It’s cold. It’s dark. It’s the holidaze. So grab a cozy sweater and a warm cup of [insert preferred beverage here] and snuggle up to check out some solid ideas for family fun this November.
November 11-13
Oregon Convention Center
Kumoricon is the largest anime and manga convention in Oregon. Contests, guest panels, lip sync battles, and all the cosplay madness one would expect await you at this year’s event. Check out their Facebook page for updates on author signings, photobooth contests, and other happenings during the event.
Disney On Ice Road Trip Adventures
November 10-13
Multiple shows – tickets required
Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Join Mickey Mouse and his pals for an interactive adventure to famous Disney destinations — on ice! Expect Ariel, Woody, Simba, and so many other Disney friends from many family favorites. Guests can enhance the show with a character experience with Moana add-on.
Portland Holiday Market
November 17-20
10am – 6pm
Portland Expo Center
Stop by the Expo Center for more than 100,000 square feet of holiday gifts and goodness. Food, leatherwork, craft creations, bath and body items, and so much more. Santa and Mrs. Clause will be on-site in SantaLand for you to purchase a portrait photo, should you wish!
Holiday Express
November 25 -December 18
Times vary, tickets required
Santa Claus and his elves bring kids on a magical around on vintage rail cars. The round-trip voyage goes from Oaks Park Station through through the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge to the Springwater Trail gateway on the Oregon Pacific Railroad. The trip lasts 40-45 minutes.
Zoolights
November 21 – January 5
Times and locations vary
This popular event at the Oregon Zoo is a “dazzling display of more than 1.5 million lights” throughout the zoo. After the success of their drive-thru version created due to the pandemic, the zoo is offering both a walk-through and drive-thru option this year on select nights. Reserve tickets in advance.
Annual Tree Lighting
November 25
5:30 – 6:30pm
This yearly tradition brings hundreds to Pioneer Courthouse Square to 75ft Douglas-fir light up with 14,000+ LED lights. The 2022 event will feature a sing-along with Portland’s own Thomas Lauderdale from Pink Martini, and other local musicians and singers. Join in the festive fun!
Cinnamon Bear Cruises
November 26 -27
Select days in December
The Portland Spirit’s Cinnamon Bear Cruise is back after a three-year hiatus. The whole family can enjoy a tasty seated 2-hr cruise breakfast along the Willamette while the characters from Maybeland visit for storytelling and magic. This Portland event has been a family favorite for generations!
