As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, Portland’s winter music scene is heating up with exciting activities for everyone to enjoy. Winter break is finally here, and whether you’re staying on campus or sticking around Portland, there’s no reason to let boredom take over. Our city is packed with fun, free, and low-cost events perfect for students looking to unwind, explore, and make the most of their time off. Keep reading to find out what’s happening around town and how you can enjoy a budget-friendly break filled with Portland’s unique charm!
The AM (Acoustic Minds) Holiday Performances at the Square
📅 Tuesday, December 10
⏰ 5–6 PM
💸 Free
🎟️ All Ages
Start the holiday season with live acoustic music at Pioneer Courthouse Square. The AM (Acoustic Minds) will be performing a collection of heartwarming tunes that will put you in the festive spirit. Whether you’re shopping or simply walking through downtown, this free performance is a perfect way to take a break and enjoy some live music.
Soulful Sunday at Alberta Street Pub
📅 Every Sunday
⏰ 9 PM
💸 Free
🎟️ 21+
Every Sunday, head over to Alberta Street Pub for a night of soul, R&B, and funk with Tyrone Hendrix and his all-star lineup. Known for his energetic beats and collaborations with artists like Prince and Stevie Wonder, Hendrix brings together incredible musicians, including Doug Lewis (Pleasure), Nick Rolfe (Aretha Franklin), and DJ Renz. This weekly event is free and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy great live music.
Oubliette Old School Goth Night: DJ Non
📅 Second Wednesday of Every Month
⏰ 10 PM
💸 Free
🎟️ 21+
For fans of dark, nostalgic music, Oubliette Old School Goth Night at Coffin Club is a must. Hosted by DJ Non, this monthly event features goth, industrial, and post-punk tracks. The atmosphere is laid-back, and the music is hauntingly good. Best of all, it’s free to attend, so bring your friends for a night of eerie beats and good vibes!
Dairy Fest 2024
📅 Thursday, December 12
⏰ 7:30 PM
💸 $20
🎟️ 21+
Celebrate the eclectic Portland music scene at Dairy Fest 2024 at Mississippi Studios. This event features performances from a variety of artists and promises a night filled with fun and community vibes. If you’re in the mood for a mix of music and local culture, grab your $20 ticket and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable evening.
Grateful Dead Dance Party: The Music Never Stops
📅 Friday, December 13
⏰ 8:30 PM
💸 $15
🎟️ 21+
Get ready to dance the night away at The Get Down in Buckman with a Grateful Dead Dance Party. Celebrate the iconic music of the Grateful Dead with fellow fans and a night full of groove. The $15 cover charge gives you access to an unforgettable night of dancing, good music, and great vibes.
The Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition
📅 Friday, December 13
⏰ 6–7:30 PM
💸 Free
🎟️ All Ages
Join the fun at Pioneer Courthouse Square for the annual Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition. Local groups compete in a festive caroling contest, singing classic holiday tunes as part of this beloved Portland tradition. It’s a fun, family-friendly event that’s free to attend and the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit.
Scratching Tongues and Werewolf Diet
📅 Saturday, December 14
⏰ 7–9 PM
💸 Free
🎟️ All Ages
Catch some high-energy live music with Scratching Tongues and Werewolf Diet at Arbor Beer Lodge & Brewery. This free event brings together local bands with a mix of rock and alternative sounds. If you’re looking for a cool, relaxed venue to enjoy some live tunes, this event is a great way to spend your Saturday night.
Jazz Night at Swan Dive
📅 Every Wednesday
⏰ 8–11 PM
💸 Free
🎟️ 21+
Every Wednesday, head to Swan Dive in Buckman for a night of smooth jazz. Local jazz musicians bring their best to the stage, creating a cozy, laid-back vibe perfect for unwinding mid-week. If you’re a fan of live jazz or just looking for a chill night out, this is the place to be. Plus, it’s free!
33rd Annual Tuba Christmas Concert
📅 Saturday, December 21
⏰ 1:30–3 PM
💸 Free
🎟️ All Ages
Enjoy the unique and festive sounds of the 33rd Annual Tuba Christmas Concert at Pioneer Courthouse Square. This free event features over 100 tubas and euphoniums playing your favorite holiday tunes, creating a special atmosphere you won’t want to miss. It’s a family-friendly event that brings a unique twist to your traditional holiday music experience.
Friends of Noise Presents: Culture Cat, Curfew Comes with the Street Lights, Rose Tinted, Ruby Kimball
📅 Saturday, December 21
⏰ 7:30 PM (Doors at 7 PM)
💸 $10 Adv / $12 Dos
🎟️ NOTAFLOF
Head to Ethos Music Center for an evening of live music featuring Culture Cat, Curfew Comes with the Street Lights, Rose Tinted, and Ruby Kimball. This all-ages event brings together a diverse range of sounds and talents, making it a great option for anyone looking to discover new music. Advance tickets are just $10, and it’s a great chance to support a local nonprofit venue!
BIRTH-TAY: A Taylor Swift Birthday Celebration Dance Party
📅 Thursday, December 12
⏰ 9 PM
💸 $13 – $20
🎟️ 21+
Celebrate Taylor Swift’s birthday at Holocene with a dance party dedicated to all things T-Swift. Sing and dance to her greatest hits, remixes, and fan favorites at this fun-filled celebration. Whether you’re a lifelong Swiftie or just looking for a great night out, this dance party promises plenty of fun for everyone. Tickets range from $13 to $20.
Mourning High, Wayward Shot, Dystoria, Exceptional Failures at Polaris Hall
📅 Saturday, December 22
⏰ 7 PM
💸 $15 Adv / $20 Dos
🎟️ 21+
For metal fans, don’t miss the massive show at Polaris Hall featuring Mourning High, Wayward Shot, Dystoria, and Exceptional Failures. This promises to be an intense night with heavy riffs and killer performances. Bring earplugs because it’s going to be LOUD! Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door.
Icebreaker: Portland’s All Ages Winter Break Festival
📅 Thursday, January 2, 2025
⏰ Doors at 6:30 PM
💸 $10 Adv / $15 Dos
🎟️ All Ages
Kick off the new year at Holocene with Icebreaker, an all-ages winter break festival presented by Friends of Noise. This event will feature incredible up-and-coming artists like The Red Strings, Lil Jerzy, Shannon Wiancko, Sheyana, The Defense, Ant Kash, and DJ Ruskii. Don’t miss your chance to see these talented musicians before they hit bigger stages. There might even be a surprise guest or two!
Portland is brimming with free, fun, and festive events to enjoy this winter break. Whether you’re into live music, creative performances, or holiday traditions, the city offers something for everyone. So, grab your friends, bundle up, and head out to make the most of this magical time of year in Portland! 🎄✨
