ValenTangoTM
Looking for a fun and truly original Valentine’s Day date idea? “It takes two to tango,” they say. Returning for its 21st year, ValenTangoTM is the largest and longest-running tango festival in North America. Twelve of Argentina’s best tango instructors will be teaching five levels of skill: Beginners, intermediate, advanced, advanced couples and a special performance master class. There are no excuses for beginner dancers! Seventeen milongas, or Argentine ballroom dances, will take place, complete with music from over a dozen of Argentina’s most popular tango DJs and two orchestras. There will also be a free lecture on Golden Age orchestras and the era when tango thrived. There’s 8,000 square feet of dance floor, so there’s plenty of room for everyone, and prizes will be awarded.
WHEN: Wed, Feb. 7-Mon, 12
WHERE: DoubleTree Hilton Hotel, 1000 NE Multonomah St., Portland
WEBSITE: valentango.us
6th Annual Prohibition Party
If we can learn anything at all from the past, it’s that prohibition doesn’t work. Alcohol prohibition failed and gave birth to criminals like Al Capone, while cannabis prohibition gave birth to criminals like El Chapo. This Art Deco-inspired event is straight out of the 1920s, complete with Prohibition era-inspired drinks and food specials. It’s like walking into a speakeasy with drink specials like a Mint Julep or a Gin Rickey. Live jazz music will be provided by Basso à Deux. Dress in your “Gatsby best,” with traditional attire such as suspenders, fedoras, flapper dresses, furs and pearls. Dress in your finest, and you might be awarded the prize for Best Costume. Proceeds will benefit the Sunnyside Elementary SMART Program, which helps children learn to read.
WHEN: Sat, Feb. 18
WHERE: Circa 33, 3345 SE Belmont St., Portland
WEBSITE: circa33.com
