Vancouver Portland Events This Weekend Jan 16-18
Weekend Events in Vancouver and Portland
This weekend brings an exciting mix of grand openings, pop culture celebrations, and wellness experiences across Vancouver, Washington, and Portland, Oregon. Whether you're craving sweet treats, geeky adventures, or pure relaxation, the Pacific Northwest has something special waiting for you.
Sweet tooths rejoice as Handel's Homemade Ice Cream opens its first Washington location with free ice cream giveaways and special character visits. Nature lovers can explore medicinal plants at Columbia Springs' Herbal Apothecary Nature Day, while dog enthusiasts won't want to miss the prestigious Rose City Classic Dog Show featuring top canines from across the country. Comic book fans and cosplayers can unite at FAN EXPO Portland for three days of celebrity meet-and-greets, panels, and family-friendly attractions. And for those seeking ultimate relaxation, experience the magic of a traditional wood-fired sauna at SaunaGlo's special pop-up event.
From frozen delights to wellness retreats, this weekend offers the perfect blend of fun, culture, and relaxation in the greater Portland-Vancouver area.
Handel's Homemade Ice Cream Grand Opening
History is being made this Friday as Handel's Homemade Ice Cream celebrates the grand opening of its very first Washington location in Vancouver! This isn't just any ice cream shop—Handel's is known for their fresh, homemade ice cream made daily in small batches using the finest ingredients.
The celebration kicks off at noon with an exciting lineup of giveaways, special character appearances, and most importantly—free ice cream! If you're one of the first 100 guests, you'll score free ice cream for an entire year. The festivities also include merchandise giveaways and chances to win free ice cream for future visits.
What to Expect
- First 100 guests receive FREE ice cream for a year (must be 18+)
- Free ice cream samples and tastings throughout the day
- Merchandise giveaways and raffle prizes
- Special character appearance (details to be announced)
- Located at 530 SE 192nd Avenue on Mill Plain Blvd
- Open daily from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM (hours expand seasonally)
💡 Pro Tip from a Local
Arrive early—well before noon—if you want to be among the first 100 guests to secure free ice cream for a year! The line will likely start forming hours before opening. Park nearby and bring a chair if you're planning to wait. Don't forget to also check out the ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Vancouver Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, January 15 at 4:00 PM if you want a sneak peek!
Herbal Apothecary Nature Day
Discover the healing power of nature at Columbia Springs Environmental Education Center's Herbal Apothecary Nature Day! This free, family-friendly event invites nature enthusiasts of all ages to explore the fascinating world of medicinal plants through hands-on activities and educational experiences.
Whether you're a curious preschooler, an inquisitive teenager, or an adult looking to expand your knowledge of natural remedies, this drop-in event offers something for everyone. Learn about the properties and benefits of various medicinal plants, participate in interactive science activities, and connect with nature in meaningful ways—no RSVP required!
What to Expect
- Hands-on exploration of medicinal plants and their healing properties
- Interactive science activities suitable for all ages
- Educational displays about plant benefits and natural remedies
- Drop-in format—arrive and leave at your convenience
- Family-friendly atmosphere welcoming preschoolers through adults
- Free admission and all materials provided
💡 Pro Tip from a Local
Arrive early in the morning for a quieter experience and more one-on-one time with educators. Bring a notebook to jot down information about plants that interest you—Columbia Springs staff are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share gardening tips! Dress for the weather since some activities may take you outdoors. The center is located at 12208 SE Evergreen Hwy with ample free parking.
Rose City Classic Dog Show
Witness the pinnacle of canine excellence at the Rose City Classic Dog Show, one of the premier dog shows in the Pacific Northwest! This multi-day event brings together top dogs from across the United States to compete in breed specialties and thrilling all-breed competitions at the Portland Expo Center.
More than just a competition, the Rose City Classic is a celebration of the extraordinary bond between humans and their four-legged champions. Whether you're a dog lover, a breed enthusiast, or simply curious about the world of professional dog shows, this family-friendly event offers entertainment and education for all ages.
What to Expect
- Top dogs competing from across the United States
- Breed specialty shows and all-breed competitions
- Educational opportunities to learn about different breeds
- Meet handlers, breeders, and canine experts
- Family-friendly atmosphere perfect for kids and adults
- Vendor booths with dog products and services
💡 Pro Tip from a Local
The Portland Expo Center is large, so wear comfortable shoes! Weekend mornings tend to be less crowded than afternoons. If you're interested in a particular breed, check the show schedule online beforehand to plan your visit around specific competitions. Bring hand sanitizer and be respectful of handlers and dogs during competition prep—they need to stay focused! Parking is plentiful but can fill up quickly during peak hours.
FAN EXPO Portland
Calling all geeks, gamers, and pop culture enthusiasts! FAN EXPO Portland returns to the Oregon Convention Center for three days of ultimate fandom celebration. This massive convention brings together tens of thousands of fans for the ultimate playground of comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, and gaming.
Whether you're into Star Trek, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, or the latest anime sensation, FAN EXPO has something for every type of fan. Shop hundreds of vendors and exhibitors, attend panels and workshops with industry legends, meet your favorite stars and creators, and celebrate your fandom alongside thousands of other passionate fans—many in incredible cosplay!
What to Expect
- Celebrity guests including actors from Star Trek, Harry Potter, and more
- Hundreds of vendors selling comics, collectibles, art, and merchandise
- Panels and workshops with creators, writers, and industry professionals
- Cosplay contests and photo opportunities
- Gaming areas and anime screenings
- Family-friendly activities and attractions throughout the weekend
💡 Pro Tip from a Local
Saturday is the busiest day, so if you prefer smaller crowds, consider Friday evening or Sunday. Purchase your tickets online in advance to save time and potentially money. If you're planning to get autographs or photo ops with celebrities, book those early as they sell out quickly. The Oregon Convention Center has MAX light rail access, which is often easier than dealing with parking. Bring cash for smaller vendors, comfortable shoes for walking, and a backpack for all your goodies!
Wood-Fired Sauna Pop-Up
Escape the winter chill and experience the ancient tradition of wood-fired sauna bathing at SaunaGlo's special pop-up event. This limited-time offering features a beautiful mobile sauna that provides an authentic Nordic wellness experience, complete with the soothing crackle of burning wood and the gentle warmth that only a traditional sauna can provide.
This isn't just a sauna session—it's a complete wellness journey. After heating up in the wood-fired sauna, invigorate your body with a cold plunge, then relax in the botanical lounge surrounded by healing plants and calming aromatherapy. It's the perfect way to reset your mind, body, and spirit this weekend.
What to Expect
- Authentic traditional wood-fired sauna experience
- Cold plunge pool for contrast therapy and circulation benefits
- Botanical lounge for relaxation and meditation
- Limited-time pop-up—book reservations in advance
- Small group sessions for a peaceful, intimate experience
- Health and wellness benefits including stress relief and detoxification
💡 Pro Tip from a Local
Book your reservation online well in advance as sessions fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in and prepare. Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, a towel (though they may provide them), and flip-flops for walking between the sauna and cold plunge. First-timers should start with shorter sauna sessions and work up to longer periods. The contrast between hot sauna and cold plunge is intense but incredibly invigorating—embrace it! Located at 1915 SE Jefferson St in Milwaukie, just a short drive from Portland.
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Cassandra Marks
Realtor, Licensed in OR & WA | License ID: 201225764
Realtor, Licensed in OR & WA License ID: 201225764