Search January Events
The first month of the New Year brings dozens of events, festivals and things to do in and around Portland.
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.
Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast
Every year, the Skanner Foundation invites the community to share in the MLK Breakfast, celebrating the life, work, and vision of civil rights of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. Attendees will hear inspiring words from elected officials and previous student scholarship winners and enjoy local musical talent.
January Highlights
Explore more things to do and see in January in Portland.
January is Portland Music Month
January is officially Portland Music Month and MusicPortland has curated a lineup of 100+ local artists to support the music community. Get tickets to hear extraordinary live music that will light up the winters at venues all over Portland.
Fertile Ground Festival
See Portland’s newest theater and dance works every April at the annual Fertile Ground Festival.
Lunar New Year Celebrations in Portland
Portland’s Asian communities celebrate the Lunar New Year with traditional dances, lantern ceremonies and stunning performances.
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.
Upcoming January Events 2025
Check out our picks for top things to do in January in Portland.
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