Storytimes events in Portland

SATNOV 14

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM

Kids & FamilyStorytimesWellnessMeditationDance

Move & Dance

Join us every second Saturday for a self-regulation movement lab for children. Energy in Motion's dance class is a unique and engaging way to support your child's emotional growth. It blends the joy of dance with essential tools for managing emotions. This program is designed for all, including autistic and neurodivergent children. Come at 10:15 to get settled and comfortable with the space. The program begins at 10:30 with bubbles, a self-esteem check-in, music, and an opportunity to get up a move around. We always finish up with a story. The Library provides headphones, flexible seating and multiple areas for kids to move around and make use of fidgets. Heather Fronzcak (Ms. Sunny) incorporates dance, mindfulness, and exercises specifically designed to promote emotional regulation and resilience in kids.

This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Lake Oswego Public Library and admission is free, and there is no registration required. The Lake Oswego Public Library is located at 706 Fourth Street, Lake Oswego. For more information, contact the Youth Services Librarians at 503-697-6580 or [email protected].

Join us every second Saturday for a self-regulation movement lab for children. Energy in Motion's dance class is a unique and engaging way to support your child's emotional growth. It blends the joy of dance with essential tools for managing emotions. This program is designed for all, including autistic and neurodivergent children. Come at 10:15 to get settled and comfortable with the space. The program begins at 10:30 with bubbles, a self-esteem check-in, music, and an opportunity to get up a move around. We always finish up with a story. The Library provides headphones, flexible seating and multiple areas for kids to move around and make use of fidgets. Heather Fronzcak (Ms. Sunny) incorporates dance, mindfulness, and exercises specifically designed to promote emotional regulation and resilience in kids.

This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Lake Oswego Public Library and admission is free, and there is no registration required. The Lake Oswego Public Library is located at 706 Fourth Street, Lake Oswego. For more information, contact the Youth Services Librarians at 503-697-6580 or [email protected].

Website ↗

SUNNOV 1

10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

💰 $65+WorkshopsCraftsGalleriesWellnessMeditation

Giant Collaborative Neurographic Art

Church of Art1801 Northwest Upshur Street

Church of Art's collaborative neurographics is a mindfulness-based creative activity that provides therapeutic relaxation through intuitive mark-making on a grand scale. For this mindfulness-based collaborative art activity, Church of Art will cover a long row of tables with a roll of paper and acrylic paint pens in a variety of sizes and colors. Participants will move freely around the table, filling the paper with sweeping, colorful doodles to the sounds of calming music. The giant scale allows for whole-arm movements, which signal brains to move out of fight-or-flight mode and into a state of mental relaxation and improved focus. The collaborative aspect of this workshop teaches one to let go of perfection and expectation through shared creative exploration, while working large encourages greater freedom of expression.

Neurographic art is a relatively new form of focused, intentional mark-making that uses curved, bold lines, vibrant colors and calming patterns. Physician and neurographics practitioner Ruben Halperin, M.D., will be the guide, co-facilitating this workshop with artist and Church of Art founder, Erika Halperin.

Immerse yourself in this beneficial form of meditative doodling and experience the mood-boosting effect of creativity coupled with community gathering.

Using paper and acrylic markers. All materials and supplies are provided by the studio.

Tickets Include:

2 hours of guided creative exploration in a supportive, friendly environment with all supplies included.
Light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are included.
That wonderful feeling of joy and connectedness that comes from a few hours of in-person artistic play with other adults.

Church of Art's collaborative neurographics is a mindfulness-based creative activity that provides therapeutic relaxation through intuitive mark-making on a grand scale. For this mindfulness-based collaborative art activity, Church of Art will cover a long row of tables with a roll of paper and acrylic paint pens in a variety of sizes and colors. Participants will move freely around the table, filling the paper with sweeping, colorful doodles to the sounds of calming music. The giant scale allows for whole-arm movements, which signal brains to move out of fight-or-flight mode and into a state of mental relaxation and improved focus. The collaborative aspect of this workshop teaches one to let go of perfection and expectation through shared creative exploration, while working large encourages greater freedom of expression.

Neurographic art is a relatively new form of focused, intentional mark-making that uses curved, bold lines, vibrant colors and calming patterns. Physician and neurographics practitioner Ruben Halperin, M.D., will be the guide, co-facilitating this workshop with artist and Church of Art founder, Erika Halperin.

Immerse yourself in this beneficial form of meditative doodling and experience the mood-boosting effect of creativity coupled with community gathering.

Using paper and acrylic markers. All materials and supplies are provided by the studio.

Tickets Include:

2 hours of guided creative exploration in a supportive, friendly environment with all supplies included.
Light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are included.
That wonderful feeling of joy and connectedness that comes from a few hours of in-person artistic play with other adults.

🎟️ Tickets ↗

SUNNOV 1

6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

💰 $30+WellnessMeditationTeaHolidays & Seasonal

Samhain All Souls Day: Scorpio Season Tea Ceremony

Awakenings Wellness Center1016 SE 12th Ave

Celebrate Samhain and the Day of the Dead with a transformative, grounding evening hosted by Celine Redfield of Two Wings Balanced Healing. Aligned with the deeply intuitive water energy of Scorpio season, this sacred gathering combines community connection with deep personal restoration.

The Experience: The evening begins with an ancestral invocation and a warm botanical tea ceremony—guests are welcome to bring a memento, photo, or candle to place on a collective altar. You will then ease into a guided hypnotic meditation before relaxing into a restorative, one-hour water-element sound bath.
The Instruments: Healing frequencies are created using a carefully curated selection of "watery" and crystalline instruments. You will experience crystal singing bowls for all seven chakras, a cosmic light chalice, ocean drums, rain sticks, aqua Koshi chimes, crystal pyramids, tongue drums, and pangi seed shakers.
Who It’s For: This event is for anyone looking to honor their ancestors, connect deeply with their intuition, or find a peaceful space for internal reflection and fresh personal transformation.
The Benefits: Attendees will experience deep, receptive relaxation, reduced stress, emotional release, and a renewed sense of internal safety and security.

Celebrate Samhain and the Day of the Dead with a transformative, grounding evening hosted by Celine Redfield of Two Wings Balanced Healing. Aligned with the deeply intuitive water energy of Scorpio season, this sacred gathering combines community connection with deep personal restoration.

The Experience: The evening begins with an ancestral invocation and a warm botanical tea ceremony—guests are welcome to bring a memento, photo, or candle to place on a collective altar. You will then ease into a guided hypnotic meditation before relaxing into a restorative, one-hour water-element sound bath.
The Instruments: Healing frequencies are created using a carefully curated selection of "watery" and crystalline instruments. You will experience crystal singing bowls for all seven chakras, a cosmic light chalice, ocean drums, rain sticks, aqua Koshi chimes, crystal pyramids, tongue drums, and pangi seed shakers.
Who It’s For: This event is for anyone looking to honor their ancestors, connect deeply with their intuition, or find a peaceful space for internal reflection and fresh personal transformation.
The Benefits: Attendees will experience deep, receptive relaxation, reduced stress, emotional release, and a renewed sense of internal safety and security.

Website ↗

🎟️ Tickets ↗

SUNNOV 8

9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Hiking & WalkingParks & NatureBooksCraftsStorytimesTalks & LecturesHolidays & SeasonalKids (5-11)

Mushroom Mania

Friends of Tryon Creek11321 South Terwilliger Boulevard

Website ↗

SATNOV 7

7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

💰 $25+Faith & WorshipJazzWorld MusicCultural HeritageWellnessMeditation

Kirtan with Sitaram Dass and Sacred Dharma

ShantiOm Yoga7334 N Chicago Ave

Mantra, music, and storytelling to awaken the heart. Sacred Dharma is a Pacific Northwest kirtan-fusion jam band. At its core, they facilitate the devotional practice of chanting Sanskrit mantra. The music is colored by world influences ranging from Indian classical to jazz and psychedelic rock, enhancing the mood so that each repetition of the Name can awaken the heart.

Led by Sitaram Dass with Jeanette Kangas on tabla, Clark Stacer on bass, Lance Jordan on guitar, and a rotating selection of some of the PNW's finest musicians.

Sitaram Dass (he/him) spent several years serving his beloved teacher Ram Dass on Maui, where he was shown the path of Bhakti, the yoga of service and devotion to God. He is an author, teacher, kirtan singer, and spiritual counselor. As the director of the Sacred Community Project, he works to provide affordable, free, and donation-based offerings as a praxis of Sacred Community.

$25 Advance / $30 Door

(No one turned away for lack of funds)

Mantra, music, and storytelling to awaken the heart. Sacred Dharma is a Pacific Northwest kirtan-fusion jam band. At its core, they facilitate the devotional practice of chanting Sanskrit mantra. The music is colored by world influences ranging from Indian classical to jazz and psychedelic rock, enhancing the mood so that each repetition of the Name can awaken the heart.

Led by Sitaram Dass with Jeanette Kangas on tabla, Clark Stacer on bass, Lance Jordan on guitar, and a rotating selection of some of the PNW's finest musicians.

Sitaram Dass (he/him) spent several years serving his beloved teacher Ram Dass on Maui, where he was shown the path of Bhakti, the yoga of service and devotion to God. He is an author, teacher, kirtan singer, and spiritual counselor. As the director of the Sacred Community Project, he works to provide affordable, free, and donation-based offerings as a praxis of Sacred Community.

$25 Advance / $30 Door

(No one turned away for lack of funds)

Website ↗

🎟️ Tickets ↗

SATNOV 7

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

StorytimesBooksReadingsKids (5-11)

Story Time Set: Let’s Go

The Judy: Judy Cinema1000 SW Broadway

Embark on a heartwarming adventure with picture book authors Andy Harkness (Find the Sun), Christopher Myers (Night Ride), and Rae Wynn-Grant (You Belong in the Wild) as they read from their newest releases! Hosted by Emily Arrow.

About Find the Sun:

Take a leap and find the sun . . . Eddie doesn’t like Mondays. He’d rather burrow under the covers than face the day. Then an unexpected friend arrives to take him on a journey. Eddie is afraid, but that’s okay, journeys can sometimes be frightening. Step by step Eddie grows braver. Before long, he understands . . . Through any storm, you can always find the sun.

About Night Ride:

A stunning wordless picture book in the never before seen medium of stained glass about a group of kids riding through NYC, capturing the joy of Black childhood and the freedom of exploring a city that feels like it belongs to you. Setting out on a warm and glorious night, a group of kids grab their bikes to explore a city that for a moment in time feels like it belongs entirely to them. Riding from Harlem, through Central Park, to Chinatown, and over the Brooklyn Bridge, the iconic landmarks of New York City become mirrors that reflect their joy and freedom.

About You Belong in the Wild:

In this heartfelt, stunning picture book, a young child with a love for science discovers that while they don’t see other people like them working in nature, they do belong there.

Embark on a heartwarming adventure with picture book authors Andy Harkness (Find the Sun), Christopher Myers (Night Ride), and Rae Wynn-Grant (You Belong in the Wild) as they read from their newest releases! Hosted by Emily Arrow.

About Find the Sun:

Take a leap and find the sun . . . Eddie doesn’t like Mondays. He’d rather burrow under the covers than face the day. Then an unexpected friend arrives to take him on a journey. Eddie is afraid, but that’s okay, journeys can sometimes be frightening. Step by step Eddie grows braver. Before long, he understands . . . Through any storm, you can always find the sun.

About Night Ride:

A stunning wordless picture book in the never before seen medium of stained glass about a group of kids riding through NYC, capturing the joy of Black childhood and the freedom of exploring a city that feels like it belongs to you. Setting out on a warm and glorious night, a group of kids grab their bikes to explore a city that for a moment in time feels like it belongs entirely to them. Riding from Harlem, through Central Park, to Chinatown, and over the Brooklyn Bridge, the iconic landmarks of New York City become mirrors that reflect their joy and freedom.

About You Belong in the Wild:

In this heartfelt, stunning picture book, a young child with a love for science discovers that while they don’t see other people like them working in nature, they do belong there.

Website ↗

SUNNOV 1

5:30 PM – 8:00 PM

LGBTQ+CraftsStorytimesKids & Family

Trans Parent Day with Family Friend + little folx

Always Here BookstoreMap

You've heard of Mother's Day and Father's Day, but the first Sunday of November is Trans Parent Day!

Trans parents take many different shapes and forms – parents of trans kids, one or more trans-identifying parents, and every constellation in between! And to celebrate Trans Parent Day 2026, Always Here Bookstore is partnering with steadfast allies of queer families in Portland and beyond, Family Friend and little folx!

Join us at AHB on November 1st at 5:30pm for an evening of trans joy, community care, and solidarity.

Queer families of all shapes, sizes, and constellations are welcome! 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️❤️‍🔥

✂️ Zine folding!

📖 Storytime!

🖍️ Arts and crafts!

📢 More details TBA!

You've heard of Mother's Day and Father's Day, but the first Sunday of November is Trans Parent Day!

Trans parents take many different shapes and forms – parents of trans kids, one or more trans-identifying parents, and every constellation in between! And to celebrate Trans Parent Day 2026, Always Here Bookstore is partnering with steadfast allies of queer families in Portland and beyond, Family Friend and little folx!

Join us at AHB on November 1st at 5:30pm for an evening of trans joy, community care, and solidarity.

Queer families of all shapes, sizes, and constellations are welcome! 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️❤️‍🔥

✂️ Zine folding!

📖 Storytime!

🖍️ Arts and crafts!

📢 More details TBA!

Website ↗

THUNOV 26

9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

💰 $15Running & RacesWellnessKids & FamilyHolidays & Seasonal

Ridgefield Public School Foundation’s 10th Annual Turkey Trot

Union Ridge Elementary School330 N 5th Ave.

Thursday, November 26 | Union Ridge Elementary School

The 10th Annual Ridgefield Public Schools Foundation Turkey Trot, presented by the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and Columbia Credit Union, takes place on a scenic route through Ridgefield, traveling through Abrams Park and along Lake River. It’s a 5K family friendly run/walk event that raises funds to help the Foundation’s efforts to provide scholarships and grant opportunities to students, teachers, and staff. Last year’s event had more than 1,000 participants, and we hope to grow our event even more this year as we support Ridgefield schools and their students.

Register Now

This year’s 10th Annual Turkey Trot, presented by Cowlitz Indian Tribe and Columbia Credit Union will take place on Thursday, November 26th, starting with the Drumstick Dash—a short run for children ages 5 and under and not yet in kindergarten —at 8:45 am. The main event, a 5K run/walk, follows at 9:00 am. Both events will begin and end at Union Ridge Elementary School in downtown Ridgefield.

While the Turkey Trot is a fun run/walk without a formal timer, participants are encouraged to enjoy the spirit of the event and work up an appetite for their Thanksgiving feast.

Race packet pick up and in-person registration will be held on Wednesday, November 25th, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm, and again on race day from 7:45 to 8:45 am in the Union Ridge Elementary School Gym. A limited number of extra T-shirts will be available for purchase during in-person registration.

To ensure you get a race T-shirt, please register by Wednesday, November 11th. Additionally, we encourage participants to bring nonperishable food items to packet pick-up for donation to the Ridgefield Family Resource Center. Each item donated will earn you a ticket for a chance to win $100 in local restaurant gift cards.

All proceeds from the event will be equally shared between the Ridgefield Public Schools Foundation and the Ridgefield Family Resource Center, making this a great way to give back to our community while embracing the Thanksgiving spirit. See you there!

RACE DETAILS

DRUMSTICK DASH

Once again our Turkey Trot will feature a Drumstick Dash, a short run for our youngest participants ages 5 and under (not yet in kindergarten). We will make an announcement at 8:40 am for any children interested in participating to report to the starting line. The Drumstick Dash will begin at 8:45 am.

5K FUN RUN/WALK

Our main event, the 5K run/walk, will get started at 9 am. Those who are planning to run should position themselves at the front of the crowd, closest to the starting line. Walkers, please make way for runners who are trying to move to the front. There is no official timer for our fun run/walk event, so those interested in knowing their finish times should plan to use their own watches to time themselves. For safety, please keep in mind that at certain points on the route you may be asked to stop for vehicle traffic (vehicles have the right of way during the Turkey Trot) so finish times could be impacted.

5K ROUTE:

The course begins on 5th Ave. at Union Ridge Elementary and then heads down to Abrams Park and continues northeast along the trail bordering Gee Creek. From there the route takes participants up Heron Drive to Main Ave. It then continues south to the corner of Main & Pioneer and takes participants down to the Ridgefield waterfront via the railroad overpass. Participants will follow the course along Lake River and turn around near the south end of Carty Lake. The course then continues in reverse, back up to the corner of Main & Pioneer, where participants will head north for one block before heading east up Simons St. to finish back at Union Ridge Elementary.

EVENT SAFETY NOTE

Roads remain open throughout the event. Please stay to the right on roads and use sidewalks whenever possible. Once again, this is a family friendly fun run/walk event. Participants may be subject to brief waits for vehicle traffic. Since roads remain open, vehicle traffic does have the right away.

BRING ITEMS FOR THE RIDGEFIELD FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER

The Ridgefield Family Resource Center is seeking non-perishable foods (especially cereal, rice, pasta sauce, canned fruit, canned meat, and canned pasta meals) as well as new socks and stretchy knit gloves. For each item (non-perishable food items, pairs of socks, and pairs of gloves) brought to packet pick-up/in-person registration on Wednesday or Thursday morning, you will receive one ticket for entry into a prize drawing for $100 of local restaurant gift cards.

T-SHIRTS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

For any participants who do not meet the T-shirt registration deadline of Nov. 12th at 10 pm, a limited number of T-shirts will be available for purchase at packet pick-up/in-person registration at a cost of $5 each.

EVENT PARKING

Parking will be available at Union Ridge Elementary, the RACC, and the Ridgefield Church of the Nazarene. Street parking throughout downtown Ridgefield is also an option for participants.

Thursday, November 26 | Union Ridge Elementary School

The 10th Annual Ridgefield Public Schools Foundation Turkey Trot, presented by the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and Columbia Credit Union, takes place on a scenic route through Ridgefield, traveling through Abrams Park and along Lake River. It’s a 5K family friendly run/walk event that raises funds to help the Foundation’s efforts to provide scholarships and grant opportunities to students, teachers, and staff. Last year’s event had more than 1,000 participants, and we hope to grow our event even more this year as we support Ridgefield schools and their students.

Register Now

This year’s 10th Annual Turkey Trot, presented by Cowlitz Indian Tribe and Columbia Credit Union will take place on Thursday, November 26th, starting with the Drumstick Dash—a short run for children ages 5 and under and not yet in kindergarten —at 8:45 am. The main event, a 5K run/walk, follows at 9:00 am. Both events will begin and end at Union Ridge Elementary School in downtown Ridgefield.

While the Turkey Trot is a fun run/walk without a formal timer, participants are encouraged to enjoy the spirit of the event and work up an appetite for their Thanksgiving feast.

Race packet pick up and in-person registration will be held on Wednesday, November 25th, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm, and again on race day from 7:45 to 8:45 am in the Union Ridge Elementary School Gym. A limited number of extra T-shirts will be available for purchase during in-person registration.

To ensure you get a race T-shirt, please register by Wednesday, November 11th. Additionally, we encourage participants to bring nonperishable food items to packet pick-up for donation to the Ridgefield Family Resource Center. Each item donated will earn you a ticket for a chance to win $100 in local restaurant gift cards.

All proceeds from the event will be equally shared between the Ridgefield Public Schools Foundation and the Ridgefield Family Resource Center, making this a great way to give back to our community while embracing the Thanksgiving spirit. See you there!

RACE DETAILS

DRUMSTICK DASH

Once again our Turkey Trot will feature a Drumstick Dash, a short run for our youngest participants ages 5 and under (not yet in kindergarten). We will make an announcement at 8:40 am for any children interested in participating to report to the starting line. The Drumstick Dash will begin at 8:45 am.

5K FUN RUN/WALK

Our main event, the 5K run/walk, will get started at 9 am. Those who are planning to run should position themselves at the front of the crowd, closest to the starting line. Walkers, please make way for runners who are trying to move to the front. There is no official timer for our fun run/walk event, so those interested in knowing their finish times should plan to use their own watches to time themselves. For safety, please keep in mind that at certain points on the route you may be asked to stop for vehicle traffic (vehicles have the right of way during the Turkey Trot) so finish times could be impacted.

5K ROUTE:

The course begins on 5th Ave. at Union Ridge Elementary and then heads down to Abrams Park and continues northeast along the trail bordering Gee Creek. From there the route takes participants up Heron Drive to Main Ave. It then continues south to the corner of Main & Pioneer and takes participants down to the Ridgefield waterfront via the railroad overpass. Participants will follow the course along Lake River and turn around near the south end of Carty Lake. The course then continues in reverse, back up to the corner of Main & Pioneer, where participants will head north for one block before heading east up Simons St. to finish back at Union Ridge Elementary.

EVENT SAFETY NOTE

Roads remain open throughout the event. Please stay to the right on roads and use sidewalks whenever possible. Once again, this is a family friendly fun run/walk event. Participants may be subject to brief waits for vehicle traffic. Since roads remain open, vehicle traffic does have the right away.

BRING ITEMS FOR THE RIDGEFIELD FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER

The Ridgefield Family Resource Center is seeking non-perishable foods (especially cereal, rice, pasta sauce, canned fruit, canned meat, and canned pasta meals) as well as new socks and stretchy knit gloves. For each item (non-perishable food items, pairs of socks, and pairs of gloves) brought to packet pick-up/in-person registration on Wednesday or Thursday morning, you will receive one ticket for entry into a prize drawing for $100 of local restaurant gift cards.

T-SHIRTS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE

For any participants who do not meet the T-shirt registration deadline of Nov. 12th at 10 pm, a limited number of T-shirts will be available for purchase at packet pick-up/in-person registration at a cost of $5 each.

EVENT PARKING

Parking will be available at Union Ridge Elementary, the RACC, and the Ridgefield Church of the Nazarene. Street parking throughout downtown Ridgefield is also an option for participants.

🎟️ Tickets ↗

TUENOV 3

5:30 PM – 6:30 PM

+3 dates

CoursesWellnessCultural Heritage

BOLLYWOOD ROUTINE DANCE (all levels)

The Viscount Dance Studio720 SE Sandy

BOLLYWOOD ROUTINE DANCE (all levels) w/Anjali (monthly progressive series, 2026-11-03–2026-11-24)

Website ↗

SATNOV 14

2:00 PM – 4:15 PM

Registration requiredTeaCultural HeritageWorkshopsTalks & LecturesArts & MediaWellnessMeditation

Tea Ceremony Workshop: Learn the Role of the Guest with Jan Waldmann

Portland Japanese Garden611 SW Kingston Ave

Portland Japanese Garden’s Tea Ceremony Workshop offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional practice of Chanoyu, or the Way of Tea. Experience the art of tranquility, mindfulness, and omotenashi, whole-hearted hospitality.

It is not an exaggeration to say that through tea, one can understand much of Japanese culture. Tea’s influence can be found in many of the nation’s most beloved artforms, including arranging flowers, calligraphy, incense, ceramics and lacquerware. Japanese gardens are also deeply intertwined with tea ceremony. The four principles of tea, wa (harmony), kei (respect), sei (purity), and jaku (tranquility), are explored by the gardeners of Portland Japanese Garden in their work every day.

Guided by skilled instructor Jan Waldmann, Sosui, the focus of this workshop is to learn to be a guest in the tea ceremony, an important aspect to this historic tradition. Participants will learn the proper etiquette for attending a tea ceremony, including how to receive and consume sweets and matcha, and most importantly, the reasons behind each of the steps. Additionally, you will gain insight into what it entails to be a host— understanding the occasion and seasonality, attention to aesthetics, careful preparation, and the thoughtful gestures made toward the guests.

Participants will first attend a presentation of tea ceremony in our Cathy Rudd Cultural Corner alongside visitors to the Garden before they are taken into their exclusive workshop in the Yanai Classroom.

Participants will first attend a presentation of tea ceremony in our Cathy Rudd Cultural Corner alongside visitors to the Garden (2:00-2:30pm) before they are taken into their exclusive workshop in the Yanai Family Classroom (2:45-4:15pm).

No previous experience is needed. Students will sit in a chair at a table, not kneeling on a tatami mat.

Urasenke Konnichian of Kyoto is one of the major establishments within Japan that has preserved the tradition of Chado or the Way of Tea.  From the first Urasenke generation, Sen no Rikyu (1522-91) to the current headmaster Zabosai Genmoku Soshitsu XVI (b.1956 -), the Sen family lineage has devoted great effort to fostering the philosophy of Tea through the simple words of Wa – Harmony, Kei -Repect, Sei – Purity & Jaku – Tranquility. Over the years Urasenke has established connections in over 21 cities worldwide.

Portland Japanese Garden’s Tea Ceremony Workshop offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional practice of Chanoyu, or the Way of Tea. Experience the art of tranquility, mindfulness, and omotenashi, whole-hearted hospitality.

It is not an exaggeration to say that through tea, one can understand much of Japanese culture. Tea’s influence can be found in many of the nation’s most beloved artforms, including arranging flowers, calligraphy, incense, ceramics and lacquerware. Japanese gardens are also deeply intertwined with tea ceremony. The four principles of tea, wa (harmony), kei (respect), sei (purity), and jaku (tranquility), are explored by the gardeners of Portland Japanese Garden in their work every day.

Guided by skilled instructor Jan Waldmann, Sosui, the focus of this workshop is to learn to be a guest in the tea ceremony, an important aspect to this historic tradition. Participants will learn the proper etiquette for attending a tea ceremony, including how to receive and consume sweets and matcha, and most importantly, the reasons behind each of the steps. Additionally, you will gain insight into what it entails to be a host— understanding the occasion and seasonality, attention to aesthetics, careful preparation, and the thoughtful gestures made toward the guests.

Participants will first attend a presentation of tea ceremony in our Cathy Rudd Cultural Corner alongside visitors to the Garden before they are taken into their exclusive workshop in the Yanai Classroom.

Participants will first attend a presentation of tea ceremony in our Cathy Rudd Cultural Corner alongside visitors to the Garden (2:00-2:30pm) before they are taken into their exclusive workshop in the Yanai Family Classroom (2:45-4:15pm).

No previous experience is needed. Students will sit in a chair at a table, not kneeling on a tatami mat.

Urasenke Konnichian of Kyoto is one of the major establishments within Japan that has preserved the tradition of Chado or the Way of Tea.  From the first Urasenke generation, Sen no Rikyu (1522-91) to the current headmaster Zabosai Genmoku Soshitsu XVI (b.1956 -), the Sen family lineage has devoted great effort to fostering the philosophy of Tea through the simple words of Wa – Harmony, Kei -Repect, Sei – Purity & Jaku – Tranquility. Over the years Urasenke has established connections in over 21 cities worldwide.

🎟️ Tickets ↗

MONNOV 2

3:30 PM – 5:00 PM

CraftsBooksStorytimesHolidays & SeasonalBilingual EventsKids & Family

Fiesta del Día de Muertos

Kenton Library8226 N Denver Avenue

¡Los invitamos a la biblioteca a celebrar con nosotros el Día de Muertos!

Habrá cuentos, manualidades y mucha diversión. Completamente gratis y no es necesario registrarse.

El Día de Muertos es una tradición cultural festiva y colorida celebrada a través de América Latina, México y España para recordar a los seres queridos que han partido al otro mundo.

Este programa será en espanglish.

¡Los invitamos a la biblioteca a celebrar con nosotros el Día de Muertos!

Habrá cuentos, manualidades y mucha diversión. Completamente gratis y no es necesario registrarse.

El Día de Muertos es una tradición cultural festiva y colorida celebrada a través de América Latina, México y España para recordar a los seres queridos que han partido al otro mundo.

Este programa será en espanglish.

Website ↗

SUNNOV 1

10:15 AM – 11:00 AM

+4 dates

Under 5BooksStorytimesLearning & TechPlaygroups

Book Babies/Libros para bebés

Hillsboro Public Library, Shute Park775 SE 10th Ave

Babies and their grownups are invited to share nursery rhymes, finger plays, songs and a simple book while making new friends and developing early literacy skills. Includes unstructured playtime. For ages 0 to 12 months.
Weekly on Sundays.

Website ↗

SATNOV 14

Hours not provided

+1 more

💰 $40+WorkshopsWellnessArts & MediaPerforming ArtsLGBTQ+

Umbrae Noctis Festival Workshops

BodyVox Dance Company1201 Northwest 17th Avenue

The Umbrae Noctis Festival is elated to announce 3 different movement workshops with the illustrious headliners and feature performers. Take class with local sensation Asteria Atombomb, Burlesque Hall of Fame title holder Moscato Sky, and/or Dragula season 4 runner-up Throb Zombie.

November 14: Are you stuck doing the same repetitive movements onstage? Trying to tell a story but can't find the actions to fit the narrative? Then this workshop is for you! Asteria will use her decades of experience in dance, theater, and artistic direction to help you create a compelling act. Through a series of dance and improvisational exercises, attendees will explore various ways to incorporate movement into a compelling storyline. Walk away feeling confident in getting your point across on the stage and leaving audiences wowed. Bring a journal and writing utensils. Clothes that are easy to move in.

November 14: Take your chair work to the next level with the them fatale of burlesque, Moscato Sky. This class will begin with a warm-up to prepare students to learn innovative ways to use this classic prop, how to maneuver on and off the chair with ease and grace, and exciting tricks that will stun any audience. In this workshop-style class, students will be challenged to create new movement pathways, explore obscure approaches to chair work, and walk away with tools to generate chair choreography.

This class is designed for students with a movement background or previous chair and floor work experience and may not be appropriate for people with serious knee and back injuries. However, all levels are welcome as this class acts as a lab and encourages exploration. Wear yoga or dance clothes you can move freely in. Knee pads are encouraged but not required.

November 15: Hump and Grind: Masc Movement and Choreography with Throb Zombie. Hump and Grind is an energetic and sexy dance class for kings or anyone who is ready to move. Taught by one of the most prolific, current dancing drag kings in the industry and iconic himbo, Throb Zombie.

Class will entail:

A stretch/warmup
Introduction to posture/masculine body movement
Transitions/specific moves that can work for all dance levels from beginner to advanced
Commanding space with presence
A short choreography sequence
Don’t be scared! While this class dares to challenge you, all levels are welcome. Come gyrate, grow, and get ready to sweat with the boys.
Students must bring clothes they are comfortable moving in and are strongly encouraged to bring a water bottle and knee pads.

The Umbrae Noctis Festival is elated to announce 3 different movement workshops with the illustrious headliners and feature performers. Take class with local sensation Asteria Atombomb, Burlesque Hall of Fame title holder Moscato Sky, and/or Dragula season 4 runner-up Throb Zombie.

November 14: Are you stuck doing the same repetitive movements onstage? Trying to tell a story but can't find the actions to fit the narrative? Then this workshop is for you! Asteria will use her decades of experience in dance, theater, and artistic direction to help you create a compelling act. Through a series of dance and improvisational exercises, attendees will explore various ways to incorporate movement into a compelling storyline. Walk away feeling confident in getting your point across on the stage and leaving audiences wowed. Bring a journal and writing utensils. Clothes that are easy to move in.

November 14: Take your chair work to the next level with the them fatale of burlesque, Moscato Sky. This class will begin with a warm-up to prepare students to learn innovative ways to use this classic prop, how to maneuver on and off the chair with ease and grace, and exciting tricks that will stun any audience. In this workshop-style class, students will be challenged to create new movement pathways, explore obscure approaches to chair work, and walk away with tools to generate chair choreography.

This class is designed for students with a movement background or previous chair and floor work experience and may not be appropriate for people with serious knee and back injuries. However, all levels are welcome as this class acts as a lab and encourages exploration. Wear yoga or dance clothes you can move freely in. Knee pads are encouraged but not required.

November 15: Hump and Grind: Masc Movement and Choreography with Throb Zombie. Hump and Grind is an energetic and sexy dance class for kings or anyone who is ready to move. Taught by one of the most prolific, current dancing drag kings in the industry and iconic himbo, Throb Zombie.

Class will entail:

A stretch/warmup
Introduction to posture/masculine body movement
Transitions/specific moves that can work for all dance levels from beginner to advanced
Commanding space with presence
A short choreography sequence
Don’t be scared! While this class dares to challenge you, all levels are welcome. Come gyrate, grow, and get ready to sweat with the boys.
Students must bring clothes they are comfortable moving in and are strongly encouraged to bring a water bottle and knee pads.

🎟️ Tickets ↗

WEDNOV 4

6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Parks & NatureWorkshopsWellnessMeditation

Exploring Trees Through Your Senses with Urban Forestry

Belmont Library1038 SE Cesar E Chavez Blvd

Don't let the rainy season stop you from connecting with nature! Join Urban Forestry at the Belmont Library to explore for an evening of mindfulness and nature education. Trees are good for our health, especially if we take time to pay close attention to them. At this event we will use all five senses to study tree samples to practice feeling grounded in natural spaces! You'll also learn about the many ways that connecting with nature and trees can improve mental and physical health.

This event will be entirely indoors. Tea and snacks will be provided for participants.

Join us at the new Multnomah County Belmont Library!

1038 SE César E. Chávez Boulevard
Portland, OR 97214

Don't let the rainy season stop you from connecting with nature! Join Urban Forestry at the Belmont Library to explore for an evening of mindfulness and nature education. Trees are good for our health, especially if we take time to pay close attention to them. At this event we will use all five senses to study tree samples to practice feeling grounded in natural spaces! You'll also learn about the many ways that connecting with nature and trees can improve mental and physical health.

This event will be entirely indoors. Tea and snacks will be provided for participants.

Join us at the new Multnomah County Belmont Library!

1038 SE César E. Chávez Boulevard
Portland, OR 97214

Website ↗

SUNNOV 8

1:00 PM – 3:00 PM

💰 $50WellnessWorkshops

Shadow Work + Inner Child Healing

CASCADA1150 NE Alberta Street

Through guided self-inquiry, journaling, group reflection, and a guided inner child practice, you'll uncover some of the beliefs and patterns you may have learned in order to feel loved, safe, and accepted.

Website ↗

SUNNOV 1

7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

💰 $50+WellnessMeditation

Monthly Melt

SaunaGlo1915 SE Jefferson St

Experience a brand-new immersive experience at SaunaGlo led by energy reader, meditation guide, stress consultant and clinical researcher, Emily Greenway. This 90-minute energetic experience opens with an intuitive update on the month ahead, so you know what's coming and how to work with it to reduce stress and burnout.

Inside the sauna, a guided meditative energy clearing gets you into your body and breath, using the heat to build internal awareness of what you're actually holding. The cold plunge takes that further, guiding you through your breathing and teaching your body to relax under pressure rather than fight it. From there, move into a community journaling experience, releasing whatever energy came up and setting spells and goals for the month ahead.

This is where you start building the structure for more magic and bliss, and kicking stress and burnout goodbye. Round two takes you back into the sauna for another clearing meditation, back into the cold plunge for more breathwork, and more time on the page. close together as a group, with time for connection before you head out.

🎟️ Tickets ↗

SUNNOV 1

4:00 PM – 5:30 PM

WorkshopsWellness

DISCO LINE DANCE WORKSHOP

The Viscount Dance Studio720 SE Sandy

DISCO LINE DANCE WORKSHOP w/Sarah $30

Website ↗

SUNNOV 1

3:30 PM – 5:00 PM

+1 dates

WellnessMeditation

DANCE ROOTED

Vitalidad Movement Arts CenterMap

Experience a 5Rhythms movement meditation at Vitalidad Movement Arts Center in Portland, centered on sweating, moving and being in community within a supportive container for conscious practice. There is no right or wrong way to move, and the focus is on honest, authentic expression that feels true to you. This is not a contact, ecstatic or cuddle dance. The space encourages arriving as you are and finding a grounded, refreshed state alongside a rooted community. Admission is $15 with the option to pre-register, or pay at the door by cash or Venmo. Punch cards are available at the door for 10 classes at $120, which saves $30. If cost is a concern, options are available to find a solution that works for everyone.

View Listing ↗

WEDNOV 4

6:30 PM – 8:00 PM

💰 $30WellnessMeditationWorkshopsCourses

Let the Leaves Fall: Living the Autumn Life

Self Balance Massage8301 N.E. Hazel Dell Ave.

Vanessa Grace of Soul Amplified will lead a workshop about the spiritual aspects of autumn from 6:30-8 p.m. Nov. 4 at Self Balance Massage, 8301 N.E. Hazel Dell Ave., Vancouver. Autumn is the transition between the outward-focused, fast pace of summer and inward-focused, slow pace of winter. Students will learn how to “live the autumn life” in preparation for winter, the art of releasing and the significance of endings. Grace will lead participants in a guided mediation, leaf release ritual and journaling. The cost is $30, including a digital workbook. For details, email [email protected].

🎟️ Tickets ↗

TUENOV 3

10:00 AM

Registration requiredTalks & LecturesWorkshopsCoursesWellness55+ / SeniorsBoard Games

Resource & Support Classes

Lake OswegoMap

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Strengthen your household readiness through the "Be 2 Weeks Ready" program, presented by PrepLO. Learn how to prepare for disasters like earthquakes, storms, and wildfires. This essential training includes hands-on CPR/AED instruction provided directly by the Lake Oswego Fire Department (LOFD).

Fee: FREE (Pre-registration is required)

Evening Workshops (Held at the Adult Community Center - ACC)

Thursday, September 10 • 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Course ID: 33840 • Register Online

Thursday, December 10 • 5:30–8:30 p.m.
Course ID: 33841 • Register Online

Weekend Workshops (Held at Lake Oswego Recreation & Aquatic Center - LORAC)

Saturday, September 5 • 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Course ID: 33842 • Register Online

Saturday, December 5 • 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Course ID: 33844 • Register Online

HEALTH & WELLNESS EDUCATION Evidence-based community seminars covering healthy aging, functional physical safety, and behavioral well-being. Evidence-Based Fall Prevention Masterclass

Tuesday, October 20 • 10 a.m.–12 p.m.
Course ID: 35016
Fee: FREE

Join clinical experts from Providence Health & Services to learn how age-related changes in balance, physical strength, and general medical health affect daily mobility. Discover concrete ways to minimize risks by modifying everyday medications, assessing footwear choice, and addressing common home environment hazards. Includes a short, participatory tai chi balance demonstration.

Presented by: Providence Health Leaders
Register Online

Aging Well: A Longevity Series

Thursdays, October 22 – November 12 • 12–1:30 p.m.
Course ID: 34887
Fee: Resident $36 / Non-Resident $54 (4-week course)

This structural, evidence-based series features weekly presentations by Providence clinical directors focused on optimizing physiological health as you age. Learn actionable, science-backed lifestyle habits designed to promote everyday brain fitness, strengthen emotional resilience, and maximize lifetime physical vitality rooted in the latest senior medical research.

Presented by: Providence Clinical Directors
Register Online

Mental Health First Aid (QPR Training)

Tuesday, November 3 • 10–11:30 a.m.
Course ID: 34823
Fee: FREE

Join representatives from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) for an invaluable QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) suicide prevention training session. Participants will learn how to recognize early situational warning signs, ask supportive, compassionate direct questions, and safely guide neighbors, friends, and family toward life-saving community crisis resources.

Presented by: NAMI NW Advisors
Register Online

COMMUNITY INTEREST & RECREATION Interactive workshops and group programs designed to build technical skill, improve home spaces, and foster connection. Bridge – Supervised Play

Tuesdays • 9:30–11:30 a.m.
Fee: Resident $20 / Non-Resident $25 per multi-week section

Elevate your card game in a supportive, structured environment! Curated for enthusiasts who possess standard background play experience, this community class weaves short, technical lessons with real-time coached table play. Refine card play execution, clarify bidding options on the fly, and share the friendly table camaraderie of fellow players.

Section A (Sept 8 – Oct 27): Course ID: 35364 • Register Online
Section B (Nov 3 – Dec 15): Course ID: 35365 • Register Online

Home Repair, Accessibility & Weatherization Workshop

Thursday, October 29 • 2–4 p.m.
Course ID: 35370
Fee: FREE

Learn how to optimize your living space to be safer, energy-efficient, and structurally accessible using public county support systems. Experienced case managers from Clackamas County will detail application criteria for free residential weatherization upgrades, low-cost deferred maintenance home improvement loans, and localized senior accessibility renovation grants.

Presented by: Clackamas County Program Coordinators
Register Online

Past Educational Programs Archive The following informational lectures and multi-week series have successfully concluded. Thank you to our regional partner organizations and guest instructors!

Life’s Final Chapter Series (May/June): A thoughtful practical exploration covering end-of-life logistics, medical directives, and grief support, facilitated alongside Death Doulas NW and End of Life Choices Oregon.
Estrangement & Reunion Workshops (May/June): Multi-session mental health family guidance led by the licensed marriage and family therapists of Family Ties Counseling Center.
Caregiver Support & Resilience Intensives (May/June): Specialized, four-hour professional workshops covering dementia communication habits and chronic caregiver burnout prevention, led by Dr. Andrea Holzner.
Healthy Legs as You Age (May 6): A cardiovascular educational forum addressing vein health, modern treatment options, and leg circulation, led by Dr. Toshio Nagamoto of Inovia Vein.
Estate Planning Basics (May 20): A legal resource class reviewing wills, asset protection vehicles, and common probate filing pitfalls, presented by Michael Rose, Attorney at Rose Elder Law.
Paying for Long-Term Care (June 10): A community seminar providing legal guidance on qualifying for public Medicaid benefits and managing long-term institutional residential costs, presented by Rose Elder Law.