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November Events

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The leaves are changing, the air is cooling, and the rain is starting to move in. That also means people are getting ready for the holiday season. That means there is no shortage of fun events to do in November to keep your mind off the changing weather. Enjoy and if we missed anything you love, please let us know!

Portland Book Festival

The largest celebration of literature and literacy in the Pacific Northwest includes an extensive book fair, large-scale events, smaller panels, on-stage conversations, and readings, all held at and around the Portland Art Museum

  • 1219 SW Park
  • pricing varies TICKETS
  • Saturday Nov 2nd

First Thursday

Stroll through the art galleries in the pearl for an evening of art, music, and wine! Parking is difficult so public transit is recommended

  • The Pearl District
  • Free
  • Nov. 7th; 5pm – 10pm though gallery hours vary.

Kumoricon

Kumoricon embodies the best parts of fandom and what it is to live in the Pacific Northwest. Stretching across generations, anime fans have gathered together for an amazing annual event. The Kumoricon family grows yearly, making it the largest anime convention in Oregon.

  • Oregon Convention Center
  • pricing varies – TICKETS
  • November 8-10th

Veterans Day Parade

The Portland Veterans Day Parade is an inclusive, nonpartisan, family-friendly event honoring all Veterans, past and present, living and deceased.

  • MLK and Beech – MLK and Emerson
  • Free
  • Monday, Nov. 11th. 10am – 12pm

Snack Fest

You’ll experience live entertainment, demos, educational breakout sessions and opportunities to meet the makers of your favorite food and products. You’ll also have the ability to experience special, one-off pop-up’s from chefs near and far. There are ticketed experiences inside the event, but no entrance fees.

  • Alder Block
  • Free
  • November 15-17th, times vary

Portland Holiday Market

More than 100,000 square feet of display space are filled with hundreds of exhibitors. Food items, gifts, artwork, jewelry, home décor, clothing, spirits, craft items, books, ornaments, leather goods, bath and body, and much more. This show has handcrafted, artisan and unique items you’ll never find in big box stores. 

  • Portland Expo Center
  • $12 -$27 TICKETS
  • November 15th – 17th

Brew Lights

Enjoy the twinkling magical wonderland of ZooLights—without any kids. Enjoy the sixth annual BrewLights, presented by TriMet, a ZooLights brew festival experience for the 21-and-over crowd with more than 45 Northwest breweries and cideries to sample from.

  • Oregon Zoo
  • $40-$65 TICKETS
  • November 15th and 16th, 5pm-10pm

Wine Country Thanksgiving

During Wine Country Thanksgiving more than 150 wineries open their doors to the public, offering samples of favorite labels and special vintages. The holiday weekend festivities include live music, food and wine pairings, and the opportunity to visit with winemakers at some of Oregon’s top wineries — including many not usually open to the public.

  • Various Locations
  • Pricing varies by winery
  • Nov. 22nd – 24th and Nov. 29th – Dec 1st

Meat and Cheese Festival

With the recent boom in artisan shops across the Pacific Northwest the Cheese and Meat Festival aims to showcase products that you would see on a “charcuterie board” and items that pair with the board. Think Cheeses, meats, pickles, bread’s etc.

  • Leftbank Annex
  • $75+ TICKETS
  • Nov. 23rd, 3pm start or 7pm start times available.

Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony

Portland’s Tree Lighting will be live in person at Pioneer Courthouse Square the day after Thanksgiving, Friday, November 24th. Featuring a joyful sing-along with Portland’s own Thomas Lauderdale from Pink Martini, local musicians and chorale singers, this event is the highlight of the holiday season downtown.  

  • Pioneer Courthouse Square
  • Free
  • November 29th, 5:30pm

We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!

Looking for something else to do? Check out our best of lists!

Tomo Ramen

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Hidden on SE Hawthorne St, Tomo Ramen is a cozy jewel in Portland’s culinary crown. They offer a unique take on the classic Japanese noodle house. Its interior, a captivating mix of dark tones and vibrant reds, is adorned with intriguing Japanese pop culture art, creating an inviting, eclectic atmosphere. This snug space is perfect for those seeking a relaxed meal away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

What we ordered

At Tomo Ramen, ordering is a breeze with their modern kiosk system, adding a convenient, contemporary touch to the dining experience. The staff, known for their efficiency and friendliness, ensures that your food arrives promptly and piping hot at your table.

Our culinary adventure began with the Shrimp Tempura, a dish that delighted us with its perfect seasoning and crisp texture. The tempura was a harmonious blend of crunch and flavor, setting a high bar for the rest of the meal.

The star of the show was Tomo’s Ramen. This hearty bowl came brimming with rich pork broth, succulent chashu pork belly, and perfectly fried pork pieces. The vegetables, including steamed bean sprouts, cabbage, spinach, and marinated bamboo shoots, added freshness and crunch. The dish was completed with garnishes of scallion, fried onion, garlic flake, and nori, creating a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite.

For a vegetarian twist, the Veggie Miso Ramen was an absolute winner. It featured a robust miso broth filled with an array of top-quality ingredients: homemade tofu nuggets, steamed bean sprouts, cabbage, marinated bamboo shoots, pickled ginger, avocado slices, and sliced tofu. Topped with scallion and nori, this dish was a testament to the kitchen’s ability to cater to diverse dietary preferences without compromising on taste.

Ambiance

Tomo Ramen’s ambiance adds significantly to the dining experience. The dimly lit interior, with its black walls and red accents, creates a cozy yet vibrant setting. The red lampshades cast a warm glow, enhancing the intimate feel of the restaurant. The walls, adorned with prints of old Japanese films, transport diners into a world that beautifully bridges traditional Japanese culture with modern aesthetics.

Final Thoughts on Tomo Ramen

Tomo Ramen is more than just a place to eat; it’s a destination for those seeking an authentic, flavorful, and enjoyable ramen experience in Portland. From the warm welcome to the last spoonful of delicious broth, every visit to Tomo Ramen is a journey of culinary delight. Its combination of great food, unique ambiance, and friendly service makes it a must-visit spot for both locals and visitors alike. Next time you’re in the area and craving a bowl of soul-satisfying ramen, remember that Tomo Ramen is waiting to welcome you with open arms.

October Events

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It’s officially fall and I can smell the pumpkin spice from here! Luckily there is still no shortage of things to this month, and with any luck, the nice weather will stick around for most of October! Check out this list of events going on around Portland! We also have a list of some haunted houses below if you are feeling spooky!

First Thursday

Stroll through the art galleries in the pearl for an evening of art, music, and wine! Parking is difficult so public transit is recommended

The Pearl District

Free

October 3rd

5pm – 10pm though gallery hours vary.

Portland Greek Festival

The Portland Greek Festival is celebrated as the largest Greek Festival on the west coast with more than 15,000 people attending. This cultural experience features Greek food, music, dance and shopping! This year the event is going cashless and using wristbands to help you sample all the delicious offerings!

3131 NE Glisan St

$5 Admission

October 4th – 6th

Hood River Hops Fest

The Hood River Hops Fest is an annual celebration of beer’s bitter friend, freshly harvested hops.  Celebrating it’s 20th year, they will be hosting over 25 breweries and allowing you to purchase a commemorative cup, or bring your own glass!

Hood River Waterfront

$20-$35 – TICKETS

October 5th: 11am – 7pm

    Hood River Harvest Fest

    • You will find the valleys best fall bounty at this festival, produce, honey, flowers, plants and more! You can also find handcrafted gifts, live music, multiple food carts, and a bounce house area for the kiddos!
    • Hood River Event Site
    • $12, kids under 12 are free – TICKETS
    • October 11th – 13th
    • Friday 1pm – 6pm
    • Saturday 10am – 6pm
    • Sunday 10am – 5pm

    Spirit of Halloweentown

    • Each year, St. Helens, the filming site of the otherwise forgettable Halloweentown, remembers its brush with the dollar DVD bin with The Spirit of Halloweentown, a fun, family-friendly celebration of the spookiest holiday around.
    • St Helens, OR

    $40 online – TICKETS

    Weekends: September 28th – October 27th + October 31st

    Portland Film Festival

    • The festival focuses on people, ideas, technology, skills and artistry behind filmmaking and provides both entertaining and educational opportunities to the public.
      Portland Film Festival is Portland Oregon’s largest film festival by filmmakers for filmmakers.
    • Mcmenamins Kennedy School
    • $99 – TICKETS
    • October 16th – 20th

    Giant Pumpkin Regatta

    • The West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta is one of the most unique fall Festivals in Oregon. Since 2004 people from around the country have gathered to watch costumed characters paddle giant pumpkin boats in a series of races.
    • Lake of the Commons – Tualatin

    Free

    October 20th, 10am – 4pm

    Haunted Houses

    We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!

    Looking for something else to do? Check out our best of lists!

    August Events

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    Can you believe we are almost to the end of summer? Well to celebrate we have an insane number of events for you! There are also so many street fairs and one day cultural events that they have their very own list at the end. You can also watch the world famous Hood to Coast relay!

    First Thursday

    Stroll through the art galleries in the pearl for an evening of art, music, and wine! Parking is difficult so public transit is recommended

    The Pearl District

    Free

    August 1st, 5pm – 10pm

    Dahlia Festival

    Celebrate the season of dahlias. Stroll through almost 40 acres and a beautiful display garden of stunning dahlias featuring over 370 varieties. The beautiful fields are open from August to September each year.

    Swan Island Dahlias

    Free

    Wednesdays-Sundays, 9am-5:30pm

    Pickathon

    The three-day festival on 80 acres just outside Portland attracts a range of indie, rock and rap artists as well as the bluegrass troupes that gave the event its name. The lineup is geared toward new music discovery; don’t worry if you haven’t heard of most of the artists that’s half of the fun!

    Pendarvis Farm

    From $205 – TICKETS

    August 1st-4th

    Concerts in the Park

    For over a century, local musicians of all genres and traditions have been entertaining crowds in Portland parks every summer. Listen to diverse beats like improvisational African jazz or Celtic folk-rock and enjoy a bite from local food vendors like Pips Original Doughnuts as you jam out with other community members.

    Citywide

    Free

    Thursday, Friday, Saturday 6:30pm

    Vanport Jazz Festival

    The Vanport Jazz Festival, presented by Moda Health and the Portland Trail Blazers, honors the city of Vanport and the voices that formed Portland’s jazz community. Near the historic 1948 flood site, the event transforms Colwood Golf Course into a cultural revival, welcoming nationally renowned artists and breathing new life into Portland jazz.

    Colwood Golf Center

    Starting at $65 – TICKETS

    August 2nd-3rd, times vary

    Portland Hot Sauce Expo

    Enjoy the taste of a huge variety of hot sauces at this annual exhibition. The expo includes free hot sauce tastings, a selection of craft beers and specialty cocktails, snacks ranging from barbecue to vegan bites, and the “Stage of Doom”.

    OMSI

    Starting at $10 – TICKETS

    August 10th – 11th,

    Bridge Pedal

    Portland’s annual Bridge Pedal is a community celebration of the city’s iconic bridges and biking culture. Join your friends and neighbors for the one opportunity each year to bike or walk on Portland’s car-free streets and bridges

    Multiple Locations

    Starting at $40 – TICKETS

    August 11th

    Adult Soap Box Derby

    Put down your video game controllers and step away from your Mario Kart. The best way to race isn’t on a screen; it’s down an extinct cinder cone volcano in Southeast Portland. The annual PDX Adult Soapbox Derby, pits grown-up kids against each other, with each team designing and assembling their own downhill racers in pursuit of maximum speed or big laughs.

    Mt Tabor Park

    Free

    August 17th, 10am – 4pm

    Hood To Coast

    If you aren’t running this relay (timberline to seaside) you can still cheer runners on as they make their way towards the coast. OR avoid the areas if you don’t want the interruption to traffic.

    Various Locations – MAPS

    Free to watch

    August 23th-24th

    Culture Festivals and Street Fairs

    We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!

    Looking for something else to do? Check out our best of lists!

    Phaya Thai Express

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    Hey Portland friends! We just discovered a great new spot on Hawthorne Blvd that we’re excited to share with you—Phaya Thai Express. This fast-casual Thai spot has quickly become one of our go-to places for delicious, authentic Thai food, and we think you’ll love it too. Whether you need a quick lunch, or a low key dinner. Phaya is sure to meet your needs and be delicious while it is happening.

    Walking into Phaya Thai Express, you’re immediately greeted by the inviting aromas of freshly prepared dishes. The setup is simple and fun—you get to build your meal from a base of either white rice or brown rice and grains, and then choose from an array of mouthwatering dishes displayed cafeteria-style.

    On our visit, we decided to try a bowl with two selections. First up was the NY Steak Curry, featuring juicy NY steak, galangal, and a southern Thai curry that packed just the right amount of spice. It was hands down our favorite of the night.

    2 entree meal from phaya thai

    We also tried the Prik King Catfish, which included fried catfish in a house curry with rhizome root and basil. The combination of flavors was fantastic, with the basil adding a fresh twist to the lightly spicy curry. And of course, we couldn’t resist ordering some crab rangoon. These crispy treats, stuffed with real crab and served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce, were the perfect starter.

    We also tried a couple cocktails so that we could test out the full experience. I had a gin cocktail, which came with jasmine, giffard pampelmouse, and lemon. It was tart and well rounded. We also tried the hibiscus mezcalita which was very smoky and tart. It was made with mezcal, hibiscus syrup, aperol, lime and a chamoy rim.

    Something for Everyone

    One of the things we love about Phaya Thai Express is how inclusive their menu is. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or need gluten-free options, there’s something here for you. The variety ensures everyone can find their new favorite dish. If you arent into cocktails they had multiple non-alcoholic mocktails and sodas. There is also a large outdoor patio for you to enjoy during these lovely sunny months.

    Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, having a casual dinner, or planning a get-together with friends, Phaya Thai Express is a great choice. The food is flavorful, the atmosphere is welcoming, and it’s conveniently located on Hawthorne Blvd.

    So next time you’re in the neighborhood, swing by Phaya Thai Express and treat yourself to some incredible Thai cuisine. We promise you won’t be disappointed!

    Have you been to Phaya Thai Express yet? Share your favorite dishes and tips in the comments—we’d love to hear from you! Looking for something else? You can see our other favorite places to eat around the city HERE

    Canard – Oregon City

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    Hot Spot of the week is the new outpost of Canard in Oregon City! We recently headed over there for a leisurely business lunch, and it is the perfect spot for exactly that. This new restaurant offers some of the Canard classics, plus some new and interesting dishes.

    Canard Oregon City

    We started, as usual with some lovely cocktails. I had the Standard OG, a nice dark cocktail in the vein of a Vieux Carre. Jessica gave the Old Habits a spin, which was bright citrusy and a tad spicy from the jalapeno. Both were well-mixed and tasty!

    For lunch we started with the shrimp cocktail lettuce wraps. This dish is a refreshing twist on the classic shrimp cocktail, with the shrimp nestled in a leaf of butter lettuce and topped with a Thai cocktail sauce. It’s the perfect light lunch option that won’t leave you feeling weighed down.

    If you’re feeling more adventurous, try the foie gras dumplings. These little bites of heaven are bursting with rich and savory flavor. The dumplings are filled with foie gras and are bathed in dashi and hoisin that perfectly complements the richness of the filling.

    For a wonderful vegetarian option, don’t miss out on the seven spice squash. This dish features tender slices of Delicata squash that are seasoned with a blend of seven spices, and served alongside cashew cream, lemongrass, and grapefruit. It’s a perfect side dish to pair with any of Canard’s other offerings.

    Not only does Canard offer amazing food, but the restaurant itself is a sight to behold. The chic and modern decor creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite on your lunch break or enjoying a leisurely meal with friends, Canard is the perfect spot.

    In terms of location, Canard is conveniently located in the heart of Oregon City. So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, it’s the perfect spot to stop and refuel during your day.

    Have you tried out Canard’s new Oregon City location yet? What were your favorite dishes? Let us know in the comments!

    June Events

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    June is the start of festival season in Portland and we have some good ones to kick things off! Portland’s biggest party is also this month with the kickoff of the City fair and Rose parade! We have all the events happening at the rose festival listed at the bottom of the page!

    First Thursday

    Stroll through the art galleries in the pearl for an evening of art, music, and wine! Parking is difficult so public transit is recommended

    The Pearl District

    Free

    June 6th, 5pm – 10pm

    Portland Beer Week

    Every June, PDX Beer Week features limited-edition brews, a lineup of events, and beer specials at bars and brewpubs citywide, overflowing with so much hop fever that the “week” spills into ten full days of thirst-quenching fun.

    Various Locations

    Prices vary – more info coming soon

    June 1st

    Juneteenth

    Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas, a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and planning for the future.

    Albina Park

    MORE INFO

    June 15th

    Festival of Balloons

    The Festival of Balloons in Tigard (a suburb 30 minutes southwest of downtown Portland by car) brings more than a dozen brightly colored, colossal hot-air balloons to the sky every June.

    Cook Park, Tigard

    $15 – TICKETS

    MORE INFO

    June 21st – 23rd

    Festival of the Arts

    For more than 50 years, the Lake Oswego Festival of the Arts has proudly presented unique art exhibits including more than 600 local, national, and international artists. Visitors can also experience live music on two stages, performances, kids’ activities, artist demos, and a variety of food. It’s free to the public (donations encouraged) and attracts thousands of festival-goers each year.

    Lakewood Center for the Arts, Lake Oswego

    FREE

    June 21st – 23rd

    Rose Festival Events

    • Celebration of Oregon Brewers Festival – May 24-27, May 31-June 2, June 7-9
    • City Fair, carnival and entertainment – May 24-27, May 31-June 2, June 7-9
    • Opening Night and Fireworks – May 24th
    • Rose Fest Wine Walk – May 30th
    • Starlight Run – June 1st
    • Starlight Parade – June 1st
    • Fleet Week – June 5th – June 9th
    • Junior Parade – June 6th
    • Grand Floral Showcase – June 8th- June 9th
    • Dragon Boat Race – June 8th
    • Rose Garden Contest – June 18th
    • Milk Carton Boat Race – June 23rd

    We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!

    Looking for something else to do? Check out our best of lists!

    May Events

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    Get ready for the fantastic weather to start! May brings back the farmers markets, the rose festival, and it’s wine month! With so many exciting events it was hard to pick but here are some of our favorites.

    Oregon Wine Month

    • There are so many events going on at different wineries so be sure to check out as many as you can!
    • Willamette Valley

    Prices Vary

    MORE INFO HERE

    Peony Festival

    • Visiting the gardens will include walking 25 acres of production fields, strolling through 2 acres of display garden, and enjoying many different colors of gorgeous peonies!
    • Adelman Peony Farm, Salem

    *Free*

    MORE INFO

    May 1st – June 15th 9am – 6pm

    First Thursday in The Pearl

    • Stroll through the art galleries in the pearl for an evening of art, music, and wine! Parking is difficult so public transit is recommended
    • The Pearl District
    • Free Event
    • May 2nd 5pm – 10pm

    Cinco de May Fiesta

    1. The fiesta boasts three full days packed with festivities and culturally immersive programming. During the event, festival-goers can experience the spirit of Mexico through music, arts, dance and sport.
    2. Tom McCall Waterfront Park
    3. $10 – $25 TICKETS
    4. More Info Here
    5. May 3rd – 5th, 11am – 11pm

    Portland Derby

    • Celebrating the greatest two minutes in sports, the “Run for the Rose City” is the social event of the spring. A day for fashion, mint juleps, roses, ponies and dancing.
    • The Redd on Salmon St.
    • $35 TICKETS
    • MORE INFO
    • May 4th, 11am – 6pm

    Unique Markets

    • Discover the best of Portland’s independent designers, artists and emerging brands in a festive indoor setting. Enjoy complimentary refreshments, lounges, photo booths, creative DIY activities, arcade games, music and more
    • Veteran’s Memorial Coliseum
    • $12- $40 TICKETS
    • MORE INFO
    • May 11th – 12th, 10am – 4pm

    Coffee, Beer, and Doughnut Festival

    • The 8th Annual Baker’s Dozen melds three things Portland does best: coffee, beer, and doughnuts. Each brewer uses beans from a different roaster. 
    • Culmination Brewing
    • $40+ TICKETS
    • MORE INFO
    • May 11th, 11am – 2pm

    UFO Festival

    • Second in popularity only to the UFO festival in Roswell, New Mexico, Oregons annual celebration features days full of parades, costume contests, expert speakers and family fun.
    • McMinnville

    Prices vary based on event

    MORE INFO

    May 17th and 18th

    Rose Festival

    • Portland Rose Festival features multiple parades, waterfront carnival rides, concerts, races, fireworks and plenty of roses. Opening night even features a fireworks show!
    • Tom McCall Waterfront Park
    • MORE INFO
    • May 24th 5pm – June 9th

    Farmers Markets Starting Back up This Month

    • Shemanski Park
    • Portland State University
    • Hollywood
    • St John’s
    • Portland Waterfront

    We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!