Valentine’s Day is one of those occasions it’s best to plan ahead for. Especially if you want to surprise your valentine with something that requires a reservation. Spots at romantic restaurants can fill up fast. Things can sell out. So don’t delay. I’ve done some legwork to save you time.
Make a dinner reservation. A few places in town are offering special Valentine’s Day menus including: ●La Provence. You can book your reservation online for their special Valentine’s Day menu featuring a prix fixe dinner with soup or salad, entrée and dessert for $55 (also available a la carte). Available Friday, February 14 and Saturday, February 15. 16350 Boones Ferry Rd., 503.635.4533.
●Riccardo’s is offering a special four course menu at $100/person (not including wine, drinks and gratuities) on Friday, February 14 and Saturday, February 15. Share an Antipasti and Primo Course (three offerings each) and then select individual Secondo and Dessert offerings. 16035 Boones Ferry Rd. Call to make a reservation: 503.636.4104.
●Lake View Taphouse will be offering a special menu in addition to their regular offering that includes bacon wrapped scallops and a steak and lobster tail dinner.
●Mann’s on the Lake. In addition to their regular menu, Mann’s on the Lake will be offering special starters and entrees including Herb Roasted Branzino and Lanroc Pork Osso Buco. Book your reservation now. 40 N. State Street, 503.303.9861.
●Nicoletta’s Table. While Nicoletta’s is celebrating their “love of Italy” all month with specials, they will also be offering a special curated menu for Valentine’s Day weekend as well as live performances by Andrea Algieri and Chase Cranor. 333 S State Street, 503.699.2927.
Eat in. Create a delicious Valentine’s Day at home with Zupan’s Seafood Platter for 2 or ready-to-cook Beef Wellingtons. Chocolate-covered strawberries can add a sweet finish. Pick up February 13 and 14 but place your order now. 16380 Boones Ferry Rd, 503.210.4190.
Let’s do lunch instead! Celebrate love and friendship at the Adult Community Center’s Valentine’s Day Party, on featuring a lively game of Bingo. Suggested donation of $ for those 60+ and $5 charge for those under 60. Friday, February 14 from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. Call the ACC to reserve a seat: 503.635.3758.
Wine and Song. Enjoy live music with Hayley Lynn while enjoying dinner or a wine tasting experience at Domaine Serene Wine Lounge on Thursday, February 13 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Combining Maggie Rogers’ cool persona and Elle King’s unapologetic energy, Lynn has created a style and sound that joins the ranks of bold indie powerhouses that came before her. Make a reservation. 300 First Street.
Take in a play. The Lakewood Theatre is performing Stop the World I Want to Get Off as part of its Lost Treasure Productions performed on the Side Door Stage on Friday, February 14 at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, February 15 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. It’s a thought-provoking tale about the fleeting nature of worldly success told through the life of an Everyman character named Littlechap as he is born, grows up, faces life’s challenges and ultimately makes a choice celebrating the cycle of life. Tickets are $20/person and available online. 368 S. State Street, 503.635.3901.
Go dancing. Enjoy the sounds of the “Big Bands” of the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s performed by the Millennium Dance Band. A on Friday, February 14 from 7:00 p.m. to9:00 p.m.ll ages are invited to hit the dance floor. $7/person at the door. Christ Church Parish, 1060 Chandler Road.
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FIRST WEDNESDAY AT OSWEGO HERITAGE COUNCIL. Poems composed by numerous Japanese American poets during WWII were kept in a journal by Masaki Kinoshita and discovered by his grandson, Duane Watari. These poems and their translations were compiled into the book, They Never Asked: Semryū Poetry from the WWII Portland Assembly Center. Selected poems will be read in Japanese and English by translators Satsuki Takikawa and Mike Freiling. Wednesday, February 5 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Oswego Heritage House, 398 10th Street. Refreshments at 5:00 p.m.
STAND UP COMEDY NIGHT WITH SEAN JORDAN. Enjoy a hilarious night of comedy with this touring stand up comedian and podcaster who has appeared on Comedy Central, the Late Late Show with James Corden and who Paste Magazine calls “both genuine and genuinely hilarious.” Wednesday, February 5 at 7:00 p.m. on The Side Door Stage, Lakewood Center for the Arts, 368 S. State Street. Tickets: $25.
WINTER RAMBLE: MAP AND COMPASS TRAINING. Learn navigational skills with a map and compass and then use these skills to navigate the trails of Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Thursday, February 6. Leave from Waluga Park at 9:00 a.m. or meet at Tryon Creek parking lot, 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd.
BLOOD DRIVE. The need for blood is constant and this is where one individual can make a difference. Schedule your appointment to donate blood on February 7 at Lake Oswego City Hall from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 380 A Avenue.
WINE TASTING AT RICCARDO’S. Enjoy generous pours of Italy’s best wines, an antipasti plate and a great afternoon on Saturday, February 8 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. $20 per person; first come first served. Happens every month on the second Saturday. 16035 Boones Ferry Road, 503.636.4104
LUNAR NEW YEAR FESTIVAL. Celebrate the Year of the Snake on Saturday, February 8 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Lake Oswego Library. Enjoy live musical and dance performances as well as activities for the kids and adults alike! 706 Fourth Street.
PORTLAND ROSE SOCIETY ROSE PRUNING CLINIC.Get ready for Spring with Portland Rose Society—local rose experts will be demonstrating proper rose pruning techniques and answering questions at Dennis’ 7 Dees, 1090 McVey Avenue. Bring your hand pruners to be sharpened for FREE while you shop (no loppers; one pair per person). Soil pH testing will also be available—bring a small baggie of soil labeled with your name and contact information. Join the guest list.
NOISES OFF. Find out why this play is the most requested play to be restaged by Lakewood subscribers. Kicks off February 28 and runs through April 6. Tickets: $42/Adult; $40/Senior; $30/Student. Purchase online (with a $3 service fee). 368 S. State Street, 503.635.3901.
STAY TUNED FOR UPDATES OF THE OPENING OF THE LAKE OSWEGO RECREATION AND AQUATICS CENTER!
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Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801
The Skylands neighborhood is known for its views and our new listing at 1131 Skyland Drive is proof of that with walls of windows throughout the house providing views of Mt. Hood and Mt. St. Helens
The iconic view of Mt. Hood as you are traveling east on A Avenue in downtown Lake Oswego is something we can all take advantage of here in Lake Oswego. But to be able to access that view from where you live, any time of day when it’s clear, well that’s something that you can only get from homes on certain streets in Lake Oswego.
Our new listing at 1131 Skylands Drive offers views not only of Mt. Hood but also Mt. St. Helens from walls of windows throughout the house. And the prized views are just one of the many features that make this home a Lake Oswego find.
Nestled on a beautifully landscaped one-acre lot, the 6,320 square foot gated residence seamlessly combines timeless elegance and expert craftsmanship with modern amenities.
The main level features a luxurious primary suite, an additional bedroom with an attached bath, a dedicated office, spacious living and dining rooms, and a gourmet kitchen with Viking appliances and marble countertops. Zoned HVAC and a sound system throughout provide personalized comfort and enjoyment, while a commercial-sized generator ensures uninterrupted convenience. The lower level boasts two additional bedrooms with a shared bath, a three-car garage, an elevator, abundant storage, a pool room with a kitchenette, ideal for entertaining, and a sauna with a full bath.
A thoughtfully curated outdoor space includes a pool and English garden and continues the theme of a stunning retreat with unobstructed views of Mt. Adams.
Tucked alongside the Skylands neighborhood area, residents enjoy the serenity afforded by the peaceful location while still enjoying the convenience of nearby shopping and close access to both Lakeridge High School and the new Lake Oswego Recreation and Aquatics Center.
Interested in seeing if this just might be your dream home? Give us a call to set up a showing. Or stop by the open house this Sunday, January 26 from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Kevin Costello 503.939.9801 kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com
The good news is that the shortest day of the year is behind us. While we’ve sung the praises of summer in Lake Oswego on this blog, we must also be transparent and admit that yes, sometimes the winter months can seem looooooong. With colder temps, wetter weather and less daylight, summer lovers like us need to come up with a game plan to make the best of things.
Here are a few suggestions for not just surviving winter in the Portland metro area but actually enjoying it!
Explore some new neighborhoods on foot. This is something my wife and I have done since Covid paid us all a visit. And while we explore Lake Oswego during the week, we often venture into Portland on the weekends and have had a great time checking out neighborhoods like Alameda Ridge, Laurelhurst, Irvington and Eastmoreland. For Christmas a couple of years ago, my wife gave me a couple books that have been great resources: Walk There! edited by Laura O. Foster and Portland Stair Walks by Laura Foster as well. Believe it or not, there are lots of stairs to be discovered in Portland, especially if you find yourselves in the Westover Terraces and Nob Hill neck of the woods. Bundle up but as you find yourselves climbing, you may need to shed a few layers!
Go ice skating at the Winterhawks Ice Center. This iconic historic facility may be the official practice and development site for the Portland Winterhawks of the Western Hockey League, but there are plenty of opportunities for public skating too. Admission rates ($25/person; $20/person for groups of five or more; Free for ages 5 and under with paid chaperone) include skate rentals. Located at 9250 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Highway in Beaverton. There is an additional location in Sherwood. Check their website for details.
Have fun in the snow. Lake Oswego is often blessed with a snow day or two when you can pull out your snow toys and be a kid again close to home. But if you don’t want to wait for that, make plans to head up to Mt. Hood for some snowshoeing or sledding. Warm up at Timberline Lodge with an Irish Coffee or some hot chocolate. Or register for the Lake Oswego Parks and Recreation Snowshoeing or Mt. Hood XC Ski activities. Check them out online.
Discover a new coffee shop. One of the things my wife and I often seek out on our neighborhood excursions is coffee shops and as you can imagine, there are plenty to try in Portland. Some of our new favorites include Dear Sandy and Sisters Coffee Company .(And don’t forget our great coffee spots right here in Lake Oswego).
Visit the Portland Winter Light Festival. The 2025 Portland Winter Light Festival (February 7 – 15) lights up the city with large-scale interactive art installations, performances, and pop-up pieces in storefronts, retail spaces, front yards and public spaces across Portland. Anchor sites include Pioneer Courthouse Square, the World Trade Center Plaza and the Electric Blocks at SE 2nd and Clay. You can join in the fun by decorating yourself with lights, join the Illuminated Bike Ride or the Lantern Parade. Last year over 270,000 people attended with over 90% of them saying they’d come back.
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Lawrence Yun, the chief economist for the National Association of Realtors, recently made his predictions for 2025. Let’s see how they compare to what we see happening in Lake Oswego.
He sees existing home sales rising 9% year-over-year and new home sales to jump by 11%. That seems a little bit high to us considering where interest rates are currently and are projected to be.
In addition, a recent Bankrate survey found that it is cheaper to rent than to buy in 50 major U.S. cities, Portland metro area being one of them. Factor in rising costs for home insurance and property taxes and first-time homebuyers might still be waiting for the “right time.”
But it’s important to take in the whole picture. While the Bankrate survey takes a short-term view, it neglects to consider the long-term view that historically proves buying a home is a good investment. While Yun predicts the median home price going up 2% next year, here in Lake Oswego, we see a slow, steady market with home values increasing by @5% over the course of the year.
So, buyers who choose to wait it out on the sidelines are losing out on the equity homeowners can access when they want to buy their next home.
The good news for current homeowners is that 4 out of 5 Americans still want to own a home someday. And like Yun, we have seen an influx of cash buyers who are not affected by interest rates. Looking back on this past year we probably saw 40% of our buyers coming in with cash which always puts them in a very competitive situation.
More good news for both Lake Oswego homeowners and buyers is that we live in Clackamas County, not Multnomah. Steve Duin recently wrote a column about a gentleman who has lived in the same SW Portland home for 52 years who received a property tax assessment of $16,325.05. As Duin points out, “That’s a formidable sum, almost 60% more than the property taxes on a home of similar value in Clackamas County.”
As always, it’s best to work with a hyperlocal Realtor when looking to buy or sell a home. My daughter and I have lived and worked in Lake Oswego for over 30 years so we’d love to be those experts for you. Read one of our previous blogs to learn how we work. We’re here to help you make a wise investment decision whether you are looking to buy or sell. Feel free to reach out and see what we can do for you.
1. Try a new coffee shop. We had two new coffee shops open in Lake Oswego in 2024, on opposite sides of town so next time you’re needing a caffeine fix, try one of them out. Cathedral Coffee is in the former Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf-Starbucks location at 1175 McVey Avenue and is open from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. With a motto that “We exist to cultivate meaningful relationships through extraordinary hospitality,” it sounds like a good place to hang out. And their latte art (which always enhances our coffee experience) is top notch.
On the southwest side of town, you’ll find Roseline in yet another former Starbucks location at 16398 Boones Ferry Road and open from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. You can read more about Roseline here in an earlier blog, and we can attest to the fact that Roseline too takes their latte art seriously.
2. Try a new restaurant. It appears Lake Oswego is becoming a destination spot for dining with three new restaurants debuting this year. The Lake View Taphouse took over the former Manzana spot in Lake View Village in April, revamping the venue to be more open and lighter. Serving lunch, dinner and brunch on weekends, the menu features casual dining including shareable boards as well as entrees, beers on tap, cocktails and wine. Located at 305 1st Street, hours are Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to. 9:00 p.m., Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The Driftwood Taphouse opened in June in Oswego Towne Square at 3 Monroe Parkway. It features a curated meu of Mediterrannean inspired small plates and sandwiches as well as expertly crafted cocktails, wine and spirits as well as mocktail offerings like a Berry Margarita Spritz and a Raspberry Mojito. Hours are Monday through Wednesday from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Mann’s on the Lake opened in late October in what used to house Stickmen Brewing at 40 N. State Street. After extensive renovations to open things up and add more seating inside, owner Eric Mann added yet a third restaurant offering to his Lake Oswego lineup which includes Duke’s Public House and Aji Tram. Mann’s focused on Pacific Northwest cuisine with a seafood forward menu serving lunch, dinner and brunch on the weekends. Hours are Monday and Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
3. Purchase a pre-sale membership to Lake Oswego’s new Recreation and Aquatics Center. Pre-sale memberships will be activated when LORAC opens and can be purchased for 3 or 12 months. Check online for membership fees. The new center is slated to open in late winter of 2025 and includes a 12-lane competitive pool, 4,500 square foot recreational pool with three additional lanes for lap swimming, spa, and a kid’s area with water slide and play structures, a significant weight and cardio area, 7,250 square foot gym equipped with all types of activities and league play, locker rooms, and multi-purpose group fitness rooms for education and outreach programs.
4. Take an awe walk. When students come up to Berkeley psychology professor Dacher Keltner and complain of being depressed he advises, “Get them outside, and go look for awe.” According to Keltner’s research, awe reduces stress, improves your immune system, makes us feel kinder, more creative and more connected to the world around us. What is awe? “A feeling of being in the presence of something vast that transcends your understanding of the world.” And luckily for us, awe is very accessible. According to Keltner’s research it can be found in something as ordinary as the way a tree casts a shadow on the sidewalk or how a hummingbird hovers over a flower. And the more awe walks we take, the more awe we feel as our capacity to experience it deepens. So take advantage of all the nature paths we have in Lake Oswego, the canopy of trees that line our streets and make awe-walking one of your new year resolutions.
5. Play Winter Reading Bingo through the Lake Oswego Public Library. You can download a Winter Reading Bingo Sheet and when you get five in a row – up, down or diagonal – you can return the sheet to the library and win a prize. Bingo squares include activities like: Read a new author, Attend a library program, Read a book that has won an award, Checkout a cookbook. You have until February 28 to play the game.
If one of your resolutions is to better understand the Lake Oswego housing market and what options you have for buying or selling, then please get in touch with one of us. We are here to help you make a wise investment when it comes to buying or selling your home in Lake Oswego and you can rest assured that we always keep that goal in mind when working with clients.
Wishing all of you a happy and awe-inspired New Year!
Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801 Riley Costello riley.costello@cascadehasson.com 971.322.6205
THE MALTESE FALCON. In this comedy mystery thriller Sam Spade, a world-weary private eye, is running a not-very successful operation with his partner Miles Archer. Enter Miss Wonderly (if that is her real name), who offers cash for them to tail a man who has abducted her young sister. Then Archer ends up dead. All in pursuit of the Black Bird. A U.S. premiere! Runs from January 3 through February 9. Tickets: Adults/$42; Seniors/$40; Students $30. Lakewood Center for the Arts, 368 S. State Street.
ART MART EXHIBITION. The community’s favorite exhibition is also a fundraiser for the Arts Council of Lake Oswego. Lake Oswegans donate their old artwork (paintings, drawings, sculptures, prints, ceramics, quilts, fiber art, photographs, posters, mixed media and more) to make room for new pieces. Starting January 10 at 5:00 p.m., collected art will be on view and for sale at the Marylhurst Commons bookstore building at 3162 Furman Drive. Exhibition runs through February 7.
PINTS FROM THE PAST. Where history meets entertainment. This month’s topic is Oswego Suffragists. Tuesday, January 14 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Lake Theater and Café, 106 N. State Street. Admission is free but food and drink purchase is encouraged to offset the cost to the Lake Theater. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; Presentation starts at 7:00 p.m.
THIRD THURSDAY IN DOWNTOWN LO. Celebrate great art, shopping and dining in downtown Lake Oswego from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 16. Check online for participating businesses which will be offering special discounts, complementary food and drink, raffles, music and more!
MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. CELEBRATION. City Hall commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s life with a celebration that includes art, poetry, music, and Dr. King’s “I have a Dream” speech. After, there will be arts and crafts and a chance to learn about service opportunities by local non-profits whose work advances Dr. King’s legacy. Sunday, January 19 at 2:00 p.m.
HOW ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IS SHAPING OUR FUTURE AND THE ETHICAL IMPLICATIONS. This seminar, led by Dr. Alicia Patterson, a distinguished professor at Oregon State University specializing in AI ethics, will provide you with valuable insights into how AI is transforming industries and the moral responsibilities we face. The seminar will explore AI’s opportunities as well as challenges in the areas of: Healthcare, Transportation, Education, Entertainment, Job Displacement, Bias and Fairness, Privacy and Surveillance, Autonomy and Accountability. The program is free for all but you are asked to register for Course 30190 by calling 503.635.3758. January 31 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Lake Oswego Adult Community Center, 505 G Avenue.
THE CHANCE FOR SNOW. There is always a possibility for a snow day in January so be prepared!
Don’t miss out on what’s happening in Lake Oswego. Subscribe to our blog by clicking the “Sign me up” button in the top right hand column.
And be sure to give us a call if you are thinking of moving to Lake Oswego or selling your home. We have clients looking to move in and around Lake Oswego so be sure to reach out.
Kevin Costello 503.939.9801 kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com
Since 2011, I’ve posted 709 blogs, bringing readers all the reasons to Love Lake Oswego each and every week. Here’s a roundup of the 10 most popular posts this past year:
1. Reading Into the Lake Oswego Housing Market Numbers.With rising interest rates, homebuyers are curious how that affects the Lake Oswego housing market. In this blog I try to break it down with insights such as this: “73 – is the number of price changes in the Lake Oswego/West Linn housing market in just one day last week which speaks to the higher inventory and the need for sellers to rely on Realtor’s estimated market values versus what they think they’d like to get. It also tells buyers that there is room for negotiation on many homes listed.”
2. A Guide to Lake Oswego Easements. With only 3,000 homes in Lake Oswego that have access to the 20 lake easements, buying a home with easement rights is always high on homebuyers’ minds. This blog breaks down each easement, identifying the amenities as well as the costs.
3. Answers to Questions Out-of-State Buyers Have About Lake Oswego. We work with many homebuyers moving to Lake Oswego from out of state. Depending where they are coming from, they may feel like they can get more for less than where they came from or that they may have to compromise on their “wishlist.” This blog answers many of their questions.
7. U-Pick Berry Farms Around Lake Oswego. Come summertime, Lake Oswegans want to pick their own berries and this guide proves that the bounty around us is plentiful.
8. When the Going Gets Hot, Check Out These Swimming Holes in Lake Oswego.Come summer, Lake Oswego is the place to be with great warm weather, long sunlit days and little to no bugs! That’s why Lake Oswegans are always looking for a place to cool off and luckily they have lots of options from the Lake Oswego Swim Park open to all residents to the Willamette River at George Rogers Park.
9. Best Lake Oswego Neighborhoods for Trick-or-Treating. In October, this blog post resurfaces as parents start planning their Halloween strategy. Last year I even got a call from a dad in Milwaukie who was wanting to know where to take his kids. Word’s out—Lake Oswego homeowners are generous when it comes to handing out Halloween candy.
10. One of the Top Reasons to Move to Lake Oswego. While we provide a new reason to love Lake Oswego every week, an arctic blast in February of this year brought calls for help that were quickly answered by the giving community that lives here. Yes, we have a beautiful lake, excellent schools, active Parks and Recreation department, award-winning library, rich arts and cultural offerings…but it’s our people that provide one of the most compelling reasons to move here.
Lake Oswegans are getting into the holiday spirit and if you drive around town, you’ll see just that. Every neighborhood has something to offer but be sure to check out the corner of Childs Road and Indian Springs Road. This house was on the must-see Halloween list too so know these Lake Oswego homeowners take their holiday decorating seriously!
Here are a few glimpses into Lake Oswego holiday displays.
My daughter and I would like to wish you all a Happy Holiday season! May your homes be filled with laughter, love and loved ones.
Kevin Costello kevin.costello@cascadehasson.com 503.939.9801
There is a reason my wife and I enjoy going to local theater productions. The intimate settings where there’s not a bad seat in the house, coupled with what is often a much lower price of admission provides a winning combination for a fun night out.
With that in mind, I’ve put together a roundup of local holiday productions in and around Lake Oswego for you to consider if you’re looking for a traditional favorite (like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer) or something out of the ordinary (like A Drunk Christmas Carol).
A CHRISTMAS STORY: THE MUSICAL. Based on the movie classic set in the 1940s the musical follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker and his quest for the Holy Grail of Christmas gifts—an Official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot Range Model BB gun. Rebuffed at every turn. Ralphie plots numerous schemes to achieve his desperate desire for the coveted BB gun. Runs November 8 – December 15. Tickets: $50/Adult; $48/Senior 65+; $30/Student 25 and under. 368 S. State Street.
THE PEPPERMINT BEAR SHOW: THE TWO HEADED DRAGON. The Peppermint Bear show is a classic at Lakewood Theatre Company and it’s perfect for families and full of holiday cheer. Each year a new 45-minute episode is presented. A light continental breakfast with rolls, juice, and coffee is provided. It’s a show that is perfect for ages 3-103. Doors open 20 minutes before each show. Runs Saturdays and Sundays from December 7 -22. Tickets: $22/Adult; $17/Children. Side Door Stage at the Lakewood Center for the Arts, 368 S. State Street, 503.635.3901.
THE DROWSY CHAPERONE JR. Enjoy this condensed one-hour adaptation of the Tony-winning musical comedy custom tailored to the talent of young actors. Plays December 8,9 and 15 at 7:00 p.m. and December 14 at 1:00 p.m. Tickets: $15/Adults; $12/Youth. Lakewood Center for the Arts, 368 S. State Street. 503.635.3901.
BROADWAY ROSE THEATRE
FIVE GOLDEN RINGS. Cozy up for this musical holiday special, as Holly, a business executive from the big city, gets snowed in at a quaint Vermont bed and breakfast for Christmas, and begins to fall for its rugged yet charming owner. From flannel shirts to flirtatious snowball fights, Five Golden Rings is everything you want in a “Greeting Card Christmas Show.” Plays November 27-December 22 at the New Stage Theater in Tigard. Tickets range from $20-$54 and are going fast but from our experience, there’s not a bad seat in the house! 12850 SW Grant Avenue in Tigard.
NORTHWEST CHILDREN’S THEATER
RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER. The holiday classic soars off the screen in this musical adaptation of the beloved television special. Because of his shiny nose, Rudolph doesn’t feel like he belongs in Christmastown and sets off to find a place that accepts him. Along his journey, he encounters fellow misfits, only to realize that home is where he has belonged the whole time. When a storm threatens to keep Santa’s sleigh from taking flight, it’s up to Rudolph to save Christmas! Most enjoyed by ages 3 and up. Tickets: Adult/$40; Youth/$30. Plays November 30 through December 29 on weekends and select weekdays. The Judy, Northwest Children’s Theater, 1000 SW Broadway Avenue, T-100.
Kids Co Presents “Home for the Holidays. Enjoy a delightful evening of singing and dancing, performed by 15 talented youth performers, ages 8 to 12. This festive showcase not only highlights the skills these performers have honed in singing, dancing, and acting, but also embodies the spirit of community and service promoted by Kids Co. One performance on Saturday, December 14 at 6:00 p.m. Free admission but donations requested. The Judy, Northwest Children’s Theater, 1000 SW Broadway Avenue, T-100.
EXPERIENCE THEATRE PROJECT
A DRUNK CHRISTMAS CAROL. This promises to be something you may have never experienced before. One professional actor downs five shots of whiskey, then attempts to perform in the role of Scrooge in Dickens’ most famous Christmas story. A troupe of professional improvisers try to keep the classic story on the rails, but risk being completely sidetracked by wacky audience suggestions, a wheel of fate that can change the setting of the tale at any time, an ugly sweater contest, holiday themed cocktails, and gift giveaways throughout the night. This kind of show is lovingly ripped off of the format for Drunk Shakespeare (NY). Plays December 20 and 21 with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. for a 7:30 p.m. performance. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices vary. Brunish Theater, 1111 SW Broadway, 4th Floor, Portland.
BAG & BAGGAGE PRODUCTIONS
HARD-BOILED EGGNOG. An aspiring elf detective named Jangle gets his big break when Santa is found murdered just days before Christmas. Inspired by the classic Rankin-Bass holiday specials, Hard-Boiled Eggnog is an instant classic perfect for the whole family. Ticket prices vary. Runs December 5-December 22. The Vault Theater. 350 E. Main Street, Hillsboro.
THEATRE IN THE GROVE
ANNIE. Enjoy this timeless musical, sure to be a holiday treat for the whole family. Tickets: $18-$20. Plays Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays December 6-December 22. 2028 Pacific Avenue in Forest Grove. 503.359.5349.
HILLSBORO ARTISTS’ REGIONAL THEATRE
MISS: BENNET: CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLY. A Yuletide sequel to Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice where audiences get to meet the servants at Pemberley and explore the confines of class and generosity of forgiveness. Tickets are $20-$22 for performances December 7-22. 185 SE Washington, Hillsboro. 503.693.7815
ALBERTA ROSE THEATRE
WHITE ALBUM XMAS. Enjoy a holiday circus spectacular and tribute to The Beatles featuring The NowHere Band and Rose City Circus. Plays November 29 – December 14. Tickets $45/Advance; $55/At the Door; $70 Preferred Seating. 3000 NE Alberta, 503.719.6035.
CANDLELIGHT: BEST OF BRIDGERTON ON STRINGS.Surrounded by the soft glow of candlelight, listen to your favorite melodies from Shondaland’s “Bridgerton”series on Netflix, reimagined by a talented string ensemble.Two performances on December 16, at 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Tickets $34-$63.3000 NE Alberta, 503.719.6035.
LET IT GO: BURLESQUE TRIBUTE TO FROZEN. Enjoy a sultry, burlesque twist to the tantalizing tale of identity and belonging inspired by the themes and characters of the classic fantasy Frozen. Performances December 18 and 19. Tickets $35-$45. 3000 NE Alberta, 503.719.6035.
BOYEURISM: WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA!. Embark on a journey of winter delight with Portland’s most beloved spectacular, BOYeurism! Brought to you by the enigmatic Goliaths of glam, IZOHNNY (Isaiah Esquire and Johnny Nuriel). One performance on December 20 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets $35-$55. 3000 NE Alberta, 503.719.6035.
THE 3-LEG TORSO PRESENTS THE ELVES OF FROSTLAND. See what happens when 3 LEG TORSO find themselves stranded in Frostland during toy-making season with nothing more than their music and the arrival of random strangers to bring them joy. Tickets: $20-$50. Saturday, December 21 with shows at 3:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Tickets $15-$50. 3000 NE Alberta, 503.719.6035.
STUMPTOWN SOUL HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR. Features an all‐star cast of Portland blues, jazz, rock & roll, & soul musicians who light up the stage for a soul celebration of the holiday season! Tickets $15-$30. 3000 NE Alberta, 503.719.6035.
WE CALL IT BALLET: SLEEPING BEAUTY. Experience ‘Sleeping Beauty’ like never before, as dancers in glow-in-the-dark costumes bring this classic tale to life on stage. Performances Monday December 23 and Sunday December 29. Tickets $35-$56.3000 NE Alberta, 503.719.6035.
PORTLAND REVELS
THE MIDWINTER REVELS: NORSE FIRE – A CELEBRATION OF THE SOLSTICE. When Astrid discovers her Grandfather is close to death, she and the Norse God Jólnir set off on a journey through time and space to save him. But perhaps it isn’t Grandfather she needs to save.
A tale told with the music, story, and dance of Northern Europe. Performances December 13-December 22. Tickets online. Alberta Abbey, 126 NE Alberta Street.
PORTLAND PLAYHOUSE
A CHRISTMAS CAROL. The story begins with Scrooge, who is known for his cold heart and his lack of compassion for others. He is visited by the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley, who warns him of the consequences of his selfish ways. Throughout the night, Scrooge is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, who take him on a journey through time and space to show him the true meaning of Christmas. Plays November 26 – December 29. Tickets online. 602 NE Prescott St, (503) 488.5822.
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I feel pretty lucky—I live where I work and I love where I live. As a Realtor in Lake Oswego, Oregon, I get to share that enthusiasm with clients every day. Through this blog, with the help of my freelance writer wife, Genita, I’d like to share that enthusiasm with you. Be sure to visit my website.
Due to the changing nature of activities in response to COVID-19, I am suspending this section of the blog temporarily but wish every mom out there a Happy Mother’s Day today!
52 Reasons to Love Lake Oswego 