November is chock-full of events that make us grateful to call Portland home.
Siren Nation Festival
Nov 7-17
Various Portland locations
Designed to empower women of all ages to create their own art and to highlight the many achievements of women in the arts, Siren Nation Festival showcases outstanding visual artists, comedians, and musicians. In addition to performances and exhibitions, the event includes workshops covering such topics as podcasting, storytelling, burlesque dancing, grant funding, and the music business. sirennation.org
My People’s Market
Nov 8-9
SEI (Self Enhancement Inc)
A gathering of Portland’s diverse and vibrant makers, entrepreneurs, artists, culinary wizards, and beverage crafters, My People’s Market supports over 100 local multicultural businesses. Meet vendors, network with local business owners of color, and enjoy live music, art, activities, and plenty to eat and drink. mypeoplesmarket.com
Hip Hop Nutcracker
Nov 12-13, 7:30PM
Keller Auditorium
A holiday mash-up for the whole family, The Hip Hop Nutcracker is a contemporary dance spectacle set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless music. A unique and joyful event, the performance is supercharged by a cast of all-star dancers, a DJ, a violinist, and MC Kurtis Blow, one of hip hop’s founding fathers. Portland5.com
Native American Indian Storytelling
Nov 16, 11:30AM-1PM
Albina Library
Esther Stutzman, a Coos and Kalapuya storyteller and history keeper, shares stories and songs of the Kalapuya people of the Willamette Valley. The stories will be opened by traditional drumming. With the help of audience participation, each story teaches a lesson, portraying animal people and their adventures. Multcolib.org/events
Wine Country Thanksgiving
Nov 29-Dec 1
Willamette Valley Wineries
Every year Willamette Valley wineries open their cellars and tasting rooms over Thanksgiving weekend to celebrate friends, family, and completion of the harvest. Many wineries participate in Willamette Cares Food Share and offer special discounts, tastings, or drawings to those who donate food or funds. Willamettewines.com