PORTLAND, Ore. — Thanksgiving is about two weeks away and Christmas is nearing one month out. Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas" has officially transitioned us into the holiday season. There is plenty to do to stay busy this season, here is our list of 8 things to do across the Portland metro area.
Disney on Ice
When: Nov. 9-12, Various times
Where: Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 300 North Ramsay Way, Portland
What's going on: Ready to step inside the magical world of Disney? Disney's Frozen and Encanto will be brought to life on ice at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Be ready for Olaf, Kristoff, Sven and Anna to take you to Arendelle to be apart of the journey to find Elsa as her icy powers are unleased. Melt into the beautiful sunny world of Colombia where you'll join the Madrigal family and Mirabel on the adventure to save the family's enchanted home alongside her two sisters. Tickets range from $25 to $62.
The Music of Selena
When: Nov. 9, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, 1037 Southwest Broadway, Portland
What's going on: Anything for Selena! Get the reference? All fans of the late American-singer and fashion designer, Selena Quintanilla to the front please. The Oregon Symphony is joining forces with singing sensation Isabel Marie Sánchez in an emotional tribute to the beloved queen of Tejano music. They will perform hits like "Como la Flor," "Dreaming of You," "Bidi Bidi Bom Bom," "I Could Fall in Love" and "Amor Prohibido." Tickets range from $25 to $65.
Portland's Veterans Day Parade
When: Nov. 11, 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Northeast Portland, Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Portland
What's going on: Since 1974, the Veterans Day Parade has been a long-standing Portland tradition. The parade was founded to pay respects to all veterans and thank them for their service. The parade route starts at Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Beech heading north, and will end behind 5325 Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Killingsworth. There will be a closing ceremony that will take place around 11:30 a.m. This year's grand marshals include Hermann Colas, Jr., Frank Dixon and Bruce Hall. Some of the speakers at the ceremony will be Oregon state Sen. Lew Frederick, former Multnomah County Commissioner Loretta Smith and Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs Legislative Director Jay DeFillipo. This a free event and anyone is welcome to attend.
Ms. Lauryn Hill: Miseducation of Lauryn Hill 25th Anniversary Tour
When: Nov. 10, 8 p.m.
Where: Moda Center, 1 North Center Street, Portland
What's going on: The one and only, Ms. Lauryn Hill, will "Doo Wop" into the Rose City in celebration of the 25th anniversary performance of the Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. The award-winning artist has broken countless records and have paved the way for many women in music. She was apart of the award-winning group, The Fugees known for songs like "Fu-Gee-La," "Ready or Not" and their iconic rendition of "Killing Me Softly" by Lori Liberman. Hill is mostly known for her first and only studio album, "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill" released in 1998. The evergreen album is known for classic hits such as "Ex-Factor," "Everything is Everything," "Can't Take My Eyes Off You," and "Zion." Tickets are still available and range from $60 to $125.
Portland Cheese and Meat Festival
When: Nov. 11, Noon - 6 p.m.
Where: The Leftbank Annex, 101 North Weidler Street, Portland
What's going on: Seeking an afternoon filled with blissful aromas, flavors and textures of artesian foods and drinks? The Portland Cheese and Meat Festival is showcasing the finest treats across the Pacific Northwest. There will be three tastings: a brunch, VIP tasting and afternoon tasting. Guests will receive a small charcuterie board upon entry, which can be used to sample items throughout the event. Questions from dress code, tasting etiquette and more will be available at the link below. Tickets range from $75 to $129.
Desi Diwali Dance Party: Festival of Lights Culture Heritage Night with DJ Prashant
When: Nov. 10, 9 p.m.
Where: Lola's Room, McMenamins, 1332 West Burnside Street, Portland
What's going on: Bring your most colorful festival attire to celebrate India's Festival of Lights Dance Party. The festival highlights the Indian belief that victory of good over evil and light over darkness. The space will be decorated with LED candles, Desi music and mashups will be provided by DJ Prashant. Henna will be available at the event provided by Henna by Lisa. Tickets range from $15 to $20.
Free Entrance Days in the National Parks
When: Nov. 11, various times
Where: Any national park in Oregon
What's going on: Oregon has it all, from volcanoes and Evergreen forests, to desert and shrubland. For many people, the state is a life-sized playground that is home to six national parks: Crater Lake National Park, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, Nez Perce National Park, and Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve. The National Park Service is allocating only five days throughout the year where the entrance fee is waived for park guests, providing free admission. November 11 happens to be one of those fee-free dates, so take advantage of the opportunity and check out the beauty of Oregon.
Milwaukie High School Holiday Bazaar
When: Nov. 11, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Milwaukie High School Commons, 2301 Southeast Willard Street, Milwaukie
What's going on: Have you already set up your Christmas tree? Put up festival décor and are already counting down to Christmas? Well this event might be just for you. The Milwaukie High School is holding a Holiday Bizarre hosted by the Milwaukie High cheer team. There will be photos with Santa, letters to Santa, face painting, hair tinsel, craft kits and a selfie photo booth. Cash and check will only be accepted. Proceeds support the cheer team and the Mustang Born Alumni Scholarship Foundation.
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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.
