STORIES—The gang from the historical storytelling series Stumptown Stories is gathering in a cozy basement bar to regale you with stories of Portland’s past, of murder and chaos, Christmas mysteries and Hanukkah paradises. They promise thrilling holiday tales, plus a jam-packed raffle and a mythical beast called Sober Santa. You don’t have to be sober, though! COURTNEY FERGUSON
The Jack London Bar, 529 SW 4th, 7 pm, $5
HOLIDAY—Since 1954, heavily decorated and lit boats and ships have been trucking up and down the Willamette in a nightly Christmas Ship Parade during most of December (weather permitting). Bundle up, head to the river, and check ’em out—and to find their exact location, you can even follow them on Twitter (@ChristmasShips). WM. STEVEN HUMPHREY
Willamette River downtown, usually around 7 pm, through Dec 20