January Events

January in Portland brings some of the city’s favorite events and activities. Explore the city’s arts and culture scenes, sip on seasonal cocktails, and hit the slopes on Mount Hood. Scroll down to see our top picks of things to do, see and experience in Portland, or search the full events calendar to look at everything on offer.

Portland Old Time Music Gathering

Since 1999, the Portland Old Time Music Gathering has celebrated traditional, Appalachian-style string-band music by showcasing some of the country’s best artists with several days of concerts, community jam sessions, and dancing opportunities.

Portland Folk Festival

The Portland Folk Festival highlights Portland’s rich folk and Americana music scene. This two-day celebration brings bands together from all over the Pacific Northwest to the stage at McMenamins Crystal Ballroom.

O-Shogatsu, Japanese New Year

At O-Shogatsu, Japanese New Year, you can celebrate the new year with wishes for happiness and prosperity at Portland Japanese Garden. Immerse yourself in peace within the picturesque setting of pine, bamboo, and plum branches.

Portland Metro Reptile Expo

If you enjoy scales, slithering, and all things cold-blooded, be sure not to miss the Portland Metro Reptile Expo, the longest-running reptile show in Oregon. Featuring a venomous reptile display, several reptile rescues, and an educational display.

FAN Expo Portland

Previously known as Wizard World Portland, FAN Expo Portland is where you can explore your love of sci-fi, comics, anime and gaming. Held at the Oregon Convention Center, attendees can shop at hundreds of vendors and exhibitors, check out panels and workshops, meet stars and creators, and celebrate what makes them geeky with thousands of other fans in cosplay.

Rose City Classic Dog Show

Not into scales? Maybe furry friends are for you. The Rose City Classic Dog Show, held annually at the Portland Expo Center, is one of the largest and most popular dog events in the United States. Over 170 breeds compete at the five-day show to beat out the competition in agility, breed judging or to win the coveted title of Best in Show.

Winter Fun in and Near Portland

The city's cooler months bring gorgeous hikes, festive lights and ways to enjoy Mount Hood.

More Winter

Portland Winter Light Festival

Brighten your February with a visit to Portland’s annual Winter Lights Festival, where you’ll find glowing sculptures, twinkling lights, lively events and more.

Winter Hikes in and Near Portland

Oregon is the perfect place for outdoor adventure, any time of year — explore our selection of all-weather paths and hikes in and near Portland.

What to Do on Mount Hood

Explore Mt. Hood — the tallest peak in Oregon — with this in-depth guide that covers weather, what to pack, where to stay, outdoor recreation and how to have an unforgettable experience.

Christmas Ships Parade

The Portland Christmas Ships Parade is a beloved tradition — find the best spots to watch, explore special events and learn about the parade’s unique history.

Portland Holiday Events

Like an Advent calendar loaded with sugary treats, the days leading up to Christmas in Portland hold an abundance of sweet memories.

Whale Watching on the Oregon Coast

Up to 20,000 gray whales migrate along Oregon's coast every winter and spring — this handy guide to whale watching on the Oregon Coast covers prime spots to see migrating whales, top whale-watching charters, when to go and more.

Indoor Activities in Portland

Don't let a rainy day (or a hot one!) stop you from having fun in Portland — enjoy museums, movie theaters, arcades, shopping and other indoor activities.

Ways to Practice Self-Care in Portland

It’s okay to admit that you occasionally get stressed or down. Thankfully Portland's self-care offerings are deep; walk in over 200 parks, find time for yoga, sauna, soaking, and health-conscious food to practice self-care like a Portlander.