It’s almost time to kick-off the holiday season! Here’s a round-up of the best activities and events happening around the Northwest this November. Head to our calendar for more information including locations, times, and any updated event information.
Check out our downloadable list of the best places to visit – whether you’ve just moved here or have lived here your whole life – Download the list and check it twice!
November Events in Oregon & Washington
Wordstock – November 5
Portland’s Book Festival, Wordstock, is held each year at the Portland Art Museum and in surrounding Park Blocks venues. The festival includes special author discussions, book fair, readings, workshops, entertainment, food, and more.
Veterans Parade at Fort Vancouver – November 5
The Lough Legacy Veterans Parade is back to celebrate its 30th year at Fort Vancouver. This free event is open to the public and includes over 2,500 participants supporting veterans and troops each year.
Race to Feed Our Veterans – November 6
Last year the Race to Feed Our Veterans 5K Run/Walk raised enough money to provide 937 meals to seniors in need – most of who were Veterans. Join them this year and help support Meals on Wheels of Spokane. Your registration fee of $20 feeds five veterans!
Wild Mushroom Cook-off – November 12
The locally sourced wild mushroom can be used to create incredibly tasty dishes. Experience them for yourself at the Wild Mushroom Cook-off in Lincoln City. See live cooking demonstrations from Oregon chefs, learn about wild mushrooms, and, of course, eat them!
Comedy Night at the Oregon Zoo – November 12
Have a laugh and help two important animal species at the same time! The 3rd Annual Comedy Night At The Oregon Zoo is a benefit to support The Amur Leopard and Tiger Alliance (ALTA). This year features hilarious hostess Poison Waters and headliner Caitlin Weierhauser. Admission includes appetizers and refreshments, auctions, music and more.
Custer’s Christmas Arts & Crafts Show – November 18-20
78,000 square feet of Christmas arts and crafts? Count us in! The 40th Annual Custer’s Christmas Arts & Crafts Show in Spokane is the perfect way to start your holiday shopping. Find one-of-a-kind holiday decor, gifts, and gourmet treats at the largest show of its kind in the inland Northwest.
Cranksgiving – November 19
Cranksgiving is a fun, treasure-hunt and food drive benefiting the local charitable organization, Outside In. Cycling teams visit a list of stores and buy a specific list of items – all of which are donated to Outside In. Win great cycling prizes and donate to a great cause to help homeless youth.
Turkey Trot Fun Run/Walk – November 24
Prep for that Thanksgiving meal early by working off some calories at the Turkey Trot at the Oregon Zoo! This annual tradition is a 4-mile walk/run through Washington Park and ending at the Oregon Zoo. Each year raises money for animal care at the zoo.
Tree Lighting in Pioneer Square – November 25
Officially ring in the holiday season with thousands of fellow Portlanders in Pioneer Square for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.
Little Boxes PDX – November 25-26
Nix the big box stores this Black Friday and shop little! Shop at a Little Boxes participating store in Portland and you’ll be entered to win raffles for gift certificates and get special discounts. The more shops you visit, the more raffles entries you get. You’ll be supporting the local economy and you’re likely to have a much less stressful shopping experience than if you were standing in line at Best Buy.
Wine Country Thanksgiving – November 25-27
Over 150 wineries in Willamette Valley are offering special tastings, food pairings, holiday discounts, entertainment, and much more at the Wine County Thanksgiving weekend.
Festival of Trees – November 25-27
The Vancouver Rotary Foundation is kicking off the holiday season with the 21st Annual Festival of Trees. This fundraiser for the foundation includes a community tree lighting at Esther Short Park, entertainment, and a chance to win one of the beautifully decorated trees.
Holiday Ale Festival – November 30-December 4
With over 50 craft beers on tap, the Holiday Ale Festival will have you giving thanks for the Portland beer scene. Each ale is created specially for the holiday season and the festival – you won’t find them anywhere else! Gather your friends and family for the 21st year of the Holiday Ale Festival in Pioneer Square.