PDX Parent December 2023 by PDX Parent

FREE

CELEBRATE THE SEASON AT KID-FRIENDLY FESTIVITIES, PG. 36

for the long days and short years

THE

Family-friendly Dining Guide PG. 24

HOLIDAY

gift picks

FOR KIDS PDXPARENT.COM

PORTLAND | SW WASHINGTON | DECEMBER 2023

HO! HO! HO! WHO WOULDN’T GO? New shops and restaurants. New Village Green play area. Same great escape. Scan to view all the festive holiday fun we have planned!

7 4 5 5 S W B RID G E P O RT RD, T IG A RD, O R 9 7 2 2 4 @ B RID G E P O RT V IL L AG E

contents

24 Find vegan, gluten-free and other allergy-friendly OFF THE GRIDDLE

brunch choices that kids will adore at Off the Griddle restaurant in Southeast Portland.

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

A Minimalist’s Guide to Giving................................................................................. 16

Editor’s Note............................................................................................................................... 4

Cut down on holiday clutter by following the Want, Need, Wear, Read gift-giving philosophy for your kiddos, or discover great ideas

Play Room..................................................................................................................................... 6

for gifts of experience for the whole family.

Meet a teen who bakes for people experiencing houselessness;

By Kate Hagan Gallup.

chill out with a triple album of global music for kids; and find a handy list of sick-day essentials.

The PDX Parent Dining Guide................................................................................. 24 Get the inside scoop on Portland’s family-friendly restaurants.

Field Trip..................................................................................................................................... 32

Plus, score deals at restaurants where kids eat free.

Winter hiking doesn't have to be a drag! Hit up Bridal Veil Falls for

By Meg Asby, Denise Castañon and Bethany Marcel.

an interesting and scenic hike with kids. By Roma Sidelinger.

PDX Parent Reader Favorites: Shopping.................................................... 30 Just in time for holiday gift-giving, check out our readers’ poll

Time Out......................................................................................................................................36

winners in the shopping category.

Get in the holiday spirit this month with glowing light displays, Solstice celebrations, caroling contests, menorah lighting and much more!

RESOURCES: Holiday Highlights Guide....................................................................................... 11-14

Open House.............................................................................................................................34

* cover stories

LEGO

Holiday Gift Guide........................................................................................................ 14-15

pdxparent.com

| December 2023

e d i t o r ’ s n ot e

for the long days and short years

The Holiday$

PDX Parent P.O. Box 13660

an expensive time of year. And we know Portland-area families are feeling the pinch of rising costs of everything — from housing to child care to groceries. So for this year’s kids’ gift guide we focus on a simpler, and possibly more affordable, style of gift-giving: the Want, Need, Wear, Read philosophy. The idea is to only give a child something they want, need, can wear or read. Head to page 16 to see what writer Kate Hagan Gallup and the children’s book buyers from Powell’s City of Books picked for the story. Whether you will be giving just one gift with love — or plan to do eight presents for Hanukkah or pile gifts under the tree — you’ll find some meaningful choices. And we also have ideas for even less clutter in your home — gifts of experience the whole family can do together to create indelible memories or a new holiday tradition. (My family got a great early gift of experience from my in-laws — tickets to see Les Mis together at the Keller, pictured left.) We’re also looking out for your pocketbook with our PDX Parent Dining Guide. Sure, we list new family-friendly restaurants and carts you should try. But we also have a roundup of places where kids eat free — which always hits the spot. Head to page 24 for

Phone: 503-460-2774 Publisher Jill Weisensee, 503-460-2774 publisher@pdxparent.com Editor Denise Castañon, 503-922-0893 denise.castanon@pdxparent.com Managing Editor Tiffany Hill tiffany.hill@pdxparent.com Temporary Managing Editor Beth Peters Temporary Managing Editor Bethany Marcel Art Director Tiffany Howard tiffany.howard@pdxparent.com Web Content Coordinator Meg Asby

recommendations that will get your mouth watering.

meg.asby@pdxparent.com

We also list lots of free holiday events in our Time

E-newsletter Editor Anne King

Out section like the Beaverton Winter Lights and

anne.king@pdxparent.com

The Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Contest in Pioneer

Westside Account Executive

Courthouse Square. There’s so much free family fun this time of year! If gifts or dining out are far beyond your family’s budget, please head to pdxparent.com/holidayresources for a list of organizations that give families some extra help, whether it’s housing, food or toys for kids. Wishing you and your family love, security

CR AIG W. PAR K ER

Portland, OR 97213-0660

and warmth this winter.

Lauren Wylie, 503-331-8184 lauren.wylie@pdxparent.com Eastside Account Executive Alice Schulz, 971-236-4037 alice.schulz@pdxparent.com Digital Ad Manager/Calendar Editor/ Distribution Coordinator Melissa Light melissa.light@pdxparent.com Accountant Kelli Bagby Truly Bookkeeping, Inc. Vice President of Operations Rose Caudillo operations@pdxparent.com For distribution issues, e-mail us at distribution@pdxparent.com For calendar submissions, e-mail us at calendar@pdxparent.com

ON OUR COVER

A big thanks to Mike Bennett for this fabulous cover illustration of a penguin family eating at a cool, new restaurant. Families all over Portland know his signature style from his “slow down” signs, pop-up art installations and Wonderwood Immersive Art Experience. Find out his latest endeavors at mikebennettart.com.

December 2023

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PDX Parent is published monthly (except July) by Northwest Parent, LLC., and is copyright 2021 Northwest Parent, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. PDX Parent is distributed free of charge throughout the Portland, OR / Vancouver, WA metropolitan area. PDX Parent reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. Distribution of this publication does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised herein. PDX Parent does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, disability, gender, gender expression, sex or sexual orientation. Although every effort is taken to ensure the accuracy of published material, Northwest Parent, LLC., and its agents and employees cannot be held responsible for the use or misuse of any information contained herein. The contents of PDX Parent and its website are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional advice or treatment.

pdxparent.com

| December 2023

p l ay r o o m

Picks for Sick Days

When our family is sick, I crave two things: soup — and for someone else to make dinner. Enter

Stone Soup, a nonprofit serving up delicious soup and providing job training and skills to people at risk of houselessnes. We love how convenient it is to DoorDash a 24-ounce container of their hearty soup, with flavors like sweet potato pecan and chicken tortilla. And if you’re sick a lot, or just love soup,

you can sign up for their monthly subscription and get one fresh soup each week. $48 a month. Pickup only for subscriptions. 306 NW Broadway. Stonesouppdx.com/soup.

We can’t get

enough of Mickelberry Gardens and their comforting wellness products made from raw, local honey. From their Throat & Lung Honey tonic ($11.99) to their soothing salves, honey throat spray and honey sold in bulk, you can’t go

wrong searching for ways to feel better. 12450 NE Marx St. Mickelberrygardens. com.

For sick day pick-me-ups, we love Dandelion Teahouse &

Apothecary. While you sip on their gingery “Immunitea’’ and try not to catch your kiddo’s cold, your child can enjoy one of their kid-friendly options, like their caffeine-free pumpkin juice, which sparkles with edible glitter. Kids will feel like they’re drinking a pumpkin/vanilla magic get-well potion. Pro tip: You can

order ahead online for a quick pickup, so when that kind friend asks if there’s

anything they can do to help out, say yes this time! 109 W 7th St, Vancouver, Wash. Dandelionteahouse.com.

When sick days turn into emergency

cleaning days, Mama & Hapa’s Zero Waste Shop is here to help. They deliver cleaning products straight to your door — without the waste. They offer everything from sanitizing spray ($0.10 per fluid ounce) to odor remover (we hope you won’t need it, but just in case! $0.29 per fluid

ounce) and so much more. They offer same-day delivery for some locations, so check their delivery map. Mamahapa.com.

So your kid has a sick day, but you don’t — you’re answering emails while doing

dishes and also probably tap dancing to entertain your kid. We’ve all been there. Enter Kanopy, the free app that allows you to access entertainment through your library card. They offer read-along storybooks, story time, as well as a variety of kids’ movies. Kanopy.com. — Bethany Marcel

PHOTO CR EDITS: 1: STONE SOUP 3: DANDELION TE AHOUSE & APOTHEC ARY 4: MAMA & HAPA’S ZERO WASTE SHOP 5: K ANOPY

Playlist: Go Global

I love finding kids’ music that is suitable for toddlers, but won’t drive me crazy as a parent. Ammu’s Treasures by Chandrika Tandon is just that kind of album. Hauntingly mesmerizing vocals by Tandon bring a global-music flair to well-known songs such as Que Sera Sera, Scarborough Fair, Edelweiss and many more. In addition to songs in English, Tandon recorded songs in Sanskrit and French. Her triple album is a soundtrack for a calm, cozy day at home with your littles. Find out more at chandrikatandon.com/ammus-treasures. — Denise Castañon

December 2023

pdxparent.com

Ask Dr. Baynham Q: My 9-year-old began wetting the bed. I limit his drink intake before bed, but it doesn’t seem to help. What else can I do?

A: Bedwetting is more common than you may think! At age 5, approximately 15% of children still wet the bed. This drops to 7% by age 8, and 1% by age 15. There is also a genetic component to bedwetting, meaning if one or both parents have a history of bedwetting, kids are also more likely to wet the bed. There are some things you can try, but there is no proven effective method

laundry after having an accident. This isn’t a punishment, but a responsibility. There is a medication called desmopressin (DDAVP) that can be used on an as-needed basis, such as a special sleepover or camp, but it is not a cure and is not meant to be used daily. For kids 6 to 7 and older, guided imagery sessions where we talk through visualizations to practice at bedtime can also help. In general, bedwetting isn’t a problem until it bothers the child,

most are dry overnight by age 4 to 5. A concerning change would be if your child had been potty trained at night for an extended period of time, and then began wetting the bed again. In that case, make an appointment with your pediatrician right away so they can check for things such as a urinary tract infection, diabetes or recent stressors. Techniques that may be helpful are restricting fluid intake

and when that happens, it’s time to start using some of the above approaches. Remind your child they’re not alone, that someone in their family probably has a similar history, and that most kids outgrow it by puberty. Pediatrician, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Fellow in the American Academy of Pediatrics and mom of two, Allison Baynham, M.D., knows what it takes to raise

one to two hours before bedtime, a bedwetting alarm (though

healthy, resilient children. Come bond, share

these usually wake up everyone in the house except the person

your struggles and team with her for great care

wetting the bed), and having your child take charge of doing the

GAIL PAR K

Most children potty train between ages 2 to 3 years, and

GAIL PAR K

to “cure” bedwetting.

at Metropolitan Pediatrics in Tigard.

Kid to Know: The Star Baker In May of 2023, 16-year-old Kaitlyn Randolph (pictured left) started Portland

Bakes, an organization that bakes and donates cookies, tarts and more for guests and residents experiencing houselessness at Blanchet House and Farm. Kaitlyn was inspired by her eighth-grade math teacher, Ms. Swartz, who started a similar club while school was online. Now Kaitlyn is the one who coordinates with other high school students, picks up baked goods and delivers them to Blanchet House. Her group donates about 90 servings of treats a month to the shelter. “I love baking, so it’s really nice to be able to combine my interests with a social issue that I care about,” says Kaitlyn. “I also enjoy getting to spend time with my friends while doing it. I like to invite a few of my friends over to spend a morning baking and having fun. I also like knowing that our donations can give an actual person a little bit of happiness with their meal, and that we’re making that direct impact on someone who might BL ANCHE T HOUSE

need it.” Kaitlyn, who is a junior

at Sunset High School, hopes to major in political science and minor in international relations and environmental science when she goes to college. Once she graduates from high school, she plans to pass on Portland Bakes to a younger high schooler who will carry on the same mission. In the meantime, she’ll keep baking with friends to help others. “I hope to organize a group baking event in late December to bake and frost Christmas cookies, so we can hopefully make the most amount of cookies possible and create some extra holiday spirit at Blanchet House,” she says. To see the bakes from the group follow them on Instagram @PortlandBakes. — D.C.

BL ANCHE T HOUSE

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December 2023

p l ay r o o m

Good Deeds: PDX Diaper Bank So how can you help this holiday season? Donate. You can ship diapers directly to their warehouse or bring them to one of their many drop-off locations, and you can also donate dollars toward the purchase of diapers. Find out more about how to donate at pdxdiaperbank.org/donate. Host a diaper drive at

your holiday party and ask guests to bring diapers in lieu of gifts. Find more information about hosting a diaper drive

PDX DIAPER BANK

According to the National Diaper Bank Network 2023 Diaper Check, nearly 1 in 2 parents/

caregivers (47%) experience diaper need in the United States. Diapers are a necessity, and yet the need is often overlooked. Operating since 2012, PDX Diaper Bank aims to not only provide

diapers to families and agencies — they also hope to educate the public about the harmful effects of diaper insecurity. “Equitable access to diapers keeps children and communities healthy,” says Executive Director and Founder of PDX Diaper Bank, Rachel Alston. “There is a huge ripple effect of not having enough of these essential resources. Diaper need impacts access to education, child care, job security and even graduation rates.” Alston shared more staggering statistics from the NDBN Diaper Check. For instance, 25% of parents and caregivers with diaper need reported having to miss work or school because they did not have enough diapers, and 28% reported skipping meals. “I was once a mother who experienced diaper need,” Alston says. “I know what it feels like, so it is a personal goal of mine to advocate for parents experiencing the same need. I deeply empathize with what it feels like to be a mother in a moment when you can’t afford to provide a basic need for your child.”

at pdxdiaperbank.org/getinvolved/host-a-diaper-drive. Volunteer to wrap

diapers. PDX Diaper Bank receives many diapers that need to be rewrapped before distribution, so they have an ongoing need for support. Families are always welcome! If you’d like to get involved, please email Community Engagement Coordinator Megan Bugbee to schedule an appointment to volunteer at megan@pdxdiaperbank.org. — B.M.

Holidays are stressful finding a nanny doesn’t have to be Services Permanent Placements As-Needed Care In-A-Pinch 8

December 2023

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portlandnanny.com @Portland_Nanny

Learn together every visit

Explore with those you love Spark their curiosity

Now is the best time to buy or gift an OMSI membership.

15% off all OMSI Memberships Nov 28 through Jan 7, 2024 Buy or gift a membership for free museum admission, discounts on events and attractions, 10% off camps and classes, exclusive member perks, and more!

omsi.edu pdxparent.com

| December 2023

FIRST HOLIDAY SHOW AT

1000 SW BROADWAY, T-100 • PORTLAND

November 25 - December 31

Music & Lyrics by Johnny Marks, Script Adaptation by Robert Penola Most enjoyed by ages 3 and up

SHOWS AT 11 AM & 2:30 PM ACCESS PROGRAMMING 12/10 11:00AM

December 2023

pdxparent.com

12/16 2:30PM

12/17 2:30PM

12/30 2:30PM

TICKETS NWCTS.ORG 503-222-2190

H O L I D AY H I G H L I G H T S

Happy and Healthy Holidays! CONVENIENT QR CODE for Self Scheduling Next Day & Same Day Appointments at all of our offices including our NEW location westside!!

Only newborns under 11 lbs qualify for the 50ml dose we currently have available. Please call the office to schedule and ask about other vaccine availabilities.

www.sellwoodmd.com

503-595-9300

North Pediatrics

6234 N Greeley Ave Portland

BEFORTUS RSV INJECTION

Westside Pediatrics

Sellwood Pediatrics

Beaverton

Portland

9925 SW Nimbus Ave

8333 SE 13th Ave

Family Practice & Gynecology 8332 SE 13th Ave Portland

Find

fun

every day of the week on our online kids calendar

pdxparent.com/ events-calendar pdxparent.com

| December 2023

H O L I D AY H I G H L I G H T S

Celebrations

A fun and festive event for all ages! Celebrate holiday traditions from different cultures with food, music, games and live performances. Learn more about Las Posadas, St. Lucia Day, Dongzhi Festival, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Christmas.

Crafts | Games | Food | Music | Mexican Hot Chocolate

Helping to create

peace of mind and serene living is what we’re here to do!

Photo Booth | Vasa Youth Swedish Dancers

Delivering exceptional service

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 9:30 A.M. TO NOON

to our clients while operating with extremely high levels of

AT THE MILWAUKIE COMMUNITY CENTER

integrity, attention to detail, and passion for what we do.

FREE FAMILY EVENT | NCPRD.COM/WINTER-CELEBRATIONS

When our clients are happy, we’re happy.

BREAKFAST CRUISE

December

2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 22-24, 26-27

BOOK TODAY

503-791-3447

Limited Availability

emmaculatepdx

portlandspirit.com | 503-224-3900

emmaculatecleaningpdx.com Featuring Scott Anderson of “America’s Got Talent”

December 2023

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emmy@ emmaculatecleaningpdx.com

Children’s n is o e T h g r e t a e Or

Find your light this January! In a world where young people are too often told to be quiet and stay in the background, OCT is coming back BIG in January and shouting from the rooftops: “Find your light!” with a season of mainstage shows that celebrate characters who do whatever it takes to shine positivity into the world.

goodnight moon winningstad Theatre Recommended for AGES 3 AND UP Join us in the Great Green Room, where this beloved children’s story comes to life on stage! See the three little bears, the pair of kittens, the young mouse, and the cow jump over the moon as we say goodnight to them all alongside little Bunny in this magical, musical tale.

January 14–February 11, 2024 SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS at 11:00 am & 2:00 pm

The Lightning Thief: the percy jackson musical Newmark Theatre Recommended for ages 8 and up When 12-year-old Percy Jackson discovers he's a demigod, he and his friends embark on an epic journey to find Zeus' missing lightning bolt and prevent a war among the gods. This dynamic musical adaptation of Rick Riordan's bestselling book, The Lightning Thief, features an exciting rock score.

January 21–February 18, 2024 SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS at 11:00 am & 2:00 pm

Tickets are on sale now!

Scan here for more info!

Oregon Children’s Theatre

(503) 228-9571 octc.org

H O L I D AY H I G H L I G H T S

H O L I D AY G I F T G U I D E

For

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subscribe to our newsletter!

IMAGO THEATRE PRESENTS 17 SE 8th | imagotheatre.com

“A blur of magic” NY Theatre.com

-J EC 8

THIS N ING C O M S E A SO Y A D OLI

Tickets: IMAGOTHEATRETICKETS.COM or call Imago: 503.231.9581 14

December 2023

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H O L I D AY G I F T G U I D E

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

TOYS, TOYS,

TOYS!

Get holiday-ready with Beanstalk.

FREMONT 3527 NE 15th Ave. Portland, OR 97212 503.477.7776

MONTAVILLA 8021 SE Stark St. Portland, OR 97215 503.327.8506

shopbeanstalk.com · beanstalkpdx.com

pdxparent.com

| December 2023

A MINIMALIST’S GUIDE Take the stress out of holiday gift-giving with a new focus on creating meaningful gifts and lasting traditions. For this gift guide we focus on the Want, Need, Wear, Read philosophy, in which parents give children only four gifts: something they want, something they need, something they can wear, something to read. Whether you will be sharing a single item with love or more presents with purpose, you’ll find something for your kids on our list. We also offer some ideas to create a new holiday tradition (with even less clutter) with whole-family gifts of experience.

WANT THE

GREA

T PR

ETEN

DERS

Bitzee The Bitzee interactive digital pet is your

Reversible Blue Lightning Holographic Cape This holographic cape will let your tiny superhero shine — even better, it’s reversible too. The maker Great Pretenders has spent 35 years inspiring open-ended play. Size 5-6. At MudPuddles Toys & Books. (And more designs at Oodles of Toys.) $29.99. 16

December 2023

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childhood Tamagotchi crossed with a Star Wars hologram. Widely recognized as the “must-have” toy of 2023, the Bitzee is a digital pet that evolves like a Pokemon and unlocks new games and characters, too. Items sell out quickly online! Ages 5 and up. At target.com and amazon.com. $29.99.

SPINMASTER

PE ACE ABLE K INGD OM

Gnomes at Night In this awardwinning family game, trusty gnomes engage in cooperative play to find the queen’s treasure across a twisty maze. Collect all the treasure before time runs out. Ages 6 and up. At Thinker Toys. $25.99.

OAK I

warehouse based in Vancouver, Washington, you know this rain suit was built by people who understand PNW weather. A staple for outdoor play in the winter, waterproof your child head-to-toe in a variety of fun and friendly colors. Sizes 12 months to adult. At oaki.com and select sizes at bridgecitykid.com. $69.

Slumberkins Kinspiration Kit

Kids’ Hydro Flask 12-ounce Water Bottle Hydro Flask hails from Bend, Oregon, and keeps your kids’ water at their preferred temperature all day long. The 12-ounce kids’ vacuumsealed water bottle features a wide mouth for easy filling, a flipup straw, and an impact-resistant and grippy boot. Ages 2 and older. At rei.com. $29.

Slumberkins awaken from across the Columbia in Vancouver, Washington, to bring social and emotional health to children. Choose from four brand-new Kinspiration Kits for openended games and adventures featuring your favorite SLUMBER K INS Slumberkins characters. Ages 4 and older. At Hammer and Jacks. $78.

OmieBox Bento Box for Kids The bento-box solution for the kid who can’t decide. This three-compartment lunch box features two temperature zones for both hot and cold eats, including a leak-proof, insulated jar that can hold soup. Ages 3 and older. At walmart.com. $44.95. LEGO

LEGO® City Ski and Climbing Center Your family can’t hit the slopes every day, so bring your winter sports home with this LEGO City adventure. This deluxe set features skiing, sledding, climbing, mountain biking and a working elevator. Mt. Hood not included. Ages 7 and older. At Bricks & Minifigs. $145.

Oaki Rain Suit With a

HYDRO FL ASK

NEED

TO GIVING

BY KATE HAGAN GALLUP

O M IE

pdxparent.com

December 2023

WEAR KEEN

KEEN Kids’ Howser II Waterproof Chukka Familyowned and Portland-based KEEN may be known for its durable summer sandals, but these winter boots should not be overlooked. Waterproof inside and out, these warm and fuzzy shoes feature PFA-free insulation and that same easy-cinch closure you love from the sandals. Little kid size 8-13; big kid size 1-7. At KEEN Garage Portland. $75.

favorite Hanna Andersson is back with all-new holiday designs. Kids with sensory challenges will appreciate the scratch-free seams. Pro tip: Hannas have such a long lifespan, you can sell back your used jammies and clothes to the company for cash or credit! Kid size 2-16 and adult sizes. At hannaandersson.com. $46.

WowWee Style Squad – Hype Hair Floral Frenzy Summer festival season may be over, but that doesn’t mean cool hair is out! This seemingly simple hair accessory abounds with possibility. Choose from over 250-plus flowers and sequins to “stamp” into new hairstyles for holiday fun. Ages 6 and up. At amazon.com. $9.99.

WOW WEE

December 2023

pdxparent.com

HANNA ANDER SSON

Hanna Andersson holiday pajamas Portland-based pajama

Being Yourself Is So Punk Rock Kids Hoodie The best gift we can give our kids this holiday might be the confidence and love to be themselves — fully, uniquely and beautifully. Bonus: This cool sweatshirt from Seattle-based Free to Be Kids was certified sweatshop and child-labor free. Kids sizes XS to XL. At freetobekids.com. $30.

FR EE TO BE K IDS

GIFTS OF

EXPERIENCE Want even less stuff in your house? These gifts will provide memories of fun family time that will last even longer than plastic.

Bring your family to The Yard (pictured below) on the Vancouver

See a show as a family. Rick Riordan fans will love Oregon Children’s Theatre’s The

Or maybe your family prefers to create together. Clay is the perfect medium for whole-family classes. Owl and Bee Clay Company (pictured

milkshakes. Taste IG-worthy

Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical and its reminder: The things that

creations adorned with whipped

make you different are the things that make

parent-and-child workshops. Packages begin at

topping, brownies, cookies, rock

you special. Tickets from $26-$49. Octc.org/

$225. Owlandbeeclaycompany.com/clay-classes.

candy, gummy worms and more

the-lightning-thief.

waterfront for outrageous

in towering citadels of sugar.

If holidays bring out the angst in your

Theyardmilkshakebar.com.

family, we’ve got the solution: Smash PDX

below) offers kids-only or adult clay sessions, or

And Kilnfolk Vancouver offers two-hour family clay sessions from $50 per adult and $25 per kid. Kilnfolkclay.com/family-kids-pottery.

(pictured below). Smash a car. Splatter some

Spend a day together playing in the snow on Mt.

paint. Break some glass. Everyone can get

Hood. Snow Bunny Sno-Park offers an affordable

their frustrations out at this Portland rage

option. This area is free to use, so your gift budget only

room. Tickets from $26-$50. Smashpdx.com.

needs to cover the gas, parking and hot chocolate. Fs.usda.gov/recarea/mthood/recarea/?recid=53486.

THE YAR D, VANCOUVER , WASH.

SMASH PDX

OWL AND BEE CL AY COMPANY

pdxparent.com

December 2023

READ

Keep your kids glued to a new book during winter break. Thanks to Kim Tano and Madeline Shier, the children’s book buyers at Powell’s City of Books, for these great recommendations for books to give as gifts! Look for these titles at the Burnside, Hawthorne or Cedar Hills Powell’s locations, or order online at powells.com.

5-Minute Nature Stories by Gabby Dawnay, illustrated by Mona K

child ages 4 and older! Follow Little Oktober as he ventures out from his cozy home on an amazing adventure. Quirky, detailed illustrations and a celebration of the great outdoors make this perfect for re-reading at bedtime or on a rainy afternoon. $17.99.

Nell of Gumbling: My Extremely Normal Fairy-tale Life, written and illustrated by Emma Steinkellner

L ABYRINTH ROAD

The Wilderness written and illustrated by Steve McCarthy A perfect gift for any

ABR AMS BOOKS

PENGUIN R ANDOM HOUSE

Explore animals, insects and plants with a charming fact-based story and cute woodland creatures sure to captivate. Dance of the Honeybee, Flight of the Blackbirds and The Mystery of the Mushroom are just a few in this 10-story collection. Perfect as a quick read before dreaming about the miracle of nature. Great for ages 4 and up! $14.99.

Graphic novel creator Steinkellner’s (The Okay Witch) illustrated novel reads like Diary of a Wimpy Kid set in the world of Ella Enchanted. Middle schoolers who love fantasy, graphic novels or journalstyle storytelling are sure to fall in love with Nell of Gumbling. $18.99.

Glow: A Family Guide to the Night Sky by Noelia González, illustrated by Sara Boccaccini Meadows Written by a senior NASA science writer, this book brings ABR AMS BOOKS

fascinating facts and glorious illustrations along with mythology and folklore. Phases of the moon, how to spot Polaris, and interesting facts about satellites are just a few things that will reveal the wonders of the sky above from here on Earth. This book is a great family gift for anyone fascinated with the night sky. Ages 8 and up. $22.99.

December 2023

pdxparent.com

WHERE TO

BUY

Bricks & Minifigs 3040 NE Sandy Blvd.; 250 SW 1st Ave. (99E),

NOSY CROW

Canby; and 3205 SW Cedar Hills Blvd., Suite #44, bricksandminifigs.com

A Whale of a Time, poems selected by Lou Peacock, illustrated by Matt Hunt Nosy Crow’s fourth gorgeously illustrated poem-a-day collection highlights funny poems to bring joy whether read aloud or alone. If you’re looking for a gift like Shel Silverstein, look no further! Excellent for any age. $40.

Hammer and Jacks 6406 SE Foster Rd., hammerandjacks.com KEEN Garage 505 NW 13th Ave., keenfootwear.com MudPuddles Toys & Books 2305 NW Kearney St. and 16420 SW Langer Dr., Sherwood, mudpuddlestoys.com

Oodles of Toys 7727 SE 13th Ave., oodlesoftoys.com Thinker Toys 7784 SW Capitol Hwy., thinkertoysoregon.com

Kate Hagan Gallup has experience with marketing clients big and small. A mother to a little boy, her most recent roles and digital skills help share her passion for parenting, eco-consciousness and all things food with a larger audience.

pdxparent.com

December 2023

AFS-1123-PRINT-PDX-Parent-Ad-Quarter-Page-R2-D1.pdf

11/14/23

1:50 PM

Preschool, Kindergarten & Childcare Center 4845 SW Murray Boulevard, Beaverton, OR 97005 503-644-1466 | sunshine-montessori.com Ages: 2 years through Kindergarten Hours: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm (Mon - Fri)

• Locally owned and operated • Serving the community since 1996 • Qualified & consistent staff

525 SW 150th Avenue, Beaverton, OR 97006 503-626-0457 | www.nwlearning.com Ages: Infant through Kindergarten Hours: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm (Mon - Fri)

December 2023

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Early Learning School 14950 SW Osprey Drive, Beaverton, OR 97007 503-579-0600 | childs-place.com Ages: Infant through Kindergarten Hours 7:00 am - 6:00 pm (Mon - Fri)

• Large outdoor play areas • Snacks & lunch prepared and served daily

Preschool, Kindergarten & Childcare Center 17650 SW Alexander Street, Aloha, OR 97003 503-591-9660 | www.mayflower-montessori.com Ages: Infant through Kindergarten Hours: 7:00 am - 6:00 pm (Mon - Fri)

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pdxparent.com

| December 2023

THE PDX PARENT From fine dining to pub fare, 20 spots to eat with kids in Portland.

DENISE C ASTAÑON

BY MEG ASBY, DENISE CASTAÑON AND BETHANY MARCEL

December 2023

pdxparent.com

DINING GUIDE Sure, Portland kids love the typical kids’ menu burgers and nuggets. But we live in a foodie city. And at these family-friendly restaurants kids can also dig into perfectly charred pizza, crunchy samosas, tangy ceviche, and indulgent mac ’n’ cheese that definitely does not come from a blue box. And don’t miss our lists of spots

[SOUTHERN COMFORT]

[SLICE OF HEAVEN]

While there’s no kids’ menu at Norma Jean’s Soul Cuisine, if you’ve got a mac ’n’ cheese lover in your house you’ve gotta go. My 11-year-old devotee of all things cheese, patted her stomach and said, “Happy, happy happy” after eating the brisket mac (pictured left). While we waited a particularly long time for our food, the mac was worth it — it had a broiled crunchy top under piles of tender brisket and was the best mac ’n’ cheese I’ve had in Portland. Plus the serving was incredibly generous — my husband, son and I also ate off the plate after my daughter had had her fill. Even though we visited early in the evening, the kitchen was out of cornbread, which I had been counting on to feed my slightly picky 8-year-old. But he loved his fruit bowl, which was packed with tropical fruits like papaya and pineapple. Bonus: We were lucky enough to hear probably the most spectacular rendition of the Happy Birthday song ever sung by restaurant staff. 4636 NE 42nd Ave. — Denise Castañon

Walking into the new St. Johns’ location of Gracie’s Apizza felt like arriving at an old friend’s house. Was it the warmth from the wood-fired oven? The dishware I swore was taken from my grandmother’s kitchen? Or was it the way owner Craig Melillo anticipated our order? When we asked for the mozz pie, which features a chewy, charred crust, he smiled at our 5-year-old and said, “Without the spice?” The pizza, including the mozz pie, is pleasantly tomatoforward, but it may deter young cheese fiends. The pie menu rotates, but when we were there the hazelnut pie was subtly spicy, with slices of onion marinated in sumac and a hint of taleggio tang. When your kid asks for ice cream, say yes! It’s exceptional — complex and subtle. Our 5-year-old even loved the bay leaf flavor. Whether you’re out for a date night or dining with the entire family, you’ll feel welcome here. 7304 N Leavitt Ave. Graciesapizza.com. — Bethany Marcel

BE THANY MARCEL

where littles eat free and restaurants that cater to those with allergies!

pdxparent.com

December 2023

FREE IS GOOD

This inflation is no joke. We know that many Portland families are tightening their belts when it comes to dining out. So here’s a helpful list of the best spots to score a free meal for your kiddos — with certain restrictions, of course. Every Sunday kids eat free at Migration

Brewing’s North Williams

location, with the purchase of an adult

What if I told you that one of the New York Times’ picks for Top 50 Restaurants in the country is an all-day cafe in Northeast Portland, where you can bring your kids? Cafe Olli is an employee-owned, seasonally focused restaurant that offers spectacular food in a casual atmosphere. Everything tastes incredible, from their laminated pastries to the wood-fired pizzas — there are no misses. The Olli Chocolate Cake basically has a following by itself. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating and provides high chairs C AFE OLLI and a lovely, free-standing changing table stocked with supplies and a plush changing pad. They also offer community meals on a sliding scale to those experiencing financial hardship, no questions asked. Bottom line, you’ll feel comfortable with your preschooler, but you’ll eat like it’s date night. 3925 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. CafeOlli.com. — Meg Asby

[PLAY, FOOD] Eat and play at The People’s Courts, Northeast’s newest sports club, featuring pickleball, ping-pong and two restaurants where the approachable food is better quality than your typical sports complex. From smash burgers to rice bowls, the hearty food at The Kitchen will satisfy you after endless rounds of being beaten by your kid at ping-pong. And while there’s currently no kids’ menu, they happily made the adult grilled cheese into a kid’s version. After dinner, we hit the arcade, then finished the meal with chocolate and vanilla swirl soft serve from The Parlor, which also offers a variety of pizza. Next time we’d check out The Kitchen’s weekend brunch, which has even more kid-friendly options, like pancakes, waffles and affordable sides such as English muffins ($3), house biscuits ($2), and hash brown patties ($4). 2700 NE 82nd Ave. Thepeoplescourts.com/food. — B.M.

BE THANY MARCEL

meal. 3947 N Williams Ave. Pro tip: They’ve also got board games and coloring pages. Migrationbrewing.com/pubs/ williams-pub. On Sundays, children under 10 get a free cheese or pepperoni kids’ pizza with the purchase of any regularly priced pie at 48 North Pizzeria in Tigard. 48northpizzeria.com. On Tuesdays at Pepino’s Mexican Grill, a restaurant that prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients and being environmentally sustainable, kids can get one free burrito or quesadilla plate with the purchase of an adult meal. Pepinos. org. If your family was bummed when Rally Pizza shuttered, you’ll be happy to know that you can now find the same amazing thin-crust, perfectly charred pies at their Victor-23 Brewing pop-up in Vancouver, Washington. Even better, on Family Dinner Tuesdays, kids under 12 get a free cheese pizza with the purchase of a regular pizza. Rallypizza. com. On Wednesdays at IKEA Portland members of the free IKEA Family program can get up to two free kids’ entrees with the purchase of an adult entree. The three IHOP restaurants in the Portland area often offer kids’ freebies. Check ihop.com for their latest kids-eat-free deal. Find more deals at pdxparent.com/kids-eat-freeor-cheap. — Meg Asby and Denise Castañon

[HUMBLY HAUTE CUISINE]

IHOP

December 2023

pdxparent.com

MEG ASBY

[GATHER ’ROUND THE TABLE] No dry chicken nuggets here! If you’re trying to raise foodies, Bethany’s Table is the place to become a regular. Children aren’t just allowed — they’re welcomed. Eat a world-class, farm-to-table meal in a restaurant where your kid is treated like a real human with taste buds. Right off the bat, children are offered a seasonal fruit cup, and the kids’ menu is full of high-quality European dishes an adult would be proud to eat, from grass-fed beef mini-burgers with fingerling potatoes to prawns with seasonal vegetables. Order the Chicken Marsala for yourself — it’s perfectly cooked with a generous serving of sauce, and plentiful crisptender vegetables. If you’re lucky, you may even get to say hello to Zoë the restaurant dog while you’re there. 15325 NW Central Dr., Suite J-1. Bethanystable.com. — M.A.

[MARKET FRESH]

BE THANY ’S TABLE

Every Friday, all summer long, I took my 10-year-old to Taylor Street Kitchen for a mother-daughter date. Part market, part deli, this charming European-style food shop features spectacular sandwiches and salads, midday pizza, fresh breads and desserts baked in house daily and a variety of meat, fish, and packaged local food items. They also serve great coffee and the best lemon bars in town. They are only open Monday through Friday, so if you work downtown, stop by on a Friday at lunch and stock up for the weekend. On our weekly visits, we always took home fresh challah and frozen soup for dinner, and sandwiches for a weekend hike. It’s a special place, with the coziest vibes. 1125 SW Taylor St. Taylorstreetkitchen.com. — M.A.

pdxparent.com

December 2023

With its low lighting, preponderance of Chicana chic pink decor and legit Mexican food, La Patroncita is an ambience-packed spot that your tween or teen may actually consider cool. Bond over a huge plate of carne asada nachos or esquites, the off-the-cob and easier-to-eat cousin of grilled Mexican street corn. For something lighter, go with the shrimp ceviche that my citrus-loving 8-year-old (and my husband) approved of. And don’t miss the buñuelo for dessert. I grew up making this cinnamon-sugar-topped, crunchy Mexican treat for New Year’s, but La Patroncita is only the second restaurant where I’ve seen them on the menu. My kiddos and husband agreed mine were better, but that didn’t stop them from clearing the plate. Pro tip: While the service is friendly and the food comes out fast, there’s no kids’ menu and we didn’t spy any high chairs so La Patroncita is definitely better suited to older kids. 2832 SE Belmont St. Lapatroncitapdx.com. — D.C.

Pizza and beer is a combo that Portlanders just can’t resist. And when it comes to family-friendly taprooms, Double Mountain Brewery has got it down pat. Their new 4,600-square-foot location in the Overlook neighborhood brings the same family-friendly menu as their Hood River and Woodstock pubs — and plenty of space to spread out. Expect New Haven-style pies with grown-up toppings like spicy capicola and Mama Lil’s peppers, or goat cheese and truffle oil alongside plain cheese for finicky kiddos. Or try yummy, classic sandwiches like a BLT or tuna melt with Tillamook cheddar cheese. The mezze platter that includes hummus, pita, cucumbers and feta is another kid-pleaser. Pro tip: You may want a Juicy or Hop Lion IPA — and there’s housebrewed, nonalcoholic ginger ale and root beer for the kids. 1700 Killingsworth St. Doublemountainbrewery. com/overlook. — D.C.

December 2023

DOUBLE MOUNTAIN BR EWERY

[PUB LOVE]

[WOW WAFFLES] If you’ve got a kid who could eat breakfast for every meal, Smaaken Waffle Sandwiches should be your go-to food cart. Their light and crisp yeasted waffles are made from locally grown, organic, stone-milled, whole-wheat flour. So they are as healthy as they are tasty. (Smaaken also offers a glutenfree option.) Their kids’ menu features kidpleasing classic toppings like maple butter and powdered sugar, or peanut butter and jelly. But kids can also branch out to a Monte Cristo waffle sandwich with ham, melted Swiss cheese and cart-made strawberry jam, or a Blue Moon with blueberries, Bavarian cream and whipped cream. Carts at BG Food Cartel, Hawthorne Asylum and The Heist. Smaaken. com. — D.C.

DENISE C ASTAÑON

[PINK PARADISO]

pdxparent.com

ALLERGY-FRIENDLY

Burma Joy (pictured right), one of our new

favorites on Northwest 23rd Avenue. (They have multiple locations, including Beaverton and Hillsboro.) With vegan options like tofu tots, samosa, sides of coconut rice and even coconut ice cream, everyone in the family will happily dine. All menu items are well-labeled with allergy indicators. Did I mention a robot serves you? The food is great, but don’t be surprised if the robot steals the show. Hungry for breakfast? At Vertical Diner in Southwest (pictured right), everything is plant-based and the gluten-free options are plentiful. They’ll happily take extra care for other allergies, like nuts or soy. Kids will especially love the chocolate chip, banana or blueberry pancakes — all with a gluten-free option. Speaking of breakfast, Off the Griddle on Southeast Foster (pictured bottom right) is the place for a delicious brunch (or lunch!) of glutenfree waffles, breakfast burritos and vegan mac ’n’ cheese. The menu clearly labels dishes that are soy-free, gluten-free or contain nuts. And when you’re ready for dinner, Bang Bang on Northeast Fremont opens at 5 pm for Thai food labeled gluten-free, peanut-free and dairy-free. They offer a kid’s bowl with fried chicken, veggies and coconut rice ($11), but you can’t beat the happy hour from 5-6 pm, where you can order french fries ($6), rice puffs ($5) and various meat skewers as well as a tofu skewer for only $2 each!

VOTE

for your family's local favorites and help other families find their new favorites with our annual readers’ poll, PDX Parent Reader Favorites! Vote at

pdxparent.com/ vote.

VERTIC AL DINER

With Portland’s bounty of allergyfriendly restaurants, dining out can be more delicious than complicated. First up, Top Burmese

TOP BUR MESE BUR MA JOY

DINING

Voting runs January 1-31, 2024. Winners will be announced starting March 2024.

OFF THE GRIDDLE

Find out more at topburmese.com, verticaldiner. com/portland, offthegriddle.com, bangbangpdx. com. — B.M.

pdxparent.com

December 2023

E R F AV

N N I W 23

Shopping ER

PA RE NT X

GAME STORE Winner Red Castle Games 7160 SE Foster Rd., redcastlegames.com Red Castle Games specializes in board games, card games, role-playing games and tabletopminiature games. You can find something for everyone in the family at this Foster-Powell store — from Dungeons & Dragons-loving tweens to toddlers just playing their very first games. The store also hosts lots of opportunities for kids and families to play with other game lovers.

Top 5 Bricks & Minifigs - East Portland Cloud Cap Games Guardian Games Puddletown Games & Puzzles R ED C ASTLE GAMES

Rainy Day Games

TOY STORE Winner Hammer and Jacks 6406 SE Foster Rd., hammerandjacks.com The recently expanded Hammer and Jacks toy store in the Foster-Powell neighborhood holds a soft spot in the hearts of Portland parents not just for its sweet and thoughtful toy selection, but for its rainbow-tastic indoor play space. Pro tip: You can often find a kindie

BOOKSTORE Winner Powell’s City of Books Multiple locations, powells.com

music show, kids’ craft fair or local author storytime happening at the store, too!

Powell’s is once again our Reader Favorites winner for top bookstore. The Burnside location

Top 5

is the world’s largest bookstore — and you can

Bricks & Minifigs - Portland Grasshopper MudPuddles Toys & Books Piccolo Mondo Toys Thinker Toys 30

December 2023

pdxparent.com

pretty much find anything in its nine colorcoded sections. Pro tip: Be sure to check the events page to see if your or your kid’s favorite author will be stopping by the store soon.

Top 5 Annie Bloom’s Books A Children’s Place Bookstore Green Bean Books MudPuddles Toys & Books Wallace Books

COMIC BOOK SHOP Winner Books With Pictures 1401 SE Division St., bookswithpictures.com It’s no surprise that Books With Pictures took the top spot in our readers’ poll — it was named the best comic book shop in the world in 2022. From the start, this store set out to be a different kind of comic book shop with an intentional focus on inclusivity, where LGBTQ+ authors and creators of color were not just stocked, but truly celebrated. Pro tip: The store also offers queer and trans youth safe space hours and BIPOC chill times.

Top 5 Bridge City Comics Comic Cave Cosmic Monkey Comics Excalibur Books and Comics Things from Another World

BOOKS WITH PIC TUR ES

See the whole list of our Reader Favorites winners at pdxparent.com/reader-favorites-winners.

Get ready to VOTE for your family’s favorite local places, spaces and businesses in our annual readers’s poll, PDX Parent Reader Favorites! Don’t see your favorite on the list? Write it in (and tell your friends to do the same). Vote at:

pdxparent.com/vote. Voting runs January 1-31, 2024. Winners will be announced starting March 2024.

pdxparent.com

December 2023

field trip

Wonder Falls Winter hiking leads to fun surprises at Bridal Veil Falls in the Columbia River Gorge. STORY AND PHOTOS BY ROMA SIDELINGER

If You Go:

Bridal Veil Falls State Park is located near milepost 28 on

the Historic Columbia River Scenic Highway and is accessed off I-84 at Exit 28. Travel west on the Historic Columbia River Highway about 3/4 of a mile to the entrance of Bridal Veil Falls State Park. The parking lot is across the street from the Bridal Veil Lodge Bed & Breakfast and has a restroom. There is no parking fee. For more information, visit: stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=107

December 2023

pdxparent.com

The days are getting shorter, and frost gilds the trees in the morning. It is the season of cozy sweaters, warm drinks, holidays and … waterfalls. While the idea of hiking with kids in cold weather might seem daunting, remind yourself that there is really no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather. So don’t be afraid to take your kids outside in rain, wind or snow. It will make them more resilient and teach them to appreciate the uniqueness of each season. The best time to visit waterfalls in Oregon is from mid-fall through late spring, when snowmelt is at its peak. It’s best to avoid burned areas in the winter since burned vegetation can create loose soil and debris, making trails susceptible to erosion and landslides. One of my favorite winter waterfall hikes is Bridal Veil Falls in the Columbia River Gorge. In fact, the first time I ever visited Bridal Veil was in the winter with our nature group. There were a few inches of snow on the ground and the kids had fun making snowballs and pulling the ice off leaves. From the parking lot there are two short, easy hikes. There is the Overlook Trail which is a ½-mile paved loop. It takes you to beautiful, fenced lookouts of the Columbia River and rock formations such as Beacon Rock, Hamilton Mountain and Archer Mountain. This flat, easy loop is perfect for

young hikers. Interpretive signs describe the wildflowers that grow in this area if you come back to visit in the springtime. The Bridal Veil Falls Trail begins near the restrooms, and it is less than 1 mile round trip. Although it is not stroller- or wheelchair-friendly, this trail doesn’t have the steep and

dangerous drop-offs characteristic of many Columbia Gorge waterfalls. There is a brief paved section, and then the road turns to dirt and gravel. The trail leads you downhill along a rock wall. After crossing a footbridge, there’s a series of stairs that lead to a bridge over Bridal Veil Creek. From here you get your first view of the

waterfall. To get a closer look, turn right at the fork and walk a short distance to a wooden viewing platform. If you take the left fork on the path, the trail takes you to an old mill site. Bridal Veil is a ghost town; there was once a bustling community in this area in the 1880s established mainly to harvest trees on Larch Mountain. Hundreds of people worked at the mill until it stopped operating in 1988 due to environmental concerns. The last remaining structure in the waterfall area is a graffitied, corrugated iron shed. Use caution if you choose to explore this area. (My middle son, Grady, spent most of our hike convincing his younger brother there were real ghosts at the abandoned iron shed.)

This short hike provides an excellent opportunity to engage in place-based learning. Place-based learning is an educational approach that emphasizes the importance of connecting learning to the local environment and community. Bridal Veil is a great spot to learn about the geology of waterfalls, waterfall types, the formation of the Columbia River Gorge, and the history of the ghost town. As parents, we can steward our children’s sense of wonder — and there’s no better place to do that this winter than Bridal Veil Falls.

Roma Sidelinger is a homeschool mom to three young boys and founder of Wild and Barefoot Nature group. She created wildandbarefootadventures.com, a website with nature curriculum that links learning topics to outdoor adventures throughout Oregon. When she isn’t in the woods with her kids, Roma is a brown belt in jiu jitsu and co-owns a gym with her husband in Molalla.

pdxparent.com

| December 2023

OPEN HOUSE

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OREGON EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

INFORMATION EVENING .

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www.portlandvillageschool.org 7654 N Delaware Ave, Portland, OR, 97217

THURSDAY, JAN. 4 • 7 p.m.

Connect with Middle/Upper School Panelists

Explore Lower School Classrooms

Engage with Teachers, Students, OES Leadership

oes.edu/infoevening 503-768-3115

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December 2023

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| December 2023

time out

December 2023

Go. Play. Explore. dazzling displays Bright lights are shining everywhere this winter, and no trip through Portland’s winter wonderland is complete without a visit to Oregon Zoo’s ZooLights. This year, they’re returning to the classic version of the event, where you can admire the colorful animal displays, ride the zoo train and chow down on an elephant ear in-person rather than from a car. Pro Tip: The zoo is also offering “Any Night” tickets, which can be purchased in advance and used any time throughout the season. Members receive a 20% discount. Oregonzoo.org/ lights. Then head to Beaverton Winter Lights, where free hot chocolate and cookies will fuel your night of light viewing. Enjoy the live music and tree lighting. Friday, December 8. 6-8 pm. (Lights will continue to shine from 4 pm-8 am until January 4.) Beavertonoregon.gov/502/beaverton-winter-lights. And don’t forget Peacock Lane, the magical neighborhood in Southeast Portland where residents go all-out displaying stunning lights. Pro tip: Don’t miss the free hot cocoa booth! December 15-31. 6-11 pm. Car-free nights, December 15-17. Peacocklane.org. — Bethany Marcel

PE ACOCK L ANE

train for the holidays

OR EGON COAST SCENIC R AILROAD

Did you know Santa Claus doesn’t only travel by sleigh? That’s right, you can also find Santa and his elves on the Holiday Express, a magical train ride run by the Oregon Rail Heritage Center. The train departs from Oaks Amusement Park, and you can purchase concessions or check out their gift shop before or after your ride. November 24 to December 17. Tickets start at $25 per child and $31 per adult. Orhf.org/events/holidayexpress. And don’t miss the Mt. Hood Christmas Train, another festive ride capturing the charm of Mt. Hood. November 24 to December 27. Tickets start at $54 per child and $64 per adult. Mthoodrr.com/train-rides/ the-train-to-christmas-town. Lastly, board the Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad’s Candy Cane Express (pictured left). Powered by 100-year-old steam locomotives, this excursion departs out of Garibaldi. Cocoa and cookies served on board. Kids will love writing letters to Santa on board the train — and he’ll even be there to collect them! November 24 to December 17 except for Friday, December 1. Link to tickets and info at oregoncoastscenic.org/train-rides/candy-cane-express. — B.M. 36

December 2023

pdxparent.com

OR EGON ZOO

IMAGO THE ATR E

show up this season It’ll be hard to choose from this year’s line-up of holiday hits! Enjoy the always classic The Nutcracker at Keller Auditorium from Friday to Sunday, December 8-24. Twelve of the performances will include the Oregon Ballet Theatre orchestra, and enjoy a one-hour, sensoryfriendly show at noon on Tuesday, December 19. Tickets: obt.org/23-24-season/nutcracker-2023. Rudolph will also be shining bright at Northwest Children’s Theater. With multiple showings until Sunday, December 31, the show’s best for ages 3 and up. Details and tickets available at nwcts.org/shows/rudolph. For a whole new take on the holidays, try ZooZoo starting Friday, December 8, at Imago Theatre. This 90-minute sensation features creatures of all types, from polar bears to penguins. Get a sneak peek at imagotheatre.com/zoozoo.html. — Beth Peters

say hi to santa R EBECC A HICKS PDX PHOTOGR APHY

R E V. DR . LEROY BAR BER

Pick your perfect Mr. Claus from Portland’s variety of options. So far this year, Rev. Dr. Leroy Barber, Portland’s Black Santa, has 10 December dates on his calendar including two stops by local marketplace My People’s Market. Learn more and register at blacksantapdx.com. Stop by PILEA Play at Multnomah Village for Winter Wonderland with Asian-American Santa on Saturday, December 9, from 9-10:15 am and 10:45 am to 12 pm. The $40 registration fee includes 75 minutes of playtime. Claim a spot at pileaplay. com. Santa is also stopping by Washington Square Mall including a sensory-friendly day from 9-10 am on Sunday, December 3. Learn more: shopwashingtonsquare.com/ santaphotos. Clackamas Town Center gets a visit through Sunday, December 24. Register at whereissanta.com/mall/0975. There are also multiple dates for Silent Santa, a sensoryfriendly Santa experience, at Bridgeport Village, Sunday mornings from 9-11 am as well as December 3, 10 and 17. Bridgeport-village.com/event/visits-withSanta/2145577348. — B.P.

CR AF T Y WONDER L AND

get crafty If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift (or just a jolly good time), make a visit to Crafty Wonderland’s Holiday Art and Craft Market. Saturday and Sunday, December 9-10, 10 am-6 pm. At the Oregon Convention Center. Timedentry tickets are required ($4 per person for general admission; kids ages 5 and under are free). Buy a $25 ticket for the pre-show ticketed event from 5-9 pm Friday, December 8. See which local vendors grabbed a booth and buy a ticket at craftywonderland.com/ pages/vendor-list. — B.P.

pdxparent.com

December 2023

CIT Y OF MILWAUK IE

time out

ships in the night Enjoy the Christmas Ships parade, drink hot chocolate and then warm up by the bonfire at the annual Milwaukie Solstice event. Food and beer will be available as well, and all purchases benefit the Lewelling Neighborhood District Association. And don’t fear the potential rain — tents will be set up just in case. Saturday, December 16, 4:30-7:30 pm. Milwaukie Bay Park, 11211 SE McLoughlin Blvd. Free admission. Find out more at: milwaukieoregon.gov/ events/wintersolsticeevent. And if one night of ships isn’t enough, don’t worry. The Christmas Ships parade will be running additional dates throughout December. See the schedule and find out more at christmasships.org. — B.M.

PIONEER COURTHOUSE SQUAR E

Enjoy the sounds of the holidays at the Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition, where caroling groups will compete in a “carol-off” at Pioneer Courthouse Square. The winning team will receive $1,000, and winners are decided by audience applause. Friday, December 8, 6-7:30 pm. Then get ready for the 32nd Annual Tuba Christmas Concert, where over 200 tubas will play in unison. This fun, free event is sure to fill you with holiday cheer. Saturday, December 16, 1:30-3 pm. Both events are located at Pioneer Courthouse Square. Free. Find out more at thesquarepdx.org. — B.M.

December 2023

Find more family fun on our

online calendar: pdxparent. com/events-calendar. Be sure to confirm the most

up-to-date info with event organizers before heading out. |

pdxparent.com

PIONEER COURTHOUSE SQUAR E

music at the square

smiles, rain or shine Head on over to Milwaukie for the annual Umbrella Parade and Tree Lighting. Expect cookies, cider, cocoa and flan as well as prizes for the best decorated umbrellas. Saturday, December 2. 4-6 pm. Learn more at milwaukieoregon.gov/events/ umbrella-parade. — B.P.

send your sleigh to sellwood

hanukkah happenings Visit Eastside Jewish Commons for the Hanukkah Night Market. Expect vendors selling gifts, food and more. Saturday, December 9, 5-9 pm. At 2420 NE Sandy Blvd. Free admission. Learn more about the event at ejcpdx.org/events/2023/12/9/ejcs-hanukkah-night-market-1. And celebrate the Jewish Festival of Lights with Portland’s Public Nightly Menorah Lighting. Chabad of Oregon will bring Portland’s public Hanukkah menorah to Pioneer Courthouse Square December 7-15. On the first night — Thursday, December 7 — the celebration kicks off with music, Hanukkah foods and festivities. For more information about Hanukkah and a local schedule of nightly events visit JPortland. com. Time varies depending on the day. Free admission.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 2, when all things holiday take over Sellwood Moreland. Enjoy carolers, cocoa and visits from Santa, The Grinch and Krampus! Also enjoy a Nutcracker Tea Party starting at 10 am at Sellwood Community House; tickets available for $45 with $15 bottomless mimosa add-on at sellwoodcommunityhouse.org. For more details on all the festive wonder, visit sellwoodmoreland.com/ decemberville. — B.P. SELLWOOD MOR EL AND BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

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Get some delicious latkes, sufganiyot and brews for grown-ups at Sweet Lorraine’s and Labyrinth Forge Brewing Company's family-friendly Hanukkah Party. You can also play dreidel and listen to live music. Sunday, December 10, 5-8 pm. At Labyrinth Forge Brewing Company, 61 SE Yamhill St. — B.P. and D.C.

cruise through winter Dress in your best holiday attire and board the Cinnamon Bear Breakfast Cruise on the Portland Spirit. This two-hour cruise on the Willamette includes breakfast, hot chocolate, cookies and a cast of characters ready to entertain the whole family with lively music and stories. Kids ages 12 and younger will also be thrilled to get their very own souvenir photograph with Cinnamon Bear! Weekends December 2-27. Boarding begins at 9 am at 1010 SW Naito Pkwy. Tickets start at $49 per child and $66 per adult. Find out more at portlandspirit.com/cruise/cinnamonbear. — B.M.

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Comcast may have the right to exclusively market certain services to residents. We are not an exclusive provider of any services and services from other providers may be available. Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Xfinity Mobile requires residential post-pay Xfinity Internet. Line limitations may apply. Equip., intl. and roaming charges, taxes and fees, including reg. recovery fees, and other charges extra, and subj. to change. $25/line/mo. charge applies if Xfinity TV, Internet or Voice post-pay services not maintained. Pricing subject to change. In times of congestion, your data may be temporarily slower than other traffic. After 20 GB monthly data use, speeds reduced to a maximum of 1.5Mbps download/750 Kbps upload. Actual speeds vary. For Xfinity Mobile Broadband Disclosures visit: www.xfinity.com/mobile/policies/ broadband-disclosures. Fastest mobile based on consumer testing of mobile WiFi and cellular data performance from Ookla® Speedtest Intelligence® data in Q3 ‘22 for Comcast service areas, verified by Ookla for Comcast’s analysis. Xfinity WiFi hotspots available in select areas. FLY400020-0023

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