Have a Healthy, Happy December with These Local Wellness Events

Image: Shutterstock
Pop Up Free Self Care Night
What: Relax with a slew of free alternative health services, including massages, acupuncture, herbal tinctures, chiropractic appointments, and energy work sessions. This event is open to all, with priority given to folks who identify as queer, femme, transgender, low-income, or people of color. Donations are intended to benefit social justice organizations.
Where: Classic Body Restoration, 107 SE Washington St, Suite 134
When: Saturday, December 3, 6–9 p.m.
How Much: Free! More info here.
Missed this fantastic event? It’s set to repeat on Saturday, December 17, from 3–7 p.m. at North Portland Yoga.
Bikram Yoga St. Johns’ 1st Birthday Party
What: Sweat your way through a free yoga class at Bikram Yoga St. Johns, taught tag-team by the studio’s full roster of teachers and a few special guests. Return to the studio that evening for a birthday party featuring live music, belly dancing, Bollywood dancing, and party games, not to mention snacks and drinks by Falafel House PDX, Soma Kombucha, and Rawdacious Desserts.
Where: Bikram Yoga St. Johns, 7025 N Lombard St #200
When: Saturday, December 3, 7:30 & 9:30 a.m. classes; 6–9 p.m. party
How Much: Free! More info here and here.
The Remedy Portland Book Launch
What: Hear stories about health care from a diverse group of queer and trans folks at the book launch of The Remedy: Queer and Trans Voices on Health and Health Care. The event will feature readings by six of the anthology’s contributors, as well as Portlanders Alise Marie Sanchez (NAYA) and Galadriel Mozee.
Where: Q Center, 4115 N Mississippi Ave
When: Saturday, December 3, 6:30–8:30 p.m.
How Much: Free! More info here. Copies of The Remedy will be available for purchase on-site.
Cold Weather Cycling Basics
What: Learn the secrets to pedaling around town all year round with the help of REI’s experienced cycling instructors. Attendees will learn how to outfit themselves and their bikes to handle freezing temperatures, wet weather, and other daunting winter obstacles.
Where: REI, 1405 NW Johnson St.
When: Monday, December 5, 6:30–8 p.m.
How Much: Free! Register here.
Vegan Potluck for Social Change
What: Taste your way through a plant-based potluck spread (including special dishes by featured chefs) as you listen to presentations about projects to make the world a better place. This donation-based event is hosted by Vegan Iron Chef, and proceeds will benefit Unite Oregon and the Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund.
Where: People’s Food Co-op, 3029 SE 21st Ave
When: Friday, December 9, 6:30-8 p.m.
How Much: $10–50 donation. Purchase tickets here.
Queer Crafts, Arts, and Healing Fair
What: Finish up your holiday shopping while supporting local queer, QTPOC (queer and transgender people of color), and working-class makers. Expect all sorts of artwork, apparel, home goods, and zines, as well as a wide selection of tinctures, elixirs, salves, candles, and teas—and snacks, of course!
Where: In Other Words, 14 NE Killingsworth St.
When: Sunday, December 11, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
How Much: Free to attend. More info here.
Holiday Half Marathon & 5K
What: Enjoy sweeping views (and crowds of carolers!) as you run along Willamette Boulevard, through the University of Portland campus, and across the St. Johns Bridge. Once you’ve made it the full 13.1 (or 3.1) miles, refuel with seasonal craft beer, hot chocolate, eggnog, oatmeal, and hearty holiday soup.
Where: Adidas campus, 5055 N Greeley Ave
When: Sunday, December 11, 8 a.m.
How Much: $41–82, more info here.
Grinch Singalong Ride to Peacock Lane
What: Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Grinch Who Stole Christmas TV special by watching and singing along with a group of enthusiastic Whoville citizens. The 25-minute movie will be projected in the covered lot south of the Oregon Rail Heritage Center; when it’s finished, hop on your bike and ride to Portland’s famous Peacock Lane holiday lights. Don’t forget to wear green and red!
Where: Oregon Rail Heritage Center, 2250 SE Water Ave
When: Sunday, December 18, 5:45–7:30 p.m.
How Much: Free! More info here.