Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in portland, OR

What's happening in PDX 5/23-5/24

May 21, 2009

I think Spring is really here! It's supposed to be another amazing weekend of blue skies and perfect weather. If you're not heading out of town for the long weekend, there are plenty of Rose Festival activities around the Portland Metro area to keep you busy!

Friday, May 22nd

Rose Festival Fireworks Spectacular  events begin at 8pm.
(Curtis Salgado band-8:00pm, Rose Lighting Ceremony 10:00pm, Fireworks 10:15pm)
Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park, 1020 SW Naito Pkwy Portland    Free Admission


Saturday, May 23rd

Tryon Creek guided nature walk 10:00-11:30am
This week's theme is "Springing Plants". Join a park ranger for a free, guided nature hike to explore the forest and stream ecosystems and natural history at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Topics will vary from week to week but will be appropriate for all ages. Parents must accompany kids on all hikes.
11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd. Portland 503-636-4398  no pre-registration needed, free, all ages.


Dan Bau, Vietnamese Monochord  2-2:30pm
"The Dan Bau is a musical instrument unique to Vietnam. Learn about its history and prominence in Vietnamese traditional and modern music. You'll get to hear the DanBau's human-like sound via several traditional pieces."  Space at library programs is limited. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Gregory Heights Library 7921 NE Sandy Blvd. Portland  503-988-5386

Classics Lite    2:00-3:00pm
Three musicians play violin, viola, cello, flute, and oboe. Pieces are Baroque, Classical and Rag (e.g. Scott Joplin). Space at library programs is limited. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Hillsdale Library 1525 S.W. Sunset Blvd. Portland  503-988-5388

Multnomah County Fair  Noon to 7 pm May 23, 24 and 25
Thrill Rides, Pony Rides, Lucky Duck Derby, Huge Petting Zoo, Exotic animals and Reptiles, Family Barnyard Fun, Story telling, Magician Dick Frost, Puppet Shows, Make your own Dirt Baby to take home, Play in the corn box, and meet Miss Piggy and her Piglets. This year's theme is "It's a Family A'fair"
Oaks Amusement Park 7100 SE Oaks Park Way, Portland 503-761-7577
(at the foot of SE Spokane in Sellwood) Free Parking and Free Admission.

Nail Soup: A Scandinavian Story presented by Play after Play 10am
"This is the story of an old woman who needs cheering up. A young man comes along and helps her see that she has always had everything she needs. Together they make a delicious pot of Nail Soup. Filled with movement and music, this sweet story will captivate children and adults alike." When the play is over, the audience is welcome to play and interact with the performers.


Sunday, May 24th
Waterfront Village is open this weekend (starting Friday)  11:00am-11:00pm daily
"Waterfront Village provides a park-load of whimsical kids adventures, hysterical vaudevillian acts, festive bands, and thousands of smiling families each day. This magical world of wonder also features a mysterious ancient temple, live exotic animals (including lions and tigers but no bears, oh no) and the region's best family-friendly carnival."
Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park  1020 SW Naito Pkwy Portland  Admission: $5 for ages 7 and over (Kids 7 and under are always FREE, courtesy of KOIN Local 6)

Oregon Zoo presents Chimpanzee Challenge Maze (thru September 20th)
"Swing from vines, soar through treetops and 'Live Chimply' in the Chimpanzee Challenge maze. Perform feats of ape-like strength, agility, and communication to discover the surprising similarities between humans and chimps. Developed in collaboration with world-renowned primatologist Jane Goodall and the Jane Goodall Institute, Chimpanzee Challenge brings the plight of the chimps closer to home, empowering visitors to make a difference." $2.00 fee required in addition to regular zoo admission ($1 fee for members)
Oregon Zoo 4001 SW Canyon Road, Portland  503-226-1561

Things You Must Do in Portland Before Your Child Grows Up

by Sarah Gilbert

November 04, 2008

I've lived in Portland most of my life, and though I've traveled and lived in many vibrant, wonderful cities I can't imagine raising my children anywhere else. I can't let my kids grow up until I:
 Read more...