It Yourself) Stories is an open storytelling forum. Share stories about what brought you to Oregon and what keeps you here. You can just show up to listen to others, but it’s more fun when you participate. Please keep stories to 5 minutes; no reading or performing; think “beginning, middle, end.” Recommended for adults. Space is limited. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • James Low (website) will perform at Edgefield at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • “Freedomstate” will be playing at Hotel deLuxe. The Screening Room, located off the hotel lobby, opens at 6:00 pm; the movie begins at 6:30 pm. RSVP to 503.219.2093. For more information, visit the event website.

  • “Being John Malkovich” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Alicia Paulson, the creator of the blog Posie Gets Cozy, will talk about her book “Stitched in Time” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

If you know of any other free events happening this weekend, please write a comment about it. If you’d like me to include an event in a future round-up, please contact me.

Add comment November 14th, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: October 17–19

Update: See Comments for more events.

Admission is free for all events below. Have a great weekend!

All weekend (October 17 to 19)

  • Portland Nursery Apple Tasting Event: There will be 60 varieties of apples and pears available for tasting, live music, kids’ activities and more. 5050 SE Stark, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

Friday, October 17

  • Kidical Mass Family Bike Rides: Wear your Halloween costume or decorate your bike. Blinkies will be handed out while supplies last. Information on different rides:

    • Downtown Ride: Meet at 5:30 pm and leave at 5:45. Meet at the North Park Blocks Playground at NW 8th and Davis. Thanks to Nancy at Central Portland Families you can attend a pizza party at the end of the ride, but you must RSVP to nancy@zcommunitycenter.org. More info can be found here.

    • Outer NE Ride: Meet at 6:00 pm (leaving promptly at 6:15) at Knott Park, near the baseball field (near the corner of NE 112th and NE Sacramento). We will return to the same location.

    • SE Ride: Meet at 6:00 pm at the Sunnyside Environmental School playground. Leaving promptly at 6:15, ending at Sunnyside.

    • Sellwood Ride: Meet at 6:00 pm at the Sellwood Pool, and the ride will leave at 6:15, ending at the Sellwood Pool.

    • For more information, contact Angela Koch, 503-226-0676 x19.

  • Fall Family Fun Night at Mt. Scott Community Center: Bouncy castle, face painting, obstacle course, crafts, roller skating, swimming, and indoor park. Admission is free. Activities cost 25 cents, family swim is $1. Bring donations of canned goods and receive 4 free tickets ($1 value). 5530 SE 72nd, 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • Beta Collide will perform at 8:00 pm in the White Stag Building (70 NW Couch St). Performers include Roger Hayes (live painter), Nicholas Isherwood (bass-baritone), Justin Kagan (cello), Lisa McWhorter (violin), Phillip Patti (percussion), Molly Barth (flute) and Brian McWhorter (trumpet). For more information, visit the Beta Collide website. 

  • Tartufi (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the Music Millennium website.

  • Dirty Dozen Brass Band will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the Music Millennium website.

  • Leigh Marble CD Release Party: The evening will include performances by Marble, Teledubgnosis, and Auditory Sculpture featuring Infamous Coatcheck Girl, as well as video by Abstract Machines. Press Club, 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Ashia (website) will perform at East Burn (1800 E. Burnside) at 10:00 pm. Visit the East Burn website for more information.

  • Mark Alan (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • The Troublemakers (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. Visit the Rock Creek Tavern website for more information.

  • Author Shalom Auslander will talk about his memoir “Foreskin’s Lament” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W Burnside). For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

Saturday, October 18

  • Oregon Historical Society Free Day: The theme of the day is archaeology. There will be presentations on rock art and flintknapping, art projects for the kids, an activity that will show you what an excavation is like, and more. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • Oregon Bounty Fresh Hop Beer Tastival: Admission is free; glasses/mugs cost $5, and are required for tasting beer. Tastes of the individual beers are $1 each. Hopworks Urban Brewery (2944 SE Powell Blvd), noon to 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Learn about Buckminster Fuller from Allegra Fuller Snyder (UCLA professor, founder and board chair of the Buckminster Fuller Institute, and Bucky’s only living child) and D.W. Jacobs (director/playwright of R. Buckminster Fuller: THE HISTORY (and Mystery) OF THE UNIVERSE). Gerding Theater (128 NW 11th Ave), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • OMSI’s Teen-Only Night: Plan a date night and send the teens to OMSI from 7:00 pm–10:00 pm. Teens will get to see the new Mindbender Mansion exhibit, and there’ll be Segway rides, a DJ and cheap food. For more information, visit the OMSI website.

  • Fiesta con Animales/Party with the Animals: In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, some of the Oregon Zoo’s animals will visit St. Johns Library (7510 N. Charleston Ave) from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • Library Appreciation Day at West Linn Library: See juggler Rhys Thomas perform, hear the West Linn Community Chorus sing, and talk about the library with your neighbors. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • Family Resource Fair at Beaverton Library: Get information from local family-friendly organizations, make crafts with your kids, learn about home school resources, and find volunteer opportunities right in your back yard. 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Apple Tasting Event at Tigard Library: Games, crafts, apple tasting and more. An “a-peeling” good time for the whole family. 1:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • GreenWalks: Explore Mt. Tabor with a guide from Portland Parks & Recreation. 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Appropriate for adults and families. Meet at the Crater Amphitheater near the playground. For details, visit the PP&R website.

  • Ben Weaver will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the Music Millennium website.

  • Sudden Anthem (website) and The Raining (website) will perform at East Burn (1800 E. Burnside) at 10:00 pm. Visit the East Burn website for more information.

  • Will West (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Jimmy Bivens (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • The Scott Gallegos Band (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

  • Children’s pop-up book master David Carter will present his new book at 11:00 am at A Children’s Place Bookstore (4807 NE Fremont St). For more information, visit the event website. 

  • Author Clare Langley-Hawthorne will talk about her book “The Serpent and the Scorpion” at Murder by the Book (3210 SE Hawthorne Blvd) at 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

Sunday, October 19

  • Fiesta con Animales/Party with the Animals: In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, some of the Oregon Zoo’s animals will visit Gregory Heights Library (7921 NE Sandy Blvd) from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Dead Beetles (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the Music Millennium website.

  • More History and Mystery of the Blues: Musician-author Steve Cheseborough will present the music of Mississippi. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • “Ed Wood” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Sunday Movie Night at Hotel deLuxe: “Hear and Now” will be playing. The Screening Room, located off the hotel lobby, opens at 6:00 pm, the movie begins at 6:30 pm. RSVP to 503.219.2093. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Authors Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson will talk about “Science Fair,” their new book for young readers, at 2:00 pm at Powell’s Books, Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd). For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

  • Book Release Party for “HELP! A Bear is Eating Me!” Join author Mykle Hansen for a spoken word show/drinking opportunity to celebrate the release of his new book. PLAN B (1305 SE 8th Ave), 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Ages 21 & older. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Moms Night Out/Scrapbook Basics: Join instructor Heidi Brehm for an introductory class on the basics of scrapbooking. Each participant is encouraged to bring personal photos to create a two-page layout, all other materials will be provided. St. Johns Library (7510 N. Charleston Ave), 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

If you know of any other free events happening this weekend, please write a comment about it. If you’d like me to include an event in a future round-up, please contact me.

1 comment October 17th, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: October 3–5

Admission is free for all events below. Have a great weekend!

All weekend (October 3 to 5)

  • Greek Festival: The festival will feature Greek food, entertainment, children’s activities and more. $2 admission for children’s area. Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral (3131 NE Glisan). For more information, visit the event website.

  • Local 14 Art Show & Sale: More than 90 women artists will show their work at the World Forestry Center (4033 SW Canyon Rd). For more information, visit the event website. 

Friday, October 3

  • First Friday Art Shows and Openings:

    • Opening for photographer John Henry Angell: Angell specializes in close-up, macro images of flowers and ferns. Ugly Mug Coffee Shop (8017 SE 13th Ave), 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

    • MAC Kids Art Show: Paintings, prints, drawings, clay from Multnomah Arts Center Youth Art Classes. 7688 SW Capitol Hwy, 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

    • “Tribute” at 100th Monkey Studio: See a wedding dress made out of ironed plastic Oregonian bags and other artwork from 13 artists. Live music by Stump Town Jug Thumpers. 110 SE 16th Ave, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

    • Also, go to PORT for more events.

  • Artist Lucinda Parker will give a lecture at 6:00 pm at Pacific Northwest College of Art. Selections of Parker’s artwork from the past 20 years will also be on display. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • First Friday in Multnomah Village: During this monthly event, shops and galleries stay open late and offer special events, sales and complimentary refreshments. 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the Multnomah Village website.

  • First Friday Art Walk in Downtown Camas: This month’s theme is Pumpkin Pageant. 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the Downtown Camas website.

  • Artistery 7th Anniversary Party: The Artistery is celebrating with live music (Point Juncture, WA; Nick Delffs; Rob Walmart; Juice Team DJ’s; Cexfucx; Owl Dudes; White Fang; Why I Must Be Careful; American Dork Scene) and BBQ. BBQ starts at 7:00 pm, and music will follow soon after. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • Ian McFeron Band (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. Visit the Rock Creek Tavern website for more information.

  • Author Francine Prose will talk about her book “Goldengrove” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the Powell’s website. 

  • “The Golden Compass” will be showing at West Linn Library at 6:30 pm. For more information, visit the library website . 

Saturday, October 4

  • West Linn’s Oktoberfest: Live music (including an authentic OmmPah band) and the smells of German cuisine will fill Hammerle Park from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm. For more information, read this news story. 

  • GreenWalks: Explore Hoyt Arboretum with a guide from Portland Parks & Recreation. 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Appropriate for adults and families. Meet at the Visitor Center at 4000 SW Fairview Blvd. Visit the PP&R website for details.

  • DJ Cheb i Sabbah will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 4:30 pm. Visit the Music Millennium website for more information.

  • The Goodwill River (website) will perform at East Burn (1800 E. Burnside) at 10:00 pm. Visit the East Burn website for more information.

  • Kaitlyn ni Donovan (website) and Super XX Man (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • History and Mystery of the Blues: Musician-author Steve Cheseborough will present the music and mystique of Mississippi. Rockwood Library (17917 SE Stark St), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Beth Willis (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • Jack McMahon (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

  • Author T. A. Barron will talk about his book “Merlin’s Dragon” at 2:00 pm at Powell’s Books, Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd). For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

  • Author Steven T. Wax will talk about his book “Kafka Comes to America: Fighting for Justice in the War on Terror — A Public Defender’s Inside Account” at Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave) at 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • Children’s book author Eric Kimmel will read from two of his books, “The Mysterious Guests” and “Anansi’s Party Time,” at 11:00 am at A Children’s Place Bookstore. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Legends of Mexico/Leyendas de Mexico: Kids and their families are invited to learn about the geography, history and different languages spoken in Mexico through legends and music. Bilingual (English/Spanish). Two shows: North Portland Library (512 N. Killingsworth St) from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, and St. Johns Library (7510 N. Charleston Ave) from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm. 

  • Pinot and Pooch: Urban Wineworks (407 NW 16th Ave) invites dog owners and their dogs to an afternoon of doggie sketch artists, wine, raffles, and musical entertainment. A portion of the proceeds will go to DoveLewis. 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • Bike Donation Drive: All Portland-area REI stores will be accepting used bikes to be donated to the Community Cycling Center for their annual Holiday Bike Drive. Bikes in good condition, especially kids’ bikes, will be accepted. Donations are tax-deductible. 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Visit the REI website for more information.

  • Plastics Recycling: Master Recycler Program will collect many hard-to-recycle plastics at two locations: 3325 N. Interstate in Portland, and 5400 Meadows Road in Lake Oswego. 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, October 5

  • Envisioning America: Jews and the Making of Broadway Musical: Mittelman Jewish Community Center and Portland Center Stage will provide a lively afternoon of conversation and song exploring the Broadway musical and the pioneering contributions of Jewish artists to the genre. Hillsdale Library (1525 SW Sunset Blvd), 12:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Dandy Warhols Pre-Show Party: Zia McCabe will DJ. Free refreshments. Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside), 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the Music Millennium website.

  • Americana Music: Kids and their families are invited to a performance of multiple genres of Americana music, from Appalachian to bluegrass, from cowboy to the Kingston Trio, and many points in between, with the Stumptown Stars. Sellwood-Moreland Library (7860 SE 13th Ave), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • “Delicatessen” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Children’s book author Graeme Base will talk about “Enigma: A Magical Mystery” at 2:00 pm at Powell’s Books, Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd). For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

  • Author Danny Goldberg will talk about his book “Bumping into Geniuses” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

  • Sunday Cinema Classics at St. Johns Library: “To Kill a Mockingbird” will be showing at 2:00 pm. Free tickets for limited seating will be available at 1:30 pm. 7510 N. Charleston Ave. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Pinot and Pooch: Urban Wineworks (407 NW 16th Ave) invites dog owners and their dogs to an afternoon of doggie sketch artists, wine, raffles, and musical entertainment. A portion of the proceeds will go to DoveLewis. 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

If you know of any other free events happening this weekend, please write a comment about it. If you’d like me to include an event in a future round-up, please contact me.

Add comment October 3rd, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: September 26–28

Update: See comments for more events.

Admission is free for all events below. Have a great weekend!

All weekend (September 26–28)

  • Portland Art Open: Portland Art Open is a three-day art event & party showcasing the range of talents and styles of Portland’s artists. It’s your chance to experience art on the most personal level possible—see how each artist envisions their work in their own setting. Visit the event website for more information.

Friday, September 26

  • American Indian Day Celebration: Local area American Indian organizations will host a celebration of American Indian cultures at Pioneer Courthouse Square from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Northwest tribal leaders, drum groups, dancers, and arts and crafts vendors will share their talents and experiences. Visit the event website for more information.

  • ActivSpace Open House: Artists, jewelers, crafters, designers, and small business owners open their doors. Meet artists in their workspaces. Local bands will perform. Craft/bead/art supply rummage sale. Friday (5:00 pm to 9:00 pm) and Saturday (11:00 am to 5:00 pm), 833 SE Main St. See comments below for more information.

  • Someday Lounge 2-Year Anniversary Party: Copy, Ohmega Watts, Fleshtone, Ben Darwish Trio, Synchronicity Frequency, Polly High, DJ Hanukkah Miracle and more. 8:00 pm. 125 NW 5th Avenue. Visit the Someday Lounge website for more information.

  • Bar 12 will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 6:00 pm. Visit the Music Millennium website for more information.

  • Emily Herring (website) will perform at East Burn (1800 E. Burnside) at 10:00 pm. Visit the East Burn website for more information.

  • Pete Krebs will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Mark Alan (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

  • John Bunzow Trio (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. Visit the Rock Creek Tavern website for more information.

  • Author John Elder Robison will talk about his book “Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger’s” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

Saturday, September 27

  • Polish Festival: This two-day event includes performances by Polish dance groups and music bands, a polka contest, Polish food and more. Last year’s festival was lots of fun; read about it and see pictures here. Saturday and Sunday, 3900 N. Interstate Ave. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Museum Day: Get a free admission pass for you and a guest redeemable at participating museums. For more information, visit the Smithsonian magazine website.

  • Welcome the Rain: Celebrate our abundant rainfall and learn about rain-related issues such as bike commuting in the rain, rain gardens, and more. Art and science activities as well as a story teller will keep the kids entertained. Sunnyside Environmental School (3421 SE Salmon St), 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. www.welcometherain.org

  • SoEaPo Summer’s Last Rockin’ Outdoor Fest: At Plan B Bar (21+), artisan booths will be set up outside, live music on two stages (one stage outside, the other stage inside), BBQ. 1305 SE 8th, 4:00 pm to midnight. Visit the event website for more information.

  • ActivSpace Open House: Artists, jewelers, crafters, designers, and small business owners open their doors. Meet artists in their workspaces. Local bands will perform. Craft/bead/art supply rummage sale. Friday (5:00 pm to 9:00 pm) and Saturday (11:00 am to 5:00 pm), 833 SE Main St. See comments below for more information.

  • Harvest Fun Day and Extreme Scarecrow Makeover (Vancouver): Join the Clark County Historical Museum for a free family-friendly day of hands-on crafts and autumn events such as pumpkin decorating, scarecrow making, blacksmith demonstrations, pie-eating contests and more. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Visit the museum’s website for more information.

  • GreenWalks: Explore Oaks Bottom with a guide from Portland Parks & Recreation. 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Appropriate for adults and families. Park staff will lead this tour from the North parking lot of Oaks Bottom located across the street from 5120 SE Milwaukie Ave. Visit the PP&R website for details.

  • Ten Toe Guided Walk: Take a free Tram ride to OHSU and hike the trails of Marquam Nature Park as we climb to Council Crest Park and back. Meeting place: Tram stop, north of SW Whitaker and River Parkway. 9:00 am. Distance: 4 miles. Time: 2.5 hours. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Someday Lounge 2-Year Anniversary Party: Opera Theater Oregon, Mortified, Classical Revolution, Action Adventure Theater, Hexasion, Pivot Dance Company. 7:00 pm. 125 NW 5th Avenue. Visit the Someday Lounge website for more information.

  • Cold War Kids (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 6:00 pm. Visit the Music Millennium website for more information.

  • Kotogoto (website) will perform at East Burn (1800 E. Burnside) at 10:00 pm. Visit the East Burn website for more information.

  • The Hunter Donnaloia Duo will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Eric John Kaiser (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

  • Lincoln Crockett & Enemies (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. Visit the Rock Creek Tavern website for more information.

  • Children’s book author Amber Keyser will bring camping equipment and her picture book “An Algonquin Heart Song: Paddle My Own Canoe” to share what it’s like to go on a canoe trip. Hillsdale Library (1525 SW Sunset Blvd), 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

  • Fiesta con Animales/Party with the Animals: In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Oregon Zoo’s animals will be visiting libraries. Hands-on discovery stations will let visitors experience feathers, fur and scales of a few of Latin America’s animals. Woodstock Library (6008 SE 49th Ave), 3:00 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

  • SCRAP Art Activity: Kids and their families are invited to work with artist Emily Weisbard of SCRAP to create a unique piece of art from reused and reclaimed materials. Presenter is bilingual, Spanish/English. North Portland Library (512 N. Killingsworth St), 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

  • Vietnamese Film at Midland Library: “Journey From the Fall” is about a family’s experience in the Vietnam War and their immigration to America. The film will be presented in Vietnamese with English subtitles. A short discussion will follow. Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 3:00 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

  • Oregon Encyclopedia Project Community Meeting: Oregonians who are interested in our history and culture are encouraged to research and write authoritative articles for the Oregon Encyclopedia Project. Learn more about this project at the Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 1:00 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

  • Meet Leigh Radford, author of “AlterKNITS Felt,” from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm at CloseKnit (2140 NE Alberta St). Visit the event website for more information.

Sunday, September 28

  • Polish Festival: This two-day event includes performances by Polish dance groups and music bands, a polka contest, Polish food and more. Last year’s festival was lots of fun; read about it and see pictures here. Saturday and Sunday, 3900 N. Interstate Ave. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Family Discovery Sunday at Museum of Contemporary Craft: Using discarded color strips from the edges of printed books, participants will divert paper headed to the recyclery and create paper vessels and other art objects. 724 NW Davis St, 1:00 pm–4:00 pm. Visit the museum’s website for more information.

  • Natural Cycles Exhibit Family Day: Join in a community celebration of the new art exhibit featuring local examples of natural art. Enjoy special hands-on art activities for adults and children along the Trillium Trail. Tryon Creek State Park, 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Oktoberfest at Edgefield: The celebration includes live music, bellydancers, balloon twisting, plant sale and more. Wander about the entire property, beer and bratwurst in hand, to check out the fun. Music starts at 11:00 am and runs through the evening. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

  • Meiko (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 3:00 pm. Visit the Music Millennium website for more information.

  • “Blazing Saddles” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Tigard Guitar Festival at Tigard Library: Cascadia Guitar Duo will perform an outdoor concert of Renaissance, Baroque, Romantic, Contemporary and Latin pieces from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Author Stanley Plumly will talk about his book “Posthumous Keats: A Personal Biography” at 4:00 pm at Powell’s Books on Hawthorne (3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd). For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

  • Author Floyd Skloot will talk about his book “The Wink of the Zenith” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

  • Ann Littlewood, author of “Night Kill,” and Sheila Simonson, author of “Buffalo Bill’s Defunct” will speak at Murder by the Book (3210 SE Hawthorne Blvd) at 5:00 pm. Visit the MBTB website for more information.

  • Author Clyde W. Ford will talk about his book “Precious Cargo” at 3:00 pm at Barnes & Noble, Clackamas Town Center Mall. Visit the B&N website for more information.

  • Puppet Theater “The Green Bird”: The Oregon Shadow Theater presents a puppet show inspired by Mexican folktales. Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 2:00 pm to 2:45 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

  • Vote 2008: Join Dr. Jim Moore, Professor of Political Science at Pacific University, for a discussion about the presidential hopefuls and the race to date. Bring questions for the group and prepare to get involved in the debate. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

  • Someday Lounge 2-Year Anniversary Party: “Pig Roast & Tank of Fish,” a documentary about Portland’s Chinatown, will be showing at 7:00 pm. 125 NW 5th Avenue. Visit the Someday Lounge website for more information.

If you know of any other free events happening this weekend, please write a comment about it. If you’d like me to include an event in a future round-up, please contact me.

2 comments September 26th, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: September 12–14

Admission is free for all events below. Have a great weekend!

All weekend (September 12–14)

  • PICA’s Time-Based Art Festival: Willamette Week has a list of free TBA events at the end of this article. For more information, visit the TBA website.

Friday, September 12

  • Artery Grand Opening and Art Show: Artery, Portland’s first finish-it-yourself frame shop and gallery, will celebrate its opening with an art show featuring artists from the traveling exhibit Beautiful Losers. The night will also include food, drinks, music, and the opportunity to do framing-related craft projects. 4114 N. Vancouver Ave, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. www.arterypdx.com

  • 17th Annual Pearl Party: At this neighborhood event, the New Iberians will perform and restaurants will provide free samplings of food. NW 13th Ave, 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Stein Barn Grand Opening in Wilsonville: This event includes nature walks, bluegrass band, horse and carriage rides, and activities that will give kids a taste of what it was like to live in the pioneer days. The public is encouraged to bring a picnic dinner to the event. 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Memorial Park. More information can be found in the Oregonian.

  • “From Side Project to Startup”: On September 12 and 13, “From Side Project to Startup” will focus on the resources, planning, and above all initiative needed to make idle thoughts, plots, plans, and what-ifs come to fruition. The conference will be at CubeSpace, 622 SE Grand Ave. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Linda Hornbuckle and Janice Scroggins (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 6:00 pm. Visit the Music Millennium website for more information. 

  • Mood Area 52 (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St., 503.233.5656.

  • Liberty Plaza Concert Series: Norman Sylvester and Curtis Salgado will perform at 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm, respectively. Liberty Plaza is located in downtown Oregon City next to the Clackamas County Courthouse (807 Main St). Visit the event website for more information.

  • John Bunzow (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

  • SweetJuice (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. Visit the Rock Creek Tavern website for more information.

  • Author Stuart Archer Cohen will talk about his book “The Army of the Republic” at 7:00 pm at Powell’s Books, Cedar Hills Crossing. For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

  • Author James E. McWilliams will talk about his book “American Pests: The Losing War on Insects from Colonial Times to DDT” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside. For more information, visit the Powell’s website. 

Saturday, September 13

  • Alberta Street Fair: The fair offers live music, kids’ activities, a parade and more. NE Alberta Street from 12th to 30th, 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. Parade starts at 2:30 pm. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Slabtown Community Festival: This event includes live music and theater, kids’ activities, Slabtown history exhibits and more. Con-way lot at NW 23rd & Savier, noon to 6:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • SCRAP’s Iron Artist: Teams will compete in an on-site sculpture competition that is “one part Iron Chef and two parts Junkyard Wars.” While that’s happening, there’ll be live music, kids’ entertainment and more for the crowd to enjoy. SE 2nd at Main and Salmon, 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Fun on Foster & Foster Art Walk: This event includes live music, craft and artisan vendors, farmer’s market, kids’ activities, free trolley rides and more. SE Foster and SE 50th to SE 93rd, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. More information can be found at The Support Group website, Fun on Foster MySpace page or Foster Art Walk MySpace page. 

  • 9th Annual Mid Autumn Fest: This celebration of Chinese culture and the Mid Autumn Moon will treat guests to live performances of Chinese folk dance, martial arts, classical Chinese music, and more. The event also includes the Asian & Pacific Islander Home Buying Fair. Eastport Plaza parking lot (4000 SE 82nd), 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the KATU website. 

  • Aquifer Adventure: This pirate-themed event includes canoe rides, treasure hunting, music and games, all meant to teach kids and adults how to protect and conserve our groundwater. Portland Water Bureau Canoe Launch (16650 NE Airport Way), 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Hollywood Burger Battle and Bun Fest: Kids are invited to participate in the largest Simon Says contest in town. The event also includes an old-fashioned cake walk, followed by wiener dog and all-breed dog costume contests. Wells Fargo Bank parking lot (4233 NE Sandy Boulevard), 1:30 pm. Visit Neighborhood Notes for more information. 

  • GreenWalks: Explore Peninsula Park with a guide from Portland Parks & Recreation. 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Appropriate for adults and families. Meet at the bandstand facing the Rose Garden at N. Albina & Ainsworth. Visit the PP&R website for details. 

  • Heifer International Workshop: Come learn how Heifer International is providing a sustainable solution to hunger and poverty and teaching communities how to restore and enhance local ecosystems. Learn how you can be a part of the solution. REI Portland (1405 NW Johnson St), 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Lock Fest 2008 in West Linn: The annual Lock Fest celebrates the 131-year-old river “elevator” with educational exhibits, tours and children’s activities. 8:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Willamette Falls Locks Park at the end of Mill Street in West Linn. There will be a free shuttle to the West Linn Arts Festival (see below). More information can be found in the West Linn Tidings. 

  • West Linn Arts Festival: The event will showcase the artwork of about 100 artists from the Pacific Northwest, live music, kids’ activities and more. September 13–14 at Willamette Park in West Linn. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Beaverton Celebration Parade and Old Town Festival 2008: The parade starts at 10:00 am and will include the Roloff family from TV’s “Little People, Big World.” Free family entertainment and fun will follow the parade from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm at the 2008 Old Town Festival. For parade route and more information, visit the event website. 

  • One-Stop Kids’ Health Fair in Gresham: Children aged 2–12 and their families are invited to this event, which includes car seat recycling and safety checks, $5 bike helmets, Teddy Bear Clinic, low-cost immunizations, animals from the Oregon Zoo, and more. Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center (24800 SE Stark Street), 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Visit the Gresham website for more information.

  • Kite Festival at Blue Lake Park: All fliers welcome. This event includes instruction on how to fly a kite, interactive kite play, mass ascension, Rok battles and fighter kites. Children’s events include teddy bear and candy drops. Cost: Free with park admission: $4 per car, $7 per bus. 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. Visit the Gresham website for more information. 

  • Tigard Family Fest: The celebration includes a 5K Run/Walk, treasure hunt, concert, fireworks, night skate and more. Visit the Tigard website for more information. 

  • “From Side Project to Startup”: On September 12 and 13, “From Side Project to Startup” will focus on the resources, planning, and above all initiative needed to make idle thoughts, plots, plans, and what-ifs come to fruition. The conference will be at CubeSpace, 622 SE Grand Ave. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Brian Head Welch (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 4:30 pm. Visit the Music Millennium for more information. 

  • Lincoln Crockett (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

  • X-Angels (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. Visit the Rock Creek Tavern website for more information.

  • Children’s author Brian Lies will make two appearances to talk about his new book “Bats at the Library.” He will be at A Children’s Place Bookstore (4807 NE Fremont St) at 11:00 am, and then at Powell’s Books (Cedar Hills Crossing) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the Children’s Place website and the Powell’s website. 

Sunday, September 14

  • West Linn Arts Festival: The event will showcase the artwork of about 100 artists from the Pacific Northwest, live music, kids’ activities and more. September 13–14 at Willamette Park in West Linn. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Lents Folk Festival—Woody Guthrie Tribute: Carl Allen will perform at 1:00 pm at the Lents Farmers Market (92nd & Foster). The Wanderers and The Renegade Minstrels will follow at Lents Park (SE 92nd Ave and Holgate) at 3:00 pm.

  • More History and Mystery of the Blues: Mississippi: Musician-author Steve Cheseborough will talk about and perform the music of Mississippi. Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

  • “The Big Lebowski” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St., 503.233.5656.

  • Tigard Guitar Festival at Tigard Library: This month-long festival includes a variety of events such as concerts, films and workshops. Today, Nuestro Canto will play an outdoor concert of traditional Mexican and Latin American music from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Darrin Craig and Jon Neufeld of Jackstraw (website) will perform at Edgefield at 5:00 pm. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

  • Jewelry designer Susan Beal will give a free solo earring-making workshop at the Crafty Wonderland DIY table. Doug Fir Lounge (830 E. Burnside St), 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. Visit West Coast Crafty for more information.

If you know of any other free events happening this weekend, please write a comment about it. If you’d like me to include an event in a future round-up, please contact me.

1 comment September 12th, 2008

Library Challenge

Update: See comments for more news.

According to the American Library Association, September is Library Card Sign-up Month.

To honor the occasion, I encourage you to find a way to use your local library even more than you already are. Challenge yourself!

If you don’t have a library card, get one, and research what the library has to offer.

If you haven’t used your card in a while, start using it again. Use it more than any other card in your wallet.

If you’re already visiting the library regularly, try something new. Borrow music or movies, if you never have before. Attend a class or an event.

Check the links below to find a library near you: 

What do you like to do most at the library?

2 comments September 9th, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: September 5–7

Admission is free for all events below. Have a great weekend!

All weekend (September 5–7)

  • Portland Riverfest: Events include dragon boat races at Waterfront Park, South Waterfront Day festival (live music, ballet and theatre performances, art, a sailing regatta, etc.) and more. To learn more about these events and others, visit the event website.

  • PICA’s Time-Based Art Festival: Willamette Week has a list of free TBA events at the end of this article. For more information, visit the TBA website. 

  • Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Show: This event offers the chance to learn more about electric, hybrid and biodiesel cars; solar and wind energy; water conservation; organic grocers and environmentally responsible housing. Washington County Fairgrounds in Hillsboro (NE Cornell Road & NE 34th Ave). For more information, visit the event website.

Friday and Saturday, September 5–6

  • MusicFestNW: Free afternoon concerts on Friday and Saturday at Doug Fir. Free concerts each evening at Wonder Ballroom. For more information, visit the MFNW website. (For the Doug Fir shows, check the home page under “8/31: KEXP Live Studio Sessions” for more information. For evening shows, check the schedule.)

Friday, September 5

  • Art Shows and Openings:

    • The 100th Monkey Studio First Friday Art Opening & 2nd Anniversary Celebration: The night includes a juried art show, live music by Vinny Maiuri, birthday cake and more. I recommend going to see photographs by John Henry Angell. 110 SE 16th Ave, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

    • First Friday art reception for George Perrou with an evening of music provided by DJ Junior Private Detective. Press Club, 7:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St., 503.233.5656.

    • Also, go to PORT for a list of more events.

  • First Friday in Multnomah Village: During this monthly event, shops and galleries stay open late and offer special events, sales and complimentary refreshments. 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the Multnomah Village website.

  • First Friday Art Walk in Downtown Camas: This month’s theme is Football Party. Downtown merchants are kicking off football season with a game of their own where you can score the winning touchdown. 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the Downtown Camas website.

  • Shelly Rudolph and David Goldblatt (jazz) will perform at RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way) at 8:00 pm. Visit the PDX Jazz website for details.

  • Princess Ricochet (website) will perform at East Burn (1800 E Burnside St) at 10:00 pm. Visit the East Burn website for more information.

  • Jack McMahon (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

  • Eric John Kaiser (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. Visit the Rock Creek Tavern website for more information.

  • Portland Movies in the Park: “Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who” will be showing at Berkeley Park (SE 39th Ave & Bybee Blvd) at dusk (between 8:00 pm and 8:45 pm). Pre-movie entertainment starts at 6:30 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Outdoor Movie in Vancouver: “Princess Bride” will be showing at Esther Short Park (610 Esther Street) at sunset (around 9:00 pm). Visit the event website for more information.

  • Tigard Guitar Festival at Tigard Library: This month-long festival includes a variety of events such as concerts, films and workshops. Today, the documentary “The History of Rock and Roll: Guitar Heroes” will be showing at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Bike Commute Workshop, Plus Author Ray Thomas: To help you with the Bike Commute Challenge, Powell’s will host a workshop on bike commuting and maintenance starting at 5:30 pm. At 7:00 pm, author Ray Thomas will present the talk “How Pushing Rights for Bikes Helped Propel Oregon’s Bicycle Movement.” Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W Burnside). Visit the Powell’s website for more information.

Saturday, September 6

  • Belmont Street Fair: This event includes live music, free trolley rides, kids’ fun center, craft fair, firehouse tours and more. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on SE Belmont between 20th and 45th. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Greg Oden’s Summer Slam: This event includes live music and entertainment, inflatable bounce rooms, miniature golf, video games, and a chance to meet Greg Oden. The event is being held to raise awareness about mentoring programs and Oregon Mentoring. Rose Garden, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Widmer Brothers Oktoberfest: This event includes brews and food for sale, live music and more. Widmer Brothers Brewery (929 N Russell), 3:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Cuban guitar and Tres player Ivan Alamo will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St., 503.233.5656.

  • Chance Hayden and Devin Phillips (jazz) will perform at RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way) at 8:00 pm. Visit the PDX Jazz website for details.

  • Eve’s Dilemma (website) will perform at East Burn (1800 E Burnside St) at 10:00 pm. Visit the East Burn website for more information.

  • Reina Collins (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. Visit the Rock Creek Tavern website for more information.

  • Library Writers Share Their Works: David Elsey (poetry), Angela Weyrens (zines), Kassten Alonso (fiction), Ann Haroun (poetry and fiction) will speak. Also, actor Ross Huffman-Kerr will perform an excerpt from a novel written by Rachael Short. Central Library, 1:30 pm–2:30 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

  • Dogs Gone Dancin’: Enjoy Canine Freestyle performances by regional teams, meet the dogs and ask questions. Rockwood Library, 2:00 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

Sunday, September 7

  • Portland Festival Symphony will perform at Foothills Park (Lake Oswego) at 4:00 pm. Visit the PFS website for more information.

  • Boy in the Bubble (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 W Burnside) at 5:00 pm. Visit the Music Millennium website for more information.

  • Lents Folk Festival: Kinzel and Hyde, Henry & Moggy, Tom May and Mary Flower will perform at Lents Park (SE 92nd Ave and Holgate) at 3:00 pm.

  • “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St., 503.233.5656.

  • Portland Classical Chinese Duo: Commemorate the Mid-Autumn festival with a traditional music performance by Jerry Lin on er-hu and Henry Hung on the bamboo flute. Woodstock Library, 2:00 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information.

  • Tigard Guitar Festival at Tigard Library: This month-long festival includes a variety of events such as concerts, films and workshops. Today, Galloway and Luckett will perform an outdoor concert of jazz-influenced originals, along with blues and bluegrass, at 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Jon Koonce (website) will perform at Edgefield at 5:00 pm. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

  • Brooklyn Neighborhood Ice Cream Social: From 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm, the Brooklyn neighborhood will have its annual ice cream social at Brooklyn Park (SE 10th Ave & Haig St). Kids’ activities, live music and more. Ice cream bars for 25 cents. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Sunday Cinema Classics at St. Johns Library: “North by Northwest” will be showing at 2:00 pm. Visit the Multnomah County Library website for more information. 

If you know of any other free events happening this weekend, please write a comment about it. If you’d like me to include an event in a future round-up, please contact me.

3 comments September 5th, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: August 22–24

*Update* Check the comments for more events!

Looks like the weather is going to perk up in time for the weekend. Gotta love that.

Admission is free for all events below. Have a great weekend!

All weekend (August 22–24)

  • Festa Italiana: Portland’s annual celebration of Italian-American culture includes live music, entertainment, kids’ activities, food and more at Pioneer Courthouse Square. Visit the event website for more information. 

Friday, August 22

  • Pete Krebs Jazz Trio will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St., 503.233.5656.

  • Mary Kadderly (website) and Dan Gildea will perform at RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way) at 8:00 pm. Visit the PDX Jazz website for details.

  • Concert at Tualatin Commons: The Sugar Beets will perform at 6:30 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • The Cowboy Heroes (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. Visit the Rock Creek Tavern website for more information.

  • Concert in Vancouver: Norman Sylvester Band will perform at 6:00 pm at Tech Center Park (172nd Ave & Mill Plain). Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Portland Movies in the Park: “The Mask of Zorro” will be showing at Irving Park (NE 7th Ave & Fremont St) at dusk (between 8:00 pm and 8:45 pm). Pre-movie entertainment starts at 6:30 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Flicks by the Fountain in Beaverton: “Goonies” will be showing at Beaverton City Park at dusk. Pre-movie entertainment will begin at 8:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Outdoor Movie in Vancouver: “Bee Movie” will be showing at Tech Center Park (172nd Ave & Mill Plain) at sunset (around 9:00 pm). Visit the event website for more information.

  • Movie in Wilsonville: “Barnyard” will be showing at Memorial Park. Lawn opens at 8:15 pm; movie starts at dusk. Visit the event website for more information (click on “Movies in the Park” under City Seasonal Events). 

  • Masque Alfresco will perform Goldoni’s “Servant of Two Masters” at 6:30 pm at Shute Park Amphitheatre in Hillsboro. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Author Win McCormack will talk about his new book “You Don’t Know Me: A Citizen’s Guide to Republican Family Values” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside. Visit the Powell’s website for more information.

Saturday, August 23

  • Oregon Symphony Festival and Concert: At Mt. Scott Park (SE 72nd & Harold), this family-friendly event starts at 2:00 pm with performances by local entertainers, instrument petting zoos, art displays, and more. At 7:00 pm, the Oregon Symphony will perform music from the worlds of opera, ballet, television, film and Broadway. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Mocha Moms Back-to-School Education and Health Fair: This event includes entertainment for kids, free food, and information on kids’ nutrition, education and more. Reflections Coffeehouse & Bookstore (446 NE Killingsworth), 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Geek Fair 2008: Free Geek Community Technology Center is celebrating its eighth anniversary with a street party including live music, kids’ activities, and more. 1731 SE 10th Ave, noon to 6:00 pm. Find more information at the event website or here. 

  • Electronics Recycling Event: Bring your unwanted electronic products to the Portland Expo Center (2060 North Marine Drive) to be recycled for free. 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Find more information here.

  • Crocheted Coral Reef Community Project Celebration: This event celebrates the creation of a crocheted coral reef by more than 35 artists. The project’s purpose is to increase awareness of the world’s endangered coral reefs. Gossamer (2418 E. Burnside St), 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Portland Zine Symposium: This two-day event (August 23–24) will be held in the Smith Memorial Ballroom on the Portland State University Campus. The symposium includes workshops, panel discussions and information on zines and zine culture. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Matt Dishman Community Center “Block Party”: This community event includes refreshments, music, arts & crafts, free swim, and more. Noon to 4:00 pm. Visit the Portland Parks website for more information. 

  • Far Southwest Uniting Neighbors Picnic and Ice Cream Social: Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, appetites, and favorite food. This is an event for all ages and will include ice cream, games and activities. PCC Sylvania (on the field above the track), 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. More information can be found here. 

  • Ceremonial Opening of the Vancouver Land Bridge: To celebrate the completion of the Vancouver Land Bridge, the public is invited to participate in an inaugural walk, and listen to speeches by artist Maya Lin and others. Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, 9:00 am. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Dedication of the Bird Blind at the Sandy River Delta: The public is invited to take a family-friendly one-mile walk to the completed elliptical bird blind on the Sandy River Delta in Troutdale. At 4:00 pm, there will be an ice cream social and speeches by artist Maya Lin and others. For more information (particularly about parking), visit the event website. 

  • Portland author Lance Kramer will present activities for kids from his book “Great Ancient China Projects You Can Build Yourself” at Airplay Café (701 E. Burnside St) at 11:00 am. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Portland Concerts in the Park: Providence Stage Band (40s big band) will perform at Laurelhurst Park (SE 35 & Oak) at 5:30 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Gordon Lee will perform at RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way) at 8:00 pm. Visit the PDX Jazz website for details.

  • Jon Garcia (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

  • 75th Anniversary Hoedown at Rock Creek Tavern: The Tavern is celebrating with performances by The Brothers Jam, Old Elbows and 2 Licks 2 Many; kids’ entertainment by “The Balloon Guy” Joe Mishkin; and food and drink specials. For the schedule of events, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.

  • Portland Movies in the Park: “The Princess Bride” will be showing at Lents Park (SE 92nd Ave & Holgate Blvd) at dusk (between 8:00 pm and 8:45 pm). Pre-movie entertainment starts at 6:30 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Portland Movies in the Park: “Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who” will be showing at Hazeltine Park (5416 SE Flavel Dr) at dusk (between 8:00 pm and 8:45 pm). Pre-movie entertainment starts at 6:30 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Outdoor Movie at Tualatin Commons: “Hairspray” will be showing at about 9:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Outdoor Movie in Troutdale: “My Dog Skip” will be showing at dark (approximately 8:40 pm). Visit the event website for more information.

  • Portland Actors Ensemble will perform “The Two Gentlemen of Verona” at Fernhill Park (NE 37th Ave & Ainsworth St, on the NE 41st Ave side) at 3:00 pm. Visit the PAE website for details.

  • Masque Alfresco will perform Moliere’s “School for Wives” at 6:30 pm at Shute Park Amphitheatre in Hillsboro. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Author Jill Malone will talk about her book “Red Audrey and the Roping” at 4:00 pm at In Other Words Women’s Books and Resources (8 NE Killingsworth St). Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Author Kelli Stanley will do a book signing at Murder by the Book (3210 SE Hawthorne Blvd) at 2:00 pm. Visit the MBTB website for more information. 

Sunday, August 24

  • Portland Zine Symposium: This two-day event (August 23–24) will be held in the Smith Memorial Ballroom on the Portland State University Campus. The symposium includes workshops, panel discussions and information on zines and zine culture. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Collector Car and Wooden Boat Show in Lake Oswego: The car show will be held at George Rogers Park and will include about 200 cars. The boat show will be held at the Lake Oswego Corporation docks and at least 30 classic wooden boats will be on display. 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. More information can be found here or here.

  • Lents Folk Festival: Misty River, Anne Weiss and friends, and Chico Schwall and Dick Weissman will perform at Lents Park (SE 92nd Ave and Holgate) at 2:00 pm.

  • Pickin’ on Sunday at Doug Fir: Portland Cello Project and Chris Robley will perform at 3:00 pm on the patio. Visit the Doug Fir website for details.

  • Forest Music in Tryon Creek State Park: Sweet Thunder (jazz) will perform at Tryon Creek Park at 2:00 pm. Visit the Tryon website for more information.

  • Lake Oswego Concerts in the Park: Misty River will perform at Millennium Plaza Park at 6:00 pm. Visit the Lake Oswego website for more information.

  • Jack McMahon (website) will perform at Edgefield at 5:00 pm. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

  • ”Raising Arizona” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St., 503.233.5656.

  • Portland Actors Ensemble will perform “The Two Gentlemen of Verona” at Fernhill Park (NE 37th Ave & Ainsworth St, on the NE 41st Ave side) at 3:00 pm. Visit the PAE website for details.

  • Masque Alfresco will perform Goldoni’s “Servant of Two Masters” at 6:30 pm at Shute Park Amphitheatre in Hillsboro. Visit the event website for more information.

If you know of any other free events happening this weekend, please write a comment about it. If you’d like me to include an event in a future round-up, please contact me.

5 comments August 22nd, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: August 15–17

*Update* Check the comments for more events!

It is 88 degrees in my house, and all I can think about is Elaine from “Seinfeld” yelling, “The heat! My god, the heat!”

Admission is free for the events below. Be sure to drink plenty of water at those outdoor events. Have a great weekend!

All weekend (August 15–17)

  • Arabian Sport Horse Championship: More than 100 Arabian horses will compete in a variety of events. DevonWood Equestrian Center (on 99W about one mile south of Sherwood). All-day event starting at 8:00 am each day. For more information, visit the event website.

Friday, August 15

  • Kidical Mass Bike Ride: This monthly guided bike ride for kids and their families has multiplied. There will be several rides taking place around the city. The event website has most details. In addition, the SW ride will meet at Capitol Hill Elementary and ride to Gabriel Park (1.4 miles). At Gabriel Park, there will be watermelon and a potluck. Also, a fifth ride will start at Sellwood Park by the pool and go up the Springwater Corridor then back into North Sellwood. For updated information, contact Angela: angela[at]bta4bikes[dot]org.

  • Portland SummerFest Opera in the Park: Met Opera baritone Richard Zeller and others will perform some of “Lucia di Lammermoor” by Donizetti at Washington Park Amphitheater Stage at 6:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Robert Walter (website) will perform at Music Millennium at 6:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Mood Area 52 (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St., 503.233.5656.

  • John Gross, Dave Frishberg and Charlie Doggett will perform at RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way) at 8:00 pm. Visit the PDX Jazz website for details.

  • Concerts at Tualatin Commons: The Insomniacs (pop) will perform at 6:30 pm. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • The Old Yellers (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Visit the Edgefield website for more information.

  • Scott Gallegos (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. Visit the Rock Creek Tavern website for more information.

  • Flicks on the Bricks: “National Lampoon’s Vacation” will be showing at Pioneer Courthouse Square at dusk. For more information, visit the Pioneer Courthouse Square website.

  • Portland Movies in the Park: “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” (1971 version) will be showing at Kenilworth Park (SE 34th Ave & Holgate Blvd) at dusk (between 8:00 pm and 8:45 pm). Pre-movie entertainment starts at 6:30 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Multnomah Outdoor Cinema: “School of Rock” will be showing at Multnomah Arts Center (7688 SW Capitol Hwy) at dusk. Teen rock bands The Bang and The Vegaleague will provide pre-movie entertainment from 7:30 pm to 8:45 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Flicks by the Fountain in Beaverton: “Cheaper by the Dozen” will be showing at Beaverton City Park at dusk. Pre-movie entertainment will begin at 8:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Outdoor Movies in Vancouver: “Singing in the Rain” will be showing at Esther Short Park at sunset (around 9:00 pm). Visit the event website for more information.

  • Outdoor Movies in Milwaukie: “The Wizard of Oz” will be playing at Linwood Elementary (11909 SE Linwood Avenue) at dusk (about 8:30 pm). Visit the event website for more information.

  • Masque Alfresco will perform Moliere’s “School for Wives” at 6:30 pm at George Rogers Park Memorial Garden in Lake Oswego. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Larry Crane will talk about his book “Tape Op: The Book About Creative Music Recording, Vol. II” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside. Visit the Powell’s website for more information.

Saturday, August 16

  • Hawthorne Day Street Fair: There’s so much going on at this event: live music, free fitness classes from One With Heart, children’s activities and entertainment, free matinees at the Bagdad Theater, and more. 11:00 am to 6:00 pm on SE Hawthorne from 30th to 50th. Visit the event website for the full schedule of activities. 

  • Multnomah Days Celebration: This event includes a parade, more than 60 vendors (art, food, etc.), roving musicians, street performers, interactive booths and more. The parade starts at 10:00 am, and the party continues until 5:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Portland Adult Soap Box Derby: About 40 racers will take part in this annual event at Mount Tabor Park (SE 60th & Salmon St), 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. View KPTV’s report on the upcoming race here. 

  • Seaport Celebration: Port of Portland will host kids’ activities, equipment demonstrations, and tours of the dock. Captain Bogg & Salty will perform at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm, and the ILWU will grill food while supplies last. Terminal 6 (7201 N. Marine Drive), 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Music Millennium’s Annual Customer Appreciation BBQ: The party runs from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm with a different band performing each hour. Music Millennium is located at East Burnside and 32nd. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Woodstock Family Picnic: The annual Woodstock Picnic includes live music, games and food vendors (or bring your own picnic). Woodstock Park (SE 47th at Steele Street) from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Fair: This event begins at noon with a parade followed by games, food vendors, informational booths and entertainment until 5:00 pm. Raymond Park (SE 118th Ave & Raymond St). More information can be found here. 

  • Portland Concerts in the Park: Conjunto Alegre (Caribbean dance party) will perform at Washington Park Amphitheater Stage at 6:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Lynn Darroch (website) will perform at RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way) at 8:00 pm. Visit the PDX Jazz website for details.

  • X-Angels (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern at 9:00 pm. Visit the Rock Creek Tavern website for more information.

  • Portland Movies in the Park: “Shane” will be showing at Sewallcrest Park (SE 31st Avenue & Market Street) at dusk (between 8:00 pm and 8:45 pm). Pre-movie entertainment starts at 6:30 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Outdoor Movies at Tualatin Commons: “Wizard of Oz” will be showing at about 9:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information.

  • Outdoor Movies in Clackamas: “Surf’s Up” will be playing at Pfeifer Park (14074 SE 139th Avenue) at dusk (about 8:30 pm). Visit the event website for more information.

  • Outdoor Movie in Troutdale: “Bee Movie” will be showing at Columbia Park at dark (approximately 8:40 pm). Visit the event website for more information.

  • Portland Actors Ensemble will perform “The Two Gentlemen of Verona” at Gabriel Park (SW 45th Avenue and SW Nevada Court, past the tennis courts) at 3:00 pm. Visit the PAE website for details.

  • Masque Alfresco will perform Goldoni’s “Servant of Two Masters” at 6:30 pm at George Rogers Park Memorial Garden in Lake Oswego. Visit the event website for more information.

Sunday, August 17

  • India Festival: The India Cultural Association of Portland invites all to enjoy Indian music, dancing, food and more at Pioneer Courthouse Square from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm. Visit the event website for more information. 

  • Lents Founder’s Day Celebration: This event kicks off with a parade at noon starting at the Wattles Boys and Girls Club and traveling north around Lents Park (SE 92nd & Holgate). At the park, there’ll be free food, music, kids’