Portland in January

January always feels so fresh and clean, doesn’t it? (Yes, it’s also typically the second rainiest month in Portland.) But with a new year comes new resolutions and ideas to explore more. So get out and see something new this month!

WEATHER

January is typically the coldest month in Portland, with average lows in the mid 30s (yeah, pretty much freezing) and highs in the mid 40s. And since the first month of the year brings in one of the most rainy months, be prepared for chilly weather.
>> Learn more about: weather in Portland

JANUARY EVENTS/CONCERTS

Jan 5: First Thursday
Jan 6-8: River City Music Festival – Bluegrass, acoustic, and Americana music festival
Jan 7: Winter Market opens – the Portland Farmers Market winter market runs through Feb 25
Jan 12: Backcountry Film Festival – Portland premiere
Jan 15: Buckman-Kerns Brewfest – 2nd annual event, celebrating your favorite east side breweries
Jan 19-29: Fertile Ground Festival – a citywide art festival, including staged readings, and performance art.
Jan 20-22: ChocolateFest – Sample chocolate, in support of the World Forestry Center
Jan 22: Chinese Lunar New Year
Jan 26-29: Portland International Auto Show – including the ECO center, electric car ride and drive, and a family day.
Jan 28: Nomading Film Festival Winter Recess

THINGS TO DO

With January comes the post-holiday blues, so kick the year off by visiting all those Portland places you haven’t been to yet. Think: Pittock Mansion, Chinese Gardens, The Grotto (also has a nice indoor viewing area looking North), and enjoy some indoor time with what’s left of seasonal ale or a warm latte. Up for an outdoor adventure? January is one of the best months to ski/board Mt Hood. And if you’re looking for a quick getaway, consider the coast, (with Cannon Beach being one of the closest trips), where you can watch a storm roll in from the comfort of your hotel. January is also a good time to catch the tail end of whale watching season, as the gray whales head south.

What’s your favorite thing to do in January?