Hello, weekend! Love is in the air for Valentine’s Day, but there’s plenty going on just in case celebrating cupid is not your thing. This weekend’s lineup includes a dance class, a black history festival, a sporting event, a bike ride, a race, and dancing. Keep reading!
Black History Festival NW – February 5th – 28th
The Black History Festival NW is a fun festival taking place in various locations the region. You can find events in Troutdale, Beaverton, Eugene, Vancouver and everywhere in between. You’ll get to experience the magic and culture, and it will be presented by African-American organizations, artists, small businesses, and leaders. The festival already kicked off a youth-curated museum at several Multnomah County libraries, so pop in all month long to enjoy black history from a child’s perspective. You’ll also be able to participate in a citywide scavenger hunt that runs the entire month.
ValenTango – February 7th – 13th
Exactly 21 years later and Portland’s popular dance event, ValenTango, is back. It’s the largest and longest running tango festival in North America, and the event keeps getting bigger. You’ll be able to jump into the dance community and meet great teachers, take classes, enjoy music from a live DJ and just have fun. Let your hair down (assuming you have any) because dancer of all abilities will find something that speaks to them.
Valentine’s French Macaroon with Katie Shyne – February 10th
Hello, sweet tooth! This class will show you 2 different ways to make macaroon shells – one is French style, the other is Italian. Katie will give you her best tips and will give you quick fixes just in case you struggle at home, or even struggle at works (yep, it’s for professionals too!). It’s yummy and gluten free, so come for the fun and the variety of treats by grabbing a ticket in advance.
Worst Day of the Year Ride – February 11th
This out of the box weekend event is going to be fun. Grab a bike (or rent one) because Portland is keeping things weird. February 8th was both the coldest and wettest date in Oregon History – once in 1933 and then again in 1996. Sounds like the perfect day for a bike ride, right? We’re not so sure, but the first “Worst Day Ride” started in 2001, and even added a Challenge Course for the “die hard” fans in 2006. Nowadays, costumes will get you a prize, and while we can’t predict the weather, we can almost guarantee that this year won’t be -54 degrees.
Fight For Air Climb – February 11th
“Fight For Air” is a suiting name for this weekend’s stair climb. While some refer to it as a vertical foot race, you’ll be gasping for air at the finish line. This is a timed event that can be done by anybody! Kids and serious athletes alike will be climbing stairs at the U.S. Bank Tower to get a full body workout. All participants and teams are raising funds to support the mission of the American Lung Association, and donations are accepted too. There will also be a silent disco with brunch from 11am – 2pm if you want to meet participants at the top of the building or celebrate your success with a view.
Trail Blazers vs Utah Jazz – February 11th
Let’s go Blazers! If you want to end your weekend by cheering on Portland’s basketball team, go for it. They are taking on the Utah Jazz and your support just might give the team the boost they need to win. Grab a ticket, then head to the Moda Center to watch them play at 6pm on Sunday. Come cheer on the Blazers as they take on the Utah Jazz!
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