Around the Pearl News
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Burn, Spin, Flow: The Ultimate Pearl District Studio Crawl
January in Portland is mostly just gray skies and rain. But the best way to beat the winter blues is to actually get moving. Lucky for us, the Pearl is packed with studios that make leaving the house worth it.
Whether you're looking to hit the "Red Room," find your flow in a brick loft, or finally try that barre class everyone’s talking about, here’s the lowdown on the best neighborhood spots to kick off your year.
January Art & Events Guide
First Thursday marks the start of the year in the Pearl District, but the neighborhood’s creative momentum continues well after the opening night gallery walk ends. This January, the district is leaning into live performance and conversation with a lineup that includes the A.M.P. First Open Mic of 2026, the Not That Late Show at Portland Center Stage, and the TEDxPortland Salon at Wieden+Kennedy. Whether you’re heading out for the art crawl or a specific show later in the month, here’s what’s on the calendar.
New Year’s Eve 2026: Ringing It In, Pearl District Style
The Pearl District is bringing the energy this New Year’s Eve, with something for every kind of celebration. Dance into 2026 at Midnight Rodeo at River Pig with DJs and a midnight champagne toast, or keep it loose at QD’s and Two Wrongs, where there’s no cover, free bubbles, and nonstop fun. From packed dance floors to easygoing bar vibes, the Pearl District makes ringing in the new year effortless—just show up and celebrate.
December Art & Events Guide
Celebrate the holidays in the Pearl District with three great events! The season kicks off on December 3rd at 3:30 PM with the NWCC Crow Abatement Showcase at Jamison Square, featuring a live falconry demonstration. From December 4th–6th, shop the Pacific Northwest College of Art Holiday Art Sale for handmade student gifts (prints, pottery, textiles). Finally, don't miss The NAYA Pop-Up Sale at Blackfish Gallery on December 6th for unique Native American art and handcrafted treasures. The Pearl District is your destination for holiday gifts and community experiences!
Pearl District Holiday Kickoff: Mid-November Moments You Won’t Want to Miss
Celebrating community, culture, and holiday magic in the heart of the Pearl
The holiday season has arrived, and the Pearl District is bursting with cheer! It’s the perfect time for family and friends to come together as the neighborhood kicks off the festivities with community and culture!
Your Ultimate Guide to Happy Hour in the Pearl
The Best Deals in Portland’s Buzz-Worthy Neighborhood
The Pearl is buzzing with great food, fun bars, and top-notch happy hour deals—and we’ve also included some of the most exciting events happening around the neighborhood. Whatever you’re in the mood for, the Pearl has something waiting.
November Art & Events Guide
Experience the Best of Art, Local Makers, and Seasonal Events
Kick off the holiday season in the the Pearl District! Enjoy November’s First Thursday Gallery Walk, showcasing new exhibitions and evening receptions. Discover seasonal highlights around the Pearl and join the community for the Holiday Tree Lighting & Small Biz Saturday at Jamison Square, perfect ways to shop local, enjoy live music, and celebrate the season.
A Spooky Halloween In the Pearl
The Pearl District comes alive each October with Halloween fun for everyone. From literary events at Powell’s City of Books to lively costume parties at River Pig Saloon and 10 Barrel Brewing, it’s one of Portland’s top spots for spooky celebrations in 2025.
October First Thursday Gallery Guide
It’s October in the Pearl District, and First Thursday is tomorrow! Don’t miss must-see events like Hallowed, featuring new work by Pippa Arend and Leah Kohlenberg, as well as guest artist, Maude May. It’s also the 50-year anniversary of Pearl District favorite, the Blue Sky Gallery, and the final Urban Art Network First Thursday Street Gallery of the year. This First Thursday in the Pearl is not one to miss!
Your Guide to New Shops in the Pearl District
The Pearl District in Portland is buzzing in 2025 with new shops, restaurants, and wellness spots. Discover lighting showrooms like Visual Comfort & Co., savor Asian-fusion at Ginza, or relax at Wabi Sabi Aesthetics & Dry Eye Spa. Check our monthly Pearl District New Business Map to stay updated on the latest openings and experiences in NW Portland.