Six Great Things to Do This Weekend...
LEARN
The History of NW 23rd Avenue
Where: Northwest Library, 2300 NW Thurman
When: Saturday, May 29, 2-3:30 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Tip: Get there early; seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ever wonder what the streets of Portland looked like 50, 75 or even 100 years ago? Back in 1910, the city’s population was just over 207,000, and needless to say, it was a lot more difficult to find a coffee shop with good Wi-Fi. Head over to the Northwest Library this Saturday to view a free slide show that illustrates a century’s worth of changes on NW 23rd Avenue.
ENGAGE
10th Annual Village Building Convergence
Where: Various locations
When: Friday, May 28-Sunday, June 6, various times
Cost: FREE
Tip: Some projects may be postponed due to weather, so be sure to check the web site before showing up!
This weekend the 10th Annual Village Building Convergence project will once again work to beautify the city with natural building, community gardening and public art projects at a variety of sites around Portland. Whether it’s sprucing up the intersection of NE 30th and Killingsworth or completing a large outdoor classroom at Madison High School, there are all manner of activities and programs to get involved with—many of them right in your own neighborhood.
RELAX
Passion for Peonies
Where: Lan Su Chinese Garden, 239 NW Everett
When: Friday, May 28 – Monday, May 31, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Cost: $8.50 adults, $7.50 seniors, $6.50 students, children five and under FREE
Tip: Discounted admission bundles are available for advance purchase.
This weekend the Northwest Peony Society will display their finest flora to cap off a month-long celebration of China’s national flower. Floral demonstrations and tours of Lan Su’s vast peony collection are included with admission.
CONSUME
House Spirits Distillery and Din Din Cocktail Paired Brunch
Where: Milepost 5, 900 NE 81st Avenue
When: Saturday, May 29 & Sunday, May 30, 11 a.m.
Cost: $35 per person
Tip: Call Courtney @ 971.544.1350 to reserve your seat. Call Radio Cab @ 503.227.1212 when you realize there’s no way you’re driving yourself home.
Who says 11 a.m. is too early to enjoy a stiff drink?! Not the folks at House Spirits Distillery, that’s for sure. Join mix masters Neil Kopplin of Clyde Common and Bradley Dawson of Bluehour as they pair creative cocktails with delicious brunch fare from Din Din Catering.
PLAY
Campus Rail Jam Tour Finals
Where: Pioneer Courthouse Square
When: Friday, May 28, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Tips: Like free stuff? Visit nearby booths for lots of giveaways and drawings.
What’s the weather forecast for Pioneer Courthouse Square this Friday? 100% chance of snow, of course. Thirty tons of winter wonder will be hauled into Portland’s “living room,” and one amateur showboarder will shred their way to the $5,000 grand prize.
EXPLORE
Rae Room Tour
Where: Portland Memorial Mausoleum, 6705 SE 14th Avenue
When: Monday, May 31, 11 a.m.
Cost: FREE
Tips: This tour is only offered once a year, so don’t miss out!
They say you can’t take your possessions with you when you die, but somehow George Rae—once one of Oregon's wealthiest residents—found a way. The Rae Room at the Portland Memorial Mausoleum serves as the luxurious tomb of Rae and his second wife, Elizabeth, and a tour of the room is said to be like taking a journey back in time. Special speakers, a pipe and drum band and a vintage car display will also be on hand.
