Posts filed under 'Museums'

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: May 1–3

Remember: On Sunday, May 3, admission to OMSI is just $2.

Also, the new Dutch Bros. location in Tigard will be giving away free drinks all day on Friday, May 1. 11746 SW Pacific Hwy in Tigard, Oregon. Right on 99W off of HWY 217.

Admission is free for all events below. For more concerts, visit Concert Co-op.

Have a great weekend!

Friday, May 1

  • Cinco De Mayo Fiesta at Waterfront Park: Admission is free before 4:00 pm on Friday. For more information, visit the event website.

  • May Day Celebration: Watch local kids skip around the May pole, reenacting a century-old Portland public schools tradition. Enjoy other kids’ entertainment, live music, belly dancing and more. Kennedy School (5736 NE 33rd Ave), 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Free Admission Night at Portland Children’s Museum: Admission to the museum is free from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. 4015 SW Canyon Road. For more information, visit the event website.

  • First Friday Art Openings: Check the Central Eastside Arts District website for a list of open galleries. In addition, Multnomah Art Center, Artful Goods, Tilde, and Press Club will host artist receptions.

  • 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: “Camas First Fridays” occur throughout the year on each first Friday of the month. Art exhibits featuring local artists, dining, and themed shopping events provide fun for all. 5:00 pm–8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Southerly, Soft Tags, and Themes will perform at Doug Fir (830 E. Burnside) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Marianne Dissard (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Bruce Kracke (website) will perform at Sellwood Public House (8132 SE 13th Ave) at 8:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Marcus Reynolds will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

  • Clear Creek (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • Author Paul Dickson will talk about his book “The Dickson Baseball Dictionary” at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Author Emily Whitman will talk about her book “Radiant Darkness” at 7:00 pm at Looking Glass Bookstore (7983 SE 13th Ave). For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, May 2

  • Home Ownership Preservation Event: This event will provide information and workshops on refinancing your loan, avoiding foreclosure scams, government housing programs, and more. Portland Memorial Coliseum (300 Winning Way), 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Hawaiian Festival: Enjoy hula performances from Washington and Oregon halau, Hawaiian food, music, and more. Thomas Jefferson Middle School (3000 NW 119th St, Vancouver), 11:00 am–7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Free Comic Book Day: Several comic book shops will be giving away free comic books. To find a participating shop near you, visit the event website and use the shop locator on the left side of the screen.

  • Food Art for Kids: Using Saxton Freymann’s books for inspiration, author and artist Addie Boswell will help kids make characters out of fruits, vegetables and other edibles. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Capitol Hill Library (10723 SW Capitol Hwy), 10:30 am–noon. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Create a Rain Stick: Kids and their families are invited to learn about the lore of the rain stick in Africa and other cultures. Then create and decorate your own. Belmont Library (1038 SE 39th Ave), 3:00 pm–4:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Saturday Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek State Park: Join a park ranger for a free, guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Today’s theme is “Restoration of the Creek.” Appropriate for all ages. Parents must accompany kids on all hikes. 10:00 am to 11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

  • The Grouch & Eligh (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Classical guitarist Peter Fletcher (website) will perform at Beaverton Library (12375 SW 5th St, Beaverton) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

  • David Ward will perform at Sellwood Public House (8132 SE 13th Ave) at 8:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Bryant Allard Quartet (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

  • Kris Deelane (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

Sunday, May 3

  • Pretty Dress Bike Ride: All are welcome to join this annual ride, but you must come wearing a pretty dress. The ride will end at a picnic spot. Wear your bloomers, bring a picnic blanket and bring something yummy to share plus your own utensils. Meet at SE Ladds Circle (in the Center), near 1996 SE Ladd Ave, at 2:00 pm. Length of the ride is a few hours, depending on how the group feels. For more information, contact bikebat at gmail dot com.

  • King Louie & Baby James (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Portland Opera Preview: “Rigoletto”: This lecture/concert covers historical background, composer information and musical selections from the show. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 2:00 pm–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Congratulations and Old Believers will perform at 9:00 pm at Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave). 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.

  • “Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai” will be showing at Press Club at 8:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

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

  • Poets Gary Thompson and Richard Robbins will read from their respective books at 4:00 pm at Powell’s Books on Hawthorne (3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd). 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.

3 comments April 30th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Apr 17–19

Admission is free for all events below. For more concerts, visit Concert Co-op.

In addition, Saturday is Family Day at the Oregon Historical Society. Up to two children (age 18 & under) get in free with each paid adult admission.

Have a great weekend!

Friday, April 17

  • Focus the Nation’s Town Hall on the Clean Energy Future: More than 180 Congressional Districts across the country will hold town halls to help educate people on clean energy issues. In Portland, the town hall will take place at Portland State University, Hoffman Hall (1833 SW 11th Ave), 6:00 pm–9:00 pm. Congressman Earl Bluemanuer, Rep. Jules Bailey, Rep. Ben Cannon, Mayor Sam Adams, and Commissioner Jeff Cogen will discuss the city and state’s role in the transition to the new energy economy. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Portland is Burning is influenced heavily by New York street fashion, the dance style of “voguing,” gay dance music and the groundbreaking movie “Paris Is Burning.” Musical stylings brought by local DJs well known in the queer community as well as in Portland’s nightlife scene. Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave), 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

  • Michelle Medler Trio (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

  • Mark Alan (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • New Old Friends (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.

  • Shakespeare Authorship Panel: Shakespeare scholars will lead a lively, provocative discussion about the possibility that Will Shakespeare, a butcher’s apprentice from Stratford-upon-Avon, was the author of the works attributed to William Shakespeare. Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Storytellers Robert Kikuchi-Yngojo and Nancy Wang will share folk tales and myths of Asian traditions, as well as share personal and family histories that address the immigrant’s tale. This program is designed for adults and children ages 10 and above. Hillsboro Main Library (2850 NE Brookwood Parkway), 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, April 18

  • SOLV Earth Day Volunteer Projects: Celebrate Earth Day by helping clean up Portland. SOLV has organized cleanup projects at about 100 locations. 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Spring Greening Day on Mississippi Ave: Stores will be hosting blowout sales along with activities such as clothing swaps, demonstrations on reusing recyclable products, sustainable food systems, live music and more. 11:00 am–7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • YMCA Healthy Kids Day: Enjoy fun, engaging and creative activities for children and families at participating YMCAs. To find a participating YMCA near you, visit the event website.

  • EcoFair at Salmon Creek Greenway: This event includes children’s activities, bird walk, wildlife show and more. 8:30 am–1:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Community Health & Safety Fair in Tualatin: This event includes health screenings and presentations on stretching your food dollars, heart health and more. 10:00 am–3:00 pm at the Senior Center Building in Tualatin Community Park. For more information, visit the event website (PDF file).

  • East Portland Homeownership Fair: This event includes workshops on home ownership and preventing foreclosure, “Ask the Experts” panels, free Burgerville lunch, and more. Open to anyone interested in buying their own home, and homeowners who are interested in finding ways to maintain and preserve their home. Kelly Elementary School (9030 SE Cooper St), 10:00 am–2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Ultimate Open House: This year’s tour includes nearly 60 new homes in a selection of styles and range of neighborhoods that are priced for every budget. 10:00 am–6:00 pm, April 18 and 19. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Saturday Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek State Park: Join a park ranger for a free, guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Today’s theme is “Coaling Tryon Creek.” Appropriate for all ages. Parents must accompany kids on all hikes. 10:00 am to 11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Oregon Zoo at the Library: Meet a cast of animals from the Oregon Zoo such as a kind snake, a silent owl and a squeaky-clean cockroach. Oregon Zoo employees will share animal facts and introduce each species. Most appropriate for grades K–5. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 10:30 am–11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Gresham Recycle Event: Gresham and Wood Village citizens and businesses are invited to recycle electronics, paper, and more from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at City Hall. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Record Store Day: At Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside), meet Queensryche and get your copy of their new album signed at 12:00 noon. At 2:00 pm, listen to the new Bob Dylan album before it comes out. Mary Flower and Lloyd Jones will perform at 3:00 pm, and Paula Sinclair will perform at 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Mariachi Viva Mexico will perform at Gregory Heights Library (7921 NE Sandy Blvd) at 3:30 pm. This six-piece Mariachi band includes trumpets, violins, guitars, guitaron and vihuelas to create lively, spirited music. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Here Comes Everybody will perform at Burdigala Wine (8317 SE 13th) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the band’s website.

  • Lindsey Stormo and Ben Darwish will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

  • Sean Flynn will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Kate Mann (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • The 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.

  • Em Space Book Arts Center Open House: The event will include tours of the space and its historic, fully operational letterpress and bookbinding equipment; silent auction; raffle; libations and food; and the opportunity to pull a print on a big old press to take home. 407 SE Ivon St, 6:00 pm–10:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Writer and editor Matt Love will discuss his unique approach to writing about Oregon, share some excerpts from his work, and talk about the challenge of being an independent Oregon publisher. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Storyteller Nancy Wang will share stories of early Chinese immigration to America. This program is designed for adults and children ages 10 and above. Beaverton City Library (12375 SW Fifth St), 10:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Storytelling Finale: The Immigrant Experience: Opening remarks will be made by Joan Yasui Emerson, the eldest Sansei (third generation) grandchild in the Yasui family, who is featured in the Oregon Reads selection “Stubborn Twig.” Storytellers Robert Kikuchi-Yngojo, Nancy Wang and Alton Takiyama-Chung will tell personal family stories. Refreshments provided by the Japanese-American Citizen’s League (JACL). Tigard Public Library (13500 SW Hall Blvd), 6:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • “A Heart for Any Fate” Book Launch Party: Meet author Linda Crew and celebrate the release of “A Heart for Any Fate,” a young adult historical fiction novel about the Oregon Trail. The event will include a slideshow presentation by the author, a reading, and a book signing. McLoughlin House (713 Center Street Oregon City), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Artist David Paul Bayles will give a lecture at 23 Sandy Gallery (623 NE 23rd Ave) at 5:00 pm. David Paul Bayles is the featured artist in the gallery in April, showing photographs from his Falling Trees series. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Panel Discussion at Portland Center Stage: Radio host Thom Hartmann, The Oregonian’s David Sarasohn and Jack Ohman, and journalism professor Al Stavitsky will discuss how politics and entertainment, power and truth, media, and public memory have been transformed in the intervening years since Watergate. Presented in conjunction with the opening weekend of “Frost/Nixon” at Portland Center Stage. Gerding Theater at the Armory (128 NW Eleventh Ave), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the PCS website.

Sunday, April 19

  • Ultimate Open House: This year’s tour includes nearly 60 new homes in a selection of styles and range of neighborhoods that are priced for every budget. 10:00 am–6:00 pm, April 18 and 19. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Pirate Treasure Hunt: The Dollar Scholar (3279 SE Hawthorne) invites all ages to a treasure hunt on Hawthorne. 11:00 am–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Generation Green: An Earth Day Celebration: This event includes information and resources from earth-friendly organizations, repurposed crafts, seed giveaway and more. Creative Science School (1231 SE 92nd Ave), 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For additional information, email kathryn.schwartz @ comcast dot net.

  • Concert for Babies and Toddlers: Local musician Matt Clark will play songs from his CD for kids called “Funny Little Fella.” Milagros Boutique (5433 NE 30th Ave), 1:30 pm–2:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Neah-Kah-Nie Project String Quartet Concert and Film Screening: Neah-Kah-Nie will perform at 2:00 pm at Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave). This concert will be followed by a screening of the documentary “Susie Fennell Pipes and the Neah-Kah-Nie String Quartet” and a short documentary about the composer Ferdinand Sorenson at 3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Japanese Traditional Koto Music: Mitsuki Dazai will give an introduction to Japanese traditions and culture through koto music. Her performance will demonstrate techniques on the instrument. Hollywood Library (4040 NE Tillamook St), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Paula Sinclair (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • “Bottle Rocket” will be showing at Press Club at 8:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Astrophysicist and author Evalyn Gates will talk about her book “Einstein’s Telescope” at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Poets Michael Dickman and Michael McGriff will talk about their respective work at Powell’s Books on Hawthorne (3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd), 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Author Robert Dugoni will talk about his book “Wrongful Death” at 4:00 pm at Powell’s Books, Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

  • Lecture: Where Have All the Frogs Gone? Dr. Kerry Krieger, international research scientist, will talk about the impacts of disease, climate change and over-harvesting on different amphibian groups. Find out what you can do to help frogs. Water Resources Education Center (4600 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver), 4:00 pm to 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.

2 comments April 16th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Apr 3–5

Wow, can you believe it’s the first weekend of April? On Sunday, admission to OMSI is just $2.

Admission is free for all events below. For more concerts, visit Concert Co-op.

Have a great weekend!

Friday, April 3

  • Free Admission All Day at Portland Children’s Museum: Admission to the museum is free from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm. 4015 SW Canyon Road. For more information, visit the event website.

  • First Friday Art Openings: Check the Central Eastside Arts District website for a list of open galleries. In addition, Artful Goods, Tilde, and Press Club will host artist receptions.

  • 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 “Who will pick the golden egg?” Every merchant you visit will provide you with an opportunity to pick the golden egg. 5:00 pm–8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Downtown Troutdale First Friday Art Walk: On the first Friday of each month, Historic Downtown Troutdale businesses host dozens of local artists exhibiting their works of art. 5:00 pm–9:00 pm. For more information, contact the West Columbia Gorge Chamber of Commerce at 503.669.7473 or visit their website.

  • Staver Locomotive: At this family-friendly event, watch miniature trains run their course in a 10,000 sq ft warehouse and enjoy hot popcorn. Kids can draw their favorite train in the Children’s Craft Area. Dress warm. Staver Locomotive (2537 NW 29th Ave), 6:00 pm–8:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Gordon Lee (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

  • Chickweed (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • Old Elbows (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.

  • Author Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson will talk about his book “The Face on Your Plate” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, April 4

  • Trillium Festival: The event includes a native plant sale, guided nature hikes, children’s crafts and activities, local vendors, live music performances and more. Tryon Creek State Park, Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 am–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Pearl District Bunny Hop: Bring your basket and follow the bunny trail to participating stores in the Pearl District. Participate in craft activities, gather goodies, and enjoy sweet treats. This is fun for children of all ages. 10:00 am–6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Art Materials Swap: Bring art materials that have been collecting dust around the house and trade them for some new inspiration. Paints, (clean) fabrics, yarn, beads, buttons, pens, pencils and paper are welcome. 12:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Art Opening: Q Center and Focus on Youth Photography present a new collaborative art exhibit entitled “Through Their Eyes.” All youth displaying works identify as either gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or queer. Q Center (4115 N. Mississippi Ave), 4:00 pm–6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Oregon Symphony Storytime: Enjoy music, hands-on crafts and fun for all ages. 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. North Portland Library (512 N. Killingsworth St), 11:00 am–12:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Concert for Toddlers: Hear local songwriter Matt Clark play songs for toddlers from his debut album, “Funny Little Fella.” Mississippi Pizza Pub (3552 N. Mississippi Ave), 4:00 pm–5:00 pm. Visit www.mattclarkmusic.com to hear samples.

  • Green River Ordinance (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 5:00 pm. All ages. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Dan Balmer (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

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

  • Will West (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield 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. Two locations: Gregory Heights Library (7921 NE Sandy Blvd), 10:00 am–2:00 pm; Woodstock Library (6008 SE 49th Ave), 12:00 pm–5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • “Start Your Creative Business” Workshop: Let the Independent Publishing Resource Center show you the basic ins and outs of starting your own creative business. Gresham Library (385 NW Miller Ave), 2:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Crochet-a-thon: Museum of Contemporary Craft exhibiting artist Mandy Greer will show participants how to crochet, then she’ll make a sculpture out of the raw materials created. Bring yarn and fabric, new or reused, in all shades of blue, from very light to dark (but no navy, please!). The Lab at Museum of Contemporary Craft (724 NW Davis St), 4:00 pm–6:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Beats for Peace ‘Zine Release Party: Presented by United Voices/Beats for Peace and featuring live music by Thavius Beck, Cancer the Kid, Spamtron, DJ Grimmrock and The GummykubKrew, this is a free, all-ages event celebrating the release of the United Voices ‘zine. Donations accepted. AudioCinema (226 SE Madison), 5:00 pm–8:00 pm. For more information, contact Mireaya at 503.230.9427 or mmedina @ afsc.org.

  • Author and PBS NewsHour anchor Jim Lehrer will talk about his book “Oh, Johnny” at 2:00 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, April 5

  • Trillium Festival: The event includes a native plant sale, guided nature hikes, children’s crafts and activities, local vendors, live music performances and more. Tryon Creek State Park, Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 am–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • The Joy of Censorship: MAD Senior Editor Joe Raiola takes an illuminating, satiric and at times disturbing look at America’s most hotly debated First Amendment issues. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 12:30 pm–1:45 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Portland Cello Project (website) will perform at Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Nurses and Inside Voices will perform at Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave) at 9:00 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.

  • “The Man Who Wasn’t There” will be showing at Press Club at 8:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • “Singin’ in the Rain” will be showing at St. Johns Library (7510 N. Charleston Ave) at 2:00 pm. Free tickets for limited seating will be available at 1:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Poets Kathryn Cowles and Ely Shipley will talk about their respective work at 4:00 pm at Powell’s Books on Hawthorne (3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd). 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 April 2nd, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Mar 20–22

In addition to the free events, here are two other deals:

Admission is free for all events below. For more concerts, visit Concert Co-op.

Have a great weekend!

Friday, March 20

  • Kidical Mass Family Bike Ride: There are three rides this month. All rides meet at 5:30 pm; rides start at 6:00 pm. For ride locations and more information on what makes this month’s events special, visit the event website

  • Celtic Music: The Muses will perform at Tigard Public Library (13500 SW Hall Blvd) at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Mia Nicholson & Steve Christofferson will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

  • Rachel Taylor Brown (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Mark Alan (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • The Old Yellers (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.

  • “Taking Root,” a film about Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Wangari Maathai, will be showing at Harriet Tubman Leadership Academy Cafeteria (2231 N. Flint). Film is from 7:00 pm–8:00 pm (doors open at 6:30 pm). Panel question and answer from 8:00 pm–9:00 pm. More information can be found here.

  • Author and crafter Susan Beal will talk about her book “Button It Up” and help folks make button hairclips (supplies provided) at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the event website.

  • Looking Glass Bookstore Anniversary Party: Looking Glass Bookstore is celebrating its second year in Sellwood with live music, refreshments and 10% off all purchases. 7983 SE 13th Ave, 6:00 pm–9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, March 21

  • Oregon Maritime Museum Grand Reopening: The celebration will take place from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. The Oregon Maritime Museum is located aboard the Sternwheeler Portland docked at Naito Parkway at Oak Street. For more information, click here or visit www.oregonmaritimemuseum.org.

  • Pooches on the Green: Bring your dog to Beaverton’s City Park and enjoy entertainment, costume contest and parade, art projects for the kids, and more. 5th St at Hall Blvd (across from the Beaverton City Library), 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • “24/7” Concerts: By mid-March, the United States will have been at war in Afghanistan and Iraq for seven years. To mark this important, if tragic, anniversary, over 150 of the Portland area’s best classical, contemporary and world musicians are uniting to make a giant musical gift to the city and beyond. “24/7” is a series of 24 dramatic concerts, each starting upon the hour, from 7:00 pm Saturday, March 21, and continuing through to 7:00 pm, Sunday, March 22, in the W+K Atrium (224 NW 13th Ave). For more information, visit the event website.

  • Oregon Symphony Storytime: Enjoy music, hands-on crafts and fun for all ages. 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. North Portland Library (512 N. Killingsworth St), 11:00 am–12:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Family Walks With Metro Councilors: David Bragdon, Metro council president, will lead a multi-modal adventure which includes 3.9 miles of walking up Council Crest, a tram ride, a streetcar ride, and a MAX ride. MAX fare required ($2 for adults; $1.50 under 17; free under 7). Meet at the World Forestry Center steps (4033 SW Canyon Rd), 10:00 am. For more information, visit the event website or contact Carl Larson at larson @ bta4bikes.org or 503.226.0676 x16.

  • Mt. Tabor Meander: This is a hike hosted by the Urban Adventure League. Meet at Seven Virtues Coffeehouse, SE Glisan at 60th Ave, at 11:00 am. The group will ascend Mt. Tabor using the lesser-known north slope and meander along the top to check out the action on the “back side.” For more information, visit the event website.

  • Saturday Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek State Park: Join a park ranger for a free, guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Today’s theme is “Springing Plants.” Appropriate for all ages. Parents must accompany kids on all hikes. 10:00 am to 11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Community Wellness Open House: Organic Gardening Workshop & Seed Swap: The Australasian College of Health Sciences will host a seed swap, as well as workshops on seed starting and organic gardening. 11:00 am–3:00 pm. For more information, click here or visit www.achs.edu .

  • Free Rolfing for Children: Children ages 0–10 are invited to experience a free 30-minute Rolfing session. People’s Food Co-op Community Room (SE 21st and Tibbets), 9:00 am–11:00 am. To reserve a spot, email portlandrolfer @ gmail.com. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Mark Hanson will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 3:30 pm. All ages. For more information, visit the event website.

  • John Stowell (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel (1510 SW Harbor Way), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

  • The Pete Krebs Jazz Trio (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Jim the Bad Goat (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • Floating Glass Balls (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.

  • 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. Two locations: Gregory Heights Library (7921 NE Sandy Blvd), 10:00 am–2:00 pm; Woodstock Library (6008 SE 49th Ave), 12:00 pm–5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Marc Acito, noted humorist, author, singer and raconteur, will talk about his work. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, March 22

  • Portland Art Museum Free Day: Visitors will be able to tour the galleries, play with paint, enjoy music and dance (including performances from Oregon Ballet Theatre), dress in period costumes, savor French pastries, and hear tales inspired by “La volupté du goût: French Painting in the Age of Madame de Pompadour.” For more information, visit the event website.

  • World Water Day at Tryon Creek Park: Activities include a 4.5-mile Hydro Hike, kid-friendly water activities, and a talk led by a representative of the Portland Water Bureau. 11:00 am–3:00 pm. For more information and schedule of activities, visit the event website.

  • World Water Day in Downtown Portland: Commissioner Amanda Fritz will kick off the World Water Day Celebration at 3:00 pm at the World Trade Center Plaza (121 SW Salmon St), with live music by Creme Tangerine and education-rich exhibits capturing the worldwide water crisis. For more information and schedule of activities, visit the event website.

  • World Water Day in Vancouver: Activities include a 1.5-mile Walk for Water. The walk begins at Pearson Air Museum, 1115 E. 5th Street in Vancouver, and continues over the Land Bridge. At the museum, there will be a variety of water-related activities and exhibits on display. Noon to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • “24/7” Concerts: By mid-March, the United States will have been at war in Afghanistan and Iraq for seven years. To mark this important, if tragic, anniversary, over 150 of the Portland area’s best classical, contemporary and world musicians are uniting to make a giant musical gift to the city and beyond. “24/7” is a series of 24 dramatic concerts, each starting upon the hour, from 7:00 pm Saturday, March 21, and continuing through to 7:00 pm, Sunday, March 22, in the W+K Atrium (224 NW 13th Ave). For more information, visit the event website.

  • Family Walks With Metro Councilors: Join District 6 Councilor, Robert Liberty, for a 3.2-mile walking tour of a seldom-explored corner of industrial Southeast Portland. Meet at Brooklyn Park (SE 10th Ave and SE Haig St) at 10:00 am. For more information, visit the event website or contact Carl Larson at larson @ bta4bikes.org or 503.226.0676 x16.

  • Simple Healthy Cooking Saves Time and Money: Jean Johnson will present no-fuss recipes from her book, “Cooking Beyond Measure: How to Eat Well without Formal Recipes.” She will show how quickly and deliciously food comes together when we forget about measuring. Rockwood Library (17917 SE Stark St), 2:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Progression: Progression is what every other jam session isn’t. Original compositions, odd time signatures, free form improvisation, and no rules. Hosted by Ben Darwish. Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Vinny D. (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • “El Crimen Perfecto” will be showing at Press Club at 8:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Author Robert Sullivan will talk about his book “The Thoreau You Don’t Know” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). 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 March 19th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Mar 6–8

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

All weekend

  • United States Barista Championship: Watch the best baristas in the country (including a few from Portland) show off their espresso-making skills in the hopes of earning the title of United States Barista Champion. Free coffee will be available. The event takes place at the Oregon Convention Center. For more information and schedule, visit the event website.

Friday, March 6

  • Free First Friday Night at Portland Children’s Museum: Admission to the museum is free from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. 4015 SW Canyon Road. For more information, visit the event website.

  • First Friday Art Openings: Check the Central Eastside Arts District website for a list of galleries that will be open. Also, check Neighborhood Notes for descriptions of events at Grass Hut, Life+Limb, Launch Pad Gallery, Nationale, Newspace Center for Photography, Worksound, Destroy, and Frank James. In addition, Artful Goods, Tilde, Multnomah Arts Center and Press Club will host artist receptions.

  • 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 Artwalk in Downtown Camas: This month’s theme is “Bunco Night.” Every merchant you visit will provide you with an opportunity to roll the dice for prizes. 5:00 pm–8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Cascade Festival of African Films: “Enough! / Barakat!” 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.

  • International Women’s Day Concert: Join the artists, comedians, singers and musicians of BroadArts Theatre and sing along in celebration of International Women’s Day. Portland City Commissioner Amanda Fritz will give the keynote address. If you like, bring a potluck dish to share. Portland City Hall Atrium (1221 SW 4th Ave), 5:00 pm–6:30 pm. For more information, contact BroadArts Theatre.

  • Singer Songwriter Concert: Come hear new songs from songwriters in your neighborhood. Guitars, pianos, banjos, mandolins, you never know what you will hear. Multnomah Arts Center (7688 SW Capitol Hwy), 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Family Concert: Yurtfolk (website) will perform a concert for families encouraging reading, singing, creativity and appreciation for other cultures. Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy), 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Violinist Pikara will perform at Wine Unwind (1019 NW 11th Ave) at 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Nathaniel Talbot will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • Sonny Hess (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.

  • Author Adrian Phoenix will talk about her book “In the Blood” at 7:00 pm at Powell’s Books, Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd, Beaverton). For more information, visit the event website.

  • Author Molly Wizenberg will talk about her book “A Homemade Life” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, March 7

  • Swingfest: Portland Lindy Exchange: Come down to Pioneer Courthouse Square and enjoy an afternoon filled with live music and swing dancing. 1:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Cascade Festival of African Films: Two films showing today: At 2:00 pm, “Iron Ladies of Liberia” will be showing at Portland Community College Cascade Campus, Moriarty Bldg. 104 (705 N. Killingsworth St). At 7:30 pm, “The World Unseen” will be showing in the same location. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Artist Reception: New American Art Union (922 SE Ankeny St) celebrates the opening of “The House of Sound,” a video installation by Vanessa Renwick. The reception is from 6:00 pm–9:00 pm. At 7:30 pm, the Winter Solstice Puppet Collective 2008 and the Evolutionary Jass Band will present a shadow puppet performance of “I Spend the Night at General Headquarters” by Tu Fu, translated by Kenneth Rexroth. For more information, visit Vanessa’s website.

  • ”Horton Hatches an Egg” Puppet Show: Emily Alexander of Tears of Joy Theatre will perform this Dr. Seuss favorite. The play also includes a one-woman circus that will get everyone cheering. Most appropriate for kids in preschool through grade 5. Northwest Library (2300 NW Thurman St), 3:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Out of the Book: Oregon Zoo at the Library: Meet a cast of animals from the Oregon Zoo, such as a kind snake, a silent owl and a squeaky-clean cockroach. Zoo employees will share animal facts and introduce each species. Most appropriate for grades K–5. St. Johns Library (7510 N. Charleston Ave), 1:00 pm–2:00 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. North Portland Library (512 N. Killingsworth St), 11:00 am–12:00 pm. Most appropriate for preschool-age children. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Pioneer Living for Kids: Pan for gold, play with pioneer children’s toys, learn how wool becomes clothing, and find out how the pioneers did their chores. Dress up like a pioneer and come join in the fun. West Linn Public Library (1595 Burns St, West Linn), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Saturday Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek State Park: Join a park ranger for a free, guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Today’s theme is “The Northwest Hiking Essentials.” Appropriate for all ages. Parents must accompany kids on all hikes. 10:00 am to 11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Tom Petty Tribute: Reina Collins, Scotland Barr, Pilar French, Justin Jude, Kate Mann and Joshua Slamp will perform this tribute at Music Millennium, 4:00 pm. All ages. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Lauren Sheehan (website) will perform at Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • The Rainy States, Paper Brain and Bodhi will perform at Kelly’s Olympian (426 SW Washington) at 9:00 pm. The concert celebrates the release of The Rainy States’ new 7-inch, “New Castle.” Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Pacific Pops Choir will perform at Christ United Methodist Church (12755 NW Dogwood St) at 3:00 pm. The Pops will present its second annual “Stage and Screen Spectacular,” featuring unusual and lesser known songs from the world of Broadway, Hollywood and television. For more information, contact Director Jeffrey Kauffman at 503.228.6383 or visit the Pacific Pops tab at www.jeffreykauffman.net.

  • Lefthand Monkeywrench (website) will perform at Kay’s Bar (6903 SE Milwaukie) at 9:30 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

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

  • Misty Mamas (website) will perform at Ledding Library (10660 SE 21st Ave, Milwaukie) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Tyler Stenson (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • The Brothers Jam (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.

  • 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. Two locations: Gregory Heights Library (7921 NE Sandy Blvd), 10:00 am–2:00 pm; Woodstock Library (6008 SE 49th Ave), 12:00 pm–5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Discussion/Lecture: “Vampire Love: The Second Sex Negotiates the 21st Century”: Bonnie Mann, feminist activist and an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at the University of Oregon, will give a lecture on vampire love inspired by the popularity of the “Twilight” series. Discussion to follow. In Other Words Women’s Books and Resources (8 B NE Killingsworth St), 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, March 8

  • International Women’s Day Celebration: Festivities include music, dance, artwork, and workshops on health and wellness, crafts, cycling, and more. Complimentary childcare will be available. Portland State University Smith Center (1825 SW Broadway), 10:00 am–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Family Walks With Metro Councilors: Metro Councilor Rex Burkholder will lead a family-friendly, 1.9-mile walk through the King neighborhood. Meet at 10:00 am at NE MLK Jr. Blvd and NE Alberta (northeast corner). This is the first in a month-long series of walks led by Metro councilors. For more information, visit the event website or contact Carl Larson at larson @ bta4bikes.org or 503.226.0676 x16.

  • Staged Reading of “Entre Nos”: To commemorate International Women’s Day, Milagro Theatre will present a staged reading in Spanish of the one-act play “Entre Nos” (“Between Us”). The play addresses the isolation of women by a society that, in spite of many changes, continues to be chauvinistic. A forum led by community leaders will follow. Free childcare will be provided. Milagro Theatre (525 SE Stark St), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Portland Opera Preview: “La Calisto”: This lecture/concert covers historical background, composer information and musical selections from the show. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 2:00 pm–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Simple Healthy Cooking Saves Time and Money: Jean Johnson will present no-fuss recipes from her book, “Cooking Beyond Measure: How to Eat Well without Formal Recipes.” She will show how quickly and deliciously food comes together when we forget about measuring. Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 2:00 pm–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Portland Japanese Garden Presentation: Learn about the wonders of the Portland Japanese Garden. Door prizes, including admission tickets to the garden, will be given away. Ideal for families with children aged 8+. Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy), 2:00 pm–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • The Old Yellers (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • “Manhattan” will be showing at Press Club at 8:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Author Tim Dorsey will talk about his book “Nuclear Jellyfish” at 2:00 pm at Powell’s Books, Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd, Beaverton). For more information, visit the event website.

  • Poets Matt Hart, Dobby Gibson and Van Wheeler will talk about their respective work at 4:00 pm at Powell’s Books on Hawthorne (3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

  • Authors Brian Evenson and Jemiah Jefferson will talk about their respective “wovels” (web-novels) at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). 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.

3 comments March 5th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Feb 20–22

***Check the comments for more events!***

Reminder: Saturday is Family Day at Oregon Historical Society. Two children get in free with one paying adult. For more information, visit the event website.

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

Friday, February 20

  • Portland Jazz Festival Free Events: Visit festival website for schedule.

  • Cascade Festival of African Films: “Namibia: The Struggle for Liberation” will be showing at 7:00 pm at Hollywood Theatre (4122 NE Sandy Blvd). 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.

  • Yarnia One-Year Anniversary Celebration: Come by for food, drinks, giveaways, and more. 4183 SE Division St, 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Leigh Marble (website) will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Jason Webley Trio (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. All ages. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • Mark Alan (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • The Atonements (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.

Saturday, February 21

  • Portland Jazz Festival Free Events: Visit festival website for schedule.

  • Lincoln Remembered: Activities include historical re-enactments, kids’ crafts and games, music, birthday cake, and more. Pearson Air Museum (1115 E. 5th, Vancouver), 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Activist, university professor and author Angela Davis will give a lecture at Reed College’s Kaul Auditorium (3203 SE Woodstock Blvd) at 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Health Fair: Event includes free and priced health screenings, snacks, games, and more. Pilgrim Lutheran Church (4244 SE 91st Ave), 8:00 am–2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Polar Plunge: Watch people take a dip in the Columbia River, all to support the Special Olympics. Spectators get in free. Broughton Beach. Costume contest for Plunge participants starts at 10:30 am. Plunge begins at 11:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Cascade Festival of African Films: “Azur and Asmar: The Princess’ Quest,” a family film rated PG, will be showing at 2:00 pm at Portland Community College Cascade Campus, Moriarty Bldg. 104 (705 N. Killingsworth St). For more information, visit the event website. At 7:30 pm, “Bab’Aziz – The Prince who Contemplated his Soul” will be showing in the same venue. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Chinese New Year Celebration in Vancouver: Learn about Chinese New Year, enjoy a story and riddles, participate in making crafts, and join in a lion parade. Vancouver Mall Community Library (8700 NE Vancouver Mall Drive, Suite 285), 3:00 pm–4:00 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. Gregory Heights Library (7921 NE Sandy Blvd), 2:00 pm–2:30 pm. This event is part of Oregon Reads 2009. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Japanese Traditional Koto Music: Mitsuki Dazai will give an introduction to Japanese traditions and culture through koto music. Her performance will demonstrate techniques on the instrument. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. This event is part of Oregon Reads 2009. Hillsdale Library (1525 SW Sunset Blvd), 10:00 am–11:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Brush Calligraphy Demonstration & Japanese Green Tea Tasting: Watch a calligraphy demonstration and try it yourself on the magical “Buddha” boards. Also, the son of a Japanese Tea Master will tell the stories behind the teas of Sen cha, Joji cha and Genmai cha, and you will get the chance to sample the world’s best blended green tea of 2008. This event is part of Oregon Reads 2009. Graham’s Book & Stationery (460 2nd St, Lake Oswego, 503.636.5676), 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Raising A Reader Family Day: Enjoy crafts, stories, music, and a puppet show for families with children from birth through age 5. Every preschool child may take home a free book (while supplies last). Older siblings also welcome. Gresham Library (385 NW Miller Ave, Gresham), 10:00 am–1:00 pm. For event schedule and 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. Stay to enjoy a simple craft after the show. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Most appropriate for grades K–5. Capitol Hill Library (10723 SW Capitol Hwy), 2:30 pm–3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Saturday Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek State Park: Join a park ranger for a free, guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Today’s theme is “Magnificent Moss and Lovely Lichen.” Appropriate for all ages. Parents must accompany kids on all hikes. 10:00 am to 11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Chickweed (website) will perform at Kay’s Bar (6903 SE Milwaukie) at 9:30 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Ashia (website) will perform at Wine Unwind (1019 NW 11th Ave) at 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Dust Bowl Refugees will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Strawberry Rune (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • Jack McMahon 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.

  • Author Carl Kozlowski will talk about his book “Seize the Day Job: The Humor Book Al-Qaeda Kept You From Reading” at In Other Words Women’s Books and Resources (8 B NE Killingsworth St), 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Oregon Poet Laureate Lawson Inada will read his poetry, much of it dealing with the internment camp experience of Japanese Americans. This is an Oregon Reads 2009 event. Ledding Library Pond House (2215 SE Harrison, Milwaukie), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Author Chelsea Cain will give a talk at the Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Author Leighton Gage will talk about his book “Buried Strangers” at Murder by the Book (3210 SE Hawthorne Blvd) at 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Renowned garden designers Joe Eck and Wayne Winterrowd will present their book “Our Life in Gardens” at 1:00 pm at Powell’s Books, Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd, Beaverton). For more information, visit the event website.

  • Children’s book author Virginia Euwer Wolff, along with library members, will present a Reader’s Theater based on her book “Bat 6.” Reader’s Theater is a reading, by multiple voices, of a script adaptation of a book. Ideal for families with children ages 8 and up. A book signing will follow. This is an Oregon Reads 2009 event. Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy, Hillsboro), 11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Children’s book author Deborah Hopkinson will talk about her book “Apples to Oregon” at Sherwood Public Library (22560 SW Pine St, Sherwood), 2:00 pm. This event is part of Oregon Reads 2009. 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. Two locations: Gregory Heights Library (7921 NE Sandy Blvd), 10:00 am–2:00 pm; Woodstock Library (6008 SE 49th Ave), 12:00 pm–5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, February 22

  • Japanese Poetry, Storytelling & Music: Hosted by poet Joan Maiers, the event will feature local poets Ritz Kyoko Mori and Leah Stenson, as well as Michael Whelan, multi-cultural storyteller. Peter Zisa and Yukiko Vossen will collaborate in a koto performance. This event is part of Oregon Reads 2009. Moonstruck Chocolate Café (45 S. State St, Lake Oswego, 503.697.7097), 6:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Lake Oswego Millennium Concert Band will perform at Lakeridge High School (1235 Overlook Dr, Lake Oswego) at 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Quintessential: A Woodwind Quintet: Fun, classical music renditions of folk songs and songs related to Oregon history will be performed. Light refreshments will be served. This is an Oregon Reads 2009 event. Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy, Hillsboro), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Violinist George Shiolas and Flutist Abigail Mages will perform a program of music by J.S. Bach, Vivaldi, Tartini, Bartok, Piazzola, Debussy, and others. Tualatin Public Library (18878 SW Martinazzi, Tualatin), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Yonderlow, Autopilot is for Lovers, and Travis Wiggins will perform at Valentine’s (232 SW Ankeny) at 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Progression: Progression is what every other jam session isn’t. Original compositions, odd time signatures, free form improvisation, and no rules. Hosted by Ben Darwish. Someday Lounge, 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Jon Koonce (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • “Volver” will be showing at Press Club at 8:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Film Screening: “C.E.S. Wood”: Producer Laurence Cotton will screen the film “C.E.S. Wood” and provide a Q&A discussion after the showing. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 1:00 pm–2:30 pm. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • Academy Awards at McMenamins: Bagdad Theater and Mission Theater will show the Academy Awards. Doors open at 4:00 pm; show starts at 5:00 pm. At Bagdad, all ages welcome until 9:00 pm. Mission is open to ages 21+. For more information, visit the Bagdad or Mission website.

  • Poets Jules Boykoff & Alicia Cohen will read from their respective books at Powell’s Books on Hawthorne (3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd), 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 February 19th, 2009

2/16: Free Admission to Portland Japanese Garden

On February 16, Presidents’ Day, admission to the Portland Japanese Garden will be free. The garden will be open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Portland Japanese Garden
611 SW Kingston Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97205 (Map)
503.223.1321

Photo by Mike McCaffrey

2 comments February 12th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Feb 13–15

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.

  • Joe Wrabek, Frank Salo, Metropolitan Farms, and The Cut and Run will perform at Red Room (2530 NE 82nd Ave) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. 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.

  • Free Admission to Oregon City Museums and Attractions: To celebrate Oregon’s birthday, admission will be free at the End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, Museum of the Oregon Territory & Clackamas County Family History Society, Stevens-Crawford Heritage House, Ermatinger House, McLoughlin House, and William Holmes House aka the “Rose Farm.” Visitors will be able to use the free Oregon City Trolleys throughout the day to and from these museums and other attractions. 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.

  • Treetarantula, The Get Off, and Accidental Intoxication will perform at Red Room (2530 NE 82nd Ave) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. 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.

4 comments February 12th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Feb 6–8

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

Friday, February 6

  • Free First Friday Night at Portland Children’s Museum: Admission to the museum is free from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. 4015 SW Canyon Road. For more information, visit the event website.

  • First Friday Art Openings: Check PORT for First Friday recommendations, as well as the Central Eastside Arts District website for a list of galleries that will be open. In addition, Tilde, Bowl of Thistles and Press Club will host artist receptions.

  • Downtown Camas First Friday Art Walk: This month’s theme is “A Chocolate Affair to Remember.” 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Downtown Troutdale First Friday Art Walk: On the first Friday of each month, Historic Downtown Troutdale businesses host dozens of local artists exhibiting their works of art. For more information, please contact the West Columbia Gorge Chamber of Commerce at 503-669-7473 or visit their website.

  • Toyz N More N The Hood: The Jacka, Luni Coleone & Cool Nutz, The Dirtball, Laroo and others will perform at the Roseland (8 NW 6th Ave) at 7:00 pm. A donation of two toys or articles of clothing gets you in free. All ages. 503.224.2038

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

  • Carley Baer (website) will perform at Wine Unwind (1019 NW 11th Ave) at 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Mitzi Zilka (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel, 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

  • The Buckskins, Purple Heart, and Force Fed Lead will perform at Red Room (2530 NE 82nd Ave) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Jack McMahon (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • Gil Reynolds Trio Plus (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.

  • Author Nancy Atherton will speak at 7:00 pm at Powell’s Books, Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

  • Author Mario Livio will talk about his book “Is God a Mathematician?” at 7:00 pm at Powell’s Technical Books (33 NW Park Ave). For more information, visit the event website.

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

Saturday, February 7

  • Fix-It Fair: The Fix-It Fair offers exhibits and workshops on saving money, health, home maintenance, gardening and more. Free on-site child care and lunch from Burgerville provided. George Middle School (10000 N. Burr Ave), 8:30 am to 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Portland Taiko (website) will perform at Gresham Library (385 NW Miller Ave, Gresham) from 2:30 pm to 3:15 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Saturday Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek State Park: Join a park ranger for a free, guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Today’s theme is “A Hike Back In Time.” Appropriate for all ages. Parents must accompany kids on all hikes. 10:00 am to 11:30 am. 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), 1:00 pm–2:00 pm. Most appropriate for preschool-age children. For more information, visit the event website.

  • “The Lucky Teakettle” Puppet Show: Emily Alexander combines puppetry and storytelling as she performs a new version of an old tale from Japan. Woodstock Library (6008 SE 49th Ave), 1:30 pm–2:00 pm and again from 3:00 pm–3:30 pm. Space at this program is limited. Free tickets for seating will be available at 1:00 pm. For more information, click here and here.

  • Geri Allen (website) will perform at Kaul Auditorium at 8:00 pm. The Kaul Auditorium is located in Reed College (3203 SE Woodstock Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

  • 200 Candles for Felix Mendelssohn: Organized and led by violist Chris Kelsey, this free concert features members of Portland’s Classical Revolution playing Mendelssohn’s 9th String Symphony and the String Octet in E-Flat Major. Free birthday cake too. Community Music Center (3350 SE Francis St, 503.823.3177), 7:00 pm.

  • Oregon Symphonic Band Winter Concert: The concert titled “This Land Is Your Land” includes traditional and popular American songs. Pat McElroy of KBPS Radio will serve as narrator in Aaron Copland’s “A Lincoln Portrait.” Jackson Middle School Auditorium (10625 SW 35th Ave), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Gideon Freudmann (website) will perform at Ledding Library (10660 SE 21st Ave, Milwaukie) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

  • Lefthand Monkey Wrench (website) will perform at Kay’s Bar (6903 SE Milwaukie) at 9:30 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

  • H Duo (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel, 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

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

  • Adam + Kris (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • The Brothers Jam (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.

  • Book Swap for Kids and Teens at Camas Library: Bring books (still in good condition) that you are done with and trade them for new ones. Swap with others, or with a selection of children’s and teen books the library will provide. 625 NE 4th Ave, Camas, WA. 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Tax Help: Trained tax preparers will be at Gregory Heights Library 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 to 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Estate Planning for Traditional & Non-Traditional Families: Receive practical estate planning information to safeguard your finances and healthcare wishes during and after your lifetime. Common myths, wills, living trusts, healthcare directives, and powers of attorney will be discussed. Hollywood Library (4040 NE Tillamook St), 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Author Rosanne Parry will talk about her book “Heart of a Shepherd” at 1:00 pm at Garden Home Community Library (7475 SW Oleson Rd). For more information, visit the event website.

  • “Apples to Oregon” Stories & Crafts: Celebrate the beginning of Oregon Reads with stories and crafts related to the Oregon Reads selection for young readers, “Apples to Oregon.” Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy, Hillsboro), 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, February 8

  • Free Admission to Portland Classical Chinese Garden: Admission to the garden will be free from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Japanese Tea Demonstration: Located in Portland, Oregon, Wakai Tea Association is a local chapter of the Urasenke Tradition of Tea, Kyoto, Japan. Watch the graceful tradition of the Urasenke Tea ritual. The ceremony is simply the preparation, serving and drinking of powdered green tea; yet within this simplicity lies the very heart of Japanese culture. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Tales of Japan: Tears of Joy Theatre will present two stories appropriate for families. In “Gift,” Myoga and his comical goat meet a magical princess and learn that even a great and wonderful gift can have drawbacks. In the second story, the classic folktale “Momotaro” is told using an array of rod puppets and audience participation. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 3:00 pm to 3:45 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Caroline Oakley & Pete Leone (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • “Nine Queens” will be showing at Press Club at 8:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • African American Read-In: Local celebrities, community leaders and students will read from works by their favorite African American writers. Fiction and non-fiction for children and adults will be featured in an afternoon of good words from great works. North Portland Library (512 N. Killingsworth St), 2:30 pm–3:45 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 February 5th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Jan 16–18

Admission is free for all events below.

Also, January 17 is the third Saturday of the month and the Oregon Historical Society’s discount day. However, admission is no longer totally free. Instead, two children will be admitted free per one paying adult. Click here for more information.

Have a great weekend!

Friday, January 16

  • Kidical Mass is a chance for kids to ride bikes with their families and other kids in a big, safe, fun group. Rides are easy-going, legal, and governed by the slowest riders. In celebration of MLK weekend, families are encouraged to dress and decorate in the spirit of peace and diversity. It will be dark so do not forget to bring FRONT and REAR lights. For more information, contact Carl Larson at Bicycle Transportation Alliance. Rides:

    • Downtown Kidical Mass: Meet at 5:30 pm at North Park Blocks playground (NW 8th and Couch), ride at 6:00 pm.
    • Northeast Kidical Mass: Meet at 5:30 pm at Alberta Park (NE Killingsworth and 19th), ride at 6:00 pm.
    • Southeast Kidical Mass: Meet at 5:30 pm at Sunnyside Park (SE 35th and Taylor), ride at 6:00 pm.

  • “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 9:30 pm; show at 10:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, contact the Bagdad Theater or KUFO.

  • Reed Wallsmith (website) will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel, 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

  • Floating Glass Balls (website) will perform at LaurelThirst Public House (NE Glisan and 30th) from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Palatine Hill (website) will perform at Kay’s Bar (6903 SE Milwaukie) at 9:30 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Loque Le Monde will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Destroy Nate Allen, Butterfly Bones and Purple Heart will perform at Red Room (2530 NE 82nd Ave) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Mark Alan (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • Lewi Longmire 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.

  • Contributors Karen Karbo and Melanie Thernstrom present “The Secret Currency of Love,” an anthology of original essays that explores the fraught and powerful connection between two of the most driving forces in women’s lives: love and money. Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, January 17

  • J.R.R. Tolkien Birthday Celebration: This is an event for all ages featuring jugglers, live music, the entire “Lord of the Rings” trilogy, costume contest and more. Admission is free, except for the trilogy. To watch the movies, you must bring two canned goods for the Oregon Food Bank. Kennedy School (5736 NE 33rd Ave), 11:00 am ’til close. For a detailed schedule, visit the event website.

  • Free Events at Portland Old-Time Music Gathering: On Saturday from noon to 5:00 pm, come to Norse Hall (111 NE 11th Ave) for kids’ activities, singing and dancing workshops, concerts, and more. On Sunday, the Mission Theater (1624 NW Glisan) will host a cabaret show at 1:30 pm (doors open at 1:00 pm). All ages are welcome to attend; minors with parent. The show will feature short performances. Some slots will be available for signup at Norse Hall on Saturday on a first come, first served basis. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Bilingual (Spanish/English) Environmental Fair: The Miracle Theatre Group will host a bilingual (Spanish/English) environmental fair from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm at El Centro Milagro (525 SE Stark St). Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about local environmental organizations, including Verde, SOLV, Friends of Trees and Equal Exchange. For more information, contact the Miracle Theatre Group.

  • Kidical Mass is a chance for kids to ride bikes with their families and other kids in a big, safe, fun group. Rides are easy-going, legal, and governed by the slowest riders. In celebration of MLK weekend, families are encouraged to dress and decorate in the spirit of peace and diversity. Today, there’s an Outer Northeast ride. Meet at 3:00 pm at Knott Park (NE 112th and Russell), ride at 3:15 pm. For more information, contact Carl Larson at Bicycle Transportation Alliance.

  • 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. Hillsdale Library (1525 SW Sunset Blvd), 11:00 am–noon. Most appropriate for preschool-age children. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Mz. Pearl’s Variety Show is a solo clown show filled with physical comedy, juggling, magic, dance and word play. The audience is really involved in Mz. Pearl’s show—in their seats, as volunteers, and in a mini-workshop at the end. Most suitable for grades K–5. Sellwood-Moreland Library (7860 SE 13th Ave), 10:30 am–11:15 am, and noon–12:45 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • ”Raven Steals the Sun” Children’s Puppet Show: Created and performed by Emily Alexander of Tears of Joy Theatre, this show tells how Raven the trickster brought light and warmth to the world. Gresham Library (385 NW Miller Ave), 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm. Most appropriate for grades K–5. For more information, visit the event website.

  • ”8-Bit Resolution” Benefit Concert: 8-Bit Resolution is a chiptune (old-school video game-style music) fest featuring The 486 Kid, Waxin’ Wary, Mos-8, and the easterislandhead. Visuals by VJ Cupcakes. Donations will be accepted at the door for Child’s Play, but are not required to get in. All ages. Chaos Cafe (2620 SE Powell Blvd), 8:00 pm, 503.546.8112.

  • Michelle Medler Trio will perform at Three Degrees Lounge at the RiverPlace Hotel, 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the PDX Jazz website.

  • Lucky Tiger, Honus Huffhines, and The Welfare State will perform at Red Room (2530 NE 82nd Ave) at 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Jim Page (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 7:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

  • Vivid Curve with James Faretheewell (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.

  • William Stafford Birthday Events: Two events today. More information can be found here.

    • Ritz Kyoko Mori, Dorothy Stafford, and Pat Carver will read at 3:00 pm at Holy Names Heritage Center (17425 Holy Names Drive, Lake Oswego).
    • Emily Frey, Jane Glazer, Melanie Green, Diane Holland, Mike Langtry, Stephen Pearce, Suzanne Sigafoos, and Sulima Malzin will read at 7:00 pm at Eliot Chapel, First Unitarian Church (1011 SW 12th Ave).

  • Author Kurt Nelson will discuss his book “Fighting for Paradise: A Military History of the Pacific Northwest” at Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy, Hillsboro) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Author Lisa Schroeder will talk about “Far from You,” her new young adult novel-in-verse, at 2:00 pm at Powell’s Books at Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

  • Author Bob Gaulke will talk about his new book, “Embrace Your Insignificance: Lessons Learned Teaching English in Japan” at Press Club at 8:00 pm. Bob will be joined by Chuck Thompson, another popular local travel writer. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

Sunday, January 18

  • Washington County Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration: Featuring the New Thought Choir, Beaverton Human Rights Essay Contest winner, presentation of the Everyday Hero Awards, Fusion Dancers, and keynote address by Alfonso Lopez-Vasquez, Assistant to the Provost on Diversity, and Assistant Professor of Education at Pacific University. The Kingstad Center (15450 SW Millikan Way, Beaverton), 4:00 pm. Hosted by the New Thought Center for Spiritual Living. Please bring warm coats and new socks (only) to donate to the 2009 Washington County Project Homeless Connect event happening on Wednesday, January 28th. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Free Events at Portland Old-Time Music Gathering: On Saturday from noon to 5:00 pm, come to Norse Hall (111 NE 11th Ave) for kids’ activities, singing and dancing workshops, concerts, and more. On Sunday, the Mission Theater (1624 NW Glisan) will host a cabaret show at 1:30 pm (doors open at 1:00 pm). All ages are welcome to attend; minors with parent. The show will feature short performances. Some slots will be available for signup at Norse Hall on Saturday on a first come, first served basis. For more information, visit the event website.

  • The Catillacs (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 5:00 pm. All ages. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Progression: Progression is what every other jam session isn’t. Original compositions, odd time signatures, free form improvisation, and no rules. Hosted by Ben Darwish. Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave), 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Jazz Stories 2009: Jazz Stories is a series of spoken word/live jazz narratives. In original stories accompanied by live jazz, writer Lynn Darroch, guitarist John Stowell and saxophonist Rob Davis celebrate musicians such as Ray Charles, Phil Woods, Charles Lloyd, Betty Carter and Red Rodney. Sellwood-Moreland Library (7860 SE 13th Ave), 2:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Sonny Hess and Lisa Mann will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield website.

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

  • Screening of Benjamin Bagby’s “Beowulf”: See a special screening of Benjamin Bagby’s legendary performance of the Anglo-Saxon epic “Beowulf” recorded live in Helsingborg, Sweden. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 2:00 pm. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, visit the event website.

  • “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” will be showing at Tigard Library (13500 SW Hall Blvd, Tigard) at 1:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Poets John Witte and Ana Callan will talk about their respective books at 4:00 pm at Powell’s Books on Hawthorne (3723 SE Hawthorne Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

  • Cristy Road, Rhiannon Argo and Nicole Georges will talk about their respective books at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the event website.

  • Native American artist Lillian Pitt will give a slideshow presentation and talk about the historical background related to her art. She has chosen to work in clay using Asian techniques like raku and anagama, to work in bronze or precious metals, to incorporate wood, copper, glass, shell, leather, feathers, and a wide variety of materials, and to mix media and technologies from around the globe. Hillsboro Main Library (2850 Brookwood Pkwy, Hillsboro), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Winter Palm Tree Bike Ride: Come along for a bicycle ride passing by the multitude of palm trees and other tropical and evergreen vegetation growing in the city. This ride will be a bit different than the ones we have done in the past, we’re going to explore some different areas. Ride should last about four hours or so, with plenty of stops and maybe a refreshment break. Meet at 11:00 am at Seven Virtues Coffeehouse (5936 NE Glisan St). THE IMPORTANT DETAILS: Ride not a loop. Rain or shine! (We haven’t canceled one yet, and don’t intend to!) And wear shorts! 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 January 15th, 2009

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