NW Kids Magazine December 2013

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Let it Snow ide ing Gu v i G y Holida por ts rS ls Winte e s t i va F y a d i l aft NW Ho ake Cr l wf o Sn

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nwkidsmagazine.com

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editors’

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Let it snow. Let it snow in Portland. There’s nothing quite like the first snow of the year. The way it blankets a city and makes everything slow down. The excitement it brings; finding little noses pressed to the window in anticipation. Is it real? Will it stick? Some years, we drive miles to experience being bundled up from head to toe, crunching our way through the white powder, fingers stinging from cold, but it’s so worth it. Snow; it’s magical.

In this issue we’re getting geared up for winter. If you’re wondering how to get your kids started on the mountain or on the ice rink, we have you covered. Don’t miss our feature on winter sports for the whole family. Or if you’re looking to head out of town for a festive December weekend, we include a few northwest festivals worth the trip. Also, if you (like us) are looking for ways to get the kids engaged in charitable giving, check out a few great local charities in the piece on seasonal giving.

Happy Holidays from all of us at NW Kids magazine! As 2013 draws to a close we’re reminded of all the fantastic places, events, businesses and people we were lucky enough to feature in the pages of the magazine, and work with this year. We couldn’t publish NW Kids without the community support we receive from partners like photographers, contributors, printers and advertisers. And it’s been a treat to share the fun with you, our readers. With that, we look forward to bringing you more great resources in 2014, so you can continue to explore this great place with your families.

Next year we will feature some of your usual favorites like our Open House Guides and Camps editorial, but will also throw in a few surprises. To start, we’re excited to announce our 2nd annual Color Me Cover Contest coming in January. Your kiddo’s art could be featured on the cover of the magazine in February and could win a week of free camp or other amazing prizes. Go to nwkidsmagazine.com/colorme for more information.

Merry Merry, Kelley & Beth

Cover and Contents Photography courtesy of Shelby Brakken Photography shelbybrakken.com

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Contents december 2013

8 Beyond: NW Holiday Festivals

18 Winter Sports for the Whole Family

14 Holiday Giving Guide

22 Calendar of Events

16 Seasonal Giving: Get the Kids Involved

28 Holiday Craft: Hanging Paper Snowflakes

I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields, that it kisses them so gently? And then it covers them up snug, you know, with a white quilt; and perhaps it says “Go to sleep, darlings, till the summer comes again.”

- Lewis Carroll, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland & Through the Looking-Glass

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Listings Barre3........................................................... 27 Beanstalk...................................................... 11 Bella Stella..................................................... 9 Bennett Suzuki Violin Studio....................... 21 Boys and Girls Aid.................................. 12-13 Cedarwood..................................................... 3 Child’s Play Toys........................................... 21 Coffee Kids................................................... 23 Do Jump....................................................... 29 Earthquake Tech........................................... 23 French American International School.......... 7 Glow Mother Baby....................................... 11 GoodTime Chinese School........................... 23 Goody’s......................................................... 17 Imago Theater.............................................. 17 Kids’ Backyard Store....................................... 2 Laurelwood.................................................... 9 Little Fruit Farm Montessori......................... 23 My Masterpiece Art Studio.......................... 23 Oaks Park...................................................... 17 Oregon Artist School.................................... 17 Oregon Ballet Theatre.................................. 21 Oregon Episcopal School............................. 27 Oregon Garden............................................... 9 Oregon Gymnastics Academy..................... 17 Oregon Hope Chinese School...................... 29 Portland Aquarium...................................... 19 Portland Festival Ballet.................................. 9 Portland Language Arts.............................. 19 Portland Spirit................................................ 7 Portland Trampoline...................................... 2 Rising Star Chinese School.......................... 21 Spielwerk Toys................................................ 7 Summa Institute.......................................... 21 Sunriver Resort............................................ 32 Tears of Joy Theatre...................................... 21 The Art Of Movement.................................. 17 The Bar Method Portland.............................. 3 The Grotto.................................................... 19 World of Smiles............................................ 19 Zenana Spa.................................................. 11 6 | NW Kids Magazine

magazine

Publisher / Advertising Director Michelle Snell michelle@nwkidsmagazine.com Editorial Beth Friesenhahn beth@nwkidsmagazine.com Kelley Schaefer-Levi kelley@nwkidsmagazine.com Account Manager Laurel Ackerman laurel@nwkidsmagazine.com Client Services Coordinator Brenna Burke brenna@nwkidsmagazine.com Design Robyn Barbon robyn@folkloremedia.com Client Ad Design Karel Chan karel@nwkidsmagazine.com Advertising Inquiries: 503-282-2711, ext. 1 sales@nwkidsmagazine.com Accounting & Business Services Heather Rex heather@nwkidsmagazine.com

Connect With Us: • Phone: 503.282.2711 • email: contact@nwkidsmagazine.com • Facebook: facebook.com/nwkids • Twitter: @nwkids • Pinterest: pinterest.com/nwkids NW Kids is published monthly by Miche Media, LLC. Every effort is made to ensure accuracy; sometimes we make errors. Please let us know when we do and accept our apologies.

Printed locally; Please recycle.

what we’re listening to

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Beyond:

NW Holiday Festivals shore acres

There is nothing quite like this time of year for discovering that magic exists. We love to head out with our families to enjoy the sights and sounds of the winter holidays.

Candy Cane Lane? We’re there. Oregon Zoo Lights, check. This year we’re focusing on a few holiday festivals that may take a little time to get to, but are well worth the trip. Escaping the busyness of the season by embarking on a road trip to see something new, and taking in a holiday festival is a great way to reconnect with the family and create a few special memories.

Oregon Shore Acres State park

Sun River Traditions

Celebrate the season at this amazing walk through display of lights perched high above the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy over 26 holiday trees and dozens of lighted sculptures, including life size whales, sea stars, urchins, anemones, sea horses, frogs, butterflies, a dragonfly and more.

Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. 4:00-9:30 PM. shoreacres.net /holiday-lights

Sunriver Resort during the holidays is the stuff of sugarplum dreams. The grounds are transformed into a winter wonderland reminiscent of yesteryear. Take a winter sleigh ride, make a snow angel and discover a holiday celebration that harkens back to a time when generations embraced the season, and each other. If you plan to stay at the resort, don’t miss the Elf Tuck-in where your kids can be tucked in by one of Santa’s elves. sunriver-resort.com

Silver Falls State Park Christmas Festival Experience Silver Falls in the winter. Check out the South Falls Lodge where you can make a holiday wreath, a gingerbread house, cards, and ornaments. Enjoy storytelling for kids and live music. And don’t miss a visit from JR Beaver and Santa. December 14-15.

11:00am-4:00pm. friendsofsilverfalls.net

sun river continued on p. 10

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days in December. Families can enjoy live music, theater, crafts, pony rides, a petting farm, Polar Express Train rides and a light spectacle like none other. Shop their store for unique Christmas gifts and take in a visit with Santa or Bruce the Spruce. ThursdaySunday in December. 5:00pm-10:00pm. warmbeach.com seaside

Seaside Parade of Lights Christmas on the coast is unforgettable, and the annual Parade of Lights in Seaside is a great way to start off the season. You’ll see lighted floats, families, pets and other members of the coastal community decked with festive lights. Join in after the parade around the tree to sing carols. Don’t miss Santa and his elf! They hand out candy canes to children while you enjoy hot cider, cocoa and cookies. November 29, 7:00pm. seasideor.com

Christmas Lighting Festival in Leavenworth If you’ve never been to Leavenworth, going during the holidays is a great time to see this Bavarian town. Step into this winter festival brimming with quaint, holiday cheer and enjoy caroling, roasted Chestnuts, performances and Christmas characters like St. Nikolas. Just beyond town you can downhill ski at Stevens Pass, hike Nordic trails, snowshoe and cross country ski groomed trails. The first three full weekends in December. leavenworth.org

Silverton Christmas Market Celebrate the season in Silverton’s 80-acre Oregon Garden. Take a shuttle ride to the woods, then walk through a tunnel of glowing candy canes to discover a traditional German Christmas bazaar in a Douglas fir forest. Shop unique gifts like hand-carved driftwood Santas, handmade jewelry, and wreaths created by the garden’s horticulturists all the while listening to roaming carolers, school choirs, and acoustic guitar players provide plenty of cheer. Open weekends Nov. 29–Dec. 22; Santa photos and reindeer Dec. 6–8; pony rides Dec. 20–22. oregongarden.org

Washington The Lights of Christmas at Warm Beach One of the largest walk-through holiday displays of its kind, this annual tradition in Stanwood, Washington takes place over 18 10 | NW Kids Magazine

leavenworth

Fort Vancouver Looking for something a little closer to home? Experience the holiday season in 1800s America at Fort Vancouver. The fort displays how the employees at Hudson’s Bay Company might have celebrated. Enjoy photo opportunities with Santa at the Marshall House, letter writing to soldiers overseas, handcraft making, blacksmith and black powder demonstrations, holiday music and dancing, stories and more. December 14. 10:00am-3:00pm. fortvan.org

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holiday

Giving Guide Coffee Kids A building game for girls! Help Goldie build a spinning machine to help her dog, Nacho, chase his tail. Soon all her friends want in on the action. Perfect for ages 4-9. facebook.com/coffeekidspdx

zenana spa Want to transform your skin?

The Clarisonic cleansing system removes impurities, leading to softer, healthier and more radiant skin. Purchase any Clarisonic and receive a FREE Eminence facial cleanser through December 31st! zenana-spa.com

child’s play toys Timeline. Be the first player to put your cards in chronological order! Have fun while secretly learning historical facts. Ages 8+, $15.99 . childsplayportland.com

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spielwerk toys Inspire your young artists to make their own stamp with this DIY stamp kit by Yellow Owl Workshop. Kit includes easy to follow instructions, 25 templates, tool kit. Perfect for the the older set and for moms and dads, too, $30. spielwerktoys.com

bella stella Fair Trade Little Friends by Nova Natural, made from cotton and wool. Waldorf-style dolls that are perfect for taking with you, and you can even change their clothes! $39, bellastellaresale.com

beanstalk Check out Beanstalk for gently used holiday toys from Plan, Educo or pick up something cozy for the winter. Inventory changes daily. beanstalkpdx.com goody’s Goody’s is a locally owned and operated old-fashioned soda shop, specializing in handmade chocolates and ice cream, hundreds of candies, specialty popcorn, and much more! goodyschocolates.com

gnome wrapping paper by Paper Source. $2.50-$8.

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Seasonal Giving:

Get The Kids Involved by jana wingate

Now that the holidays are here, the stress of what that means to our family is upon us. With the kids circling the toy catalogs and the“I wants�back, how do we provide our kids the opportunity to realize that the holidays are about more than just presents? I know I say every year that I want our family to give back to the community, to give to those in need, but when do we find the time and money at this time of year? Plus, how do I help my daughter understand that she is fortunate to have a family that can provide her with the essentials as well as presents and a wonderful meal at Christmas. Well this year I am determined to give back to our community and I have found four great charities that you and your family can give back to as well.

PDX Diaper Bank is an amazing

organization allowing struggling families diaper the most vulnerable among us, kids and the elderly. We can all relate to the high cost of diapers, and no one should have to choose between providing food for the whole family or diapers for the baby. This is where PDX Diaper Bank steps in, by bringing health and happiness to low-income families by supplying free diapers and diapering supplies. To help support PDX Diaper Bank and local families in need, please visit their website at pdxdiaperbank.org

Portland Homeless Family Solutions (PHFS) is an extraordinary place that

provides temporary, emergency shelter to homeless families with children, yet with an ultimate goal of alleviating long-term family homelessness. Your children may not have a direct connection with homelessness, but equipping them with an outlet to assist other children and their families, may hit home. PHFS is looking for holiday donations, but they are in need of everyday household items all year round. To donate to this organization, please contact PHFS at pdxhfs.org/donate

Pleygo a unique Netflix-like rental service

for LEGO sets has partnered with Generation Rescue to launch the first ever holiday LEGO brick drive. They will be collecting LEGOs through December and will distribute to sites and doctor offices nation-wide that support children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This is the type of donation that your kids will feel a part of, actually giving of themselves and their toys. To contribute new or used LEGOs, contact Pleygo at pleygo.com/donate

Hands on Greater Portland provides

your whole family the unique opportunity to volunteer your time. They have a mission that everyone can do something for the community, which does include your kids.

There is no better way for your children to experience the art of giving, than giving of themselves. Their Good for Kids! projects! include everything from decorating for monthly senior birthday parties, to putting together care packages for families, and even sprucing up a local library. Hands on Greater Portland is a great way for you and your family to give of yourselves all year long.

To volunteer for this organization, please visit handsonportland.org

Jana Wingate is the mother of 5-year-old Rowyn, and lives with her husband and daughter in North Portland. She graduated from Cal State Fullerton with a BA Degree in Journalism.

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Winter Sports for the Whole Family by Jen Anderson

timberline lodge To ski or not to ski this year? How about snowboarding or ice skating?

Now that the season is upon us, many of us are wondering if our kiddos are old enough to try a winter sport for the first time, and if not, how we can keep shredding while keeping them safe and happy. Timberline Lodge and Mt. Hood Ski Bowl are both an hour to 90 minutes outside of the city, each with its own rad vibe.

Timberline Lodge The Kids Club at Timberline Lodge offers ski and snowboarding lessons for ages 4 to 12, in small groups, at all ability levels.

Why put them in lessons as opposed to just teaching them yourself ? “Sometimes, the kids just aren’t open to learning from mom or dad,” says John Tullis says, a Timberline spokesman. “To turn them over to an instructor, they straighten up, open their eyes, listen and have fun.”

Prices are $95 for a half-day lesson (including rentals, lift ticket and two hours of lessons) and $130 for full-day (including rentals, lift

ticket, lunch and four hours of lessons). Or get a “passport” for three days of full-day lessons for $300. Reservations are required.

For children under 4 -years-old, Timberline Lodge has a unique offering called a Parenthood Pass, which can be used by one parent at a time, while the other watches the kids at the lodge.The pass can be swapped at any time.

Timberline came up with the transferable pass a few years ago, recognizing that some parents don’t want to completely hang up their skis. “We recognize where people are at in parenthood, raising a family of skiers and trying to make it accessible and successful,” Tullis says. The Parenthood Pass is $585. timberlinelodge.com

mt. Hood ski bowl About 20-minutes closer to the city is Mt. Hood Ski Bowl, another affordable and easily accessible option. Their Mogul Busters Kids School is open to kids age 4 to 13, with small classes grouped by ability.

Kids are introduced to a variety of skills, runs and snow conditions, and get to show off continued on p. 20

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Still another perk: “It’s not freezing inside,” says Kenneth Knapp, who does maintenance and is the freestyle opener at the rink. “You can actually skate in 72-degree indoor weather. I’ve heard at a lot of other skate rinks, you’d better wear a jacket.” lloydcenterice.com

winterhawks skating center

mt. hood ski bowl their skills at the end of each four-week session at a Mogul Buster race. Prices range from $65 (for the one-day program for age 6 and under), to $295 (for the four-week program with lift ticket.

First-time skiers and snowboarders age 8 and up may also sign up for a beginner lesson package at Skibowl. At $119, it includes three visits, with tow/lift and rentals included. Just don’t forget to stop for hot chocolate. skibowl.com

lloyd center ice rink

For a different pace, check out the Winterhawks Skating Center, formerly known as Valley Ice Arena. Kiddos age 3-6 can enroll in the Sno-Hawks Series, designed to develop the coordination and strength necessary to get around on the ice, including sitting down on the ice and standing up. The Skate Center’s Basic Series is for ages 6 and up, introducing moves like forward and backward skating, stops, edges and crossovers. The current series wraps up in mid-December; drop-ins are $15.

The next series starts shortly thereafter. Lessons are $10 per class, plus $12 membership, which includes free skates during public skate time.

Youth hockey lessons are also available.

Hockey fans, prepare to be starstruck. The Portland Winterhawks own the place, and players sometimes come to skate during public skate time. Now that’s inspiring! winterhawksskatingcenter.com

If skating is more your thing, a true Portland holiday tradition is the Lloyd Center Ice Rink.

Get the young’uns started early with lessons at the Snowbunny level, age 3 to 5. The fall series is underway through Dec. 16 and drop-ins can be pro-rated. The seven-week series is $89.

Anyone who signs up for the January session of Skate School in December receives free admission to the Ice Rink through the holidays as well as the seven-week class period.

Lessons are available for every age and ability level, so it can be a family affair. Or, take advantage of the mall setting and get your holiday shopping done while lessons are underway. The kids will love saying hi to Santa on the way out.

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lloyd center ice rink Jen Anderson is a writer and mom to two adventurous boys, and lives in the Portland area.

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Monthly

Calendar

Performances Dec 1, 6-8

Singing Christmas Tree

Let the spectacular sights and sounds of Christmas fill your hearts as you join a 300 voice choir, live orchestra, and special guests! $17-77, Fri 7:30pm, Sat 2:30 and 7:30, Sun 2pm. singingchristmastree.org

Dec 7-9, 14-16, 21

Do Jump! – Seeds of Hope

An original production featuring a delicate balance of dance and acrobatics and exploring themes of change, optimism, and hope. Appropriate for all ages. $15-$22, Fri & Sat 7pm, Sun 1pm &4:30pm. dojump.org

Dec 7- Jan 5

Northwest Childrens Theater – Peter Pan

Head out and enjoy the most popular show in NWCT history! The story of the boy who never grows up comes to life onstage, with all of your favorite fantastical characters. $18-$22, times vary. nwcts.org

Dec 12-15

Oregon Symphony – Gospel Christmas

The Northwest Community Gospel Choir joins the Oregon Symphony for a thrilling performance, now in its 15th year. $25-$96, Fri & Sat 7:30pm, Sun 4pm. orsymphony.org

Dec 13 - Jan 5

Imago Theatre – Frogz

Don’t miss the unforgettable fun of Frogz this holiday season. It’s sure to delight the youngest of theatre-goers. $16-$31, times vary. imagotheatre.com

Dec 13-15, 21-22

Tears of Joy Theatre – The Shoemaker and the Elves

Come join the fun as Santa’s shoe artists help the Footmeyers spread good cheer all around 1940s New York City. Pre show puppet crafts on Sat & Sun, $13-18. Check website for show times. tojt.org

Photography by obt

Dec 14-24

Oregon Ballet Theatre – The Nutcracker

Photography by david kinder

A beloved holiday tradition for the entire family! Featuring the full OBT orchestra for 6 performances. $28-$150, times vary. www.obt.org

Please confirm calendar events and performances as scheduling changes may occur.

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December 2013 Nov 29-Dec 1, 6-8 Dec 14-15, 20-22

America’s Largest Christmas Bazaar

Bring the family to this abridged version of the classic holiday ballet and enjoy complimentary refreshments. Ages 4 & up. $14-30, 2pm & 7pm. nwdt.org

Dec 1 & 15

Northwest Dance Theatre – A Nutcracker Tea

Dec 22

Oregon Symphony – Comfort and Joy

A joyous collaboration between the Oregon Symphony and Pacific Youth Choir $10-$42, 4pm. orsymphony.org

Dec 26

Portland Youth Philharmonic – Concert-at-Christmas

A lush, magical night of classical music for the holiday season, performed by young Portland musicians! $20-60, 7:30pm. portlandyouthphil.org

Holiday Shopping Nov 30- Dec 1 BikeCraft 2013 Holiday Gift Fair

A one-of-a-kind craft fair featuring accessories, gifts, and more for the bicycle lover in your life.11am-6pm. bikecraftpdx.com

400 booths of juried handcraft artisans – what more could you ask for? $3-7, children under 12 are free. Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 10am5pm. expochristmasbazaar.com

The Crafty Underdog – Holiday Shows

Head to the Mission Theater in NW for live music, locally crafted goodies, food and hoho holiday cheer! 12-5pm thecraftyunderdog.com

Dec 6-7

Lake Oswego Holiday Market

An elegant, European market-style experience, with crafts and entertainment during your shopping breaks. 10am-4pm. ci.oswego.or.us/parksrec/holiday-market

Dec 8

Handmade NW Formal Holiday Artisans Fair 2013

Quality, whimsical, beautifully handcrafted goods for sale. Over 90 local artisans! 11am5pm. handmadenw.com

Dec 14-15

Crafty Wonderland – Super Colossal Holiday Sale

Portland’s favorite local craft shop’s annual winter extravaganza. 11am-6pm. craftywonderland.com

Remember to check the NW Kids online calendar for dozens more outings and activities each day. Share with friends, subscribe to the RSS, add directly to your calendar, and more features. There’s something going on you don’t want to miss!! nwkidsmagazine.com 24 | NW Kids Magazine

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Calendar cont’d Dec 18

Dec 14 & 21

Put off your holiday shopping again? Head down to the Downtown Waterfront where Portland Saturday Market vendors sell their wares. 11am-3:30pm portlandsaturdaymarket.org

A breakfast buffet complete with Christmas cookies, ride the carousel with Santa and receive a complimentary photo of your kiddo’s visit with him. $20/person, reservation required. 8-9:30am. salemcarousel.org

Portland Saturday Market – Festival of the Last Minute

Breakfast with Santa Weekends in Dec McMenamins

An annual holiday breakfast tradition for many Portland families! At various McMenamins locations. This popular event sells out very quickly, so make your reservation now! Times vary. mcmenamins.com

Dec 7

Kiwanis SW Hills

Delicious pancakes and sausage, fresh juice and coffee, and of course, old St. Nick.

Come out to the Lucky Lab in Multnomah Village and support the Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp for Children and Adults with Disabilities. $4-6, photos with Santa $5, 8-11am. kiwanisswhills.org

Dec 21

Billings Dance and Performing Arts Center An annual event with dance performances, a breakfast buffet, and silent auction. Proceeds benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Kids in the Arts. $30/seat, 9am & 12pm. portlandsbreakfastwithsanta.org 26 | NW Kids Magazine

Salem Carousel

Events Mondays

World Forestry Center Mommy & Me Mondays

Join WFC for an adventure with songs, crafts, story time and/or puppetry.

Afterwards, take your time and enjoy hands-on exhibits in the museum. Fun for the whole family! 10-11am, $6-9, kiddos 2 and under are free. worldforestry.org

Nov 29-Dec 1, 6-8, 13-15 Oregon Rail Heritage Foundation – Annual Holiday Express Ride a real steam locomotive through the beautiful Pacific Northwest greenery and meet Santa, $9-18 age 2 and under free. orhf.org

Nov 29-Dec 24

Santa at Cedar Hills Crossing

Visit with Santa at his cottage inside the mall. Mon-Sat 11am-7pm, Sun 11am-6pm. portlandsanta.com

Nov 30

Downtown Hillsboro – Holly Days and a Visit with Santa

A winter marketplace with craft vendors, local food and drink, and winter produce, a tree lighting ceremony, and wish lists with Santa, 1-6pm. www.ci.hillsboro.or.us

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Calendar cont’d All Dec

Pittock Mansion – A Locally Crafted Christmas

Celebrate artistry and skill in the Northwest.

Festive decorations, lights, and Christmas trees will fill the 16,000 square foot house $7-10, kids 0-5 free, 11am-4pm. pittockmansion.org

Dec 6-8, 13-15, 20-22

Oregon Garden – Christmas in the Garden

Kick off your holiday celebrations with a visit to the Rediscovery Forest and enjoy a traditional Christmas Market and charming light display. $5-11, kids 0-4 free, 4-9pm. oregongarden.org

Dec 1, 4-8, 11-15, 18-22, 26-29

Mount Hood Railroad – All Aboard! The Polar Express

A holiday favorite comes to life. Take a journey to the North Pole, meet Santa, sip hot cocoa – all in your pajamas! $18-46, departure times vary. mthoodrr.com

Nov 30-Dec 1, 7-8, 14-15, 20-24, 26-27 Portland Spirit – Cinnamon Bear Cruise

A 2-hour cruise just for kids! Holiday treats, stories, magical fanfare, and, of course, the Cinnamon Bear himself. $22-$30, kids 0-1 free. Check website for departures. cinnamonbearcruises.com

Dec 6-8, 13-15, 20-22 Alpenrose Dairy – Christmas in Dairyville

Spend an afternoon in Dairyville, decked out for the holidays! Check out the animals 28 | NW Kids Magazine

in Storybook Lane, take in a movie in the Opera House, have a professional picture taken with Santa. Free, Fri 3-6pm, Sat & Sun 11am-6pm. alpenrose.com

Dec 7

Cedarwood School – Annual Magical Winter Faire

Come meet the Wishing Stone Wizard, the Pocket Lady and the Winter Fairies at the 10th annual Winter Faire. See the school transformed into a winter wonderland, make wool crafts and dip candles. Fun! Food and beverages available too.10am6pm cedarwoodschool.org

Dec 7

Christmas at Fort Vancouver and Pearson Air Museum

Maximize your holiday fun in one day!

Visit Fort Vancouver for traditional celebrations of the season, then head to the Pearson Air Museum to have pictures taken with Santa in a vintage airplane and sip hot cocoa. 10am-5pm. fortvan.org, pearsonairmuseum.org

DEC 8, 14, 21 & JAN 4 Soccer Shots FREE Indoor Soccer Clinics

Curious about Soccer Shots? Sign up for a free indoor soccer clinic (ages 3-8).

Various times and locations: 12/8 Beaverton, 12/14 Happy Valley, 12/21 Gresham, 1/4 Lake Oswego. Check the website for more details. soccershots.org

Dec 12-24

Santa House on the Bricks

Visit Santa in his 20-foot “Santa House” in the Square downtown, right next to the Christmas Tree. Photo prices vary, 9am-9pm, 9am-5pm on Dec 24. portlandsanta.com

a lighted, wooded, “Fantasy Trail,” to a 40foot castle with Christmas scenes, a tunnel maze, crooked house, suspension bridge and more. $4-$5 per person, 6-9 pm. fantasytrail.com zoolights

Lights All Dec

Oregon Zoo – Zoolights

Come for the animals, stay for the lights!

Over a million LED lights and moving sculptures create a magical atmosphere.

Closed Dec 24 & 25, $7-10. Check website for schedule. oregonzoo.org

NOV 30 & DEC 6-21

Portland’s Christmas Ship Parade Enjoy the brightly decorated Christmas Ship Fleet this holiday season. Various launch/viewing locations along the river with a special performance in Camas, WA on Nov 30th. christmasships.org

Dec 6

Fremont Festival of Lights

A lovely festive evening in Beaumont Village. Watch Santa arrive via fire engine, 4-9pm. businessonfremont.com

Dec 15-31 Peacock Lane

A celebrated Portland holiday tradition!

Take a stroll or a horse-drawn carriage ride through this SE Portland neighborhood and marvel at the intricately decorated houses with lights, nativity scenes, and other wintry goodness. Free cocoa! Note: Dec 15-16 are pedestrian only nights.

6-11pm, Dec 24 & 31 6pm-12am. peacocklane.net

Nov 28-Dec 25

20th Annual Winter Wonderland The largest light show in the west will not disappoint, with colorful lights and animated scenes. $6 and up, Sun-Thurs 5-9pm, Fri-Sat 5-11pm. globaleventsgrouppdx.com/ wonderland

Nov 29-Dec 30

The Grotto – Christmas Festival of Lights

A twinkling celebration of Christmas, with choir performances, puppet shows, and hot cocoa. $4-9, kids 0-2 free, 5-9:30pm. thegrotto.org/christmas

DEC 2-30

Wenzel Farm Christmas Fantasy Trail

Step out for a magical holiday walk through

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Hanging Paper Snowflakes made by Joel I’m sure you all know how to make paper snowflakes, but there are instructions below if you’d like. With kids, I usually do 4 pointed snowflakes, as opposed to 6, because it’s easier for them to cut through the paper layers. However, I’ve never seen a paper snowflake that I didn’t like!

1 2 3 4

F old bottom left corner up to the right side of the paper edge.

Fold bottom right corner up to the left side.

Fold in half down the middle.

You’re going to cut off the bottom tip, where all of the folded paper is. You can do a rounded edge, or straight cut, or angled cut.

Each will make a different snowflake shape.

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5 6

Cut the bottom tip off.

Now make whatever decorative cuts you’d like. Experiment with all ideas you can think of!

7 8

Unfold the snowflake!

Flatten under some heavy books. (optional)

Finished! (We hung ours from the ceiling with thread and clear tape. Fast and simple!)

Photography courtesy of Joel Henriques

Artist and designer, Joel Henriques, has devoted himself to making arts and crafts both accessible and meaningful. Made by Joel encourages everyone, regardless of economic means, skill level or age to participate in the collective, creative process. Learn about Joel and try more of his crafts at madebyjoel.com.

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