Summer is finally here and the time is right, neighbor, to come out of your shell. It’s the season of group bike rides and park dance parties, porch hangs with new neighbors and bounce house block parties. But in case you’re struggling to work up your social spirit, here are some free events happening in the neighborhood this June to get you moving.
Sunday Parkways Northeast
The World Naked Bike Ride isn’t until Sunday, Aug. 13, but you can prepare for that exhilarating group ride by joining Sunday Parkways Northeast, rolling through Concordia on June 25 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sponsored by the City of Portland, this 6.2-mile route closes several major streets in our neighborhood to car traffic and circles four parks.
Last year, I attended and loved the live music and dancing at Fernhill and Khunamokwst parks. I also loved the parade atmosphere that emerged along the route. The 2022 route was hot but neighbors rose to the occasion; setting up sprinklers, water stations and lemonade stands for participants. And I saw a few neighbors take advantage of the closed streets to throw some casual front yard/ block parties.
The ride has no start or end and is free. Bring water and money for food trucks along the way. Visit Portland.gov/sunday-parkways/northeast-event-2023 to learn more.
Pedalpalooza bike rides
If something a bit more indie is your scene, try Pedalpalooza, Portland’s summer bike fest. Peruse the online calendar to find literally hundreds of themed rides planned throughout summer. I like the sound of the 80s New Wave Retro Ride that rolls through Concordia on June 10 at 7 p.m. Start at Woodlawn City Park, at Northeast Dekum and 13th streets, and ride a casual 11 miles while grooving to the best synthand new wave hits. Riders are strongly encouraged to come dressed for the 1980s. The ride will end at Tough Luck bar (21 and over) on 1771 N.E. Dekum St. The ride is free and for all ages.
Community Arts Center
Cully has a new Community Arts Center at 4524 N.E. Going St., which offers an open studio, after-school programs for kids, and classes in fiber arts, ceramic hand building, and art fundamentals. On Saturday, June 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., it’s opening its doors for a free, family-friendly Craft Day and Open House.
Dance on Wheels Nights
Roll down to the playground at Vernon School, 2044 N.E. Killingsworth St., on Saturday nights this summer to Dance on Wheels, an all-ages gathering.
Organizer Janet Strong started roller skating during the pandemic, after a long hiatus.
“Everything was such a bummer,” she said. “I needed more joyful movement in my life.” The informal roller-skating nights were such a hit that they’re bringing them back for summer 2023. All wheels are welcome, including scooters, skateboards and bikes.
Strong brings the music; you can bring your own drinks and snacks. Strong says her favorite nights are when another roller skate group shows up, clad in helmets and elbow pads, to practice their tricks. Gatherings are held from 5:30-8 p.m. on weekends, and most are planned one week in advance.
To get in the know, find Strong on Facebook or go see her in the main office of Vernon School, 2044 N.E. Killingsworth St., where she works. Note: this is an informal gathering, not school-sponsored.
Owl Fest concert
On Saturday, June 3, a much bigger party will go down at Vernon School. Join neighbors for a community-wide celebration at Owl Fest from 3- 7 p.m., an event that hosts hope to hold annually.
Two special parent bands have assembled to provide entertainment. Strong, from the roller parties, plays keyboards and sings in one band. She is pretty tight-lipped about the set list, but promises danceable cover songs that represent diverse artists and span the decades.
Owl Fest also promises games for all ages, food trucks, silent bidding and “Take the Cake” musical chairs.
Vernon PTA President Maya Pueo von Geldern says her group hopes to hold Owl Fest outdoors. Free to attend, but a wristband for unlimited games is $5.
Belagarth Medieval Combat Society
Every Sunday at 2 p.m. in Alberta Park, 1905 N.E. Killingsworth St., a group of 15-20 folks battle it out at Belagarth, a medieval combat society. The “battle” takes place on the green field just south of the basketball court. I visited on a recent Sunday and observed a friendly, athletic and creative group of people gather to blow off some steam and have a lot of fun. Belagarth is more martial art than live action role play, although according to one organizer, Belagarth does include storylines, and players are welcome to make up their own fantasies. The pace of the battle varies from methodical to fast and hard, depending on who’s engaged. The group welcomes all skill levels, and organizers say the rules are easy to learn. Participating is free and foam shields and swords can be borrowed to get you started. Get out of your comfort zone and give Belagarth a try.
Science Fiction Book Club
More into sitting for your socializing? Concordia’s sci-fi book store Parallel Worlds Bookshop, 2639 N.E. Alberta St., hosts an ongoing, monthly in-person Book Club. Owner Sam Jones told his Instagram followers that starting in June, the group will meet at a larger space upstairs at Dream House PDX, 412 N.E. Beech St.
June’s book is Ursula K. Le Guin’s classic, “The Lathe of Heaven,” and a discussion will take place on June 1 from 6:15 – 8:15 pm.
Singing group
Portland’s long-running free singing group, the Sacred Harp singers, meet twice monthly at McMenamins Kennedy School community room, 5736 N.E. 33rd Ave. Improve breathing and release tension by joining them on Sundays, June 11 or 25, at 4 p.m. Newcomers welcome.
Got a free activity planned for this summer? Tell us about it and we’ll feature your event in an upcoming issue. Email Dina Sage at CNewsEditor@ConcordiaPDX.org.
Leigh Shelton is the ad rep for Concordia News. She loves getting to know her Concordia neighbors and exploring ways we can better support each other. Reach out and say hi at CNewsBusiness@ ConcordiaPDX.org.