Great list this week, thanks mainly to our state turning the big 1-5-0. A few V-day events too. Please write a comment about any events I missed.
Freebies
Before we get to the events, a few freebies:
Free Cookie: Hotlips Pizza will give a free heart-shaped cookie to the first 3,000 visitors on February 14. No purchase necessary. Open at 11:00 am. For more information, visit the Hotlips website.
Free Breakfast: Get a free breakfast and coffee at IKEA with this coupon (scroll to the bottom of the screen to see the coupon). Valid February 13–16.
Free 10-Minute Phone Call: 1-800-FREE411 is offering free 10-minute phone calls on Valentine’s Day from any landline or mobile phone in the US to any phone number in the US. If you call from your mobile, your provider will likely count those minutes. For more information, visit free411.com.
Free Events
Admission is free for all events below. Have a great weekend!
Friday, February 13
Portland Jazz Festival Free Events: Visit festival website for schedule.
Cascade Festival of African Films: “Clouds over Conakry” will be showing at 7:30 pm at Portland Community College Cascade Campus, Moriarty Bldg. 104 (705 N. Killingsworth St). For more information, visit the event website.
Portland Love Show (Art): This show features the work of more than 200 artists, as well as live music by Stumptown Sawyers. All ages. Please bring a canned food item to donate to the Oregon Food Bank. Olympic Mills Commerce Center (107 SE Washington St), 7:00 pm–12:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.
“Battlestar Galactica” Final Season: Join KUFO’s Cort and Fatboy each Friday night from January 16 through March 10 to watch the final 10 episodes of “Battlestar Galactica.” Bagdad Theater (3702 SE Hawthorne Blvd). Doors open at 9:00 pm; show at 10:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, contact the Bagdad Theater or KUFO.
Johnny and the Distractions will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 4:30 pm. All ages. For more information, visit the event website.
North Head (website) will perform at Kay’s Bar (6903 SE Milwaukie) at 9:30 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.
Richie Young, singer and songwriter for Loch Lomond, will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Special appearance by cellist and songstress Ashia. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.
James Faretheewell (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.
Cicada Omega (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern (10000 NW Old Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro) at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.
Poetry Reading: Ana Callan will read from “Duet With Hummingbird,” and Daniel Skach-Mills will read from “The Tao of Now.” Essex House, Community Room (1330 SW 3rd Ave), 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
“Citadel of the Spirit: Oregon’s Sesquicentennial Anthology”: In commemoration of Oregon’s 150th birthday, Nestucca Spit Press is proud to present its latest release, “Citadel of the Spirit: Oregon’s Sesquicentennial Anthology,” edited by Matt Love. Come to this once-in-a-lifetime birthday party featuring editor Love, who will be joined by Gina Ochsner, Brian Doyle, Bart King, Kaia Sand, David Horowitz, Katrine Barber, and others. Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Lincoln Movie Night: Screening of 1938 “Young Mr. Lincoln” starring Henry Fonda. 6:00 pm, Portland State University, Cramer Hall Room 494 (1721 SW Broadway). For more information, visit the Lincoln Bicentennial website.
Saturday, February 14
Portland Jazz Festival Free Events: Visit festival website for schedule.
Oregon Birthday Celebration at Oregon Historical Society: To celebrate Oregon’s 150th birthday, admission to OHS will be free on Saturday and Sunday. Festivities include educational family fun, cake, guest speakers, music and more. Saturday 10:00 am–5:00 pm, Sunday noon–5:00 pm. 1200 SW Park Ave. For more information, visit the event website.
Everything Green Oregon Expo: The Everything Green Oregon Expo is about making good choices, using less energy, shifting away from nonrenewable sources, and generally reducing the associated environmental impacts to our air, water, and land. The Expo will share ideas and concepts to begin and further a green lifestyle. Saturday 10:00 am–5:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am–4:00 pm. Oregon Convention Center (777 NE MLK, Jr. Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.
Zwickelmania: Oregon Brewers Guild Open House: To celebrate Oregon’s Sesquicentennial, more than 15 Portland-area breweries and brewpubs will offer tours, a chance to meet the brewers, and beer samples. 1:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information and a list of participating breweries, visit the event website.
Oregon Birthday Event at Tryon Creek State Park: Come to the park for exciting craft projects, guided hikes about Tryon Creek’s part in Oregon history, and birthday cake. 1:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
I Love Oregon: A Birthday Celebration: Come to Hillsdale Library for reflections and refreshments to celebrate Oregon’s birthday. Library staff will help you upload your Oregon story (print or audio) to the Oregon 150 website, to be archived for future generations. Hillsdale Library (1525 SW Sunset Blvd), 2:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
This Oregon Life: Stories About Your Oregon Experience: Do you have a memorable Oregonian moment to share? Whether you are new to Oregon or your family has lived here for generations, come and tell your story. Staff at the Central Library will be recording people’s stories for the Oregon 150 celebration. Please keep stories to five minutes. Light refreshments will be served. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 2:30 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
150 Years of Portland Architecture: In honor of Oregon’s 150th birthday, the Architectural Heritage Center is putting together a program illustrating 150 years of architecture in the Portland area. 701 SE Grand Ave, 10:00 am–4:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Beaverton’s Oregon Birthday Event: The Whiskey Flats Brass Band will celebrate Oregon’s birthday with a concert of late 19th century band music on authentic period instruments. Beaverton City Library (12375 SW 5th St, Beaverton), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Oregon Birthday Party in Hillsboro: Come eat birthday cake and learn more about your beautiful state at Shute Park Branch Library (775 SE 10th Ave, Hillsboro), 2:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Cascade Festival of African Films: “Abeni” will be showing at 7:30 pm at Portland Community College Cascade Campus, Moriarty Bldg. 104 (705 N. Killingsworth St). For more information, visit the event website.
“26 Ways I Love You”: The Working Theatre Collective will perform “26 Ways I Love You” in 14 different locations in Portland. The play is 30 minutes long. For the schedule and more information, visit the event website.
Artist Reception and Valentine’s Celebration at Gossamer: Meet artist Lisi Belz-McCarthy and view her Valentine-inspired art. Gossamer (2418 E. Burnside St), 3:00 pm–5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Valentine’s Day and Birthday Celebration at A Children’s Place Bookstore: Celebrate Oregon’s birthday, Lincoln’s birthday and Valentine’s Day at ACP. Author Deborah Hopkinson will present her books “Abe Lincoln Crosses a Creek” and “Apples to Oregon.” After the book talk, the festivities will continue with Valentine’s Day card making and cake. 4807 NE Fremont St, 11:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.
Valentine’s Day Pirate and Sea Turtle Spectacular: Portland authors and wildlife filmmakers Laura and Robert Sams will be at Captain Henry’s Pirate Store (in the Lloyd Center) from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm. They will be sharing songs and stories from their new children’s book, “A Pirate’s Quest,” as well as scenes from their new underwater movie “The Riddle in a Bottle.” Free posters for all children who attend. For more information, contact Laura and Robert Sams or Captain Henry’s Pirate Store.
Chocolate Dessert Tasting and Sneak Peek of “The Vegan Scoop” Cookbook: Chef and consummate romantic Wheeler del Toro will be hosting a free chocolate dessert sampling at The Hungry Tiger Too. Desserts will be created from recipes featured in his new cookbook “The Vegan Scoop.” The Hungry Tiger Too (207 SE 12th Ave, 238-4321), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit Neighborhood Notes.
Anti-Valentine Write-Off: For Valentine’s Day, the Independent Publishing Resource Center is hosting a Write-Off. The theme is Love, but not as you have ever experienced it before. In each competitive round, a new genre will be picked from a hat (e.g., an ode, a movie script, how-to, obituary), and contestants will write their brains out about love in the given genre under a time limit. Cool prizes go to the contestants who demonstrate the most versatility and originality. 917 SW Oak St #218, 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Oregon Symphony Storytime: This series focuses on books, music, instruments, sound and fun musical crafts. Each week features a visit from an Oregon Symphony musician who will play and provide an introduction to his or her instrument and orchestral music. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Northwest Library (2300 NW Thurman St), 2:00 pm–3:00 pm. Most appropriate for preschool-age children. For more information, visit the event website.
“Who’s in Hare’s House?” Puppet Show: In this East African tale, Sungura the hare returns to find someone inside his house, and it must be a monster. Presented by Tears of Joy Theatre. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Most appropriate for grades K–5. Holgate Library (7905 SE Holgate Blvd), 12:00 pm–12:45 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Will West (website) will perform with cellist Skip von Kuske at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.
HaléLupé (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.
Garcia Birthday Band (website) will perform at Rock Creek Tavern (10000 NW Old Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro) at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the Rock Creek Tavern website.
Kimono Workshop: There are many rules to wearing a kimono. A member of the Wakai Tea Association will model how to choose and wear a kimono. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 12:00 pm–1:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Ikebana Demonstration: Keiko Kodachi, a teacher at the Sogetsu School of Ikebana in Portland, will present a demonstration of Ikebana. Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arrangement. West Linn Public Library (1595 Burns St, West Linn), 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Tax Help: Trained tax preparers will volunteer their time and expertise to help you with your tax forms. Bring last year’s return and this year’s paperwork. This program is sponsored by AARP. Gregory Heights Library (7921 NE Sandy Blvd), 10:00 am–2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Ooligan Author Readings: Tom Fuller will read from his and Art Ayre’s upcoming book, “Oregon at Work.” Michael Cooper, author of “42,” and Michael Munk, author of “The Portland Red Guide,” will also read their works. Oregon Historical Society (1200 SW Park Ave), 10:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.
Sunday, February 15
Portland Jazz Festival Free Events: Visit festival website for schedule.
Oregon Birthday Celebration at Oregon Historical Society: To celebrate Oregon’s 150th birthday, admission to OHS will be free on Saturday and Sunday. Festivities include educational family fun, cake, guest speakers, music and more. Saturday 10:00 am–5:00 pm, Sunday noon–5:00 pm. 1200 SW Park Ave. For more information, visit the event website.
Everything Green Oregon Expo: The Everything Green Oregon Expo is about making good choices, using less energy, shifting away from nonrenewable sources, and generally reducing the associated environmental impacts to our air, water, and land. The Expo will share ideas and concepts to begin and further a green lifestyle. Saturday 10:00 am–5:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am–4:00 pm. Oregon Convention Center (777 NE MLK, Jr. Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.
Chinese New Year Celebration in Vancouver: Learn about Chinese New Year customs and fun facts. Watch Portland Lee’s Association Lion Dance Team’s performance. Enjoy entertainment from students of Portland Chinese Art & Cultural Center and Salmon Creek Chinese School. See demonstrations of Chinese calligraphy. Participate in making fun and beautiful Chinese crafts. Firstenburg Community Center (700 NE 136th Ave), 2:00 pm–3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Japanese Dance Performance: Enjoy a performance of traditional Japanese dance called “Buyo” by Portland’s Fujinami-Kai School of Dance. Northwest Library (2300 NW Thurman St), 1:30 pm–2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Portland Taiko (website) will perform at the Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 1:00 pm–1:45 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Come to Your Senses Day: Celebrate Come to Your Senses Day with Courtenay Hameister, Chelsea Cain, Karen Karbo, Erin Ergenbright, McKinley (from Dirty Martini), and Michele Gendelman, the contributors to “What Was I Thinking?: 58 Bad Boyfriend Stories.” Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Kirk Duncan & the Localized Juice Embargo (website) will perform at Kay’s Bar (6903 SE Milwaukie) at 8:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.
Mary Flower (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.
“Il Postino” will be showing at Press Club at 8:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.
World Travel 101: This workshop is geared toward the first-time traveler planning a trip abroad. Veteran travelers will offer tips on everything from budgeting, packing, finding accommodations, managing health issues, cultural behavior, transportation, language barriers, getting the most out of your trip and more. Gregory Heights Library (7921 NE Sandy Blvd), 2:00 pm–3:00 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.
In my roundup of New Year’s Eve freebies, I forgot to mention that the lights on Peacock Lane will be on from 6:00 pm to midnight. It’s also the last night, so if you’ve been meaning to go, go!
I went last night for the first time in my 15 years as a Portland resident. I liked it. My recommendation would be to walk through, rather than drive. I walked, and I can’t imagine that driving would be as much fun. With walking, you can stop at a house that interests you and take pictures or just take it in. The street is short, and there were a lot of little kids walking around. Finding parking nearby was no problem, though I’m not sure how it will be on New Year’s Eve.
If you’re interested, you can see my pictures below or at Flickr.
For more information on Peacock Lane, visit the official website.
All TriMet service will be free on New Year’s Eve after 8:00 pm. Buses, the Streetcar and the Red MAX line will run on regular schedules. Yellow and Blue MAX lines will have special late-night service. For schedules and details, check the TriMet website.
Free (No Cover) Events
For kids:
Kids Party at Borders: Bring the whole family to Borders on New Year’s Eve afternoon to celebrate the countdown to 2009. The party starts at 2:00 pm. There’ll be games, crafts, and a special parade to celebrate the holiday. Check Border’s store locator for information on the store nearest you.
For adults (sorted by venue):
Beulahland: DJ Atom 13, midnight champagne toast, and much fun. 118 NE 28th Ave, 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.
Cornelius Pass Roadhouse:Old Elbows will perform. 4045 NW Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro, 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.
Edgefield:Lincoln Crockett & Lucky Finn will perform in the Winery at 7:00 pm. The Quick & Easy Boys will perform in the Theater at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. 2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale. For more information, visit the event website.
Kelly’s Olympian: Dance party with DJs Teenage and Koto. 426 SW Washington, 10:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.
Kennedy School:Freak Mountain Ramblers will perform in the Gym at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. 5736 NE 33rd Ave. For more information, visit the event website.
Pix Patisserie: Free chocolate buffet to the first 100 guests at each store who purchase a beverage. Pix staff will be handing out tickets starting at 11:00 pm to all beverage customers until the tickets are gone. Get there early. All stores open until 1:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.
Rock Creek Tavern: Wildseed will perform at 9:00 pm. All ages until 10:00 pm. 10000 NW Old Cornelius Pass Rd, Hillsboro. For more information, visit the event website.
Admission is free for all events below. Please contact appropriate event organizers or venues for weather-related cancellations. Have a great weekend!
All weekend
Peacock Lane: The lights will be on from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm each day. Peacock Lane is between SE Stark St and SE Belmont St and one block east of SE 39th. For more information, visit the event website.
Friday, December 26
John Vecchiarelli will perform at East Burn (1800 E. Burnside St) at 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
John Bunzow (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.
Beth Willis & Todd C. (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.
Saturday, December 27
Kwanzaa Celebration: Learn more about the meaning of Kwanzaa and share your stories: ones you’ve heard, ones you’ve made up, ones passed down from your family. Featuring fabric art by renowned artist Adriene Cruz. Light refreshments will be served. North Portland Library (512 N. Killingsworth St), 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Winter Craft Time at Beaverton Library: Winter Craft Time is for children in kindergarten through 5th grade. You can drop by any time between 10:00 am and 2:00 pm and create something fun to take home. 12375 SW 5th St. For more information, visit the event website.
Blair St. Mugwumps (website) will perform at East Burn (1800 E. Burnside St) at 10:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Miss Michael Jodell, Matt Brown & Co. (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.
J*Malem (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.
Reina Collins & The Saloonatics (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.
“Kung Fu Panda” will be showing at Camas Library (625 NE 4th Ave) at 3:00 pm. Popcorn served. For more information, visit the event website.
Sunday, December 28
Progression (Hosted by Ben Darwish): Progression is what every other jam session isn’t. Original compositions, odd time signatures, free form improvisation, and no rules. Every last Sunday at The Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Jack McMahon (website) will perform at Edgefield at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.
“A Christmas Story” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.
“Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas” will be showing at Tigard Library (13125 SW Hall Blvd) at 1:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Author John Galligan will talk about his book “The Clinch Knot” at Murder by the Book (3210 SE Hawthorne Blvd) at 5:00 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.
I hope you are enjoying the holiday season. Thank you for all you do to support this blog: by reading, offering suggestions, and spreading the word. Let’s save lots of money in 2009.
On December 24, Peet’s Coffee will be giving away complimentary cups of brewed coffee and tea.
In addition to passing out drinks, Peet’s employees will give people the opportunity to donate to a local charity. Each store has chosen a different charity, and Peet’s will match up to $1,000 in donations per store. Participating locations in the Portland Metro area, and the charities they have chosen, are:
Oregon locations:
NE Broadway (1441 NE Broadway): Street Roots
Downtown Portland (508 SW Broadway): Cascadia Health Center
Hawthorne (3646 SE Hawthorne Blvd): Alternative Services Oregon, Inc.
Brewery Blocks (1114 NW Couch St): Make-A-Wish Foundation of Oregon
Lake Oswego (345 First St, Ste #111): Children’s Center of Clackamas County
Happy Valley (15918 SE Happy Valley Town Cnt): Multiple Sclerosis Society of Portland
Hillsboro (19250 NW Cornell Rd): Hillsboro Fire Fighters Random Acts
Bridgeport Village (Building G, 7471 SW Bridgeport Rd): Sexual Abuse Resource Center (SARC)
Vancouver locations:
Vancouver (16501 SE Mill Plain Blvd, Suite 100): John Kyle Daggett Memorial Foundation
Salmon Creek (13307 NE Hwy 99, Suite 115): Mentors of Boys
More information on the charity drive can be found here.
Planning to buy tickets for Portland Center Stage’s production of “A Christmas Carol”? Use the promo code Dickens to get a $5.00 discount on adult tickets. You can purchase tickets online, over the phone at 503.445.3700, or in person at the PCS box office. If you’re purchasing online, follow this link and enter Dickens in the “Have a Promo Code?” box.
“A Christmas Carol” runs through December 28. Portland Center Stage is located at 128 NW Eleventh Avenue in downtown Portland. The box office is open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, 7 days a week. Closed on Christmas Day.
For more information, send an email to boxoffice @ pcs.org or call 503.445.3700.
Admission is free for all events below. If the crazy weather continues, please contact appropriate event organizers or venues for last-minute cancellations. Have a great weekend!
All weekend
Christmas Ship Parade will be cruising the Willamette and Columbia Rivers each evening. For more information, visit the event website. On December 20, the City of Lake Oswego plans to host a watch party at Foothills Park (link).
Peacock Lane: The lights will be on from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm each day. Peacock Lane is between SE Stark St and SE Belmont St and one block east of SE 39th. For more information, visit the event website.
Friday, December 19
Fifteenth Annual Sing-Along Messiah: The Sing-Along is truly a sing-along. You, the audience, will sing all of the Messiah Choruses, some of which are seldom sung. Children are encouraged to attend. You do not have to sing—or even want to sing—to attend. Central Lutheran Church (1820 NE 21st Ave), 8:00 pm. Doors open at 7:00 pm. Seating is on a first-come first-served basis, and it fills up fast. For more information, visit the event website.
Northwest Professional Dance Project: The dancers will perform some of the best works from NWPDP’s 2008 season as well as new dances from NWPDP’s Artistic Director, Sarah Slipper. December 19 and 20, 6:00 pm, in the rotunda lobby of the Portland Center for the Performing Arts (1111 SW Broadway). For more information, visit the event website.
Barbara Lusch will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel, 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.
Will West (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.
Local Celtic harpists Jennifer Pratt-Walter and Valerie Blessley will perform at 7:00 pm at Cedar Mill Community Library (12505 NW Cornell Rd). For more information, visit the event website.
Mary Flower and Jesse Withers (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.
Sonny Hess Trio (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.
Friday Family Flick in Hillsboro: “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull” will be showing at Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy) at 6:30 pm. Popcorn and movie snacks provided. For more information, visit the event website.
Saturday, December 20
Oregon History Museum Free Day: Admission is free on the third Saturday of each month. For more information, visit the museum website.
Northwest Professional Dance Project: The dancers will perform some of the best works from NWPDP’s 2008 season as well as new dances from NWPDP’s Artistic Director, Sarah Slipper. December 19 and 20, 6:00 pm, in the rotunda lobby of the Portland Center for the Performing Arts (1111 SW Broadway). For more information, visit the event website.
Free Horse Carriage Rides in Sellwood and Westmoreland: In Sellwood, the route will be along 13th Avenue and in Westmoreland along Milwaukie Avenue. Just stand at any bus stop on these routes marked with the Decemberville poster for a chance at a ride. For more information, visit the event website.
Kaitlyn ni Donovan (website) will be perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.
John Stowell will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel, 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.
Mary Flower and Jesse Withers (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.
X-Angels (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.
Qi Gong is the study of the body’s energy to improve mental and physical health. Come learn the breathing techniques of Qi Gong. Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 2:00 pm–3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Film Discussion With Curt Ellis on “The Greening of Southie”: Local film producer/director Curt Ellis (“King Corn”) will talk about his and Ian Cheney’s new film, “The Greening of Southie.” The film tells the story of Boston’s first residential “green” building, through the eyes of the steel-toed construction crew that sets out to build it. Hollywood Library (4040 NE Tillamook St), 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Winter Movie Weekend at Beaverton Library: Saturday’s movie is “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” Sunday’s movie is “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.” All ages. Beaverton City Library Auditorium (12375 SW Fifth), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Sunday, December 21
Caroling on the Commons in Tualatin: Join the Tualatin Valley Community Band for an evening of traditional Christmas caroling on the Lake of the Commons in Tualatin. The band will provide musical accompaniment, while local sponsors will provide cookies, cocoa, cider and coffee. Patio between Ben Lake building and Hayden’s Lakefront Grill, 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Morton’s Steakhouse is giving away free mini-cheeseburgers from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm, according to Willamette Week. The deal celebrates the opening of Morton’s first restaurant 30 years ago. 213 SW Clay Street. Contact information can be found at Morton’s website.
“The Flight and the Fall,” Root Beer and French Fry: Artist Abraham Ingle’s new radio show, “The Flight and the Fall” is Portland’s version of NPR’s “This American Life.” From Willamette Week: ”Ingle’s calm, to-the-point language gives the program a familiar rhythm, and his exploration of Portlanders’ narratives mirrors TAL’s insightful flavor. Fabulous foursome Root Beer and French Fry will accompany the episode’s live debut.” Valentine’s (232 SW Ankeny St), 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Valentine’s website.
Holiday Guitar Music: Jeffrey Ashton presents a seasonal program of guitar music, featuring Renaissance and Baroque selections, as well as standards and carols. St. Johns Library (7510 N. Charleston Ave), 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Holiday Sing-Along in Hillsboro: Bring the whole family to sing holiday songs with musical accompaniment by local band Runway 3. Lyric sheets will be provided. Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy), 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Winter Solstice Family Event in Tualatin: Crafts, food and music. Something for every age. Tualatin Public Library (18878 SW Martinazzi), 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Toys in the Hood Concert: Tragedy, Cool Nutz, and others will perform at Roseland Grill (8 NW Sixth Ave) at 7:00 pm. Admission is free with donation of two toys for the Salvation Army. All ages. For more information, click here.
Mary Flower and Jesse Withers (website) will perform at Edgefield at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.
“The Nightmare Before Christmas” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.
Winter Movie Weekend at Beaverton Library: Saturday’s movie is “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” Sunday’s movie is “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian.” All ages. Beaverton City Library Auditorium (12375 SW Fifth), 2:00 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.
Admission is free for all events below. Have a great weekend!
All weekend
Christmas Ship Parade will be cruising the Willamette and Columbia Rivers each evening. For more information, visit the event website.
Friday, December 12
Annual Winter Solstice in Milwaukie: Come warm by the bonfire and watch the Christmas Ship Parade cruise the Willamette River at the Jefferson Street Boat Ramp at Milwaukie’s Riverfront Park. The ships are scheduled to come by around 7:00 pm, and the Dickens Carolers will perform from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. All ages are encouraged to attend. For more information, visit the event website.
Lower Fremont Winterfest Artwalk and Sidewalk Sale: 40+ local artists and crafters, discounts, live music, and more. Sales will help support local neighborhood families in need. NE Fremont at 13th & 14th Avenues, 4:00 pm–9:00 pm. Find more information here.
Multnomah Arts Center Fall Theatre Showcase presents an adaptation of “The Stinky Cheese Man” by Jon Scieszka at 7:00 pm on Friday and 2:00 pm on Saturday. Admission is free with donations gratefully accepted. 7688 SW Capitol Hwy. For more information, visit the event website.
Pink Slip Holiday Office Party: Holocene is hosting a party featuring DJ Hoop Dreams, Dr. Rev. Adam, and Freaky Outy behind the decks. 1001 SE Morrison, 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.
Tony Pacini (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel, 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.
Pete Krebs Trio (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.
‘Couv Fest Concert: Aleen, Silversafe, Throwback Suburbia and The Reds will perform. All ages. Westfield Vancouver Mall (8700 NE Vancouver Mall Dr), 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Lauren Sheehan (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.
The Naysayers (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.
Saturday, December 13
Tuba Christmas: Nearly 200 tuba players will converge on Pioneer Courthouse Square and treat the public to a festive holiday concert. Audience members are encouraged to sing along to familiar carols. 1:30 pm–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Mortgage and Foreclosure Summit: The event offers workshops on how to avoid foreclosure and lending scams, as well as an opportunity for attendees to share their stories, network with legislators, and access civic and state agencies. 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at PCC Southeast Center at 82nd and Division. More information can be found here.
Lower Fremont Winterfest Artwalk and Sidewalk Sale: 40+ local artists and crafters, discounts, live music, and more. Sales will help support local neighborhood families in need. NE Fremont at 13th & 14th Avenues, 11:00 am–4:00 pm. Find more information here.
Kanawaksooma Celebration (Quiet Thunder): This event offers authentic music, dance, crafts, food, and entertainment for the whole family. Activities for children include dancing, face painting, and craft tables. Mt. Hood Community College (26000 SE Stark St, Gresham), noon to 10:00 pm. A free salmon and buffalo feed including a native blessing will begin at 5:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
West Linn Holiday Parade: The parade starts at 10:00 am and runs along Willamette Falls Drive in the historic Willamette area. After the parade, stop by the Firte Station to donate a new unwrapped toy for TVF&R Toy & Joy Program, visit with Santa, stay for a horse-drawn carriage ride and visit all the local shops for discounts. For more information, visit the event website.
Multnomah Arts Center Fall Theatre Showcase presents an adaptation of “The Stinky Cheese Man” by Jon Scieszka at 7:00 pm on Friday and 2:00 pm on Saturday. Admission is free with donations gratefully accepted. 7688 SW Capitol Hwy. For more information, visit the event website.
Children’s Play “Raven Steals the Sun”: Created and performed by Emily Alexander of Tears of Joy Theatre, based on a Native American tale. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Most suitable for grades K–5. Capitol Hill Library (10723 SW Capitol Highway), 11:00 am–11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.
Penny’s Puppet Productions will treat families to a spinoff of “The Mitten,” a traditional Ukrainian tale. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Belmont Library (1038 SE 39th Ave), 3:00 pm–3:45 pm. Most appropriate for preschool-age children. For more information, visit the event website.
Second Saturday at the Water Center in Vancouver: Families are invited to participate in craft activities: decorate a frame, make snowflakes from coffee filters, and transform last year’s calendar into beads and gift boxes. 4600 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Lisa Stringfield and Lara Michelle (website) will be perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.
Charlie Stanford will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel, 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.
Reina Collins (website) will perform at Edgefield at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.
The Chapman Swifts (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.
“Private Space” Live Video Performance and Interactive Installation: Attendees will create and experience visual jazz. Other exhibits include a multi-touch table, a body painting session and a light display titled Exhibit 2. Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave), 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Sunday, December 14
Peacock Lane Car-Free Night: The street will be closed to allow foot and bike traffic only from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Information can be found at OregonLive and the Peacock Lane website. (see comments for this post)
Posada Milagro: Miracle Theatre Group invites the whole family to enjoy the Posada Milagro, a holiday celebration filled with Latin American theatre, music, dance, arts and crafts workshops, traditional foods, and more. All activities will be conducted in Spanish. El Centro Milagro (525 SE Stark St), 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
Gresham Community Choir Holiday Concert: The concert features a variety of holiday music. Last year over 600 lbs of food for the hungry was collected. This year, the choir’s goal is 1000 lbs. Reynolds District Arts and Communication Center (1698 SW Cherry Park Road, Troutdale), 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.
“The King of Comedy” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.
Murder by the Book Open House: Appearances by local authors Carola Dunn, Larry Karp, and Kate Kingsbury, with special guest appearances by Chelsea Cain, Bill Cameron, Phil Margolin, and Sharan Newman. Snacks too. 3210 SE Hawthorne Blvd, noon 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.
Two pieces of holiday-related news to share with you:
Nutcracker Ticket Deal
$25 tickets are on sale now for selected performances of The Nutcracker, an Oregon Ballet Theatre production. The ticket deal applies to these performances:
December 19, 7:00 pm
December 21, 1:00 pm
December 22, 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm
December 23, 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm
To get the deal, you must purchase tickets online or from the PCPA box office using the code word MARIE. The price does not include service charges.
Out of curiosity, I looked online to see what seats the $25 price applied to. The website offered me tickets that were originally $87, so this is definitely a deal worth checking out.
To purchase tickets online, go to this Ticketmaster website. Find the date you want and click “Find Tickets.” Under “Promotions and Special Offers,” type MARIE in the box and select the number of tickets you want. For price, select “Any Price.”
To purchase tickets from the PCPA box office, simply go there and mention the code MARIE.
PCPA Box Office
1111 SW Broadway
Portland, OR 97205
Open Monday through Saturday
10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Christmas Ship Parade
In case you haven’t looked at the sidebar recently, I wanted to let you know that the Christmas Ship Parade officially starts tonight on both the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. Fleets of boats will be out each night through December 21. For more information, check the parade website.
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