Although Oregon’s statewide mask mandate has been lifted, venues may have their own health guidelines in place. We advise directly checking the specific protocols for an event before heading out.

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Jump to: Comedy | Film | Food & Drink | Geek & Gaming | Live Music | Performance | Readings & Talks | Sports & Recreation | Visual Art | Winter Holidays

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COMEDY

James Acaster: Hecklers Welcome Past Event Like List
English laugh master James Acaster, whose style Paste Magazine describes as "stand-up comedy for people turned off by stand-up comedy," will head to Portland with more of the eclectic, experimental style for which he's known and loved across the pond. Rumor has it that for this performance, he's "giving up control to let the audience do what they want," whatever that means!
Aladdin Theater, Brooklyn (Thurs Nov 3)

Kurtis Conner
Past Event Like List Sure, Kurtis Conner kind of looks like a comedian/YouTuber/podcaster you'd meet on Tinder and spend a tumultuous few weeks with, but he's actually...a comedian/YouTuber/podcaster, and he's hilarious, so that's fine by us. The mulleted sensation will "go cheesesteak mode" with fresh jokes for this performance.
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, South Park Blocks (Thurs Nov 3)

Sarah Millican: Bobby Dazzler
Past Event Like List Sarah Millican, the bawdy Brit whose comedy style was once described as "gaspingly rude" by The Guardian, returns for her sixth international tour with more reflections on poop, unfortunate accidents, and more. (For those who aren't hip to Geordie slang, "bobby dazzler" is the highest of praise, oft bestowed on cute kids and ladies in fancy outfits.)
Revolution Hall, Buckman (Thurs Nov 3)

The Wait Wait Stand Up Tour
Past Event Like List Wait Wait panelist regulars, who somehow manage to be both hilarious and whip-smart, will hit the stage for an evening of stand-up that'll get you thinkin'. Hosted by Last Comic Standing season three winner Alonzo Bodden, this all-ages performance will feature fellow Wait Waiters Cristela Alonzo, Maeve Higgins, and Helen Hong.
Revolution Hall, Buckman (Fri Nov 11)

George Lopez: OMG Hi! Comedy Tour
Past Event Like List Wherever you look, George Lopez is there with clever self-deprecation and witty reflections on Mexican American culture. The multi-talented comic's career spans television, film, standup, and podcasting. Fresh off two nationwide comedy tours and a recent Netflix special, Lopez returns with the laughs on the OMG Hi! tour. 
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, South Park Blocks (Fri Nov 18)

Ian Karmel
Past Event Like List Ian Karmel, former Mercury columnist, beloved Beavertonian, Emmy Award-winning comic, and The Late Late Show with James Corden writer (he's fancy now), will drop by his old stomping grounds with more of the lighthearted comedy that's earned him a loyal fanbase 'round these parts.
Revolution Hall, Buckman (Fri Nov 18)

Tom Papa
Past Event Like List You might describe Tom Papa as a comic with wide appeal—he's a regular on both NPR's Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me! and The Joe Rogan Experience. The comedy veteran, who released his second book, You’re Doing Great! And Other Reasons To Stay Alive, in 2020, will bring more of his level-headed style to the stage for this performance.
Revolution Hall, Buckman (Sat Nov 19)

Nigel Ng: The Haiyaa World Tour Past Event Like List
With 345 million views on YouTube, Nigel Ng's portrayal of discerning rice critic Uncle Roger basically broke the internet. The promising Malaysian comic quit his data science job to tell jokes full-time in 2019 (pretty comedic timing, if you ask us). Since then, Ng's character parodies and cultural comedy have led to sold-out shows in the UK and Europe.
Newmark Theatre, South Park Blocks (Wed Nov 23)

Daniel Howell: We're All Doomed!
Past Event Like List Sardonic YouTuber and stressed millennial Daniel Howell will head to the stage for this self-deprecating solo show, which digs into a relatable feeling of impending doom with an eye toward how the apocalypse might bring us together. (If it's the end of the world, we may as well have a laugh or two.)
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, South Park Blocks (Wed Nov 30)

FILM

Final Girls Berlin Film Festival
Past Event Like List Spotlighting terrifying international flicks directed by women and non-binary filmmakers, Germany's Final Girls Berlin Film Festival is committed to the monstrous and messy. This "Best Of" collection compiles seven spooky shorts from this year's festival—expect body horror, creepy kids, queer chills, and a dash of cannibalism.
Hollywood Theatre, Hollywood District (Sun Nov 6)

QDoc Film Festival Past Event Like List
The only festival in the US devoted exclusively to LGBTQ+ documentaries, QDoc engages with diverse queer perspectives on politics, diversity, sexuality, family, and more with three days of screenings and community connection. This year, QDoc runs in conjunction with the Portland Queer Film Festival Past Event Like List at Cinema 21—you can snag a combo pass to all of the programming at both festivals for $150.
Hollywood Theatre, Hollywood District (Nov 11-13)

Comics and Comix on Film: Vision Quest Benefit Show
Past Event Like List This collection of 16mm flicks inspired by comic strips, comic books, and underground comix culture was compiled by Repressed Cinema curator Ian Sundahl. Stick around after screenings of rare TV shorts and early cinema surprises for an interview with Portland comix master Bobby Madness (presented on video); a portion of proceeds from the night of low-fi DIY excellence will benefit Portland's own underground comics newspaper, Vision Quest.
Hollywood Theatre, Hollywood District (Tues Nov 15)

Portland Queer Film Festival
Past Event Like List Championing queer perspectives and filmmakers, the Portland Queer Film Festival (PDXQ) will return after a two-year pandemic hiatus with more short films, features, and documentaries showcasing the queer cinema community worldwide. This year, PDXQ runs in conjunction with the QDoc Film Festival Past Event Like List at Hollywood Theatre—you can snag a combo pass to all of the programming at both festivals for $150.
Cinema 21, Nob Hill (Nov 15-20)

FOOD & DRINK

7th Annual Apple Juice Market at Reverend Nat's Hard Cider
Past Event Like List Reverend Nat's Apple Market returns, inviting you to come through and stock up on the finest apple juice in the region, perfect for fermentation, fresh drinking, or preservation. Choose between the "Rev Nat's Blend" (a customized mixture of five different varieties used in many of Reverend Nat's most popular ciders), a single-variety Newtown Pippin (an heirloom apple used in Nat's New Moon Mandarin and popular among home cidermakers) and a bracingly tart 100% Granny Smith juice. F.H. Steinbart Co. will be on hand selling home cidermaking supplies, so bring your own carboys, buckets, growlers, and other vessels, and you'll be all set to get into the cider-making game from the comfort of your own home when winter rolls around.
Reverend Nat's Cidery & Taproom, Boise (Nov 5-6)

Gobble Up Portland 2022 Past Event Like List
Just in time for Thanksgiving (and the subsequent holidays), Urban Craft Uprising will host this specialty food show for the fourth time, promising over 80 local vendors slinging everything from caramels to small-batch pickles to nut butters.
Alder Block, Central Eastside (Sat Nov 12)

The Portland Cheese & Meat Festival Past Event Like List
The world is your cheese plate at this celebration of all things cured meat and fromage. At the door, you’ll be greeted with a tasting glass and charcuterie board, and then left to your own devices to wander around curating the platter of your dreams with samples from vendors.
The Leftbank Annex, Lloyd District (Sat Nov 12)

Depressed Cake Shop Past Event Like List
This one-day pop-up bakery sells gray-colored cakes, cookies, and other goods (all donated by local bakers) to raise awareness and encourage conversation about mental health issues. The goodies, though dismal looking on the outside, are bright and colorful on the inside to symbolize hope. Proceeds benefit Baby Blues Connection, which provides free support for parents and families dealing with perinatal mood disorders.
Opal 28, Kerns (Sun Nov 13)

BrewLights Past Event Like List
Revel in the illuminated wonderland of ZooLights with an exclusively grown-up crowd, and enjoy food truck fare and live music. You'll get to choose from a hundred beer, seltzer, and cider options from 45 Northwest breweries and cideries while you feast your eyes on twinkling trees and glowing 3D sculptures.
Oregon Zoo, Washington Park (Nov 18-19)

Portland’s Fall Cider Fest Past Event Like List
Savor over 20 ciders on tap and other autumnal sips at this event hosted by the Pine Street Taproom.
Pine Street Market, Old Town-Chinatown (Nov 18-20)

Wine Country Thanksgiving Past Event Like List
Wineries scattered across Willamette Valley will offer special tastings, food pairings, live music, holiday discounts, and other wine country experiences.
Various locations (Nov 18-27)

My People's Market 11
Past Event Like List My People's Market will celebrate their fifth birthday with more of what they do best: boosting BIPOC businesses, creatives, and culinary masters. (They'll also have free cupcakes up for grabs for the first 500 market visitors). The weekend festivities will include over 120 vendors, plus a "wellness retreat" with workshops and mini treatments, a craft area for kiddos, and musical vibes curated by YGB Portland.
Oregon Convention Center, Lloyd District (Nov 19-20)

2022 Harvest Festival Past Event Like List
This annual harvest festival will help you embrace autumn with live music, art activities, tastings, and "other surprises."
Portland Farmers Market at Shemanski Park, South Park Blocks (Wed Nov 23)

The Portland Mercury's Holiday Drink Week Past Event Like List
Ready to get your nog on? 'Tis the season for wintry libations, and Jim Beam presents the Portland Mercury's Holiday Drink Week has you covered with $7 holiday-themed drink specials at participating bars and restaurants. One thing's for sure: these won't be your ordinary cups of cheer. 
Various locations (Nov 28-Dec 4)

GEEK & GAMING

Kumoricon
Past Event Like List Named after overcast Pacific Northwest skies (kumori means "cloudy" in Japanese), this geeky con brings together die-hard fans of anime and Japanese pop culture for three days of karaoke, cosplay, workshops, a "Japanese maid cafe experience," and more.
Oregon Convention Center, Lloyd District (Nov 11-13)

Symbiosis Past Event Like List
Inspired by ecofeminist scholar Donna Haraway’s Staying with the Trouble, Symbiosis is quite possibly the most immersive—and coolest—art experience to hit Portland in a long time. The "performative, multiuser, and multisensory installation" outfits visitors in specially designed, soft robotic suits, transforming both physical and sensory perceptions with VR sensors. The experience engages all five senses, and even includes vegetarian snacks designed by master chefs. Created by Dutch collective Polymorf and deemed "one of the first fully sensory Extended Reality (XR) storytelling experiences," Symbiosis imagines a futuristic biosphere of human-animal hybrids.
PAM CUT, Downtown (Nov 12-Feb 12)

Geek the Halls 2022 Past Event Like List
Peruse nerd-inspired wares from 60 vendors at this holiday craft fair, where you might find the perfect present for that extra-special geek in your life.
Doubletree Hotel, Lloyd District (Nov 26-27)

LIVE MUSIC

Osvaldo Golijov: Falling Out of Time
Past Event Like List Premiering at Carnegie Hall to critical acclaim, Argentinian American composer Osvaldo Golijov’s new work Falling Out of Time turns the poetic work of Israeli author David Grossman into an eclectic song cycle that draws on Chinese, European, and Middle Eastern music traditions. 
Patricia Reser Center for the Arts, Beaverton (Tues Nov 1)

Whiskey Myers Past Event Like List
Billboard-charting southern rock outfit Whiskey Myers blossomed out of a love of country kings like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Hank Williams Jr., and Waylon Jennings. They will play tracks from their new album, Tornillo, which utilizes heavy basslines and a wailing horn section. Kindred rockers Read Southall Band will come along for the ride.
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, South Park Blocks (Wed Nov 2)

Post Malone: Twelve Carat Tour
Past Event Like List After a spate of cancellations due to health issues, Grammy-nominated rapper/singer Post Malone is back on the road supporting his new album, Twelve Carat Toothache, which includes collaborations with Doja Cat, Fleet Foxes, the Weeknd, and more. Trap rapper Roddy Ricch (who appears on the new album) will open.
Moda Center, Lloyd District (Thurs Nov 3)

Lizzo: The Special Tour
Past Event Like List Unless you've been living under a rock for the past three years, we're sure that you already love national treasure/pop superstar Lizzo. Known for her self-love anthems, genuine reliability, and jaw-dropping flute playing skills, her latest album, Special, embraces disco beats and '80s synths for smooth-as-hell R&B-pop loaded with lyrics about being a bad bitch and loving yourself. She will support the album alongside rising rapper Latto, best known for her infectious radio hit "Big Energy." 
Moda Center, Lloyd District (Nov 4 & 10)

Ty Segall (Solo Acoustic) with Emmett Kelly Past Event Like List
Beloved garage rock sage Ty Segall is back with a special acoustic tour, supporting his latest album, Hello, Hi, which Pitchfork described as a "quiet soundtrack for overcast days." The album's sweet melodies, sparse instrumentation, and folk inspirations bring Segall on a quieter and more understated ride. Indie rock artist and frequent Segall collaborator Emmett Kelly will join. 
Star Theater, Old Town-Chinatown (Fri Nov 4)

Bret McKenzie: Songs Without Jokes Tour Past Event Like List
On his aptly titled new solo album Songs Without Jokes, New Zealand renaissance man Bret McKenzie (best known as half of the musical comedy duo Flight of the Conchords) takes a breather from the funny stuff for a seriously serious piano-driven album reminiscent of classic troubadours like Randy Newman and Harry Nilsson.
Revolution Hall, Buckman (Sat Nov 5)

Dave Matthews Band
Past Event Like List Birkenstock-rock legend and number one dad bod Dave Matthews and company will crash into Portland for an evening of jam band magic, and for a good cause too! On this tour, DMB has partnered with The Nature Conservancy’s Plant a Billion Trees program, funding the planting of over one million trees.
Moda Center, Lloyd District (Sat Nov 5)

Ozuna: Ozutochi USA Tour Past Event Like List
Reggaeton/Latin trap sensation Ozuna will ignite the Memorial Coliseum with new material from his album, OzuTochi, a fluid exploration into genres like dembow, merengue, techno, Brazilian funk, EDM, and pop-rock.
Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Lloyd District (Sat Nov 5)

Aminé with the Oregon Symphony
Past Event Like List Portland-raised rap star Aminé—who now lives in Los Angeles—is set to play an epic homecoming show at the Schnitz, with the Oregon Symphony, in November. His last hometown show was the stop at Moda Center for his “Best Tour Ever,” back in January, and the artist showed off an appropriately cartoony, exceedingly Portland-inspired stage design. Even though the rapper doesn’t live in Portland anymore, it’s cool to see him constantly showing love to the Rose City in grandiose ways. And it’ll be interesting to hear him deliver his famous “Caroline” lyrics in a regal setting, along with newer tracks like “Charmander” and “Colors” from his 2021 album TWOPOINTFIVE, while making his orchestral debut. PORTLAND MERCURY CONTRIBUTOR JENNI MOORE
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, South Park Blocks (Wed Nov 9)

Kevin Morby Past Event Like List
Back in 2016, Mercury writer Ned Lannamann wrote: "Carrying high the tradition of New York City cool, Kevin Morby's leather-clad tunes evoke Television, Sonic Youth, and the godheads themselves, the Velvet Underground. Morby's first two solo albums, Harlem River and Still Life, deserve shelf space alongside Ramones, Bookends, and The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan as part of any proper collection of New York classics." Morby will support his latest release, This Is a Photograph, which draws inspiration from the musical history of Memphis, where the album was recorded. New York-based rock trio Coco (fronted by Maia Friedman of Dirty Projectors) will open.
Revolution Hall, Buckman (Thurs Nov 10)

Bret Michaels Past Event Like List
Poison frontman and reality TV star (do yourself a favor and watch VH1's Rock of Love) Bret Michaels will stop by ilani with his nostalgic jams "Every Rose Has It’s Thorn," "Go That Far," and "Nothing But A Good Time."
ilani Casino Resort, Ridgefield (Fri Nov 11)

Lucy Dacus Past Event Like List
In 2019, Stranger writer Ryan J. Prado wrote: "It makes sense that Lucy Dacus has catapulted to such high acclaim; the directness of her writing, and the subdued music she drives it with, is a great study in earnest songwriting. Her 2016 debut, No Burden, the forming of Boygenius with Phoebe Bridgers and Julien Baker, her follow-up LP Historian basically flooring everyone who’s heard it and landing at or near the top of numerous Best of lists—if you haven’t invested any time listening to Dacus yet, what the fuck are you waiting for?" She will play tracks from her newest release Home Video, which reflects on childhood, faith, and adolescent love.
Roseland Theater, Old Town-Chinatown (Fri Nov 11)

Fletcher Past Event Like List
Witness a superstar in the making with a performance by Cari Elise Fletcher, known simply by her surname, who has stood out with her confessional songwriting delivered in a pop package that oozes sincerity and warmth. She will support her debut album, Girl of My Dreams, after an opening set from dark pop artist Chappell Roan.
Crystal Ballroom, West End (Sun Nov 13)

Os Mutantes
Past Event Like List Revolutionary Brazilian group Os Mutantes are known as pioneers of the Tropicália movement with their blending of pop music, experimental sounds, and traditional Brazilian rhythms. The ensemble, led by founding member Sérgio Dias (sorry, no Rita Lee at this show!) will hit the road once again performing mind-melting classics like "A Minha Menina" and "Panis Et Circenses." They will be joined by nostalgic pop singer Claude Fontaine. 
Aladdin Theater, Brooklyn (Sun Nov 13)

Smashing Pumpkins with Jane’s Addiction
Past Event Like List Are The Smashing Pumpkins past their prime? That's up for debate (we're leaning towards yes), but it's hard to pass up the opportunity to hear timeless alt-rock classics like "1979" and "Today." Plus, founding members James Iha and Jimmy Chamberlin have reunited with frontman Billy Corgan for this tour, making it the closest thing to the original lineup since their initial disbandment in 2000. Assuming that lead vocalist Perry Farrell is feeling up for it, alt-metal pioneers Jane's Addiction will open the show.
Moda Center, Lloyd District (Sun Nov 13)

Phantogram Past Event Like List
The New York two-piece led by musicians Sarah Barthel and Josh Carter purvey electro-rock that culls elements of trip-hop and dream pop, but has surprising teeth. Their synth textures are thick, fuzzy, and room-filling; the pair makes three times as much sound in a live setting as you expect from just two people. Barthel's sweet soprano can be both ethereal and commanding, while Carter's occasional contributions range from straightforward to pitch-shifted and warped (see: "Turn It Off," "Running from the Cops"). LEILANI POLK
Revolution Hall, Buckman (Nov 13-14)

The Flaming Lips Past Event Like List
With four decades of otherworldly live performances in their back pocket, psych-rockers The Flaming Lips have gotten putting on a show down to a science. Expect to see costumes, balloons, confetti, video projections, and plenty of stage antics to accompany their cinematic rock arrangements. Particle Kid, fronted by Willie Nelson's youngest son Micak, will get the party started.
Crystal Ballroom, West End (Tues Nov 15)

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac
Past Event Like List Hear your favorite classic rock tunes performed live, with no time machine necessary! British tribute Rumours of Fleetwood Mac (who have been personally endorsed by founding member Mick Fleetwood) will play the iconic 1977 album, Rumours, in its entirety. 
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, South Park Blocks (Wed Nov 16)

Lucius: Feels Like Second Nature Tour Past Event Like List
Acclaimed indie rock and pop outfit Lucius will swing through town with tunes off of their new album, Second Nature, which was produced by the renowned Dave Cobb and beloved singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile. Texas-via-Athens, Greece-based blues-rock artist Abraham Alexander will open.
Crystal Ballroom, West End (Fri Nov 18)

Trap Kitchen Weekend
Past Event Like List Back in May, celebrity-acclaimed soul food cart Trap Kitchen was opened a restaurant inside the Roseland Theater’s Peter’s Room space on the ground floor, serving up things like pineapple bowls filled with teriyaki steak or seafood, Rich Boy and Rich Girl sandwiches, mac and cheese, fried shrimp and fried chicken. On November 18, the restaurant and venue will launch the inaugural Trap Kitchen Weekend. Despite the event’s name suggesting there’s two days worth of live music, the event only takes place on Friday, but the lineup for the evening is absolutely packed with local rappers: Jay Worthy, G Perico, Saviii 3rd, Cool Nutz, Maniac Lok, Niro Gotti and more. DJs Fatboy and Jerry Bandito will spin the 1s and 2s. Plus! There’ll be a fashion market with booths from local retail brands like Creme & Co, Black Mannequin, Stackin Kickz, and Chocolate Dope. PORTLAND MERCURY CONTRIBUTOR JENNI MOORE
Roseland Theater, Old Town-Chinatown (Fri Nov 18)

Tegan and Sara: Cry Baby Tour Past Event Like List
Things never slowed down for twin sister duo Tegan and Sara after their 2004 stunner So Jealous, which packed iconic hits like “Walking with a Ghost,” and “Where Does the Good Go?”—the latter of which became a staple on the Grey’s Anatomy soundtrack after premiering in the fourth episode as Meredith and Cristina’s “dance it out” song. In 2019, the sisters—who are both openly gay—wrote a memoir, High School, that’s been turned into a TV show, premiering this fall. On Friday, October 21, the duo will release their highly anticipated 10th album, Crybaby, via their new label Mom + Pop. Then a month later, Tegan and Sara will embark on their first tour in three years, with one of their last shows going down at Portland’s Crystal Ballroom for a crowd of avid fans. PORTLAND MERCURY CONTRIBUTOR JENNI MOORE
Crystal Ballroom, West End (Sat Nov 19)

beabadoobee
Past Event Like List Claw your way through droves of Zoomers to see Filipino-British singer-songwriter Beabadoobee sing brightly over jangle-pop riffs inspired by early 2000s radio hits and childhood daydreams. She'll support her latest album, Beatopia, alongside experimental indie rock duo Lowertown.
Roseland Theater, Old Town-Chinatown (Wed Nov 23)

Built To Spill Past Event Like List
Built to Spill was the band that all my dude friends in junior high said they listened to before they started a band of their own. In that way, maybe Built to Spill is the West Coast's answer to the Velvet Underground. Okay, I'm mostly kidding about that one, but now that I'm thinking about it, 1999's Keep It Like a Secret seems to be the progenitor of so much of modern indie rock's sound, that it's almost like I've seen the band live before. But I haven't. Go and luxuriate in the sounds of flannel, beanies, and earnest angst. STRANGER STAFF WRITER JAS KEIMIG
Revolution Hall, Buckman (Wed Nov 23)

Modest Mouse: The Lonesome Crowded West Tour
Past Event Like List Portland-via-Issaquah indie rockers Modest Mouse will go back to their roots with a local show in honor of the 25th anniversary of their sophomore album The Lonesome Crowded West, by playing the album in its entirety. Although the band's lineup has fluctuated through the years, founding members Isaac Brock and Jeremiah Green will be present alongside recent additions Russell Higbee and Simon O'Connor. Local psych-rock outfit Sun Atoms will get the night started.
Crystal Ballroom, West End (Fri Nov 25)

The Lemonheads: It’s a Shame About Ray 30th Anniversary Tour
Past Event Like List You'll find members of Dinosaur Jr., Fuzzy, Blank Babies, and the Descendents on the ever-evolving Lemonheads' family tree. Lately, Evan Dando (the indie-rock band's founder) is holding down the fort. Join him and whomever else is currently sharing the stage with him (last month it was Courtney Love!) on this tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of their beloved album, It's a Shame About Ray. Garage-punk outfit Bass Drum of Death and Texas-based indie rock band On Being an Angel will open.
Revolution Hall, Buckman (Sat Nov 26)

Warner Bros. Presents Bugs Bunny At The Symphony 30th Anniversary Edition
Past Event Like List What's up, doc? George Daugherty will conduct the Oregon Symphony for a recreation of the classical music-infused score from Looney Tunes, accompanied by classic episodes and newly-created shorts projected on a giant screen.
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, South Park Blocks (Nov 26-27)

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: Ghost of Christmas Eve Past Event Like List
As Stranger writer Joseph Schafer wrote in 2019, "Yes, I know, they're cheesy in the extreme and not even actually from Siberia, but Trans-Siberian Orchestra's jolly blend of electric-guitar shredding and Christmas music is like the flu: It comes around every year and it's extremely catchy. That being said, if I'm going to be afflicted with pinch-harmonic-inflected cheer, then I'm at least going to focus on the upside. Which is, TSO formed from the remains of the excellent and under-appreciated power-metal outfit Savatage, whose interpretation of Edvard Grieg's "In the Hall of the Mountain King" probably sparked the whole classical-music-meets-metal fad. Now if only they still had Alex Skolnick from Testament in the band."
Moda Center, Lloyd District (Mon Nov 28)

Kristin Hersh with Marina Allen and Fred Abong Past Event Like List
Mercury writer William Kennedy once wrote: "Whether she’s fronting projects like Throwing Muses and 50FootWave or playing solo, Kristen Hersh has quietly contributed to the traditionally male-dominated world of indie rock for decades. Hersh’s songwriting blends punk, indie, and folk, with lyrics that touch on her struggle with bipolar disorder." She will take the stage after opening sets from indie-folk singer-songwriter Marina Allen and alt-rock artist Fred Abong.
Mississippi Studios, Boise (Wed Nov 30)

PERFORMANCE

Blink Past Event Like List
This darkly comedic romance by Bruntwood Playwriting Prize winner Phil Porter includes a fox character named Scruffilitis. Sold! Blink was described by The New York Times as "everything you want in a relationship play: funny, painful, affecting."
CoHo Theater, Northwest Portland (Nov 3-20)

Carmen Past Event Like List
This fresh translation of Georges Bizet's 19th-century opera shares the story of Carmen, a vivacious cigarette factory worker whose obsessed lover lashes out violently when she leaves him.
Keller Auditorium, Downtown (Nov 5-13)

Kristina Wong, Sweatshop Overlord
Past Event Like List Inspired by her early pandemic days of sewing masks from bedsheets and bra straps, Chinese American feminist comedian and performance artist Kristina Wong shares the story of "The Auntie Sewing Squad" in Kristina Wong, Sweatshop Overlord. Offering an autobiographical look at the early days of COVID with a side of razor-sharp humor and insights into community building, Time Out deemed the play "endearingly boisterous."
Portland Center Stage, Pearl District (Nov 5-Dec 18)

Jagged Little Pill
Past Event Like List Written by punchy Oscar-winning screenwriter Diablo Cody (Juno), Jagged Little Pill is based on the fearless heartache of Alanis Morissette's music. The jukebox musical follows an imperfect American family and "sustains the best hopes of Broadway," according to The New York Times, with lyrics written by Morissette herself. (And yes, you'll hear both "Ironic" and "You Oughta Know.")
Keller Auditorium, Downtown (Nov 15-20)

Radical System Art
Past Event Like List Established in 2014, Radical System Art blends dance, theater, and martial arts with interactive technology for original, enthralling performances. Artistic director Shay Kuebler’s latest performance, Momentum of Isolation, was created pre-COVID, but presciently grapples with feelings of seclusion in a digital era.
Lincoln Hall, South Park Blocks (Nov 17-19)

Union PDX Festival of Contemporary Dance
Past Event Like List Contemporary dance company push/FOLD presents this fresh festival, featuring performances and master classes in West African and Afro-Brazilian dance, Bharatanatyam (an Indian classical dance), modern ballet, and more. With both in-person and virtual viewing options, Festival:22 also features world premieres by local choreographers Samuel Hobbs and Sweta Ravisankar.
Hampton Opera Center, Central Eastside (Nov 17-20)

It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play Past Event Like List
In this production, classic Christmas tale It's a Wonderful Life heads to the stage as a reimagined '40s-era radio broadcast, complete with period costumes and immersive music.
Portland Center Stage, Pearl District (Nov 19-Dec 24)

TrueAnon Presents: The Year of the Smile :)
Past Event Like List Brace Belden and Liz Franczak's leftist analysis podcast, which they describe as a "blind grope through the sphincter of today into the wet dirt of tomorrow," has attained a major cult following across the internet. Though sometimes associated with the "dirtbag left," they're a duo worth lending your ear—Belden, also known as "PissPigGranddad," actually abandoned his life in San Francisco to volunteer with the People's Protection Units, a Kurdish militia, in the Syrian Civil War.
Mississippi Studios, Boise (Nov 21-22)

A Christmas Carol Past Event Like List
This Dickensian feast of holiday theatrics offers a contemporary interpretation of Ebenezer Scrooge's ghostly journey, adapted with original lyrics by award-winning playwright and director Rick Lombardo.
Portland Playhouse, King (Nov 25-Dec 30)

READINGS & TALKS

Penn Jillette
Past Event Like List In Random, a crime novel with a magical twist, a Las Vegas native entangled with a crime organization has to cough up some significant cash before his 21st birthday. It's a sly story by Penn Jillette—yes, that one—and he'll stop by Portland to discuss his writing process.
Powell's Books at Cedar Hills Crossing, Beaverton (Wed Nov 2)

Andrea Gibson: You Better Be Lightning Tour
Past Event Like List Spoken word icon Andrea Gibson has radically reframed the poetry reading experience, creating a live show that touches on everything from gender and feminism to mental health and gun reform. Prepare to feel "seen, heard, and held" at this fresh performance by the frequent World Poetry Slam finalist.
Revolution Hall, Buckman (Sat Nov 5)

Live Wire with Luke Burbank: George Saunders, Silvia Moreno-Garcia, Saeed Jones, and Samantha Crain Past Event Like List
In celebration of the Portland Book Festival, this special edition of Live Wire will include a candid conversation between literary master George Saunders, whose book Lincoln in the Bardo won the 2017 Booker Prize, Mexican Gothic novelist Silvia Moreno-Garcia, and award-winning writer and poet Saeed Jones, with a performance by Indigenous Music Award-winning folk singer-songwriter Samantha Crain.
Alberta Rose Theatre, Concordia (Sat Nov 5)

Portland Book Festival
Past Event Like List Throngs of book lovers will flock to the Portland Art Museum on November 5 for the Portland Book Festival, which promises an unmatched lineup of buzzy wordsmiths like Esmé Weijun Wang, Karen Russell, Andrew Sean Greer, Silvia Moreno-Garcia, and Selma Blair(!) sharing their writing secrets, plus lots of folks with cool tote bags. We recommend stopping by to snag a book you're stoked about.
Portland Art Museum, South Park Blocks (Sat Nov 5)

Ross Gay Past Event Like List
Spirit lifter and lauded poet Ross Gay, author of The Book of Delights, will visit Portland on the heels of a new publication. Inciting Joy digs into practices of joyful connection and mutual aid during challenging times, which sounds like a much-needed addition to the writer's insightful oeuvre.
Powell's City of Books, Pearl District (Wed Nov 16)

VOICES Lecture Series
Past Event Like List Celebrating their 30th anniversary this year, VOICES Lectures continues to share the stories of fascinating women this fall and winter, continuing on November 16 with a talk from Danielle Feinberg, Pixar's STEM-savvy director of photography for lighting. She'll take audiences behind the scenes of beloved faves like Finding Nemo and Brave to look closely at how Pixar blends art, math, and science to create convincing worlds.
Revolution Hall, Buckman (Wed Nov 16)

2022/23 Portland Arts & Lectures: Anthony Doerr Past Event Like List
Pulitzer Prize winner and National Book Award finalist Anthony Doerr will head to Portland to discuss his lyrical, non-linear writing style, made famous in lauded works All the Light We Cannot See and Cloud Cuckoo Land.
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, South Park Blocks (Thurs Nov 17)

An Evening with David Sedaris Past Event Like List
David Sedaris, quintessential humorist and beloved icon of NPR fans everywhere, presents his latest book, Happy-Go-Lucky, at this talk. The book compiles Sedaris's notes on his pre- and mid-pandemic life—when once he learned to shoot guns and hung out in Serbian flea markets, he's now shifted to solitary walks and reflections on a battle-scarred country marked by empty storefronts and political graffiti.
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, South Park Blocks (Tues Nov 22)

National Geographic Live: When Women Ruled the World Past Event Like List
Dr. Kara Cooney, professor of Egyptology and contender for coolest woman ever, will share the hidden histories of ancient women leaders. You might hear a few names you know (like Cleopatra and Nefertiti), but Dr. Cooney's research also uncovers forgotten legacies of feminine power under patriarchy.
Newmark Theatre, South Park Blocks (Tues Nov 29)

SPORTS & RECREATION

Snowvana Past Event Like List
Snowvana is the Pacific Northwest's premier festival focused on fresh pow and all of the snow sports that accompany it. Check out the latest gear from local and national brands, peep Mt. Hood Film Festival's lineup of ski movies, snag a free pair of Next Adventure kid’s skis, and more.
Oregon Convention Center, Lloyd District (Nov 18-20)

Portland Tofurky Trot 2022
Past Event Like List This family-friendly 5K benefit for Oregon farm sanctuaries invites attendees to trot at their own speed and get their steps in before gorging on Thanksgiving dinner. 
Oaks Park Dance Pavilion, Sellwood (Thurs Nov 24)

Phil Knight Invitational Past Event Like List
This celebration of college basketball hosted by ESPN Events will span three days, bringing together eight of the country's top men's basketball programs and four of the the country's top women's basketball programs (the University of Oregon's men's and women's team will both participate) in a bracketed event of exciting young talent.
Moda Center, Lloyd District (Nov 24-27)

VISUAL ART

Ann Hamilton: Sense
Past Event Like List Ann Hamilton is, by all accounts, an art star—the Yale-educated textile artist, performer, photographer, and videographer has built her career around site-responsive, tactile, larger-than-life installations since the '80s. While this recent body of work is smaller, it doesn't sacrifice any of Hamilton's signature sensuousness and attention to detail; Sense includes paper and cloth prints and collages developed from a unique process of flatbed scanning animal specimens, stones, fallen leaves, and more. 
Elizabeth Leach Gallery, Pearl District (Nov 3-Dec 30)

Jordanna Kalman: Jordanna and the Masters of Photography Past Event Like List
Photographer Jordanna Kalman's investigative practice aims to unravel the impacts of social media, the intricacies of femininity, and the challenges of creating as a woman in a male-dominated artistic medium. Placing her own photographs within cut-out windows inside the works of male master photographers, Kalman questions the gender hierarchy of art stardom in the historical photography canon.  
Blue Sky Gallery, Pearl District (Nov 3-Dec 10)

Smolder: Carolyn Hopkins and M Acuff
Past Event Like List Carolyn Hopkins and M Acuff's Smolder looks closely at the simmering anxieties of the current zeitgeist through video and sculpture. Hopkins zeroes in on the climate crisis in Slow Burn, a video piece that also examines the patriarchy of the American West; Acuff's A Thing Burnt in its Entirety contains nods to sacrifice, alchemy, and the concept of nigredo, a Latin term referencing material that was burned in order to initiate transformation.
Carnation Contemporary, Kenton (Nov 5-27)

Illuminating Time Past Event Like List
Illuminating Time centers the work of Portland Chinatown Museum's 2022 artists-in-residence and celebrates Chinese communities from Old Town-Chinatown to Eastern Oregon. The exhibition's emotional weight is expressed in poetry, paint, and movement, with exhibited works by Chinese American painter and muralist Alex Chiu, transracial/transcultural multimedia creator Sam Roxas-Chua, and painter and book artist Shu-Ju Wang.
Portland Chinatown Museum, Old Town-Chinatown (Nov 10-Jan 31)

WINTER HOLIDAYS

Portland Holiday Market
Past Event Like List One of the buzziest holiday gift shows returns to the Expo Center this year with 100,000 square feet of perfect presents up for grabs—visitors will find everything from spirits, books, and leather goods to one-of-a-kind artwork. Who knows, you might get all your holiday shopping done under one roof.
Portland Expo Center, North Portland (Nov 17-20)

ZooLights Past Event Like List
What do wild animals, elephant ears, hot cocoa, and over half a million lights have in common? You can find 'em all at ZooLights, a Portland holiday requisite that includes a drive-through option on select dates again this year.
Oregon Zoo, Washington Park (Nov 23-Jan 5)

38th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
Past Event Like List Join in on a Portland tradition at the 38th annual tree lighting ceremony, where Santa himself will do the honor and flip the switch, illuminating Pioneer Courthouse Square in the twinkly glow of over 14,000 lights adorning a massive Douglas fir. Thomas Lauderdale of Pink Martini will lead a sing-along—we dare ya not to feel a faint glimmer of holiday spirit.
Pioneer Courthouse Square, Downtown (Fri Nov 25)

The Holiday Express 2022 Past Event Like List
Hop aboard a vintage rail car on the historic Polson #2 1912 steam locomotive for a cheery dream ride along the Willamette River with Santa Claus and his elves.
Oregon Rail Heritage Center, Hosford-Abernethy (Nov 25-Dec 18)

Christmas Festival of Lights 2022
Past Event Like List With countless twinkling Christmas lights and holiday concerts that transform the scenic sanctuary into a massive choral festival, there's a reason The Grotto's annual Festival of Lights is a long-held Portland tradition. Don't miss the outdoor caroling and puppet shows along the light trail, and enjoy the Chapel of Mary's "cathedral-like acoustics" with local choir performances each night.
The Grotto, Sumner (Nov 25-Dec 30)

Winter Wonderland 2022
Past Event Like List Portland International Raceway's annual light show, purportedly the largest in the Northwest, invites attendees to coast through a sparkly wonderland along the track again this year.
Portland International Raceway, North Portland (Nov 25-Dec 31)