The holidays are the sweetest time of year, and I think we would all benefit from a reminder to savor these special moments. Regardless of your Thanksgiving plans or traditions, we hope you carve out a bit of time this weekend to thank yourself for being the awesome human that you are! Bring the kids or your best friend along and create some warm holiday memories together. Whatever you’re planning, make it a treat, and enjoy the long weekend!

December 1^st – Yes And Family Improv

What’s the best way to bring family closer together? If you thought “laughter”, you’ve got to check this out! Curious Comedy Theater is hosting an improv workshop for families! You’ll participate in improv games, play out hilarious scenes, and learn tips and tricks from the pros. Our team did a similar workshop earlier this year, so we can tell you firsthand that this is an awesome way to bond! There really is nothing like a belly-laugh to brighten your day, and everyone else’s too. Imagine the fun you’ll have around the dinner table with these knee-slapping exercises!

November 29 – December 8^th – Christmas Bazaar

Okay, it’s really happening now. You’ll hear it on the radio and see it in every store window in town. Starting Friday, it’s officially Christmas Season! Ready or not, it’s time to deck the halls and tinsel the tree. If you need a little help getting your home into the holiday spirit, look no further than the Christmas Bazaar at the Portland Expo Center! This is the biggest and best holiday expo around. Not only will you find everything you could possibly need for your own personal winter wonderland – this is a great place to pick up gifts for Christmas fanatics of all ages.

December 1^st – Haleakala Hawaiian Music

As we said, Thanksgiving weekend is traditionally seen as the beginning of the holiday season. The beginning of the holiday season is traditionally seen as shopping season. Some folks love the hustle and bustle of Black Friday, but Small Business Saturday is an awesome alternative if you prefer to dodge the crowds and keep your money local. If you’re considering a stroll through Saturday Market in honor of Small Business Saturday, keep your ears peeled. There will be live Halekala Hawaiian music swirling through the air as a lovely tropical soundtrack for a brisk autumn day!

December 1^st – Weekend Tea

Fancy a spot of tea? After days of planning, cooking, and doing all the dishes – you deserve something lavish! Pix Patisserie is hosting a beautiful Weekend Tea and hors d’eouvres event this Sunday, and we think it’s the perfectly pampering way to close an eventful weekend. Grab that family member that you’d love a bit of quality time with or meet up with your friends to trade Thanksgiving stories!

November 30^th – December 1^st – Cinnamon Bear Cruise

Cinnamon Bear was a famous children’s radio show character in the mid-20^th century. In his prime, Cinnamon Bear sat upon the throne of many-a-department store to meet his fans, just like a certain Mr. Clause. While Mr. O’Cinnamon has entered retirement, he still retains a massive fan base here in Portland. Every winter season, the Portland Spirit river cruise line offers a trip like no other. All aboard the boat to Maybeland, where Cinnamon Bear and his magical friends wait to entertain you! This is a wonderful treat for youngsters, especially those who love party classics like magic shows and face painting. Lifelong Portlanders who remember the bear from their childhoods will get a kick out of it too! Enjoy a snack buffet, story time, sweet treats, and a beautiful cruise along the Willamette.