Homeschooling in PDX

March 2019

February 26, 2019March 21, 2019 keri

Free unless otherwise noted

Saturday, March 2

Metro Regional Destination Imagination Tournament ~ 8:30 am – 5:00 pm ~ Come watch homeschool and other regional teams perform their Destination Imagination challenge solution. ~ Evergreen Middle School, Hillsboro

Construction Madness ~ 11:00 am – 12:30 am ~ Using paper, scissors, glue, recycled materials and imagination, design and build your own architectural wonder! ~ Sellwood Moreland Library

Annual Traditional Pow Wow ~ noon – 10 pm ~ The Native American Parent Association of SW Washington invites you to our annual traditional pow wow to share singing, dancing, and drumming. FREE and Open to the Public. Grand entries at 1 pm and 6 pm. Arts and crafts vendors and concessions (frybread, Indian tacos, and more). ~ Heritage High School, Vancouver, WA

Bird Eggs: Let’s learn to wet-felt! ~ noon – 1:00 pm ~ Learn about amazing local birds while crafting eggs in an age old tradition of wet felting! Fun for all ages, enjoy some time with soft, warm bubbly soap and wool fiber. ~ St. John’s Library ~ Registration required

Whimsical Troll Fairy Houses ~ 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm ~ Create miniature troll houses and gardens around it, while we take care of Mother Earth by using recycled materials. ~ Albina Library ~ Registration required

Fastelavn ~ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm ~ Family-friendly Nordic Carnival event ~ Nordia House ~ $5

Owl Prowl ~ 6:00 pm ~ Program will include indoor presentation, owl pellet dissection, and a short hike to call for owls~ Silver Falls Conference Room ~ registration required ~ Free

Sunday, March 3

Family Tour: Pacific NW Art ~ 12:30-1:30 ~ Portland Art Museum ~ tours free with admission

Southwest Washington Wind Symphony Performance ~ 3:00 pm ~
Performing Arts Center at Union High School

Beaverton Symphony Orchestra Young Artists Competition performance ~ 3:00 pm ~ VBC Grand Auditorium at Village Baptist Church

Monday, March 4

Homeschool Jump Time ~ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm ~ Sky High Sports, Tigard ~ $9

Tuesday, March 5

Make a Mardi Gras Mask ~ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Mardi Gras is a lively celebration held each year in New Orleans. Celebrate with us by making a colorful mask while we listen to New Orleans jazz. ~ Capitol Hill Library

What did NASA’s New Horizons Spacecraft Find Beyond Pluto? ~ 6:00 pm and 7:15 pm ~ Planetarium Sky Theater, Mt Hood Community College Gresham ~ $5 adult/$2 under 17

Wednesday, March 6

Coping with Stress ~ 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm ~ This lesson helps youth build their own definitions of stress, identify what causes them stress, and discuss how people cope with stress in both helpful and unhelpful ways. ~ Marrow Radical Youth ~ Ages 10- 24

Self-care Kit-making ~ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm ~ Marrow Radical Youth ~ Ages 10-24

Thursday, March 7

Girls Who Make ~ 3:00 pm -5:30 pm ~ Work on creating a game, design and print in 3D, make jewelry and clothes, invent wacky crafts, laser cut a photograph on wood, work on robotics projects, and more. For grades 4-12. ~ Rockwood Makerspace

Friday, March 8

Ancient Science ~ Evergreen Aviation Museum Homeschool Day ~ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm ~ Every month, the museum’s education department hosts Home School Days focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Topics range from learning about the science of hot air balloons and gliders to talking with adults in the air-and-space industry about career options. ~ Evergreen Aviation Museum ~ registration required ~ Prices vary

What did NASA’s New Horizons Spacecraft Find Beyond Pluto? ~ 6:00 pm and 7:15 pm ~ Planetarium Sky Theater, Mt Hood Community College Gresham ~ $5 adult/$2 under 17

Workshop WORD! ~ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm ~ This will be a workshop centered around finding the power in the little details of our lives, and piecing them together to create a piece that shows how much every part of who we are matters, and deserves to be heard. ~ Youth free, Adults sliding scale ~ Marrow Radical Youth

Friday, March 8 – Sunday, March 10

Family Fish Camp ~ A fun-filled weekend where families learn fishing skills together while staying overnight at Camp Angelos on the Sandy River ~ Registration Required ~ tickets vary ~ scholarships availableW

Saturday, March 9

Second Saturday at the Water Center: Love Your Earth ~ 1:00-3:00 pm ~ This is the rescheduled event from February. Explore new ways to reduce waste and treat the Earth kindly. ~ Vancouver Water Resources Education Center ~ Free

Kids’ Animation ~ 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm ~ The animation workshop is designed to introduce students to the idea of simple stop-motion and drawn animation. Students will learn techniques and methods to make their own cartoon characters move. ~ Holgate Library

Recycled Puppet Making ~ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm ~ KCPuppetree engages participants in a dynamic puppet making workshop, using re-used and up-cycled items. Participants of all ages will explore the creative potential of egg crates, boxes, plastic jugs and more while creating original puppets that can move, dance, and sing. ~ Belmont Library

Anime Your Way: Comics for Kids ~ 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm ~ Anime Your Way is a comprehensive step-by-step drawing program developed over 10 years by former Simpson’s artist Carlos Nieto III that teaches the participant how to create and adjust an anime character from scratch, no matter what their drawing level is! ~ Gresham Library

Sunday March 10

Family Tour : Drawing is Seeing ~ 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm ~ Portland Art Museum ~ tours free with the price of admission

Monday, March 11

Homeschool Jump Time ~ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm ~ Sky High Sports, Tigard ~ $9

Hula for the Family ~ 3:30 – 4:30 pm ~ We invite all family members to join us to learn Hawaiian language, songs and a simple hula dance in a warm, welcoming environment. You will learn some basic hula steps, easy-to-learn language and songs, hand motions, and then we will put our hands and feet together to perform a hula. ~ Hollywood Libary ~ Free tickets 15 minutes ahead

Early College Info Night ~ 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm ~ Join a panel of representatives from Baker Early College, Summit Learning Academy, and PCC/Gateway to learn more about options for Early College ~ Registration required ~ Village Home, Beaverton

Tuesday, March 12

Epic Draw/Play ~ 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm ~ We will draw our favorite characters, color them, cut them out, and play with them. This is informal, goofy, and a lot of fun. ~ Sellwood-Moreland Library

Mini Marble Mazes ~ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm ~ SCRAP Crafternoon ~ SCRAP pdx ~ Ages 6+ ~$10

Wednesday, March 13

March Ecology Club: Wildlife Tracking with Cascadia Wild ~ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm ~ Join us on the second Wednesday of each month to discuss an ecological theme that pertains to Bark’s work on Mt Hood or seasonal skills to give the community a deeper appreciation and understanding of NW ecology. ~Bark office: 351 NE 18th Ave Portland, OR 97232 (next to the Circuit Climbing Gym). ~ Recommended for 13+ W

Radical Self Love ~ 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm ~ Radical self-love stems from the idea that everybody and every body is worthy of love. In this youth-led workshop, you will learn about Radical Self Love – what it is, how you can practice it, and how radical self-love can change the world for the better. There will be fun, hands-on activities! ~ Marrow Radical Youth ~ Ages 10-24

Thursday, March 14

$5 Free Play Day ~ 12:00 noon – 6:00 pm (21+ after 6:00) ~ Ground Kontrol ~A $5 covers gets you into to the giant retro arcade where, for the day, all the games are set to free. No quarters necessary.

Little Bugs, Big World ~ 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm ~ A little lady bug meets a caterpillar and together they decide to travel the world, visiting bugs from different countries. While on their journey, they have to be very careful of the sneaky spider Mr. S., who is out to catch the reading bugs! Will they be caught in his web, or will the adventure lead them back home safely? Find out in this thrilling puppet show performed by Dragon Theater. ~ Midland Library

Friday, March 15

A Midsummer’s Night Adventure ~ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm ~ Multnomah Arts Center

Saturday, March 16

Spring Garden Fair ~ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm ~ Celebrate Spring in the garden ~ Leach Botanical Garden ~ Free

Cherry Blossom Day at the Capitol ~ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm ~ This event
celebrates the rich impact of the Japanese culture on Oregon and the history of the cherry industry. ~ Oregon State Capitol

Kidical Mass in the 2019 St. Patrick’s Day parade ~ 10:30 am – 1:30 pm ~
Join us for bike decorating and ride in the parade ~ Sellwood Park

Herb Walk in Forest Park ~ This educational romp will focus on the medicinal uses of plants that can be found in your own backyard. ~ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm ~ Leif Erikson Trailhead at the end of NW Thurman ~ Advanced registration required ~ free

Welcome Back Vulture Day ~ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Join the Audubon Society to celebrate the Turkey Vulture’s return to Oregon this spring. Snacks & drinks provided. This event is free and family-friendly. ~
Nadaka Nature Park and St. Aidan’s Church

Felted Beads for Families ~ 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm ~ Learn the ancient craft of feltmaking by making beads using only raw wool and hot soapy water. You will felt a “cane” of layered wool that will be cut into slices of millefiori-style beads. In this workshop, you’ll get to make a nice collection of beads. ~ Albina Library ~ Registration required

The Funny Thing About Spring ~ 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm ~ Armed with her umbrella and boots, Mz. Pearl will captivate audiences as she brings spring storybooks to life. This solo clown show is filled with physical comedy, circus skills and clever – or at least odd – solutions to bizarre problems. By the end of the performance, everyone will be dreaming of warm sunshine and sandy beaches. ~ Woodstock Library

Printmaking for Kids ~ 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ The interactive and immediate process of printmaking is a great way to develop creativity for all ages. In this workshop, participants can explore several different hands on methods of printmaking including rubbings, stamps, stencils, and inkblots. Several printmaking stations will be set up where participants can freely explore one station at a time. ~ Kenton Library

Art from all Angles ~ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm ~ Art From All Angles is excited to host a one-night engaging multidisciplinary art festival at the Mission Theater – a showcase of the broad range of expression from our local community. ~ $10 ~ McMenamins Mission Theater

Sunday, March 17

Family Tour : Shades of Green ~ 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm ~ Portland Art Museum ~ tours are free with the price of admission

Portland Opera, As One performance ~ 2:00 pm ~ Collin’s Gallery, Central Library

Monday, March 18

Homeschool Jump Time ~ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm ~ Sky High Sports, Tigard ~ $9

Tuesday, March 19

Epic Draw/Play ~ 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm ~ We will draw our favorite characters, color them, cut them out, and play with them. This is informal, goofy, and a lot of fun. ~ Sellwood-Moreland Library

Mamá Ratoncito, Cucú y La Borreguita — ¡Qué listo! / Clever! — A Cat, a Cuckoo and Little Lamb ~ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Three bilingual stories of clever animals; a mouse who outsmarts a cat, a lazy cuckoo who works hard to save seeds and the lamb who turns tables on trickster coyote. ~ Hillsdale Library

Wednesday, March 20

Stress Management & Suicide ~ 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm ~ This workshop will be focusing on learning to recognize and manage stress in helpful ways as well as identifying signs of suicide and seeking the appropriate resources for help. ~ Ages 10-24 ~ Marrow Radical Youth

Thursday, March 21

Free Metro Parks Day ~ Free parking at all metro parks ~ Various locations

Friday, March 22

Stellaluna ~ 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm ~ Based on the beloved book by Janell Cannon, our rendition of this charming story is full of excitement, adventure and big laughs. Come along as our adorable fruit bat friend, Stellaluna, learns just what it takes to be a bird, a bat and a friend. Performed by Emily Alexander. ~ North Portland Library

Saturday, March 23 into April ~ Tulip Fest ~ Event is free but various activities have prices

Saturday, March 23

Mamá Ratoncito, Cucú y La Borreguita — ¡Qué listo! / Clever! — A Cat, a Cuckoo and Little Lamb ~ 11:00 – 11:45 ~ Three bilingual stories of clever animals; a mouse who outsmarts a cat, a lazy cuckoo who works hard to save seeds and the lamb who turns tables on trickster coyote. ~ St. John’s Library

Fairy House & Gnome Homes ~ 11:30 am and 1:30 pm ~ Join naturalists to make dwellings for woodland critters ~ Tillamook Forest Center ~ Free

Felted Universe ~ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm ~ Participants will make their own felted universe out of wool. We’ll wet-felt planets, stars, and other celestial bodies using only raw wool and hot soapy water. All ages welcome. First come, first served ~ Holgate Library

Hula for the Family ~ 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ We invite all family members to join us to learn Hawaiian language, songs and a simple hula dance in a warm, welcoming environment. You will learn some basic hula steps, easy-to-learn language and songs, hand motions, and then we will put our hands and feet together to perform a hula. Join us for a great time while spending time with family and friends. ~ Rockwood Library

Lantern Tour at Fort Vancouver ~ 6:45 pm ~ Participants are treated to historical vignettes in several buildings as a park ranger guides them through the reconstructed fort. ~ Fort Vancouver ~ $25/adult, $10 for age 16 and under

Sunday March 24

Signs of Wildlife ~ 11:30 am and 1:30 pm ~ Learn to recognize the clues animals leave behind and you will find that they are all around you. ~ Tillamook Forest Center ~ Free

Family Tour : Drawing is Seeing ~ 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm ~ Portland Art Museum ~ tours are free with cost of admission

Mariachi Viva Mexico ~ 3:30 pm -4:30 pm ~ This lively Mariachi band includes trumpets, violins, guitars, guitaron and vihuelas to create lively, spirited music. ~ North Portland Library

Monday, March 25

Homeschool Jump Time ~ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm ~ Sky High Sports, Tigard ~ $9

Digging for Dinosaurs ~ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Visit a time when dinosaurs walked the earth! Make a fossil cast, behave like a dinosaur, and more. Become a paleontologist by using fossils as clues into the past. ~ Capitol Hill Library

Tuesday, March 26

The Alphabeticians ~ 10:00 am ~ The Alphabeticians play clever, upbeat, family appropriate songs, including songs about numbers, size, dads, metaphors, extinct fish and multiple alphabet songs. ~ The Old Church

Construction Madness ~ 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm ~ Using paper, scissors, glue, recycled materials and imagination, design and build your own architectural wonder! ~ Central Library

Diorama-Rama ~ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm ~ SCRAP crafternoon ~ SCRAP pdx ~ Ages 6+ ~ $10

Cardboard Costume Creation ~ 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Come with your imagination and Tinker Camp will help you leave with a cardboard costume for your next adventure. Construct amazing costumes with really simple engineering techniques then make it truly unique by decorating with fun materials we supply. Why be ordinary when you could have wings? Awe your friends with your plated suit of corrugated armor! Make the robot suit you always dreamed of! When you think like a designer you’ll never look at cardboard the same way again! ~ Hillsdale Library

Wednesday, March 27

Spectacular Arcade for Kids ~ 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm ~ Imagine, design and create your one-of-a-kind arcade game using cardboard, reclaimed materials, balls and electronic components such as LED lights and motors. The fun doesn’t stop there; invite others to play your game while you test out theirs. You’ve just turned the library into an arcade! ~ Fairview-Columbia Library ~ Registration Required

Piano Day! ~ noon – 5:00 pm ~ Come listen to the piano played by local pianists of all ages on some of the region’s best pianos for 2019’s Piano Day! The choice of music is up to the performer and there are no restrictions on what will be played. ~ Title Wave Used BookstoreS

Wolf Figurines ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Enjoy learning the technique of staining and painting ceramic figures with ceramic grade acrylics! Each participant will receive a hand-sculpted, locally made, mini wolf ceramic figure to paint. Learn how bisque ware – a low fired ceramic takes these special forms of acrylics while creating your own portrait of an Oregon wolf. Instructor, Suzanne Moulton will clear coat the wolf totems at the end of class to make your ceramic figure suitable for display outdoors in your garden! For ages 8 and older with a favorite adult. ~ Capitol Hill Library

Teen Decision Making ~ 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm ~ This workshop will be focusing on understanding brain science to help put risky behaviors in perspective. This lesson helps teens focus on how teens make decisions and why. ~ Ages 10-24 ~ Marrow Radical Youth

Friday, March 29

Wildflower Walk ~ 1:30 pm ~ An easy, guided walk to look for trilliums, wood violets, candy flowers, sour grass and much more. ~ Tilloamook Forest Center ~ Free

Saturday, March 30

Introduction to Wild Foods ~ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm ~ In a walk through several habitats within Mt Tabor Park, learn essentials of wild food use. ~ Children under 7, free. Other prices vary.

Printmaking for Kids ~ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm ~ The interactive and immediate process of printmaking is a great way to develop creativity for all ages. In this workshop, participants can explore several different hands-on methods of printmaking including rubbings, stamps, stencils, and inkblots. Several printmaking stations will be set up where participants can freely explore one station at a time. ~ Gresham Library

Mini Kites ~ 1:30 – 3:30 pm ~ Mini kites are great fun for flying almost anywhere or anytime, as all they need is a little breeze! In this class we’ll make kites in the shapes of birds and butterflies out of some repurposed plastics of origins that might surprise you! Also learn a little bit about balance, aerodynamics and material usage as we craft these pocket-sized kites. ~ Albina Library

Contemporary Foraging Ethics ~ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Rewild Portland’s Free Skills Series is a family-friendly class and community event that happens monthly, usually (but not always) occurring on the last Saturday of the month. ~ Location TBA ~ $10-$20 donation suggested

Owl Prowl ~ 6:00 pm ~ Program will include indoor presentation, owl pellet dissection, and a short hike to call for owls~ Silver Falls Conference Room ~ registration required ~ Free

THINK AHEAD

Klineline Kids’ Fishing ~ Join the Klineline Kids Fishing event held annually in Salmon Creek Park. They are expecting 500 special needs kids and adults on Friday, April 12, 2019. On Saturday, April 13, 2019 they are expecting 2500 kids, ages 5 to 14. Registered children will receive a fishing rod & reel complete with terminal gear and an event t-shirt. Bait is provided also. Kids fish in 45 minute increments throughout the day between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. ~ Registration open now

Kids’ Fishing Festival ~ Join Columbia Springs for a day of fun family fishing! Kids ages 5-14 are eligible to fish with an expert fishing mentor ~ $7 ~ registration is open now. Fishing tickets sell out.

ONGOING EVENTS

Tween DIY at the Library ~ 3:30 pm on the second Friday ~ Monthly meeting for creative tweens at Hollywood Library.

Lego at the Library ~ Several library branches (both Multnomah and Clackamas counties) have a monthly or weekly Lego-building meetup. Confirm before you go on any given day:
Happy Valley Library – 3rd Saturday of the month, 1:30 – 3:00 pm and first Wednesday of the month from 4;00 pm – 5:30 pm
Sellwood-Moreland Library – Mondays 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Hollywood Library – Mondays 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Rockwood Library – Wednesdays 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Belmont Library – Fridays 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Gresham Libary – Tuesdays 4:00 -5:00 pm
Woodstock Library – second Tuesday 3:30 – 4:30 pm
Fairview-Columbia Library – second & fourth Thursdays 4:00 – 5:00 pm
Central Library – third Sunday 3:00 pm
Hillsdale Library – third Thursday 3:30 pm
Holgate Library – third Friday 3:00 pm
Troutdale Library – fourth Wednesday 4:30 – 5:30 pm

More For Teens

Rockwood Makerspace ~ Open lab from 3:00 pm – 5:30 daily, plus lots of workshops. ~ The makerspace is a collaborative learning environment at Rockwood Library with an emphasis on middle and high school learners. The space provides access to innovative technology, equipment, software and supportive mentors. Within this 1,000 square-foot area, students learn real-life technology, design and engineering skills through open labs, workshops and camps.

Teens @ the Happy Valley Library ~ monthly board game nights on 4th Thursday of each month, 6:00 pm – 7:45 pm, various study halls, art and music meetups every month and opportunities to volunteer.

Friendly Disclaimer:
We, over here at Homeschooling in PDX, aren’t just gorgeous and amazing witty geniuses with great hair (tosses hair dramatically for effect)… we’re also moms, which means we’re usually low key sleep deprived just like you.
So please don’t take our word for any of this, double check stuff you want to go to by clicking on the links themselves.

February 2019

January 27, 2019January 27, 2019 leah

All Month

Youth Curated Black History Traveling Museum ~ World Stage Theatre has partnered with Black Student Union groups from Portland metro high schools to create Black History Month displays. Each group has chosen a specific time period in history to highlight the African American experience to do collective research and curate pieces for the displays. The traveling museum will be exhibited at their local library (Albina, Troutdale, North Portland, Midland, Belmont and Kenton branches) for the month of February. The exhibition is open during this library’s open hours.

Black History Festival NW ~ Variety of events happening all month: art shows, music, speakers (some free, some requiring tickets.)

Chinese New Year Celebrations ~ Super fun stuff happening all month downtown and at Lan Su Gardens

Friday, February 1

Jedi Tricks with Static Electricity ~ 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm ~ Students will learn about subatomic particles as they experiment with balloons and other household items to determine their place in the Triboelectric series. They will observe the effects of positive and negative charges as they learn about conservation of charge. ~ Fairview-Columbia Library ~ registration required

Saturday, February 2

Guided Nature Walks: Owls of Tryon ~ 10:00 am – 11:30 am ~ Venture out with a park guide for a free nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Topics will vary from week to week, and will be geared for ages 5 through adult, but all ages are welcome. ~ Tryon Creek State Natural Area ~ Free

Candy Science ~ 10:15 am – 11:15 am ~ Not just for eating, turn sweet and sour treats into science fun! ~ Happy Valley Library

Valentine Fun ~ 10:30 am – 12:30 pm ~ Have a love-ly time creating heart-felt cards and crafts. ~ St. John’s Library

Ants Ants Ants Family Musical ~ 11:00 am – 11:45 am ~ A fun sing-along family music band that kids of any age (1-100) will enjoy! With their three-part harmonies and amazing guitar work, these ants put on a show that fans won’t soon forget. ~ Holgate Library

Winter Animal Puppets ~ 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm ~ In this puppet-making workshop, create winter animals and perform their own snowy stories! After reading The Mitten by Jan Brett, children ages 4-10 will enjoy mixing recycled and craft materials to create puppet characters from the book. Puppetkabob will show you how to transform ordinary craft materials into unique animal puppets. ~ Gilbert-Heights Library

Lunar New Year ~ 2:00 – 2:30 pm ~ Celebrate the new year with crafts, games, food, and music! ~ Happy Valley Library

Sunday, February 3

A Place Called Home: From Vanport To Albina ~ 3:00 pm ~ Join us for a screening of oral history documentaries, part of the Vanport Mosaic living archive. Through archival footage, historic photographs, and compelling first-person narratives, this collection of short films and audio narratives traces the story of Portland’s African American community from the 1940s to 1970s. It is a story of struggle, perseverance, and resilience that continues today. Artist and Vanport descendant Velynn Brown will share her poem Roots and Remnants, and will faciliate a reflection on the beauty and challenges of story, home, community and belonging. ~ St. John’s Library

Monday, February 4

A Place Called Home: From Vanport To Albina ~ 6:30 pm ~ Join us for a screening of oral history documentaries, part of the Vanport Mosaic living archive. Through archival footage, historic photographs, and compelling first-person narratives, this collection of short films and audio narratives traces the story of Portland’s African American community from the 1940s to 1970s. It is a story of struggle, perseverance, and resilience that continues today. Artist and Vanport descendant Velynn Brown will share her poem Roots and Remnants, and will faciliate a reflection on the beauty and challenges of story, home, community and belonging. ~ Albina Library

Tuesday, February 5

Lunar New Year ~ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm ~ The Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays in many Asian cultures, celebrating life, good health and prosperity. Join us to bring in the new year with cultural performances, educational activities and light refreshments. ~ Holgate Library

Wednesday, February 6

Family Puppetry Workshop ~ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm ~ Chilean puppetry troupe Silencio Blanco offers a puppetry demonstration and hands-on workshop for families with children of all ages. Did you know that with only newspaper and masking tape, you can create a puppet figure that can jump and dance? Watch these master artists in action and build your own puppet to take home. ~ Gresham Library

Lego Creative Building with Blair Archer ~ 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm ~ Join Blair each month for a different LEGO building challenge. ~ Happy Valley Library

Make Yourself at Hat ~ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm ~ Sew yourself a warm hat for this winter! Artist LeBrie Rich will bring five sewing machines along with hand-sewing supplies. We’ll have patterns and fabric ready for you. Extra hats that we make will be donated to those in need. Let’s craft together! No experience necessary. For grades 6 and up, free registration required. ~ Capitol Hill Library

Thursday, February 7 – Saturday February 9

Portland Winter Light Festival ~ Exhibits, shows, boats rides ~ Downtown Portland ~ Most free

Friday, February 8

Homeschool Day: Electricity ~ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm ~ The Museum hosts monthly Home School Days throughout the school year. Our day-long programs are aligned with Oregon State Standards; programs consist of content instruction with hands-on application. ~ Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum ~ Adults free, Members Youth, $10, Nonmembers Youth, $12, Groups of 25-30 $8 each ~ Registration required

Seeing the Invisible Universe ~ 6:00 pm and 7:15 pm ~ Planetarium Sky Theater, Mt Hood Community College Gresham ~ $5 adult/$2 under 17

Saturday, February 9

Wildlife Tracking ~ 9:00 am – 12:00 pm ~ Learn the basics of wildlife tracking and explore Hoyt Arboretum to see what mammals have been living here ~ Hoyt Arboretum ~ Ages 15+ ~ $15/member, $20/non-member

Raptor Road Trip 2019 ~ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm ~ Explore Sauvie Island in search of magnificent eagles, hawks and falcons. Naturalists and hawk experts host activities at three sites around the island. ~ Sauvie Island ~
$10 per vehicle, cash only

Guided Nature Walks: Mosses and Lichens ~ 10:00 am – 11:30 am ~ Venture out with a park guide for a free nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Topics will vary from week to week, and will be geared for ages 5 through adult, but all ages are welcome. ~ Tryon Creek State Natural Area ~ Free

Lunar New Year Parade and Celebration ~ 11:30 am – 3:30 pm ~ Parade and dances ~ Route depends on rain, check day of event ~ Downtown Portland ~ Free

Introduction to Mason Bees ~ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Learn the basics of mason bees, their needs and usefulness ~ Jackson Bottom Wetlands Nature Center ~ Age 12+ ~ $12/resident, $16/non-resident ~ registration required

Craft Club: Pop Up Cards ~ 1:30 – 2:30 pm ~ Get crafty with staff from SCRAP to reuse supplies to make awesome pop up cards. ~ Happy Valley Library

Second Saturday at the Water Center: Love Your Earth ~ 1:00-3:00 pm ~ Explore new ways to reduce waste and treat the Earth kindly. ~ Vancouver Water Resources Education Center ~ Free

Valentine Fun ~ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm ~ Have a love-ly time creating heart-felt cards and crafts. ~ Central Library

Valentine Fun ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Have a love-ly time creating heart-felt cards and crafts. ~ Holgate Library

Ombra Musici (The Musicians Shadow) ~ “In the frame of the Portland Winter Light Festival 2018, the central facade of Lincoln Hall will become a canvas for the projected silhouette of violinist Tomas Cotik as he performs works by Johann Sebastian Bach. Spectators passing by and congregating in front of the building will hear the music through loudspeakers and see the moving silhouette projected on the full height of the building.” 7:00 pm ~ Lincoln Concert Hall

Sunday, February 10

Women’s Wilderness Skills Series: Fire Skills ~ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~
The class will cover the basics of building a camp fire, identifying and processing quality material for fire and how to make a survival fire in wet conditions. ~ For high school age and older ~ Coyle Outside, Corvallis~ Free

Portland Oregon Paper Shapers (POPS)~ 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm ~ Enjoy origami-paper folding for fun, relaxation and stretching your brain. Drop in and practice origami with members of the Portland Oregon Paper Shapers. Please bring origami paper if you have it. Adults and teens welcome, children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. ~ Belmont Library

The Worst Day of the Year Bike Ride ~ Come celebrate the worst part of the year with a family friendly bike ride in varying lengths from 4 miles to 42 miles, depending on where you’re at. ~ $15 for adults, kids under 12 ride free

Monday, February 11

African Beaded-Jewelry Making ~ 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm ~ Come learn basic African bead-work. Beads, instructions and jewelry-making tools will be provided. ~ Capitol Hill Library

BUGS! ~ 4:00 – 5:00 pm ~ Learn about insects and their relatives by observing live and preserved bugs! Original bug-themed coloring pages and activities provided. This program is an activity-based class for ages 2 and up. ~ Capitol Hill Library

Science of Magic ~ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Magic? No, it’s science! You’ll learn the secrets behind famous magic that you can recreate for yourself! Mother Nature has some tricks of her own, and Mad Science will show you what’s up her sleeve! ~ Hollywood Library ~ Free tickets 15 minutes before show.

Portland’s Rhymes and Hip-Hop Life ~ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm ~ Join us for a special performance led by Mic Crenshaw, featuring Cool Nutz. Be part of a discussion of hip-hop history in the Northwest and how it has influence our lives and our culture. ~ Rockwood Library

Wednesday, February 13

Homeschool Club: Junior Librarian ~ 1:30 – 2:30 pm ~ Do you have what it takes to be a library expert? Go on on a tour, take a Dewey challenge and earn a special certificate. ~ Happy Valley Library

Heart ‘Felt’ Valentines ~ 4:30 – 6:00 pm ~ Get crafty at the library making a felt valentine! We’ll practice cutting and simple sewing, then add rhinestones and ribbon to make a “heart felt” love note for you to keep or give away. ~ Midland Library

February Ecology Club: Bird Language Basics ~ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm ~ Join us on the second Wednesday of each month to discuss an ecological theme that pertains to Bark’s work on Mt Hood or seasonal skills to give the community a deeper appreciation and understanding of NW ecology. ~Bark office: 351 NE 18th Ave Portland, OR 97232 (next to the Circuit Climbing Gym). ~ Recommended for 13+

Classic Up Close Pop Up Performance ~ 7:30 ~ Muslim Educational Trust Community Center (Tigard)

Friday, February 15-Monday, February 18

Great Backyard Bird Count ~ Bird watchers of all ages count birds to create a real-time snapshot of where birds are. ~ In your own backyard ~ Free

Friday, February 15

Saturday, February 16

Guided Nature Walks: The Changing Forest ~ 10:00 am – 11:30 am ~ Venture out with a park guide for a free nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Topics will vary from week to week, and will be geared for ages 5 through adult, but all ages are welcome. ~ Tryon Creek State Natural Area ~ Free

Oregon’s 160th Birthday Celebration ~ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm ~ Costumed interpreters, music, activities for the entire family and birthday cake are free for all to enjoy. ~ Oregon State Capitol ~ Free

Kids’ Fest/Sports’ Fest ~ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm ~ Portland Expo Center ~ $6 per person, $25 for family pass (of 5)

Peg People: Winter Fairies ~ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm ~ Come delight in making 2″ tall fairies from wooden pegs. Paint hair, and clothes. Add jewels if you like. Complete your fairy with various things found in nature to serve as a hat, wings, and swords. They will magically come to life in your imagination! ~ Sellwood – Moreland Library

Family Day: Experience Oregon Grand Opening Celebration ~ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Enjoy musical performances from BRAVO Youth Orchestras, Oregon Trail Trio, Portland Taiko, Portland Gay Men’s Chorus, and The Prairie Blossoms. Listen to traditional Kalapuya/Coos storytelling by Esther & Shannin Stutzman, and take home a souvenir of your visit at one of our craft activity stations. ~ Oregon Historical Society ~ Free

Rainbow Felt Geodes ~ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Geodes are the coolest thing. You open them up and there is always a surprise of color and crystals. Make your own felt geode using only colored sheep’s wool and hot soapy water in this felting workshop with LeBrie Rich. No experience necessary… come craft with us! Ages 3+ with adult ~ North Portland Library

3D Printing: Customize Your Stuff! For Teens ~ 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm ~ 3D printing is the wave of the future, but what can you do with it today? Come learn about 3D printing, see one in action, and make a few of your own 3D printed designs. You’ll leave with the skills to start making your own products and a 3D print of one of the parts we’ll design! ~ Holgate Library

Comic Book Magnets ~ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Come use your creativity to repurpose comic books by cutting out your favorite heroes and villians and then glue them onto glass disks and adding magnets. It’s fun and easy! For kids in grades K-5 with their favorite adult. ~ Kenton Library

̈Figuras de hojas de Maíz / Corn Husk Figurines: Gods and Imaginative Creatures ~ 3:30 – 5:30 pm ~ In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn how ancient cultures are inspired by nature to make their arts and crafts, as well as learning about the importance of corn in native Mexican culture. Participants will create their own doll figurine with colored corn husks, decorating them with other corn materials. ~ Fairview- Columbia Library

Owl Prowl ~ 6:00 pm ~ Program will include indoor presentation, owl pellet dissection, and a short hike to call for owls~ Silver Falls Conference Room ~ registration required ~ Free

Lantern Tour at Fort Vancouver ~ NOTE THAT IS A REGULARLY SCHEDULED EVENT THAT MAY NOT OCCUR IF THE GOVERNMENT SHUT-DOWN IS STILL IN EFFECT. PLEASE CHECK THE LINK ~ 6:45 pm ~ Participants are treated to historical vignettes in several buildings as a park ranger guides them through the reconstructed fort. ~ Fort Vancouver ~ $25/adult, $10 for age 16 and under

Sunday, February 17

Kids’ Fest/Sports’ Fest ~ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm ~ Portland Expo Center ~ $6 per person, $25 for family pass (of 5)

农历新年 / Tết Nguyên Đán / Lunar New Year ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ The Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays in many Asian cultures, celebrating life, good health and prosperity. Join us to bring in the new year with cultural performances, educational activities and light refreshments. ~ Woodstock Library

Midsummer Night at the Savoy ~ 2:30 pm – 3:15 pm ~ Four choreographers, one story line, plus a community ensemble will bring the energy of Harlem to Portland through a distinctive performance examining spaces that allowed African American arts to flourish and marinate in U.S. history. Imagine Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream as a poetic through line with a recreated set of the Savoy Ballroom, the first integrated ballroom in the country and an artistic incubator in Harlem. Experience this twist on Shakespeare and the contributions of artists of color throughout history. ~ North Portland Library

Monday, February 18

Free Metro Parks Day ~ Free parking at all metro parks ~ Various locations

Tuesday February 19

Craft for a Cause ~ 4:00 – 6:00 pm ~ Using fabric scraps to do good, tweens and teens are invited to work on a special cozy project crafting items to donate to those who need it most. You will be introduced to the basics of making hats, mittens, mitts and more. Continue making them until our final session and we’ll collect everything we made and celebrate our successes. You keep one warmly item for yourself and the rest we’ll donate to Belmont patrons in need, via the warm items box by the door. ~ Belmont Library

Portland Opera Artist in Residence Performance ~ 7:00 pm ~ Portland Art Museum

Wednesday, February 20

Free Metro Parks Day ~ Free parking at all metro parks ~ Various locations

Saturday, February 23

Guided Nature Walks: The Story of Stumps ~ 10:00 am – 11:30 am ~ Venture out with a park guide for a free nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Topics will vary from week to week, and will be geared for ages 5 through adult, but all ages are welcome. ~ Tryon Creek State Natural Area ~ Free

元宵花灯 Making Lanterns ~ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm ~ To celebrate the *Chinese Lantern Festival of the Lunar New Year of the Pig, we will create lanterns to use for decorations, wall displays, and ornaments. There will be various materials to choose from for making the perfect lanterns for you. ~ Central Library

Pets on Parade ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Cut, paste, paint and play with watercolor and collage. Bring a good-sized photo of your family pet to add to your art or choose from the materials provided. Learn basic composition and design while creating an anthropomorphic (human qualities) animal. Perfect for young children and fun for the whole family. ~ Belmont Library

Sunday, February 24

Winter Survival Shelters ~ In this family-oriented class at Oxbow Regional Park, learn the basics of building a winter survival shelter that can keep you safe and warm without a sleeping bag or a fire. ~ Oxbow Regional Park ~ Ages 10+ ~ $6/person, $11/family; $5/car, $7/bus

Americana: Sunnyside Symphony Spring Concert ~ Sunnyside 7th Day Adventist Church

Tuesday, February 26

Polymer-a-Palooza ~4:00 pm – 4:45 pm ~ Polymers are all around us and we couldn’t survive without them. This palooza of polymers includes disappearing water, melting cups, invisible orbs that disappear and reappear, instant worms, instant snow and more. ~ Hillsdale Library

Thursday, February 28

Peace Corps Story Slam ~ 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm ~ Discover the benefits of Peace Corps service from returned Volunteers. Hear stories about the challenging, rewarding, and inspirational moments from returned Peace Corps Volunteers. ~ Taborspace ~ Free

THINK AHEAD

Klineline Kids’ Fishing ~ Join us for Klineline Kids Fishing event held annually in Salmon Creek Park. We are expecting 500 special needs kids and adults on Friday, April 12, 2019. On Saturday, April 13, 2019 we are expecting 2500 kids, ages 5 to 14. Your child will receive a fishing rod & reel complete with terminal gear and an event t-shirt. Bait is provided also. Kids fish in 45 minute increments throughout the day between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. ~ Registration begins February 1.

ONGOING EVENTS

Tween DIY at the Library ~ 3:30 pm on the second Friday ~ Monthly meeting for creative tweens at Hollywood Library.

More For Teens

Teens @ the Happy Valley Library ~ monthly board game nights on 4th Thursday of each month, 6:00 pm – 7:45 pm, various study halls, art and music meetups every month and opportunities to volunteer.

December 2018

December 8, 2018 Jen

Saturday, December 1

Guided Nature Walk: Recycling in the Forest ~ 10:00 am – 11:30 am ~ Venture out with a park guide for a free nature hike ~ Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Christmas in the Country ~ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm ~ Meet with Santa in the parlor, enjoy some pioneer hospitality, traditional music, and get your Christmas tree. ~ Philip Foster Farms ~ Free

Christmas in Dairyville ~ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm ~ Christmas in Dairyville is a winter wonderland filled with over 300 festive trees, live animals bringing to life the various scenes in Storybook Lane, modular train displays, old-fashioned movie screenings in the iconic Opera House, carolers and choirs singing the joyful sounds of the Christmas Season and holiday dance performances. ~ Alpenrose Dairy ~ Free, donation of unwrapped toy is encouraged

Sunday, December 2

Santa Visits Santaland ~ 12:00pm – 4:00 pm ~ Visitors are invited to take their own photos with St. Nick. Items from Meier & Frank’s popular Santaland display will be on view (for more info on the exhibit, see Santaland under “This Month” at the bottom of the post.). ~ Oregon Historical Society ~ Free

Public Menorah Lighting and Festival of Lights celebration ~ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm ~ Join the Festival of Lights celebration on the first night of Chanukah with music, traditional foods, children’s crafts and a Menorah Lighting ~ Director Park ~ Free

Tuesday, December 4

Paper Marbling ~ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm ~ SCRAP Crafternoon – Learn the art of paper marbling! ~ Ages 6 and up ~ SCRAP PDX ~ $15

Treasures of Orion and his Neighbors ~ 6:00 pm and 7:15 pm ~ Planetarium Sky Theater, Mt Hood Community College Gresham ~ $5 adult/$2 under 17

Friday, December 7

Mission to Mars ~ Evergreen Aviation Museum Homeschool Day ~ 9:00 am – 2:00 pm ~ The future is here, and NASA has called upon you to plan a mission to the Red Planet! Make decisions that will affect the rest of your mission as you and your team change the course of humanity on this mission to Mars. ~ Evergreen Aviation Museum ~ Prices vary

Treasures of Orion and his Neighbors ~ 6:00 pm and 7:15 pm ~ Planetarium Sky Theater, Mt Hood Community College Gresham ~ $5 adult/$2 under 17

Saturday, December 8

Guided Nature Walk: Hibernation and Migration ~ 10:00 am – 11:30 am ~ Venture out with a park guide for a free nature hike ~ Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Christmas at Fort Vancouver ~ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm ~ Join us to celebrate the holidays 1840s-style at Fort Vancouver! Throughout the fort, costumed interpreters will share the history behind the earliest Christmas celebrations at the fort, and help you make a fun, historical, holiday craft to take home! ~ Fort Vancouver ~ $7 adults, 15 and under, free

Silver Falls Christmas Festival ~ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm ~ Silver Falls State Park

Holiday Choral Performance ~ 10:30 am – 11:00 am ~ The Heart of the Valley Children’s Choir, made up of kids ages 10 to 18 will perform as part of their holiday tour ~ Collins Gallery, Central Library

28th Annual Tuba Christmas Concert ~ 1:30- 3:00 pm ~ Pioneer Courthouse Square ~ Free

Snowman Hats ~ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Transform a white fleece beanie into an un-meltable snowman complete with a button mouth, a carrot nose and two eyes made out of craft coal! ~ Belmont Library

Winter and Holiday Ceramics Painting ~ 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm ~ “We have a wide assortment of ornaments that can be painted and taken home that day that will last for years to come! We supply the ornament with the ribbon, lead-free paint, colorful mats, aprons, water buckets, paint brushes, and all that is needed.” ~ U.S. Bank Room, Central Library ~ Free tickets 30 minutes in advance

Snowman Hats ~ 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm ~ Transform a white fleece beanie into an un-meltable snowman complete with a button mouth, a carrot nose and two eyes made out of craft coal! ~ Hollywood Library

Sunday, December 9

Tuesday, December 11

The Nutcracker ~ 10:00 am ~ Little Ears Free Concerts for Kids ~ The Old Church ~ Free

Francis Street Singers ~ 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm ~ The Francis Street Singers, directed by CMC instructor Tracey Edson and accompanied by CMC instructor Zita Jefferson perform a concert of varied secular songs, with instrumental accompaniment by Brian Bennett, guitar, and Gregory Dubay, cello. ~ CMC Auditorium

Friday, December 14

Saturday, December 15

Guided Nature Walk: A Story of Stumps ~ 10:00 am – 11:30 am ~ Venture out with a park guide for a free nature hike ~ Tryon Creek State Natural Area

The Sugar Plum Elves ~ 11:00 am – 12:00 pm ~ Enjoy a performance by The Sugarplum Elves, Portland’s holiday song-and-dance variety act entertainment. ~ Pioneer Courthouse Square ~ Free

Christmas Tree Tour ~ 12:00 pm ~ Tour the popular Christmas trees growing in Hoyt Arboretum’s conifer collection, including Oregon natives and other Christmas trees available in the Portland area. ~ Hoyt Arboretum ~ $3 suggested donation

Santa Visits Santaland ~ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Visitors are invited to take their own photos with St. Nick. Items from Meier & Frank’s popular Santaland display will be on view (for more info on the exhibit, see Santaland under “This Month” at the bottom of the post.). ~ Oregon Historical Society ~ Free

Winter Solstice Walk ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Take an afternoon walk through the majestic oak woodlands atop Cooper Mountain and learn how the winter solstice ushers in the return of the light and longer days. ~ Cooper Mountain Nature Park ~ $10/person

Hip Hop Soulsation Holiday Dance Performance ~ 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm ~ Join Hip Hop Soulsation Academy as they bring an upbeat, edgy, and interactive Holiday performance the whole family can enjoy. ~ Gresham Library

Holiday Printmaking for Kids ~ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm ~ Students of this fun and engaging workshop will design and create their own prints using diverse repeat and mono-printing techniques. ~ St. John’s Library ~ free, registration required

A Midsummer Night at the Savoy ~ 2:30 pm – 3:15 pm ~ Imagine Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream as a poetic through line with a recreated set of the Savoy Ballroom, the first integrated ballroom in the country and an artistic incubator in Harlem. Experience this twist on Shakespeare and the contributions of artists of color throughout history. ~ Collins Gallery, Central Library

Ants Ants Ants Family Music ~ 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm ~ A fun sing-along family music band that kids of any age (1-100) will enjoy! ~ Kenton Library

Sunday, December 16

Audubon Storytime ~ This month we read Hawk Rising, followed by a special visit from some of Portland Audubon’s Education Birds. ~ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm ~ Audubon Interpretive Center

Monday, December 17

Lego Brick-Built Masterpieces ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Join Lego master Blair Archer and create amazing brick-built masterpieces from thousands of parts. ~ Capitol Hill Library ~ free tickets 30 minutes in advance

Tuesday, December 18

Take a ride on the “Polar Express” / Vamos de viaje … “En el expreso polar” ~ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm ~ We’ll go all the way to the North Pole and back. We’ll take time to read a story in Spanish and English and make a craft. ~ St. John’s Library

Wednesday, December 19

The Story of Ebenezer Scrooge ~ 11:00 am – noon ~ The Classic tale of a miser’s redemption by the Traveling Lantern Theatre Co. ~ Woodstock Libray

Winter Bird Feeders ~ 11:00 am – noon ~ Sellwood-Moreland Library

Elephant & Piggie Puppet Show ~ 11:00 am – noon ~ Holgate Library

The Salvation Army Christmas Brass Ensemble ~ 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm ~ Pioneer Courthouse Square ~ Free

Take a ride on the “Polar Express” ~ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm ~ We’ll go all the way to the North Pole and back. We’ll take time to read a story in Spanish and English and make a craft. ~ Blemont Library

Thursday, December 20

Native American Indian Storytelling and Drumming ~ 10:30 am – noon ~ Traditional stories and songs of the Kalapuya people of the Willamette Valley that portray the animal people and their adventures, teach lessons, often involve audience participation and use traditional drumming. ~ North Portland Library

Elephant & Piggie Puppet Show ~ 11:00 am – noon ~ Holgate Library

Friday, December 21

The Green Bird: A Mexican Story ~ 10:30 am – 11:15 am ~ Colorful and intricate shadow puppets combine with live music, voices and sound effects to create a delightful family entertainment. ~ North Portland Library

Take a ride on the “Polar Express” ~ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ We’ll go all the way to the North Pole and back. We’ll take time to read a story in Spanish and English and make a craft. ~ Holgate Library

Saturday, December 22

Guided Nature Walk: Winter Solstice ~ 10:00 am – 11:30 am ~ Venture out with a park guide for a free nature hike ~ Tryon Creek State Natural Area

The Snowy Bus Stop ~ 10:15 am – 11:00 am ~ An original by Penny’s Puppet Productions, full of puppets, fun and laughter. ~ Gregory Heights Library

Holiday Card Printmaking for Kids ~ 2:30 – 4:00 pm ~ In this workshop, participants can explore different types of stamp making including potato stamps and foam stamps to make special card for the holiday. ~ Rockwood Library

Wednesday December 26 – Friday December 28

Hogwarts Winter Camp for 1st-3rd Graders ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ The Hollywood Teen Council is pleased to invite those in grade 1st through 3rd to a Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry Winter Camp. Each day campers will get fitted with supplies and explore a variety of classes from Care of Magical Creatures, Potions, Transfiguration, Charms and more. This event is part of a series that has 3 sessions. Registration must happen before the start of the first session and you will be registered for the whole series. ~ Hollywood Library

Friday December 28

Lego Brick-Built Masterpieces ~ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Join Lego master Blair Archer and create amazing brick-built masterpieces from thousands of parts. ~ Holgate Library

Saturday, December 29

Guided Nature Walk: Mossum Mosses ~ 10:00 am – 11:30 am ~ Venture out with a park guide for a free nature hike ~ Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Noon Year’s Eve Party for Preschoolers ~ 11:00 am – 12:30 am ~ Celebrate the new year with your young child, ages 0-5. Enjoy dancing, balloons, activities and snacks. It’s a family-friendly way to ring in 2019! ~ Northwest Library

Kwanzaa: A Celebration of Family, Community and Culture ~ 10:30 – noon ~ Come and celebrate the fourth principle, Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), during our Family Kwanzaa Celebration. ~ North Portland Library

Recycle Art ~ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Bring your imagination, creativity, and unique vision to the library as we transform a pile of dull recyclables into dynamic artistic treasure! ~ Holgate Library

Oral Traditon~ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Rewild Portland’s Free Skills Series is a family-friendly class and community event that happens monthly, usually (but not always) occurring on the last Saturday of the month. ~ Location TBA ~ $10-$20 donation suggested

Sunday, December 30

JÓLABÓKAFLÓÐ: First annual indie book fair ~ 3:30 pm – 6:30 pm ~ It’s a book fair inspired by a beloved Icelandic tradition celebgrated in Portland with a collection of local authors, refreshment, and holiday fun! ~ Nordia House Great Hall ~ Free

This Month

Winter Wonderland ~ The largest light show in the Northwest ~ Portland International Raceway ~ Prices vary

Santaland ~ This holiday season, come visit the OHS Santaland display, featuring Santa’s chair, Rudolph, animatronic elves, and decorated Christmas trees from the Meier & Frank department store! New this year is the addition of a model of the famous monorail. ~ Oregon Historical Society ~ Free

The Grotto: Christmas Festival of Lights ~ Presenting the sights, sounds and sensations of the season, The Grotto’s Christmas Festival of Lights is the largest Christmas choral festival in the world. ~ The Grotto ~ Ticket prices vary

Christmas in the Garden ~ Christmas in the Garden is a charming European-inspired, outdoor event featuring ice skating, snowless tubing, an artisan vendor market, photos with Santa, and more. ~ The Oregon Garden ~ Call for pricing

Christmas Fantasy Trail ~ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm ~ Take a Christmas walk through a lighted, wooded “Fantasy Trail”, decorated with thousands of lights for your Christmas enchantment. ~ Wenzel Farm $7/adults, 12 and under $6

Ongoing Events

Lego @ the Library ~ Many Multnomah Co. Libraries have recurring Lego building meetups where they provide the bricks and the 5-11 year-olds bring the creativity.

November 2018

November 1, 2018November 2, 2018 Jen

Thursday, November 1 – Friday November 2

Dia de los Muertos at the Portland Mercado ~ Thursday 4 pm – 9 pm & Friday 6 pm – 9 pm ~ Enjoy an authentic cultural experience with music, offerings, face painting, crafts, and much more! The community altar will be on display through November 9. ~ Portland Mercado

Thursday, November 1st

Celebracion del Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead Celebration ~ 3:00 pm – 5:30 pm ~ Celebrate the Day of the Dead, a festive and colorful Latin American holiday. Create your own calaverita (felt skull) and learn more about this special tradition. ~ St. John’s Library

Calaveritas de Azúcar / Decorate your own Sugar Skull ~ 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm ~ Holgate Library

PDX (Pretty Damn X-traordinary) Native Film Night ~ 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm ~ This special event showcases the diversity of Native peoples, perspectives, and stories from across the Northern Continent with a documentary film, panel discussion, and short films. This event is free to the general public, open to all ages, and structured for audiences to drop in as their schedule allows. ~ Hollywood Theatre

Friday, November 2nd

Celebracion del Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead Celebration ~ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Gregory Heights Library

Dia de los Muertos Celebration ~ 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm ~ Portland Art Museum ~ free with museum admission, food and drink for sale

Celebracion del Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead Celebration ~ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm ~ Fairview-Columbia Library

Saturday, November 3rd

Dream Catcher Weaving ~ 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm ~ Participate in this workshop to learn the history and mystery behind the dream catcher while weaving your own ~ Albina Library

Hip Hop Soulsation ~ 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm ~ Join Cykhyia and Hip Hop Soulsation Academy as they bring an upbeat edgy interactive performance the whole family can enjoy. ~ Gresham Library

Comedia mágica, música y humor absurdo con Ángel Ocasio / Comedy Magic, Music & Silly Stuff with Angel Ocasio ~ 3:00 pm – 3:50 pm ~ Enjoy a wacky bilingual show filled with comedy magic, silly antics and fun sing-a-longs as Angel plays his ukulele. ~ Rockwood Library

Sunday, November 4th

Family Tour: Every Picture Tells a Story ~ 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm ~ Portland Art Museum ~

Dream Catcher Weaving ~ 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm ~ Participate in this workshop to learn the history and mystery behind the dream catcher while weaving your own ~ Rockwood Library

Handbell Concert ~ 4:00 pm ~ St Paul’s Episcopal Church

Friday, November 9th

Native American Indian Storytelling and Drumming ~ 4:00 – 5:30 ~ Traditional drumming, stories and songs of the Kalapuya people of the Willamette Valley that portray the animal people and their adventures, teach lessons and often involve audience participation. ~ Fairview-Columbia Library

Saturday, November 10th

Luminarias ~ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm ~ Transform simple materials into stunning luminarias for your home or garden. ~ Sellwood-Moreland Library

Native American Jewelry Making ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Use traditional items such as bone beads and leather to create various jewelry. Suitable for ages 4+ with an adult ~ Midland Library

Twirly Whirlies ~ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Create this simple toy with wire, beads and found objects. Watch the beads shimmer and dance as you move it in your hands. ~ Holgate Library

Sunday, November 11th

Family Tour: Pick a Pet ~ 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm ~ Portland Art Museum ~ tours are free with the price of admission

The Builder’s Block: Interlocking Imagination Opening Reception ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ The creative culture surrounding Lego as an art medium is bustling in the Pacific Northwest, and Portland has a plethora of plastic brick pioneers. Local builders represented in the exhibition will be in attendance to answer questions about their creations, provide hands-on interactive opportunities, and share their enthusiasm for Lego building. ~ Central Library Collins Gallery

Monday, November 12th

Portland Opera to Go: Barber of Seville ~ 2:00 pm ~ Tigard Public Library

Saturday, November 17th

Portland Opera to Go: Barber of Seville ~ 2:00 pm ~ Chehalem Cultural Center (Newberg) ~ $5 admission

Ants Ants Ants Family Music ~ 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm ~A fun sing-along family music band that kids of any age (1-100) will enjoy! ~ Northwest Library

Meet DASH’KA’YAH and COYOTE ~ 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Ed Edmo is a Shoshone-Bannock poet, playwright, performer, traditional storyteller, tour guide and lecturer on Northwest tribal culture. ~ Central Library

Sunday, November 18th

Castle in the Sky ~ 12:30 pm ~ The last movie in Studio Ghibli Fest ~ Century 16 Eastport Plaza

Family Tour: Every Picture Tells a Story ~ 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm ~ Portland Art Museum ~ tours are free with the price of admission

Tuesday, November 20th

Native American Jewelry Making ~ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm ~ Use traditional items such as bone beads and leather to create various jewelry. Suitable for ages 4+ with an adult ~ Fairview Columbia Library

Friday, November 23rd

Pioneer Square Christmas Tree Lighting ~ 5:30 pm ~ Pioneer Square ~ (here is a list of smaller tree lightings around the Portland area, in case you want to see if there’s one more local to you)

Saturday, November 24th

Recycle Art ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Holgate Library

Decorative Decoupage Boxes ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Woodstock Library

Sunday, November 25th

Wednesday, November 28th

Acuarelas y Libros / Watercolor and Books Club ~ 4:00 pm – 5:45 pm ~ Have you always wanted to learn to paint? Join us for this watercolor class and discover your inner artist. We’ll use library books to learn new techniques. Art supplies are included, but you can bring your own supplies. ~ Gresham Library

Happening all Month

The Builder’s Block: Interlocking Imagination Lego show opening Nov. 3 and on display through Jan. 6 during Central Library’s regular open hours.

Holiday Stuff Starting in November

The Lighting of Maddox Woods opens November 17th

Christmas at Pittock Mansion opens November 19th

Zoolights starts November 21st

October 2018

October 1, 2018October 9, 2018 Jen

Tuesday, October 2nd

Autumn Sky Wonders ~ 6:00 pm and 7:15 pm ~ Planetarium Sky Theater, Mt Hood Community College Gresham ~ $5 adult/$2 under 17

Wednesday, October 3rd

Homeschool Days at Philip Foster Farm ~ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm ~ Phillip Foster Farm, Eagle Creek, OR ~ $5 per person/$20 per family

My Neighbor Totoro ~ 7:00 pm ~ Century 16 Eastport Plaza ~ check website for prices

Thursday, October 4th

Homeschool Days at Philip Foster Farm ~ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm ~ Phillip Foster Farm, Eagle Creek, OR ~ $5 per person/$20 per family

Friday, October 5th- Sunday, October 7th

Greek Festival ~ times vary ~ Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral

Friday, October 5th

Homeschool Days at Philip Foster Farm ~ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm ~ Phillip Foster Farm, Eagle Creek, OR ~ $5 per person/$20 per family

Autumn Sky Wonders ~ 6:00 pm and 7:15 pm ~ Planetarium Sky Theater, Mt Hood Community College Gresham ~ $5 adult/$2 under 17

Saturday, October 6th – Sunday, October 7th

Kite Festival ~ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm ~ Lincoln City

Saturday, October 6th

Ivy Basket Weaving Workshop ~ learn how to reuse and re-purpose that invasive ivy ~ Lower Macleay Trailhead ~ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm ~ Registration required ~ Free

Harvest Day: Living History ~ 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Champoeg State Heritage Area ~ The bounty of the harvest will be the theme for this day as your family enjoys foods made from fresh produce grown in the 1860’s Heritage Kitchen Garden and the Heritage Apple Orchard~ $5 per vehicle parking fee or free with an annual Oregon State Parks Pass

Journey of the Andes ~ Latin Folk music, and music from the Andes. ~ Central Library Collins Gallery ~ 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm

Sunday, October 7th

“Adventures in Travel” Family Tour ~ Portland Art Museum ~ 12:30-1:30 ~ tours are free with the price of admission

Portland Opera La Traviata ~ “Our annual Open Chorus Rehearsal returns to Director Park with music from our upcoming production of Verdi’s La Traviata.” ~ 2:00 pm

Monday, October 8th

Opera To Go performance ~ 12:00 pm ~ Portland 5, Rotunda Level ~ free

Tuesday, October 9th

Found Materials Bookmaking ~ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm ~ SCRAP Crafternoon workshop — ages 6+ ~ SCRAP PDX ~ $10

Friday, October 12th – Sunday, October 14th

Apple Tasting Festival ~ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm ~ Portland Nursury ~ Please bring non-perishables for the Portland Food Bank, check the website for a list of the most needed items

Friday, October 12th

Family Forest Day ~ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm ~ Bring the family to Hoyt Arboretum for free drop-in nature and science hands-on activities ~ Hoyt Arboretum, Forest Park ~ Free

Family Farm Day ~ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm ~ a morning of exploring, tasting and growing together ~ Registration required ~ Sauvie Island Center

Tween DIY @ the Library ~ 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Come kickstart your creativity with our monthly tween gathering of creative minds. ~ Hollywood Library

Saturday, October 13th

Party at the Square ~ 10:00 am – 8:00 pm ~ Join Party Hearts for an epic celebration of Portland! ~ Pioneer Courthouse Square ~ free

Carboard Costume Creations ~ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm ~Create your very own costume out of unexpected materials like plastic, cardboard, wire, felt, LED lights, switches and even electric buzzers. ~ Gresham Library

Super Nature Exploration ~ 10:00 am – 12:30 pm ~ Join Friends of Columbia Gorge and Super Nature Adventures to explore the 120’ falls, the Pillars of Hercules basalt tower, and the distinctive native plants that grow abundantly in this area. ~ Bridal Veil Falls ~ $20 for family which includes an interactive trail package for young hikers ~ Registration required

Family Nature Fest ~ 10:00 am – 2:00 pm ~ Crafts, activities, games, pumpkin hunt, guided walks, and hands-on presentations ~ Columbia Springs, Vancouver, WA ~ $5 per child donation

Salmon Homecoming 2018 ~ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm ~ Salmon Homecoming is a collaboration with the Native American community to honor the salmon by sharing traditional sciences, stories, songs and salmon baking. ~ Oxbow Regional Park ~ $5/car, $7/bus

Weird and Wacky Halloween Animals ~ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Second Saturday Series ~ Vancouver Water Resources Education Center ~ free

Carboard Costume Creations ~ 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~Create your very own costume out of unexpected materials like plastic, cardboard, wire, felt, LED lights, switches and even electric buzzers. ~ St. John’s Library

Opera To Go performance ~ 2:00 pm ~ Walter’s Cultural Arts Center (Hillsboro) ~ free

I Dig Danosaurs ~ 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm ~ Dragon Theatre Puppets present a story about archaeologist Shawnry Connery who decides to build a time machine so that he can go back hundreds of millions of years to see the dinosaurs ~ Woodstock Library

Sunday, October 14th

“Heros and Monsters” Family Tour ~ 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm ~ Portland Art Museum ~ tours are free with the cost of admission

Tuesday, October 16th

One Night in Frogtown ~ 10:00 am ~ Frogtown creates award-winning musical stories across all media that engage, educate, and inspire children of all ages! ~ The Old Church ~ free

Wednesday, October 17th

Calaveritas de Azúcar / Sugar Skulls ~ 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm ~ In this hands-on workshop, students will learn about the Day of the Dead celebration and its traditions. Participants will paint their own edible sugar skull and dedicate it to an ancestor or loved one. ~ Gresham Library

Friday, October 19 – Sunday, October 21

Alice In Wonderland Free Art Event ~ Friday, 5 pm to 8 pm, Saturday & Sunday, 11 am to 7 pm ~ Alice in Wonderland, Harry Potter, Star Wars & Marvel art exhibit featuring Disney International Licensed Artist Christopher Clark ~ Embassy Suites by Hilton (Portland Downtown)

Saturday, October 20th – Sunday, October 21st

Apple Tasting Festival ~ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm ~ Portland Nursury ~ please bring nonperishables for the Portland Food Bank, see website for list of most needed items

Saturday, October 20th

The Great Pumpkin Regatta ~ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm ~ Tualatin Lake of the Commons

Straw Dolls ~ Participants will make two or three dolls of straw and learn about straw decorating traditions. ~ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Albina Library

Power to The People: Black Panther Party Legacy Tour of Albina ~ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Join Kent Ford, founder of Portland’s chapter of the ’60s-era black empowerment organization, for a walking tour in NE Portland. ~ $10 ~ Registration required

Luminarias ~ Join artist Kathy Karbo as she leads workshop participants in transforming simple materials into stunning luminarias for your home or garden. Take yours home to enjoy! ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Belmont Library

Halloween Night Flight ~ Enjoy crafts, learning stations, and a naturalist-led night walk to investigate what creatures haunt the Portland Audubon sanctuary at night. ~ 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm ~ Audubon Society of Portland ~ Free, registration required

Sunday, October 21st

Poor Farm Pumpkin Patch and Carving Challenge ~ 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm ~ Edgefield McMenamins ~ $15 ahead of time, $20 at the door per person, includes pumpkin and pumpkin carving kit.

“Every Picture Tells a Story” Family Tour ~ 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm ~ Portland Art Museum

Tuesday, October 23rd

Mythical Creatures–Sewing for Kids! ~ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm ~ SCRAP Crafternoon workshop — ages 6+ ~ SCRAP PDX ~ $15

Silly Scarecrow’s Farm Harvest ~ A show by Penny’s Puppet Productions ~ 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm ~ Capitol Hill Library

Saturday, October 27th

Cedar Creek Grist Mill Apple Pressing ~ 9:00 am ~ The Apple Cider Pressing is the last Saturday of October when they will begin distributing cider at 9 AM and continue until they finish all 8,000 pounds! ~ Cedar Creek Grist Mill, Woodland, WA ~ free

Cardboard Costume Creations ~ 10:30 am – 1:30 pm ~ Create your very own costume out of unexpected materials like plastic, cardboard, wire, felt, LED lights, switches and even electric buzzers. ~ Sellwood-Moreland Library

Building a Better Zombiepocalypse ~ 11:00 am – 11:40 am ~ Songs, stories, and comedy. (Un)Deadly Funny. ~ St. John’s Library

Opera To Go performance ~ 2:00 pm ~ Cedar Hills Church of Christ ~ free

Jack-O-Lantern Jars ~ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Collage orange tissue paper to transform a glass jar into a hollowed-out pumpkin. Design spooky, eerie or even haunting facial features to finish the look. ~ Holgate Library ~ registration opens Oct. 6

English Ivy Basket Weaving ~ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Rewild Portland’s Free Skills Series is a family-friendly class and community event that happens monthly, usually (but not always) occurring on the last Saturday of the month. ~ Location TBA ~ $10-$20 donation suggested

Jack-O-Lantern Jars ~ 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Collage orange tissue paper to transform a glass jar into a hollowed-out pumpkin. Design spooky, eerie or even haunting facial features to finish the look. ~ Kenton Library ~ registration opens Oct. 6

Portland Opera To Go ~ Portland Opera preforming a one hour staged version of The Barber of Seville ~ 7:00 pm ~ Cedar Hills United Church of Christ

2018 Homeschooler Costume Dance ~ 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm ~ age 13+ ~ Multnomah Arts Center ~ $20 per person pre-registration; $30 per person at the door.

Sunday, October 28th

2018 Oregon Mycological Society Fall Mushroom Show ~ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ World Forestry Center ~ $5 Adults, $3 Seniors/Students, Free for OMSI members and children under 12

“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” Family Tour ~ 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm ~ Portland Art Museum ~ tours are free with the cost of admission

Spirited Away ~ 12:55 pm ~ Century 16 Eastport Plaza ~ check website for prices

Calaveritas de Azúcar / Sugar Skulls ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ In this hands-on workshop, students will learn about the Day of the Dead celebration and its traditions. Participants will paint their own edible sugar skull and dedicate it to an ancestor or loved one. ~ Midland Library

Monday, October 29th

Family Forest Day ~ 10:00 am – 1:00 pm ~ Bring the family to Hoyt Arboretum for free drop-in nature and science hands-on activities ~ Free

Tuesday, October 30th

2nd Annual Homeschool Halloween Skate & Cake Party ~ 1pm – 3pm ~ Calling all ghosts, goblins, and ghouls for a spooktacular Private Homeschool Halloween Party at Oaks Park Roller Rink! Open to all Homeschoolers but closed to the general public. ~ Oaks Park Roller Rink ~ Pre-register and pre-pay, $9 or $10 at the door (if not sold out)

Spirited Away ~ 7:00 pm ~ Century 16 Eastport Plaza ~ check website for prices

Wednesday, October 31st

Conscious Comedy Halloween Party ~ 7:00 pm ~ a night of socially relevant comedy, all ages ~ Fundraiser for MarrowPDx ~ Oregon Public House ~ Tickets TBA

This month

Halloween Fantasy Trail ~ Take a Halloween walk through a lighted, wooded, “Fantasy Trail”, decorated with spooky sights and sounds. ~ Wenzel Farm, Oregon City ~ $7.00 adults/ Kids 12 & under $6.00

Portland Train Rides ~ Scenic rides along the Willamette ~ Prices vary

Lego at the library – look up your nearest library, most of them are hosting a lego building time once or twice a month https://multcolib.org/events

Teen programs at the Rockwood Makerspace

Looking Ahead

Kinderkonzerts start next month, homeschoolers can register at any time and location they want. $3 per child, adult are free.

September 2018

September 1, 2018 Jen

Saturday, September 1st – Monday September 3rd

Art in the Pearl ~ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm ~ North Park Blocks ~ Free

Saturday, September 1st

Arab Festival ~ 11:00 am – 7:00 pm ~ Oaks Park ~ free

Monday, September 3rd

Timberline Mountain Music Festival ~ 12:30 pm – sunset ~ Timberline Lodge ~ free festival of live music in the outdoor amphitheater

Wednesday, September 5th

Music on Main ~ 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm ~ Next to the Schnitz ~ free

Saturday, September 8th – Sunday, September 9th

Serbian Fest ~ Saint Stephen’s Serbian Othodox Church

Saturday, September 8th

Children’s Book Fair: Do the Right Thing and Read! ~ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm ~ North Portland Library ~ fun activities, performances by Aaron Nigel Smith, Woodsy Owl and Hip Hop Soulsation Dance Academy, balloon twisting, face painting

Belmont Street Fair ~ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm ~ SE Belmont Street

Saturday, September 15th

Cider Pressing Day ~ Philip Foster Farms ~ prices and limits vary

El Grito ~ Come celebrate Mexican Independence Day with food, music, and fun ~ 11:00 am – 11:00 pm ~ Moda Center Commons

Chalk Art Festival ~ 8:00 am – 4:00 pm ~ Downtown Forest Grove ~ $

Muñecas Mexicanas / Mexican Dolls ~ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm ~ St. John’s Library ~ make a traditional Mazahua colorful rag doll, ages 8+ ~ registration required

Whimsical Troll Fairy Houses ~ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Gregory Heights Library ~ create miniature troll houses with gardens, using recycled materials ~ registration required

Monday, September 17th

Portland Scandinavian Chorus rehersal ~ Interested in joining the Portland Scandinavian Chorus this year? This is their first rehersal. You do not need to be Scandinavian or speak any of their languages to take part. ~ 7:00pm is rehersal, 6:00 pm is dinner~ Finley-Sunset Hills ~ free to participate, $3 per person for the homecooked meal before

Friday, September 21st – Sunday, September 23rd

Oktoberfest ~ Oak’s Park ~ $6 for adults, $3 for kids

Saturday, September 22nd – Sunday, September 23rd

Polish Festival ~ Polish Library ~ free

Saturday, September 22nd

Flor al Estilo Origami de 5 Pétalos / Five Petal Origami Flowers ~ 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm ~ North Portland Library ~ Learn to make paper flowers, younger kids ok with an adult

Occidental Brewing Oktoberfest ~ 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm ~ Occidental Brewing ~ $10 gets you a beer stein and one beer fill, more food and beer available for purchase

Eastmoreland Woodstock Oktoberfest ~ 1:00 pm – 8:00 pm ~ Holy Family Catholic Church ~ free

German American Society of Portland ~ 2:00 pm – 10:00 pm ~ German American Society of Portland

Harvest Moon Festival / 庆祝中秋节 ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Woodstock Libary ~ Celebrate one of the best-loved holidays in many parts of Asia with crafts, activities and traditional moon cakes.

Dioramas ~ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Belmont Library ~ Build miniature scenes in boxes using materials provided by SCRAP.

Sunday, September 23rd

Fall Festival of the Arts ~ Glen Otto Park (Troutdale)

Friday, September 28th

Tết Trung Thu / Mid-Autumn Festival ~ 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm ~ Gregory Heights Library ~ Celebrate this traditional festival observed in parts of Asia with activities, music and moon cakes

Saturday, September 29th

McMenamin’s Oktoberfest ~ McMenamin’s Kennedy School

Wild Kratts Live ~ Keller Auditorium ~ 1:00 pm and again at 4:30 ~ tickets start at $36

Straw Dolls ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Woodstock Library ~ make small dolls out of straw

Celebrando Nuestras Raíces Latinas ~ 2:00 pm – 4:45 pm ~ Midland Library ~ Traditional song and dance and bilingual book reading

Recycle Art ~ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Holgate Library

All Month

Throughout September and October: Mid-Century Motorsports: Celebrating the history, technology and culture of racing in the 50s, 60s and 70s ~ Central Library’s Collins Gallery ~ open during regular library hours

The latter half of the month has a plethora of events put on by the City of Beaverton, intended to promote cross-cultural community and welcome our immigrant neighbors.

August 2018

August 4, 2018August 4, 2018 Jen

Wednesday, August 1

Summer Fun Days at Blue Lake ~ Free parking, free lunch, and free activities ~ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm ~ Blue Lake Regional Park

Modern Pop Art Experience ~ Join artist Michael Albert from New York for a Pop Art exhibition with a short hands-on collage workshop the same way the artist creates his works of art. Every guest will receive a free signed poster. ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Woodstock Library ~ first come, first served

Bat Chat at Tryon Creek ~ Trained naturalists will talk about local bat species. After a walk through the park, we will watch bats and listen to echolocating bats with the Bat Detector. ~ Registration required ~ 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm ~ Tryon Creek Natural Area

Thursday, August 2

Family Fishing Days ~ Learn to fish with gear provided ~ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm ~ Blue Lake Regional Park ~ Under 12, free

Summer Fun Days at Blue Lake ~ Free parking, free lunch, and free activities ~ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm ~ Blue Lake Regional Park

Polaris Dance Theatre’s Galaxy Dance Festival ~ Galaxy Dance Festival is an annual festival celebrating dance via free performances, classes, and demonstrations on stage. This 3-day event is for audiences of all ages, and is filled with multiple dance disciplines. ~ 11:00 am – 7:00 pm ~ Director Park

African Song and Dance ~ Join Habiba, a native of Ghana, in learning the richness of West African culture through song and dance. Habiba offers an interactive, multicultural performance with authentic West African costume, spiced with singing and movement. The whole audience gets involved in simple dance steps, call and response, greetings and phrases, and rhythm ~ 2:00 pm – 2:45 pm ~ Midland Library ~ first come, first served

Opera a la Cart ~ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm ~ Ecotrust, 721 NW 9th Ave

Concerts in the park: Jujuba ~ funky afrobeat and Juju music ~ 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm ~ McCoy Park

Friday, August 3

Free Mini Music Lessons ~ Try a violin, cello, trumpet or other instrument, with instruction from a music teacher, or make a shaker out of common household items. ~ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm ~ Lincoln Park

All-You-Can-Make Art Bar ~Art ala Carte turned restaurant salad bars into art bars for an “all you can make” art experience. Kids of all ages and skill levels fill up trays of seemingly endless supplies: everything from pom-poms, feathers and glitter, to bottle caps, CDs and army men. Kids create at their own pace as imaginative ideas are transformed into masterpieces. ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Rockwood Library ~ first come, first served

Tween Book-to-Movie Summer Matinee: The Princess Bride ~ Beat the heat with favorite stories that have been made into movies. Watch The Princess Bride. Bring your own snacks and pillows. ~ 2:00 pm – 4:30 pm ~ Hollywood Library

Saturday, August 4

Guided Nature Walk: Dragonflies and Butterflies ~ Free guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area ~ 10:00 am – 11:30 am ~ Tryon Creek State Natural Area

The 48th Annual Great Oregon Steam-Up ~ Learn about the early machinery that made Oregon develop and grow. Machines on display include farm tractors and implements, early engines, crawlers, fire apparatus, vintage trucks and cars, logging gear, an early Oregon flour mill, and an authentic steam sawmill. Rides include an historic trolley and a miniature railroad–Food, shopping, entertainment ~ Prices vary ~ Powerland Heritage Park, Brooks, Oregon

Gateway Discovery Park Grand Opening ~ Super fun grand opening celebration for Portland’s “living room” on the east side! ~ 10:00 am – 3:00 pm ~ Gateway Discovery Park

Five Petal Origami Flowers ~ Learn how to make paper flowers with mother and daughter instructors, Daisy and Natalia. This program is for children 8 years and older, or younger if accompanied by an adult. All materials will be provided. We hope to see you there! ~ 10:30 am – noon ~ Holgate Library ~ free tickets 30 minutes in advance

Experience the World of Ghana ~ Performance begins with a solo dance, followed by drumming. Chata Addy will share the names of the different instruments, their functions in the music and how they are played. Members of the audience are invited to join Chata on stage to drum and dance. ~ 10:30 am – 11:30 am ~ Albina Library

Opera a la Cart ~ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Junk Refunk Street Market, NW 1st Ave., Canby

Rock-ology! ~ Explore the rock cycle and create your own toothpaste sample. Have fun designing your own toothpaste box. There are rocks in my toothpaste! ~ 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm ~ North Portland Library

Mini Worlds ~ You are an explorer and anthropologist and you discover a miniature world that everyone else thought was only imaginary. Create a model of your teeny, tiny world so everyone can see. Use cool materials and tools to design and build a small scale version of whatever you discovered. ~ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ St. John’s Library

Float Your Boat ~ Make your own sailboat with natural and recycled materials. Paint and decorate then set sail. This is an easy and fun project for families. ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Central Library US Bank Room

Modern Pop Art Experience ~ Come join artist Michael Albert from New York for a Pop Art exhibition with a short hands-on collage workshop the same way the artist creates his works of art. Every guest will receive a free signed poster. ~ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Kenton Library

Star Party ~ Come see the magic of the night sky with astronomers and telescopes! ~ 9:00 pm – midnight ~ Silver Falls

Sunday, August 5

Bioblitz ~ A bioblitz gets lots of people out in the field to count as many species as possible in a short amount of time. Experts will lead community volunteers, so no prior knowledge or expertise is needed—just a willingness to look and listen for insects/pollinators, birds, plants and macroinvertebrates. ~ Registration required ~ 9:30 am – 3:00 pm ~ Leach Botanical Garden

24th Annual Columbia Slough Regatta ~ This event features 45-minute canoe and kayak rentals (all equipment provided) for registered attendees. Before and after paddling, participants can visit with local environmental and water-based organizations, enjoy hands-on nature activities, live music and guided tours. ~ $10-$50/person or $25-70/family sliding scale suggested donation. No one will be turned away due to lack of funds! ~ Registration required ~ St. John’s Launch

Monday, August 6

Latin American Music and Myths ~ Inka Jam Band performs Huaynos, Cumbia, Salsa, Boleros, Trova and Afro-Peruvian music and dance with an Andean flare the whole family can enjoy. Enjoy an interactive performance while learning about the history of the represented cultures, how the instruments are made as well as the content of the songs. ~ 2:30 – 3:15 ~ Hollywood Library ~ free tickets 15 minutes in advance

Роспись камней / Stone Painting ~ Come and paint traditional Slavic style art on rocks using simple techniques the whole family can enjoy. This program is taught in Russian. ~ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm ~ Holgate Library

Aussie Funk Jam: Learn to Play the Didgeridoo! ~ The didgeridoo, usually a hollowed-out tree trunk or branch, has been played by Aboriginal Australians for at least 1,500 years and is known for its mesmerizing sound. In the Aussie Funk Jam, participants learn how to play the didgeridoo – including vocalizing and creating simple rhythms – using PVC pipe or cardboard tubes. It’s cool, funky and unique! ~ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm ~ Sellwood Moreland Library

Tuesday, August 7

Summer Fun Days at Blue Lake ~ Free parking, free lunch, and free activities ~ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm ~ Blue Lake Regional Park

Summertime Concert ~ Peanut’s sweet voice and clever lyrics meet ukulele strums and impressive trilingual (English, Spanish, Hebrew) chops in the fun summer concert. Toting her ukulele and a gentle voice, Peanut is named by parents as the sweetest children’s musician around. Her uplifting energy and genuine attentiveness makes it engaging to children of all ages. ~ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Holgate Library

Spectacular Arcade for Kids ~ Join Tinker Camp and imagine, design and create your one of a kind arcade game using cardboard, recycled materials and electronic components such as LED lights and motors. ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Sellwood Moreland Library ~ Free tickets 30 minutes in advance.

All-You-Can-Make Art Bar ~ Art ala Carte turned restaurant salad bars into art bars for an “all you can make” art experience. Kids of all ages and skill levels fill up trays of seemingly endless supplies: everything from pom-poms, feathers and glitter, to bottle caps, CDs and army men. ~ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm ~ Midland Library

Opera a la Cart ~ 6:30 pm – 7:30 ~ Walter’s Cultural Arts Center, Hillsboro

Wednesday, August 8

Summer Fun Days at Blue Lake ~ Free parking, free lunch, and free activities ~ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm ~ Blue Lake Regional Park

Squid Dissection and Marine Science ~ Squids are fresh and smell like the ocean. Children work together in groups of 3 or 4 to familiarize themselves with and identify internal and external anatomical nomenclature. Includes exploration of oceanic regions, analysis of marine samples, marine life classification and squid dissection. ~ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Woodstock Library ~ Registration required

Bat Chat at Sauvie Island ~ Trained naturalists will about our local bat species and lead a walk through Wapato State Greenway. Participants will watch bats and listen to echolocating bats with the Bat Detector. ~ Registration required ~ 8:00 pm – 9:30 pm ~ Wapato Access Greenway State Park

Thursday, August 9

Family Fishing Days ~ Learn to fish with gear provided ~ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm ~ Blue Lake Regional Park ~ Under 12, free

Summer Fun Days at Blue Lake ~ Free parking, free lunch, and free activities ~ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm ~ Blue Lake Regional Park

The Fascinating World of Reptiles ~ Join the Reptile Man, aka Richard Ritchey, in meeting his outstanding crew of snakes, lizards, turtles and tortoises! ~ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Belmont Library

Friday August 10

Saturday, August 11

Music in Action! / ¡Música en acción! ~ A freewheeling fiesta of songs, creative movement, comedy and audience participation led by the irrepressible (and bilingual) Rich Glauber. Using guitar, accordion and his joyful personality, he turns every show into a community celebration. Presented in English and Spanish. ~ 10:30 – 11:15 am ~ Albina Library

Science of Sound ~ Come explore the Science of Sound and play with sound waves. Explore science through toys like the humming harmonica, Pipe Orchestra, tuning forks, and more. ~ 1:00 – 2:00 pm ~ St. John’s Library

Family-friendly Garden Activities and Crafts ~ Learn how to attract and protect pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds and earn a “wildlife protector” pin and certificate. Enjoy make-and-take arts and crafts such as cool critter seed mosaics and soil superhero bookmarks. ~ Free event, car fee $5/bus fee $7 ~ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Blue Lake Regional Park, Natural Discovery Garden

Comedia Para Los Niños / komedy 4 da kidz ~ Angel Ocasio presents a bilingual and interactive performance combining physical comedy, juggling, balancing and magic. ~ 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm ~ Fairview-Columbia Library

Sunday, August 12

Family Tour : Stories in Art ~ 12:30-1:30 ~ Portland Art Museum ~ free with admission

Monday, August 13

The Puppet Town Musicians ~ Penny’s Lovable puppets want to begin new lives. They have grown older and feel useless at the farm. They all decide to leave the country life together and head towards “Puppet Town” to create a band. Enjoy this original musical puppet production where music and friendship shine through. ~ 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm ~ Hollywood Library ~ free tickets 15 minutes in advance

Tuesday, August 14

Music & Movement ~ Join award-winning children’s educator and performer Aaron Nigel Smith as he gets the whole family moving, grooving and learning. ~ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Holgate Library Lawn

Wednesday, August 15

Steve’s Creature Feature ~ Explore the amazing world of reptiles with Steve Lattanzi. Kids will be able to safely see, hear and touch some of the most amazing creatures on earth. Nature doesn’t get any more real and fun than this! Steve is a well-traveled wildlife expert who specializes in studying exotic animals from around the world. ~ 11:15 am – noon ~ Gregory Heights Library

Opera a la Cart ~ 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm ~ New Seasons, 3 Monroe Pkwy, Lake Oswego

Grave of the Fireflies ~ Studio Ghibli Fest ~ 7:00 pm ~ Eastport Century 16

Thursday, August 16

Vain Little Mouse/La Ratoncita Presumida ~ This production features Venezuelan folk music, a puppet set shaped like a Venezuelan tabletop mountain, adorable puppets, and a costumed performer. Bilingual. ~ 11:00 am – 11:45 am ~ Sellwood-Moreland Library

Scales, Claws and Expanding Jaws ~ Students slide, slither and hop into herpetology, the science of reptiles. We’ll get up close and personal with live snakes, lizards and turtles in order to study the features which make this class of animals unique. Discover that snakes are smooth and dry, lizards have no earlobes, and geckos can lick their eyeballs! ~ 2:00 – 3:00 pm ~ Midland Library

Construction Madness ~ Using paper, scissors, glue, recycled materials and imagination, design and build your own architectural wonder! ~ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm ~ Belmont Library

Saturday, August 18

Guided Nature Walk: Busy Beaver ~ Free guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area ~ 10:00 am – 11:30 am ~ Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Portland Soapbox Derby ~ Watch 40+ teams of racers hurtle down a closed course in hand-built contraptions, powered only by one push at the top of the hill, and the inescapable force of gravity. ~ Mt. Tabor Park

34th Annual Mount Hood Huckleberry Festival and Barlow Trail Days ~ Music, Native American storytelling, watermelon launch, and more ~ 10:00 am – 6:00 pm ~ Oregon Country Settlement, Rhododendron, Oregon

The Fascinating World of Reptiles ~ Join the Reptile Man, aka Richard Ritchey, in meeting his outstanding crew of snakes, lizards, turtles and tortoises! ~ 10:30 am – 11:30 am ~ Central Library US Bank Room ~ free tickets 30 minutes in advance

Slime Extravaganza! ~ Come learn how to make epic slime with the St. Johns Library Tween Council! Beginners will learn the basics and Slime Masters will learn how to make their slime bigger and better! Everyone will leave with slime. For kids in grades 3-8. ~ 2:00 – 3:30 pm ~ St. John’s Library ~ Registration required

The Fascinating World of Reptiles ~ Join the Reptile Man, aka Richard Ritchey, in meeting his outstanding crew of snakes, lizards, turtles and tortoises! ~ 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm ~ Albina Library

Digging for Dinos ~ Visit a time when dinosaurs walked the earth! Make a fossil cast, behave like a dinosaur, and more. Become a paleontologist by using fossils as clues into the past. ~ 3:00 – 4:00 pm ~ Rockwood Library

Hip Hop Soulsation ~ Cykhyia was born and raised in New York and has been dancing since the age of 6. Her dream is to always own a dance studio and bring the joy of dance to all walks of life. Now Cykhyia is in Oregon bringing her edgy and unique style to Portland. ~ 4:30 pm – 5:15 pm ~ Rockwood Library

Sunday, August 19

34th Annual Mount Hood Huckleberry Festival and Barlow Trail Days ~ Music, Native American storytelling, watermelon launch, and more ~ 10:00 am – 5:00 pm ~ Oregon Country Settlement, Rhododendron, Oregon

Sunday Parkways ~ Monthly neighborhodsummer bike rides ~ Green Loop (Downtown & Inner SE) ~ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm ~ Map

Family Tour : Let’s Go on Vacation ~ 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm ~ Portland Art Museum ~ tours are free with admission

Audubon Storytime ~ This month is a special Kid’s Story Time, featuring author Wendy Gorton! Wendy will be reading selections from her newest book, 50 Hikes with Kids: Oregon and Washington, as well as leading a nature related activity. ~ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm ~ Audubon Interpretive Center

Scenes from Shakespeare Comedies ~ Join the Original Practice Shakespeare Festival for a selection of the funniest scenes from Shakespeare. The bard was known for his ability to bring out the laughs, and these scenes stand the test of time to this day. We’ve chosen three of the best, funniest and family friendly scenes to share with you. ~ 4:00 – 4:45 ~ Capitol Hill Library lawn

Monday, August 20

Anime Origami ~ Come and fold paper into your favorite anime or manga character. It’s fun and easy. No folding experience necessary. ~ 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm ~ Rockwood Makerspace ~ intended for teens

Tuesday, August 21

Charles and Biscuit Rock the Library ~ Using books right off the shelf, Charles discovers titles that lead him to tell stories about music, and offer a brief children’s history of rock and roll. ~ 2:00 – 2:50 ~ Holgate Library

Wednesday, August 22

An Introduction to Oak ~ Join a local Indigenous community member at Graham Oaks Nature Park for a walk at dedicated to a habitat that used to dominate the Pacific Northwest, from California to British Columbia: oak woodlands and prairies. ~ Cost: $6/person, $11/family ~ registration required. ~ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm ~ Graham Oaks Nature Park

Thursday, August 23

Family Movie Matinee ~ Come to the library to watch Horton Hears a Who!, eat snacks, and relax. Bring your own snacks and pillows if you want, or enjoy our snacks. ~ 2:00 – 4:00 pm ~ Belmont Library

Friday, August 24 – Sept 3 ~ Oregon State Fair ~ Prices vary

Friday, August 24

The Fascinating World of Reptiles ~ Join the Reptile Man, aka Richard Ritchey, in meeting his outstanding crew of snakes, lizards, turtles and tortoises! ~ 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm ~ St. John’s Library

Saturday, August 25

Guided Nature Walk: Starting Over-Forest Succession ~ Free guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area ~ 10:00 am – 11:30 am ~ Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Discovery Days: Our Friends, the Bats ~ The nature classroom opens its doors on the last Saturday of every month with fun and educational hands-on activities for visitors of all ages. ~ 11:00 am – 12:30 pm ~ Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Colors of the Jungle ~ Meet the Oregon Bird Man and his parrots! This educational and entertaining program features a wide assortment of parrot species from four continents — including many endangered species. ~ 10:30 am – 11:30 am ~ Albina Library

Opera a la Cart ~ 11:00 am – 1:00 pm ~ Rood Bridge Park, Hillsboro

Rewilding Series: Friction Fire ~ Rewild Portland’s Free Skills Series is a family-friendly class for learning skills that connect us with humanity’s ancestral past and more local and sustainable future. ~ $10–$20 donation, with no one turned away. ~ 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm ~ Colonel Summers Park

Tuesday, August 28

Red Yarn’s Old Barn ~ The critters on Red Yarn’s farm are preparing for the big barn dance and they need your help! The animals must practice on their instruments, the band needs to rehearse & everyone must cooperate to get ready. In this engaging music & puppet show, award-winning family performer Red Yarn will have audiences singing, dancing, stomping & clapping along with traditional & original folk songs. ~ 2:00 – 2:50 pm ~ Holgate Library

Songs, Dances and Stories from Latin America Using original and traditional music we tell stories and involve the audience in songs and dances from Latin-America with emphasis on the Andean World. We also display a series of traditional instruments and costumes. ~ 3:00 – 3:45 pm ~ Northwest Library

Wednesday, August 29

Geology Rocks! Geologist by day, rock star by night, Slate Mudstone knows how to throw a party! Join Mikey Mike the Rad Scientist as he brings this rockin’ character to life to dance, sing, and rock out as we learn about the connections between nature, geology and making music. ~ 2:00 – 2:45 pm ~ Gresham Library