PORTLAND, Ore. — So much to do, so little time. Thanksgiving is about one week away and Christmas is quickly approaching. There is plenty to do to stay busy this season, from an African Fashion exhibit to a Ugly Sweater Tree Lighting, here is our list of 8 things to do across the Portland metro area.
Africa Fashion
When: Nov. 18- Feb. 18, 2024, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Portland Art Museum, 1219 Southwest Park Avenue, Portland
What's going on: Do you have a passion for fashion? If so, this just might be the perfect event for you. The Portland Art Museum presents Africa Fashion, which is the first of its kind of exhibition highlighting the impeccable creativity, ingenuity, and unstoppable global impact of contemporary African fashions. The exhibit features garments and textiles dating from the mid-twentieth century to present day. The exhibit is described as "vital and necessary exhibition," showcasing over 50 outfits designed by over 40 designers from 21 countries. Admission tickets range from $22 to $15, with children 17 and under free.
Makers Market
When: Nov. 18, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Inside Rejuvenation, 1100 Southeast Grand Avenue, Portland
What's going on: Get a head start on holiday gift shopping. Take a moment to enjoy live music, great eats and unique products from local business. The Makers Market feature makers of jewelry, organic body products, home goods, apparel, glass and CBD products. Talented musicians Ian Acredolo and Mike Annuzi will be providing the sounds. The event is free to all, stop by and shop small.
St. Johns Plaza Annual Tree Lighting
When: Nov. 17, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: St. John Plaza, North Lombard and Philadelphia, Portland
What's going on: Don't want to wait until December to kick off the holidays? Well look no further, Portland's St. Johns neighborhood will be hosting their annual community tree lighting, also referred a the "Ugly Sweater Tree Lighting." Wear your ugliest holiday sweater and decorate an ornament to hang on the tree. There will be holiday photos available, free hot chocolate and cookies and the jubilant sounds of the Roosevelt High School choir. The event is free to all.
Kumoricon
When: Nov. 17-19, Various times
Where: Oregon Convention Center, 777 Northeast Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, Portland
What's going on: Portland's annual anime and Japanese culture convention is back for its 20th year in the Pacific Northwest. Kumori means "cloudy" in Japanese. The convention will have workshops, karaoke, cosplay and merch available for purchase. Tickets range from $50 to $500.
Brew Lights
When: Nov. 17-18, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Oregon Zoo, 4001 Southwest Canyon Road, Portland
What's going on: Take a moment to enjoy the holiday lights — child-free of course. The Oregon Zoo is hosting a brew festival experience for those over the age 21 of course. There will be more than 55 Northwest breweries and cideries to sample from. Live music will be featured with music from Dance Hall Days Band, Ian James and local DJs. Local food carts will also be providing good eats. Tickets are $65.
The Office Trivia with Todd Packer
When: Nov. 18, 4 p.m.
Where: Helium Comedy Club, 777 Northeast Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, Portland
What's going on: What's up "The Office" fans? Test your knowledge of "The Office" with the 'Pack-Man' David Koechner from "The Office." Team will be competing for prizes and have the chance to ask any and all Office questions. Top teams will have to channel their favorite "The Office" characters and perform in front of Koechner.
Tickets range from $27 to $37
Orcas: Our Shared Future
When: Nov. 1-Jan. 28, 2024, various times
Where: Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Portland
What's going on: OMSI is showcasing a new exhibition of over 100 Orcinus artifacts includes life-sized replicas, fossils, original artwork from Pacific Northwest coast Indigenous peoples and more. The exhibit gives the public a chance to better understand the human connection, social structures and consequences of orca captivity. Tickets range from $13 to $18
Veganizer: World Vegan Month 2023
When: Nov. 1-30, various times
Where: Multiple locations, Portland
What's going on: Veganizer PDX is a plant-based food consulting agency known for collaborating with vegan eateries across the Rose City. The agency will be putting on a monthlong event highlighting Portland's vegan restaurants. There are over 20 restaurants offering vegan specials all month long. All the proceeds will benefit nonprofits.
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Sabinna Pierre is the curator of "Things To Do" for KGW's digital platforms. Know of an event you'd like to see featured? Let her know! Email her at SPierre@kgw.com. Follow Sabinna on Instagram @SincerelyBinna.