Around the Sun: A Blog About Saving Money in Portland, Oregon, and beyond

Good ¢ents Series, Money Management Workshops

Operation HOPE and Financial Beginnings present the Good ¢ents Series, a series of workshops about managing money. The workshops take place at Tigard Library each Saturday in January (2:00 pm to 4:00 pm). Topics include the following:

January 8: Good ¢ents Banking
Take the mystery out of choosing a bank that will meet your needs. This workshop covers:

• Banking terminology
• Opening bank accounts
• Calculating interest
• Banks versus credit unions

January 15: Good ¢ents Credit
Discover how to manage credit cards and loans. This workshop covers:

• Understanding credit
• Calculating the costs of borrowing
• Reading credit reports

January 22: Good ¢ents Insurance
Learn to make smart choices about insurance plans to protect your money. This workshop covers:

• Importance of insurance
• Types of coverage
• Budgeting for auto insurance
• Understanding liability
• Life insurance savings plan

January 29: Good ¢ents Budgeting & Investing
Learn how to set up a basic budget and make a savings plan. This workshop covers:

• Creating financial goals
• Investing basics
• Money management

Visit the library main reference desk or call 503-718-2517 to register for any or all sessions. Registration is limited to 20 people per session.

Add comment January 5th, 2011

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: July 3–5

Reminder: Admission to OMSI is $2 on Sunday.

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

Have a great weekend!

All weekend

• Lake Oswego Fourth of July Celebration: The City of Lake Oswego is hosting activities all weekend, including a parade, fireworks show, water ski show, wakeboard competition, concerts, and more. For more information, visit the event website.

Friday, July 3

• 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. Tilde will also host an artist reception.

• 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, classic cars will line the streets of downtown Camas. 5:00 pm–9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Portland Actors Ensemble will perform “King Lear” at Cathedral Park (under the bridge at N. Edison St and N. Philadelphia Ave) at 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Free Writing Workshop: On the first Friday of each month, Ibex Studios (2021 SE Clinton) hosts a free writing workshop from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. In these workshops, you will write about things that are free. To register, email becca at ibexstudios dot com or call 971.227.0305. For more information, visit the event website.

• Airplay Cafe First Birthday: Free cake, $1 hot dogs, $2 pints. Live music provided by Matt French and the Educated. They’ll be playing lots of tunes we all know. Everyone is invited to bring an instrument or just your voice and join in the jam. All ages. 701 E. Burnside St, 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Free Massages and Reflexology: The folks at Holistica Healthcare will be giving free mini-sessions of massage and reflexology by appointment from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Stop by early to sign up, then explore the Lower Burnside Art Walk while waiting for your scheduled session. 811 East Burnside, Suite 124. For more information, visit the event website.

• Kate Davis 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.

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

• SLA 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.

• Chris Loid Band (website) will perform at Tualatin Commons (8325 SW Nyberg St) at 6:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• “Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa” will be showing at Multnomah Arts Center (7688 SW Capitol Hwy) at dusk. Live entertainment starts at 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• “Twilight” will be showing at Esther Short Park (W. Columbia St and 8th St, Vancouver) at dusk (approximately 8:30 pm to 9:00 pm). The movie will be canceled or rescheduled if it rains. For more information, visit the event website.

• “Speed Racer” will be showing at the corner of 23rd and Main Street in downtown Vancouver. Show time is at 8:45 pm. At about 7:30 pm, the band Jen, Deborah and Kristen will perform. For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, July 4

• Happy Valley Fourth of July Family Festival: Enjoy a full day of fun including a parade, music, children’s activities, and fireworks show. Happy Valley City Park (13770 SE Ridgecrest Road, Happy Valley), noon to 11:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Tigard Fourth of July Celebration: This family-friendly event starts at 6:00 pm at Tigard High School Soccer Field (corner of Hall and Durham Road). Festivities include live music, kids’ games, and more. The fireworks show starts at dusk. For more information, visit the event website.

• Bank of America cardholders receive free admission to the Portland Art Museum and Pittock Mansion on July 4 and 5. For more information, visit the BOA 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 Fish Come Home.” 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.

• Free Zumba Class: Zumba is a dance-inspired fitness class that incorporates Latin and international rhythms to create a dynamic, exciting, and effective workout. No experience is necessary to enjoy Zumba. Soma Space (4050 NE Broadway St), 9:00 am to 10:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Brothers of the Sonic Cloth, Lesbian, HC Minds, and Aranya will perform at Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave) at 9:00 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Emily Herring (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.

Sunday, July 5

• Bank of America cardholders receive free admission to the Portland Art Museum and Pittock Mansion on July 4 and 5. For more information, visit the BOA website.

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

• Whiskey Flats Brass Band will perform at Tryon Creek State Park at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• “The Squid and the Whale” will be showing at Press Club at 9:00 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Chickweed (website) will perform at Edgefield (2126 SW Halsey St, Troutdale) at 5:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the Edgefield 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 July 2nd, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: June 12–14

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

Also, Pedalpalooza begins this week, and Shift to Bikes has information on the 200+ events that make up this two-week celebration. Some events are free and some are not. If you’re not sure whether an event is free, contact the organizers of that event.

Have a great weekend!

Friday, June 12

• Cruisin’ Sherwood: Starting at 5:00 pm, classic cars will prepare for a traditional cruise in Old Town Sherwood. For more information, visit the event website.

• Andrew Oliver 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.

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

• The Cowboy Heroes (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.

• The 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.

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

• Author Jay Lake will talk about his book “Green” at 7:00 pm at Powell’s Books at Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd, Beaverton). For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, June 13

• Cirque du Cycling: This event includes an art bike parade, criterium-style street race (with two-way racing), three-mile family ride, live entertainment, and more. N. Mississippi Ave between Shaver and Fremont, noon to 8:00 pm. See photos of last year’s event here. For more information, visit the event website.

• Base to Butte Fair: The Asian-American Plaza will be the site of a neighborhood fair featuring entertainment and crafts by local artists. NE 82nd and Siskiyou, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit Neighborhood Notes.

• Cruisin’ Sherwood: From 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, see hundreds of classic and custom vehicles in Old Town Sherwood. For more information, visit the event website.

• National Get Outdoors Day: This event encourages families to experience the healthful, active outdoor fun available right outside our doors. Hands-on activities, presentations, giveaways, and more. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Water Resources Education Center (4600 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver). For more information, visit the event website.

• Original Practice Shakespeare Festival (Ops Fest): Ops Fest performs First Folio editions of Shakespeare’s plays, using the same performance techniques as performers in Shakespeare’s time, which means limited rehearsal; an onstage prompter; fast-paced, energetic acting; and lots of audience interaction. Cathedral Park (under the bridge at N. Edison St and N. Philadelphia Ave), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Green Walks: A guide from Portland Parks & Recreation will lead a tour of Maricara Park from 10:00 am–11:00 am. Meet at SW 29th and Maricara. For more information, visit the event website.

• Downtown Hillsboro Walking Tour: Join walking guru and author Laura Foster for a casual walk that goes by the Venetian Theatre, the Cultural Arts Center and several historic homes before ending at the Southeast Eighth Avenue MAX stop. Meet at 1:15 pm at the Washington County Courthouse on Main Street between First and Second Avenues. For more information, visit the event website.

• I Was A King (website) will perform at 4:00 pm at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside). For more information, visit the event website.

• Brooklyn Street Jazz (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 will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

• Eddie Parente (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.

• Backyard Birding: Join local birding expert Doug Robberson to discover how to attract and identify common backyard birds. Tigard Library (13500 SW Hall Blvd), 1:00 pm–2:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Cyd Manro, the co-founder of EcoMunity, will present creative low-cost ways to generate power for home or office. Manro demonstrates community power and communications projects that are helping power tomorrow’s urban networks. Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 11:00 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Birding 101: Bring your bird identification guide, binoculars, notebook and water bottle. This class is best suited for adults and children ages 10 and up. First hour will be inside with background information and second hour in the field. Tryon Creek Park, 10:00 am to noon. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, June 14

• Original Practice Shakespeare Festival (Ops Fest): Ops Fest performs First Folio editions of Shakespeare’s plays, using the same performance techniques as performers in Shakespeare’s time, which means limited rehearsal; an onstage prompter; fast-paced, energetic acting; and lots of audience interaction. Peninsula Park (north of the gazebo, 700 N. Rosa Parks Way), 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Pride Parade: The parade starts at 11:00 am on the North Park Blocks in downtown Portland. For the parade route, visit the event website.

• Pets on Parade: Everyone is welcome to dress up and show off their favorite pet (stuffed animals okay too). Music presented by the Petropolitan Jazz Band. Registration for competitions begins at 1:00 pm. Parade begins at 2:00 pm. Millennium Plaza Park (200 First Street, Lake Oswego). For more information, visit the event website.

• Pearl to Pittock Hike: Join Council President David Bragdon and walking guru and author Laura Foster for this hike that goes through Westover Heights and Northwest 23rd and 21st Avenues. Meet at Portland REI, 1405 NW Johnson St, at 8:45 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Portland Metro Concert Band will perform at Howard Horner Performing Arts Center at David Douglas High School (1400 SE 130th Ave), 3:00 pm. Admission is free, but donations are welcomed to help defray concert expenses. For more information, visit the band website.

• Adam Franklin (of Swervedriver) (website) will perform at 3:00 pm at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside). For more information, visit the event website.

• Kung Fu Film Series: “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” will be showing at Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 2:15 pm. This film is in Chinese with English subtitles. A brief discussion and kung fu demonstration with Master Yu, Shaowen will follow the screening. For more information, visit the event website.

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

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

• Selling Handmade Goods on Etsy: Learn how and why to sell your handmade goods on the largest online craft consignment store. Let instructors from the IPRC (Independent Publishing Resource Center) be your guide. St. Johns Library (7510 N. Charleston Ave), 2:00 pm–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.

3 comments June 11th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Mar 27–29

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

Have a great weekend!

All weekend

• Energy Trust Better Living Show: This event is packed with activities focused on sustainable living. Workshops, music, kids activities, theatre, cooking demonstrations, and more. Portland Expo Center (2060 North Marine Dr). For more information, visit the event website.

• Chicken Fest: Twenty breeds will be on display. Activities include live music, egg toss contest and workshops. Workshops cost $5; all other activities are free. Livingscape Nursery (3926 N. Vancouver Ave). For more information, visit the event website.

Friday, March 27

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

• Patterns, Dramady, and Root Beer and French Fry will perform at 9:00 pm at Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave). For more information, visit the event website.

• Robert Moore 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.

• James Low and MBilly will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

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

• Will West & The Friendly Strangers (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 Anne Easter Smith will talk about her book “In The King’s Grace” at 7:00 pm at Powell’s Books at Cedar Hills Crossing (3415 SW Cedar Hills Blvd). For more information, visit the event website.

• Author Susan Jane Gilman will talk about her book “Undress Me in the Temple of Heaven” at 7:30 pm at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside). For more information, visit the event website.

Saturday, March 28

• Family Walks With Metro Councilors: Carlotta Collette, District 2 Councilor, will lead a 2.5-mile walk through the Tideman-Johnson Natural Area and quiet residential streets of Milwaukie’s Ardenwald neighborhood. Meet at 10:00 am at the Springwater Corridor Trailhead (SE Johnson Creek Blvd and the Springwater Corridor at 45th). For more information, visit the event website or contact Carl Larson at larson @ bta4bikes.org or 503.226.0676 x16.

• 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.

• 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. Woodstock Library (6008 SE 49th Ave), 3:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Fairly Stupid Tales: This play was inspired by the book “The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales” by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith. It’s brought to you by Book-It Repertory Theatre from Seattle, WA, a production company that focuses on bringing books to life for children. Most appropriate for grades K–5. Two performances at North Portland Library (512 N. Killingsworth St), 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website (information near bottom of page).

• Massive 5: Get in free before 10:00 pm by saying “Life is a Party” at the door. Massive 5 is a dance party and benefit that includes a fashion show, raffle, clothing sales, tattoo work giveaways, and plenty of other goodies. The fun takes place at Crown Room, 205 NW 4th Ave. Ages 21+.

• Ben Medler Trio 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.

• Kaitlyn ni Donovan and the Brilliant Channel will perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. All ages. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

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

• Justin Jude & The Open Road (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.

• VoiceCatcher Authors Reading: VoiceCatcher presents prose and poetry from its third women writers anthology. The work of six contributing authors will be highlighted. Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave), 2:00 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. Fairview-Columbia Library (1520 NE Village St, Fairview), 3:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Writers’ Dojo Day of Literary Celebration: The day includes poetry performances, writing workshops, and a panel discussion on publishing. 7518 N. Chicago Ave, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Please RSVP. For more information, visit the event website.

• Craft Project and Book Signing: Author and crafter Susan Beal will talk about her book “Button It Up” and help folks make button magnets and pushpins. Supplies will be provided. The afternoon will also include sweet treats and a crafty giveaway. Bolt Fabric Boutique (2136 NE Alberta St), 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.  

Sunday, March 29

• Trillium Story: Join Stephanie Wagner, Executive Director of the Friends of Tryon Creek, for a lecture on this woodland plant. Ages 12 and older. Tryon Creek State Park, 2:00 pm–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Build a Bird House: The Rebuilding Center will provide you with the tools, reclaimed house materials and all the instruction you’ll need to build your own bird house. Most appropriate for grades K–5. Holgate Library (7905 SE Holgate Blvd), 2:00 pm–4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Thumbelina: In this Oregon Shadow Theatre production, Thumbelina journeys through a series of natural habitats to discover her home in the land of the flower fairies. Most appropriate for grades K–5. Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 2:30 pm–3:15 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• “Sweet and Lowdown” 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 Catherine Clinton will talk about her book “Mrs. Lincoln: A Life” 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.

Add comment March 26th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Mar 20–22

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

• Click here to print out a coupon for a free breakfast and coffee at IKEA, good from March 20–22.
• Saturday is Family Day at the Oregon Historical Society. Two children will be admitted free of charge per one adult paid admission.

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

2/9–2/20: Free Writing Workshops From Write Around Portland (Registration Required)

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, Write Around Portland will offer free writing workshops from February 9–20. These workshops will be held in different locations in Portland and are open to all. Writing journals, pens and snacks will be provided.

You can register for one workshop or all 10. To register, call 503.796.9224, email tendays @ writearound.org, or stop by one of the workshop locations.

Monday, February 9
2:00 pm–4:00 pm
The Ritzdorf Apartments, 1225 SE Belmont 

Tuesday, February 10
4:00 pm–6:00 pm
New Avenues for Youth, 314 SW 9th

Wednesday, February 11
4:00 pm–6:00 pm
Portland General Electric, 121 SW Salmon

Thursday, February 12
6:00 pm–8:00 pm
Talking Drum Bookstore & Reflections Coffee House, 446 NE Killingsworth

Friday, February 13
5:00 pm–7:00 pm
Po’Shines Café de la Soul, 8139 N. Denver

Monday, February 16
7:00 pm–9:00 pm
Looking Glass Bookstore, 7983 SE 13th

Tuesday, February 17
5:15 pm–7:15 pm
Stoel Rives LLP, 900 SW 5th, Suite 2600

Wednesday, February 18
5:30 pm–7:30 pm
Sisters of the Road Café, 133 NW 6th

Thursday, February 19
2:00 pm–4:00 pm
Gresham Library, 385 NW Miller Avenue

Friday, February 20
12:00 pm–2:00 pm
Portland Center Stage, 128 NW 11th

For more information, visit the Write Around Portland website.

Add comment February 6th, 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 Workshops on Lowering Energy and Food Bills

ROSE Community Development is sponsoring two money-saving workshops. Both workshops are free and open to all.

Weatherization Workshop
When: Wednesday, January 21, 2009, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Where: Lent Elementary School, 5105 SE 97th Ave, Portland
Description: Find out how to save money on your energy bills, keep your home warmer and conserve energy. Free childcare and snacks will be provided. Income-qualified Portland residents can receive a free kit of weatherization materials ($150 value).
Please RSVP to 503.916.6322.

“How to Buy Food on a Budget” Workshop
When: Wednesday, January 28, 2009, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Where: Lent Elementary School, 5105 SE 97th Ave, Portland
Description: Find out how to save money, feed your family, and eat healthy while shopping at the grocery store. The workshop includes a cooking demonstration, grocery shopping tips, resources, a raffle and more. Free childcare and a light dinner will be provided.
Please RSVP by Monday, January 26, to 503.916.6322. (Class limit: 25 adults + children)

For more information, visit the ROSE Community Development Events page.

Photo by Andreas Kollegger

Add comment January 12th, 2009

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Dec 12–14

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

All weekend

• Christmas Ship Parade will be cruising the Willamette and Columbia Rivers each evening. For more information, visit the event website.

Friday, December 12

• Annual Winter Solstice in Milwaukie: Come warm by the bonfire and watch the Christmas Ship Parade cruise the Willamette River at the Jefferson Street Boat Ramp at Milwaukie’s Riverfront Park. The ships are scheduled to come by around 7:00 pm, and the Dickens Carolers will perform from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. All ages are encouraged to attend. For more information, visit the event website.

• Lower Fremont Winterfest Artwalk and Sidewalk Sale: 40+ local artists and crafters, discounts, live music, and more. Sales will help support local neighborhood families in need. NE Fremont at 13th & 14th Avenues, 4:00 pm–9:00 pm. Find more information here.

• Multnomah Arts Center Fall Theatre Showcase presents an adaptation of “The Stinky Cheese Man” by Jon Scieszka at 7:00 pm on Friday and 2:00 pm on Saturday. Admission is free with donations gratefully accepted. 7688 SW Capitol Hwy. For more information, visit the event website.

• Pink Slip Holiday Office Party: Holocene is hosting a party featuring DJ Hoop Dreams, Dr. Rev. Adam, and Freaky Outy behind the decks. 1001 SE Morrison, 9:00 pm. Ages 21+. For more information, visit the event website.

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

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

• ‘Couv Fest Concert: Aleen, Silversafe, Throwback Suburbia and The Reds will perform. All ages. Westfield Vancouver Mall (8700 NE Vancouver Mall Dr), 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

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

Saturday, December 13

• Tuba Christmas: Nearly 200 tuba players will converge on Pioneer Courthouse Square and treat the public to a festive holiday concert. Audience members are encouraged to sing along to familiar carols. 1:30 pm–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Mortgage and Foreclosure Summit: The event offers workshops on how to avoid foreclosure and lending scams, as well as an opportunity for attendees to share their stories, network with legislators, and access civic and state agencies. 9:00 am to 2:00 pm at PCC Southeast Center at 82nd and Division. More information can be found here.

• Lower Fremont Winterfest Artwalk and Sidewalk Sale: 40+ local artists and crafters, discounts, live music, and more. Sales will help support local neighborhood families in need. NE Fremont at 13th & 14th Avenues, 11:00 am–4:00 pm. Find more information here.

• Kanawaksooma Celebration (Quiet Thunder): This event offers authentic music, dance, crafts, food, and entertainment for the whole family. Activities for children include dancing, face painting, and craft tables. Mt. Hood Community College (26000 SE Stark St, Gresham), noon to 10:00 pm. A free salmon and buffalo feed including a native blessing will begin at 5:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• West Linn Holiday Parade: The parade starts at 10:00 am and runs along Willamette Falls Drive in the historic Willamette area. After the parade, stop by the Firte Station to donate a new unwrapped toy for TVF&R Toy & Joy Program, visit with Santa, stay for a horse-drawn carriage ride and visit all the local shops for discounts. For more information, visit the event website.

• Multnomah Arts Center Fall Theatre Showcase presents an adaptation of “The Stinky Cheese Man” by Jon Scieszka at 7:00 pm on Friday and 2:00 pm on Saturday. Admission is free with donations gratefully accepted. 7688 SW Capitol Hwy. For more information, visit the event website.

• Children’s Play “Raven Steals the Sun”: Created and performed by Emily Alexander of Tears of Joy Theatre, based on a Native American tale. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Most suitable for grades K–5. Capitol Hill Library (10723 SW Capitol Highway), 11:00 am–11:30 am. For more information, visit the event website.

• Penny’s Puppet Productions will treat families to a spinoff of “The Mitten,” a traditional Ukrainian tale. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Belmont Library (1038 SE 39th Ave), 3:00 pm–3:45 pm. Most appropriate for preschool-age children. For more information, visit the event website.

• Second Saturday at the Water Center in Vancouver: Families are invited to participate in craft activities: decorate a frame, make snowflakes from coffee filters, and transform last year’s calendar into beads and gift boxes. 4600 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Lisa Stringfield and Lara Michelle (website) will be perform at Press Club at 8:30 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

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

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

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

• “Private Space” Live Video Performance and Interactive Installation: Attendees will create and experience visual jazz. Other exhibits include a multi-touch table, a body painting session and a light display titled Exhibit 2. Someday Lounge (125 NW 5th Ave), 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

Sunday, December 14

• Peacock Lane Car-Free Night: The street will be closed to allow foot and bike traffic only from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm. Information can be found at OregonLive and the Peacock Lane website. (see comments for this post)

• Posada Milagro: Miracle Theatre Group invites the whole family to enjoy the Posada Milagro, a holiday celebration filled with Latin American theatre, music, dance, arts and crafts workshops, traditional foods, and more. All activities will be conducted in Spanish. El Centro Milagro (525 SE Stark St), 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• Gresham Community Choir Holiday Concert: The concert features a variety of holiday music. Last year over 600 lbs of food for the hungry was collected. This year, the choir’s goal is 1000 lbs. Reynolds District Arts and Communication Center (1698 SW Cherry Park Road, Troutdale), 3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

• Murder by the Book Open House: Appearances by local authors Carola Dunn, Larry Karp, and Kate Kingsbury, with special guest appearances by Chelsea Cain, Bill Cameron, Phil Margolin, and Sharan Newman. Snacks too. 3210 SE Hawthorne Blvd, noon to 4:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

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

4 comments December 12th, 2008

Free Events This Weekend in Portland: Nov 7–9

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

Friday, November 7

• Free First Friday Night at Portland Children’s Museum: Admission to the museum is free from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Bring a gift of canned food for the Oregon Food Bank and create a garland of gratitude and a pinecone turkey to take home. For more information, visit the event website. 

• First Friday Art Shows and Openings:

  • First Friday East Portland Gallery Art Walk: Several galleries on the East side open their doors to the public from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm on the first Friday of each month. Go to this website for the list of galleries. In addition to those, Bowl of Thistles and Tilde will also host artist receptions.

  • Multnomah Arts Center Faculty Art Show & Concert: From 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, chat with members of MAC’s art faculty and view paintings, prints, drawings, metal arts, clay arts, textile arts and more. The music faculty will perform at 7:15 pm. All are welcome. 7688 SW Capitol Hwy. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Photography Show and Voice Catcher Reading: The 100th Monkey Studio (110 SE 16th Ave) will host a reception for their new exhibit featuring photos by young people. Also, the Voice Catcher community will read from their new anthology. All ages welcome. 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm; reading begins at 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

  • Pattern Art Show: Olio United (1028 SE Water) is celebrating the opening of “Repeat,” featuring pattern work by 10 artists. 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website. 

  • Press Club will host a reception for artist Charlie Kraft at 7:00 pm. Press Club is located at 2621 SE Clinton St, 503.233.5656.

  • Also, go to PORT for more events.

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

• First Friday Art Walk in Downtown Camas: This month’s theme is “Favorite Recipes from Downtown Camas.” In addition to displays for the holidays, downtown merchants will serve their favorite holiday recipes for customers to enjoy and also hand out the written recipes. 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. For more information, visit the Downtown Camas website.

• New Faces (website) will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 7:00 pm. All ages. For more information, visit the Music Millennium website.

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

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

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

• Ellen Heltzel & Margo Hammond will talk about “Between the Covers,” their anthology of fiction and nonfiction, at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside (1005 W. Burnside), 7:30 pm. For more information, visit the Powell’s website.

Saturday, November 8

• Keep Portland Weird Festival: The Central Library (801 SW 10th Ave) will host a variety of activities and information booths from “weird” organizations in Portland. For more information, visit the festival website. For details on the clothing swaps, click here. 11:00 am–4:00 pm.

• Siren Nation Workshops: In Other Words Women’s Books and Resources (8 NE Killingsworth St) will host three family-friendly workshops: “Zines 101” at 1:15 pm; “What Is Freeschooling?” at 3:00 pm; and “Urban Cycling: How to Ride the Road & Feel Good Doing It” at 4:15 pm. These workshops are part of the Siren Nation Festival, which includes free and not-free events. For more information on the workshops, visit the IOW website.

• Free Events at NW Film & Video Festival: The festival includes two free events:

  • Show and Tell Un-conference: A Barcamp for Filmmakers: This is an opportunity for filmmakers of all levels to share their knowledge, learn from others, inspire and be inspired. Beverages and snacks will be provided. School of Film (934 SW Salmon), 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

  • What’s Wrong With This Picture: Seattle film guru Warren Etheredge will host this talk about films that were not selected for this year’s festival. Open to filmmakers of all experience levels, as well as to film lovers. Whitsell Auditorium (1219 SW Park Ave), 4:00 pm.

  • For more information, visit the event website.

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

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

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

• Author Laura Foster will talk about her book “Portland City Walks: Twenty Explorations in and Around Town” at Northwest Library (2300 NW Thurman St) at 2:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website.

• “Get Me Through the Holidays: 10 Strategies for Coping with Loss and Loneliness on Days That Hold Special Meaning”: Staff from the Community Care Program of Providence Hospital will lead this presentation. Kenilworth Presbyterian Church (corner of SE 34th and Gladstone), 10:00 am to 11:30 am. Coffee and refreshments at 9:45 am. For more information, visit Neighborhood Notes.

Sunday, November 9

• Siren Nation Workshops: Kennedy School (5736 NE 33rd Ave) will host a day of free workshops—part of the 2008 Siren Nation Festival—on a wide range of topics of concern and interest to women: writing, music, canning food, sex, health, self-defense, entrepreneurship and more. 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. All ages welcome. For more information, visit the event website.

• ”Gourdy Pumpernickel’s Harvest Surprise” Puppet Show: Mudeye Puppet Company presents this all-new, all-original, all-ages puppet show about a determined but slightly silly farmer who never gives up. Free tickets for seating will be available 30 minutes prior to the program. Midland Library (805 SE 122nd Ave), 2:00 pm–3:00 pm. For more information, visit the event website

• Kolvane/Joe McMurrian Quartet will perform at Music Millennium (3158 E. Burnside) at 5:00 pm. For more information, visit the Music Millennium website.

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

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

Add comment November 7th, 2008