What To Do in Portland in November 2025

November can be grim. The weather encourages us all to stay in. But there are also plenty of fun reasons to go out — even as it gets dark and rainy.

☑️ November Reminders

There are two big dates to keep in mind:

Nov. 4: Election Day

Don’t forget to vote by Tuesday. In Portland, the sole issue on the ballot is the parks levy.

• Related: The Portland Parks Levy on the November Ballot [City Cast Portland ✏️]

Nov. 27: Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is weeks away. But if you want to eat out, there are more options if you plan now. Reservations are still available at Andina, Jake’s Famous Crawfish (which also has a takeout option), Bullard Tavern, and Urban Farmer (which is serving breakfast, dinner, and a takeout option). You could also order a meal to go from Ringside Tavern.

It's also time to order your turkey if you want one from a local farm. (This is my reminder to myself to make my plan.)

🎹 November Fun Despite the Rain

It’s a good time to find your own personal motivation for leaving the house, as the rain gives us all a reason to hibernate. Here are some suggestions from the City Cast Portland team:

Make Some Music at Portland Synth Library

Now located in the Lloyd Center mall (yes, that’s one more reason to get there), this nonprofit serves as a lending library of sorts — for low-cost access to electronic music gear — synthesizers, drum machines, modular synthesizer pods, and more. They also have education classes. One way to check out what they’re doing: On Black Friday, Fri., Nov. 28: they’re having a fundraiser/show at the mall. (Hat tip to executive producer John Notarianni for this one.)

Listen to Some Music

Only 37% of Oregon’s small venues were profitable last year. It’s one more reason to go out and enjoy live music. Senior producer Giulia Fiaoni’s latest favorite spot is The Get Down — a basement venue, which still feels spacious even when it sells out.

Find a New Board Game

There are a bunch of game stores around town. But there are even some places where you can try out the games before you buy them. At Mox Boarding House, you can grab a meal or a drink and play the games. And Puddletown Games has a small selection of games they loan out for you to try. (Thanks to podcast host Claudia Meza for those ideas.)