Our Monthly Picks Around Town: October 2026
October in the Portland metro is basically a love language — crisp air, changing leaves, harvest farms, and a calendar packed with some of the best events of the year. Whether you're in the mood for world premiere opera, pumpkin boats, art studio tours, or simply a glass of cider among the apple orchards, this month has something worth showing up for. Here's our roundup of October events we think belong on your calendar.
RENEGADE OPERA - THE RAVEN
October 2nd-11th | Renegade Opera
Renegade Opera presents the world premiere of a haunting new chamber opera based on Edgar Allan Poe's beloved poem, in an intimate, atmospheric setting perfect for the season. Using an innovative composing technique that removes gendered voices, this is truly a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience.
HOOD RIVER VALLEY HARVEST FEST
October 9th-11th | Hood River, Or
Now in its 44th year, this beloved Columbia River Gorge tradition fills the waterfront with more than 80 juried artists and makers, a farmers market overflowing with fall bounty...apples, pears, squash, honey, and more! Enjoy food carts, children's activities, and local beer, cider, wine, and spirits.
PORTLAND OPEN STUDIOS
October 10th & 11th and 17th & 18th
This free event opens the doors of 100+ Portland artists' working studios for two full weekends, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at how local painters, sculptors, ceramicists, and more bring their work to life. It's a self-guided, free experience and a great way to connect with Portland's vibrant creative community.
GIANT PUMPKIN REGATTA & FESTIVAL
October 17th & 18th | Tualatin
This free celebration kicks off with a giant pumpkin weigh-off and craft beer at Stickmen Brewing, followed by a full day of costumed competitors paddling 1,000-pound pumpkin boats across the lake — plus pumpkin bowling, pumpkin golf, food, and family fun. National Geographic named it one of the best fall festivals in the US.
LUMINARIAS DIA DE MUERTOS
October 17th | Esther Short Park
This free, family-friendly celebration of Día de Muertos is a beautiful and meaningful event honoring those who have departed, featuring luminarias, traditional Mexican folk dancing, live music, guest artists, delicious food and more! Presented by Vancouver Ballet Folklórico.
BAUMAN’S FARM CIDER FESTIVAL
October 24th & 25th | Bauman Farm, Gervais, OR
One of the region's most beloved fall destinations! This two-day, 21+ cider celebration brings together some of the Northwest's finest cideries and local breweries for tastings, voting for the People's Choice Award, and all the harvest festival fun that surrounds it. Your ticket includes five tastings and access to the full Harvest Festival.
More From Our Blog
Past Monthly Picks
October in the Portland metro is basically a love language — crisp air, changing leaves, harvest farms, and a calendar packed with some of the best events of the year. Whether you're in the mood for world premiere opera, pumpkin boats, art studio tours, or simply a glass of cider among the apple orchards, this month has something worth showing up for. Here's our roundup of October events we think belong on your calendar.