The Short List: Jan 27-29
It’s the last weekend of January, so let’s make it a good one. There’s all sorts of fun stuff happening this weekend, from clowns and model trains to sports cars and the year of the rooster!
Jan 27
Clowns Without Borders Benefit Show
If you agree that laughter is the best medicine, get the gang together and head out to this weekend’s Clowns Without Borders Benefit Show at the Alberta Rose Theatre. For 20 years, Clowns Without Borders has sent circus and theater professionals to war zones, refugee camps and crisis areas all over the world to bring a little spark of joy to those in need. For 18 of those years, the Northwest’s top circus artists, physical comedians and variety acts have been coming together to raise awareness and funds to help support this fantastic group. Get in on the love and hilarity with this family-friendly night out! $15-25, albertarosetheatre.com
Jan 28
First Night of Chinese New Year
The Year of the Rooster begins this Saturday! Lan Su will be celebrating for the next two weeks, and it all starts this weekend. Gather together in celebration at this colorful and joyful festival and learn all about the celebration of the Chinese New Year. Every guest this Saturday will receive a traditional hung bao, or lucky red envelope. Watch lion dances, martial arts and cultural performances, and take part in family-friendly crafts and storytime. It’s a new year the world over, so let’s celebrate! $7-9.50, lansugarden.org
Jan 29
Portland International Auto Show Family Day
The world of the automobile has come a long, long way since the earliest models were invented over 100 years ago. This weekend, the Portland International Auto Show serves as a tribute to the innovation and artistry of the automobile industry, showcasing the latest designs in electric, luxury, and sport cars. Learn about the latest technology in electric and connected cars, take a ride and drive, feast your eyes on the expanded Ferrari exhibit, and so much more! Family day will have lots of cool activities your kids can participate in, so don’t skip the Kids’ Zone. Kids 12 and under free on Family Day. $10-12, portlandautoshow.com
Jan 29
Mochitsuki
It’s time to celebrate the Japanese New Year, too! This is the 21st annual Japanese-American celebration of the new year in Portland. Mochitsuki, the pounding of rice to make mochi, is a very significant traditional event held in preparation of the new year. Take part in the tradition, and see storytelling, taiko, the Sahomi Tachibana Dance Group, calligraphy and much more. There will be loads of delicious foods and fun vendors to check out, as well! Kids 3 and under get in free. $4-12, mochipdx.org
Jan 28-29
The Great Train Show
The Portland Expo Center is hosting The Great Train Show, the best model train show in the state! Whether you’re a collector or you and your little guys and gals just love locomotives, you’ll be stoked on the 250+ tables of trains for sale, in addition to over 50 exhibitors from all over the country. This is the place to be for train lovers! Feast your eyes on several, huge operating model trains, enjoy free door prize giveaways, and take a train ride. Oh, and be sure to check out the massive LEGO train that will be on display! Kids 11 and under free, discounts available. $9-10, trainshow.com