— What’s the Word?In Washington County, Oregon —

Posts Tagged ‘Jenkins-Estate’

Mother’s Day Weekend in Oregon’s Washington County

Posted on: May 3rd, 2013 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

If you’re in the area visiting your mother, or are planning to take her away for a Mother’s Day getaway, several events throughout Oregon’s Washington County will leave your mom feeling like a queen (and you will be anointed as the “favorite child” …  at least for the weekend).

Weekend-Long Events

NEW ADDITION: Alloro Vineyard winery is hosting a special chocolate and wine tasting this Mother’s Day weekend, Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sample exotic chocolates, paired with Alloro Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Local jewelry designer Jessica Moquin will be showing off her artisan wares at a special trunk show. Cost for the event is $15 per person.

The Barefoot Quilt Festival is a Mother’s Day weekend tradition.  The historic Jenkins Estate hosts this celebration of the art of quilting with displays, demonstrations and sales of quilt-related items, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m, May 11-12.

Also an annual tradition, Smith Berry Barn celebrates “Mom”  during its Mother’s Day Open House, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., May 11-12, with samples of gourmet foods and fine teas.

Enjoy Mother’s Day weekend with wine tastings, food and music, hosted by Garden Vineyards (to be held at a special location: 23800 NW Meier Rd. Hillsboro), Friday, May 10, from 5-10 p.m. and Saturday, May 11, from 12-10 p.m. Admission is $10 per person, per evening.

Saturday, May 11

Oregon’s largest all-agricultural market, the Beaverton Farmer’s Market, opens for the season at 8 a.m. More than 200 vendors, including Oregon Craft Distillers “local liquids,” where visitors can taste artisan beer, wine and spirits, and an impressive selection of flower baskets and bouquets, delicious baked goods and more. (Open Saturdays through November 23, 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.)

Apolloni Vineyards is unveiling its new Tuscan-inspired wine cave, from 4-7 p.m. Enjoy special tastings, featuring an exclusive selection of library wines, with vintages dating back to 2012. Italian-style appetizers, gourmet cheese and charcuteries will be served. Cost to attend the event is $20 per person.

Enjoy a mother-daughter run at this year’s Hippie Chick Half & Quarter Marathon, starting at 8 a.m. This ladies-only event takes runners through Oregon’s Washington County’s flat, tree-lined streets, ending at the Gordon Faber Recreational Complex in Hillsboro.

Sunday, May 12

NEW ADDITION: Plum Hill Vineyards is hosting a Mother’s Day Wine Brunch, with delicious offerings, such as empanadas, quiche, stuffed endive leaves, Meyer lemon tarts and hibiscus caramel candies, paired with Plum Hill Wines. Bruch is $27 and may be purchased at the tasting room or by calling 503-359-4706.

NEW ADDITION: Celebrate Mom at the Mother’s Day Brunch at McMenamins Grand Lodge, in the Compass Room Theater. The menu will include sugar snap pea salad with mint and pine nuts, tortellini salad, breakfast breads and pastries, cottage-fried red potatoes, homemade biscuits and sausage gravy and a lot more. Brunch is $26 for adults; $15 for kids (5-12): free for kids 4 and under. Reservations are required, 503-992-9533; toll free, 877-992-9533.

The Holiday Inn in Wilsonville is hosting a Mother’s Day Brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This traditional buffet features carved prime rib, whole round of pork, oven-roasted salmon, pan-seared chicken scallopini, omelet station, taco bar, a variety of salads, signature desserts, chocolate fondue bar and more. Guests will enjoy unlimited coffee, orange juice and punch, and champagne for the adults. Prices are $25 per adult, $22 for seniors, $13 for children under 12, and free for kids under 5. Reservations are required, 503-682-2211.

Apolloni Vineyards is partnering with Sundial Specialty Baking for a Mother’s Day Brunch at 10 a.m. This four-course brunch will feature artfully crafted dishes, such as truffled deviled eggs, smoked salmon crepes, and sangria basil mousse served in a poppy seed cookie bowl. Each course will be paired with delightful white and rosé Apolloni wines. All-inclusive cost is $29. Reservations are required, 503-359-3606.

Celebrate Mother’s Day with Garden Vineyards (23800 NW Meier Rd., Hillsboro). Enjoy brunch and live music from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and take a stroll through the lush private gardens until 5 p.m. Cost is $35 per person. Reservations are required, 503-547-9046.

For more events and festivals happening in Oregon’s Washington County, please visit our Event & Festivals Calendar.

 

Find places to stay. | Create a personalized itinerary. | Find places to eat. | View the digital visitor guide.

 

 

The Nominations Are in, and the Nominees Are…

Posted on: April 22nd, 2013 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

The nominations are in for our first-ever Oregon’s Washington County People’s Choice Awards, and voting is now open!  Let your voice be heard and vote for your favorites by 3 p.m., Friday, May 3rd.

Favorite Attraction

  • Dawson Creek Park, a popular, scenic park in Hillsboro, was nominated for its proximity to the library, its fountains and 1.17 miles of walking paths and trails.
  • The Friendly Vine wine shop is an eclectic, sommelier-owned wine bar and bottle shop that offers wines by the glass, tasting flights and a retail collection of fine wines from the Willamette Valley.
  • Garden Vineyards is a boutique estate vineyard with beautiful views of the Tualatin Valley described as “like visiting a rich friend’s mansion and enjoying the landscaping.”
  • Hagg Lake is a jewel of Oregon’s Washington County, and was nominated for being “very calm and quiet, with plenty of space to find your own private area, even during the summer months and hot days.”
  • Jenkins Estate features pristine walking trails and beautiful gardens, which garnered this attraction a nomination: “Spring is my favorite time of the year when the trees and rhododendrons are in bloom.”
  • McMenamins Grand Lodge is a not just a hotel, it’s a destination complete with restaurants, bars, movie theater, spa, disc golf course, live entertainment and events and more.
  • Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club is one of Oregon’s premier golf courses and features stunning natural beauty, immaculate conditioning and an array of upscale amenities.
  • Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks & Minerals, a unique museum filled with rocks, gems, fossils, meteorites, petrified woods, and more, was nominated for being  “a world-class treasure, in the middle of the country.”
  • Washington Square is a popular retail center that boasts more than 170 specialty stores, five anchor stores, and an awesome “Shopping & Dining Rewards” coupon book for out-of-area visitors.

Favorite Restaurant

  • Cafe Mingo is a sustainable, Italian restaurant with a “nice atmosphere, good food, good service.”
  • Chennai Masala, a popular Indian restaurant was nominated for its “excellent food.”
  • Cruise In Country Diner, a family-friendly diner located in a rural area of Hillsboro, is nominated for its “wonderful owners and staff. Great burgers and ‘old time’ milkshakes.”
  • Decarli is committed to showcasing Oregon’s bounty of seasonal ingredients through Chef Paul Decarli’s culinary style, which draws on his Swiss-Italian-American roots.
  • Hall St. Grill has been a Beaverton staple since 1976 and has been offering traditional American dishes with a distinctive Northwest flair ever since.
  • Jin Wah‘s Pepper Salted Squid earned this popular Chinese/Vietnamese restaurant in Beaverton a nomination.
  • Reedville Cafe, an American restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, is noted for its “great food, excellent service, good value.”
  • Syun Izakaya is one of the most popular sushi/Japanese restaurants in the Greater Portland region, and can be summed up in one word: “Delicious.”

 

Nominations were open to visitors, residents and stakeholders from March 15, 2013 until April 21, 2013. Quotes were taken directly from the nomination ballets.

Be Mine, Valentine: Kayak, Dinner, Bowling, Plays for Valentines

Posted on: February 7th, 2013 by Angie Marsh No Comments

Valentine’s day deserves some recognition. Whether you enjoy kayaking, comedic plays or a steak dinner, Oregon’s Washington County has these offerings and more to make the holiday your own.

Package Deals

Nothing says romance like a romance package! These hotel packages include special “romantic extras,” such as wine, chocolates, gift cards, movie tickets and more–which can save you money and offer a realm of possibilities of what to do. Or, for a full night’s change of scenery, book a lodging and dining package.
McMenamins Grand Lodge has a special “Sweethearts Package” running for the nights of Feb. 8-16, with an overnight hotel stay, dinner, wine and breakfast. Optional extras are at Ruby’s Spa on the premises.

Dinner & More

A steak dinner is just one Valentine’s Day option out of many here.

The historic Jenkins Estate in Beaverton hosts its 15th annual Chocolate Fantasy on Friday, Feb. 8.  Enjoy a showcase of the finest chocolate delicacies from local chocolatiers, treats from local bakeries, sips from area wineries, and unique Valentine’s Day gift items available for purchase.  Admission $5 per person; 2 years and older.

A Daddy-Daughter Dinner Dance is Friday, Feb. 8 in Portland from 6-8 p.m. Dress in your best, dance to your favorite music, have a special dinner, and celebrate Valentine’s Day together.

A Feb. 14 valentines dinner at Cornelius Pass Roadhouse includes a multi-course dinner with a choice of appetizers, a selection of entrees (including prime rib) and dessert.  Vegetarian options available; please request when booking.

Five courses are on the menu for dinner, and live music is offered as well on either Thursday, Feb. 14 or Friday, Feb. 15 at Primrose & Tumbleweeds in downtown Hillsboro. Each dinner course will be paired with an Oregon wine. Dinner highlights include a Dungeness crab cake and specialty dried charcuterie from Portland’s Olympic Provisions. Reservations are required.

Enjoy a special Sweetheart Valentine’s Dinner the night of Feb. 14 at Champions Grill in the Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club in North Plains. Entree options include smoked prime rib, Pacific halibut and grilled pork tenderloin. A wine list will also be available. Reservations are recommended.

Staged Events

Love Letters (February 14): Returning for a one-night-only performance is this production, where two actors read aloud the letters written to each others characters over the course of their lives. (Tickets are $28 each)

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change (through February 24): The Broadway Rose Theatre Company–one of the Greater Portland’s most acclaimed theatre companies–will take you on a musical trip from dating to marriage, through the truths and myths behind the contemporary conundrum known as “the relationship.” (Tickets start at $20 each)

How the Other Half Loves (February 15-March 3): This punchy comedy is about the interaction of sex and social class in modern English society, performed by Hillsboro’s HART Theatre.  The play juggles time and environment to present the lives and loves, passion and panic of three married couples.  (Tickets are $14 each)

Bowling & Kayaking!

Spend Valentine’s Day at Big Al’s and get special pricing! From 5 p.m. to close on Thursday, Feb. 14, enjoy 2 personal pizzas, 2 medium sodas, choice of dessert, $10 fun (gaming) card, 2 games of bowling, and 2 shoe rentals for $30.

Explore the waters of the Tualatin River on Saturday, Feb. 16 with Kyle Sheeley of OutKayaking, Portland’s LGBT kayaking club, on a three-hour Valentine’s kayak paddle.  This trip is suitable for all skill levels; be sure to pack a lunch and snacks.

We’ve also chronicled the wine-related Valentine’s offerings in the area, including a special “Valentine’s Wine Loop” self-guided winery tour Feb. 15-17 — so be sure to find what your heart and wine palate desire!

Find places to stay. | Create a personalized itinerary. | Find places to eat. | View the digital visitor guide.

Making Mother’s Day 2012 Memorable (NEW WINE EVENTS ADDED!)

Posted on: May 3rd, 2012 by Angie Marsh 1 Comment

Mother’s Day weekend is approaching—but don’t let the mention of May 12 and 13 turn to panic. Special events and gift-buying opportunities to mark the occasion are happening locally, and any one of these is sure to impress. Take it from me, a mom who is dropping hints about this holiday, your weekend will be happier with a little planning ahead.

Mother’s Day Wine Events

The following wineries are offering special Mother’s Day events and tastings:

Enjoy a Mother’s Day Brunch at Garden Vineyards in Hillsboro on May 13. Beverages include wine, sangria, bellinis and mimosas, all of which will be for sale. The brunch buffet will feature goods that are baked, grilled, cured and roasted–and much of the food is grown on the premises. This buffet is $30 per person.

Taste fine chocolates and wines at three Washington County wineries during Mother’s Day weekend:

  • Artisan Fine Chocolates Tasting at Alloro Vineyard, May 12-13 ($15 per person)
  • Mother’s Day Weekend Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting at Kramer Vineyards, May 12-13 ($10)

Mother’s Day Special Events

Tea is offered at two locations in the county during Mother's Day weekend 2012. Photo by Ann Toffler, flickr.

Beaverton Civic Theatre’s final performance of “The Miracle Worker” is on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 13, at 2 p.m. This moving play brings to life the story of Helen Keller.

A special prime rib Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch is May 13 at Holiday Inn Portland South – Wilsonville. Choose from a carving station, custom omeletes, gourmet buffet items such as smoked bacon, dessert station and beverages. Brunch runs 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; reservations are encouraged.

Lavender Tea House in Sherwood is presenting a “Celebration of Mothers” tea on Saturday, May 12, featuring scones, tea sandwiches, fruit, teas and sparkling cider. Seatings are at 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3 p.m.; call for reservations, $35 per person.

Jenkins Estate in Beaverton presents its Barefoot Quilt Festival on both Saturday and Sunday, May 12 & 13. Enjoy quilting displays and demonstrations, as well as quilted items for sale at this free event.
- On Saturday, May 12, this event features “Tea to Remember” at 12:30 p.m., paid event; reservations required.
- On Sunday, May 13, a dessert cafe will be available at the event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; no reservation required.

Cooper Mountain Nature Park in Beaverton welcomes a naturalist to lead a hike, “Mother’s Day Birds and Blooms” on May 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Learn more about wildflowers and songbirds while enjoying the Tualatin River. Cost is $10.

Mother’s Day Gift-Buying Opportunities

So many local farmers’ markets are open Saturday, May 12th, that you’ll have fresh choices ranging from hanging flower baskets at Beaverton Farmers Market to seasonal bouquets and herb pots at Sherwood, Hillsboro or Cedar Mill Saturday Market. The Tigard Farmers’ Market kicks off the very day of–Sunday, May 13–so stop by between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. for gifts ranging from plants to bakery goods.

The Quilt Festival at Jenkins Estate on Saturday, May 12 and Sunday, May 13, also incorporates both an artisan craft fair and a plant sale from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Renaissance and Artisan Pursuits

Posted on: April 27th, 2012 by Angie Marsh No Comments

Here ye, here ye: there is lore in this county that nary a person should miss.

Translation: the beginning of May marks several events in Washington County for renaissance and artisan pursuits. So enjoy everything from juggling to jewelry–this is the time to take it all in.

Step back in time for the Faire in the Grove May 5-6.

Faire in the Grove
Saturday, May 5 & Sunday, May 6, 2012
McMenamins Grand Lodge – Forest Grove

Experience the Middle Ages and the Renaissance at this annual free event, put on by Pacific University’s History Department. The Grand Lodge front lawn is transformed into “Fairegrove,” a medieval village containing medieval actors, armored fighters, musicians, singers and dancers, and performances and demonstrations including: combat, dance, blacksmithing, archery, weaving, storytelling, juggling, cooking, book binding and strolling music. Participatory activities include: lawn games, Norse hat making, wax seal making, beer drinking and more. Storytellers will have featured performances on a Children’s Stage.Items for sale include: hooded cloaks, jewelry and costumes, and food will be available as well. Event details.

Oregon Renaissance Band Concert
Friday, May 11
Walters Cultural Arts Center – Hillsboro

Enjoy the concert “All Creatures Now are Merry Minded” by the Oregon Renaissance Band–which features animal-themed music. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. and advance tickets are $15; day-of tickets are $17. Event details.

Artisan Craft Fair
Saturday, May 12 & Sunday, May 13
Jenkins Estate – Beaverton

Meet local artisans and find unique keepsakes and gifts at this special free event. Items for sale range from handcrafted garden art to jewelry. This fair runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., as does a native plant sale and Barefoot Quilt Festival on the grounds of the Jenkins Estate. Event details.

Valentine’s Getaway in Oregon’s Washington County

Posted on: February 8th, 2012 by Sylke Neal-Finnegan No Comments

Alloro Vineyards, in Sherwood, Oregon, is one of several wineries in Washington County offering special Valentine's weekend tastings.

This February, bring a little romance to your Valentine’s Day with a getaway to Oregon’s Washington County. Although this year, Valentine’s Day is on a Tuesday, there are plenty of events and special Valentine-themed activities that will keep the romance burning between you and your special one.

Enjoy a sweet sampling of events happening just in time for Valentine’s Day:

Weekend Events

The annual Chocolate Fantasy event at Jenkins Estate returns for its 15th year, Friday, February 10. Enjoy samples of locally produced chocolates, baked goods and wine pairings from Washington County wineries. Admission is $5 per person.

Also on February 10, cut a rug, ballroom style, this Valentine’s weekend at the Valentine’s Ball with Soundstage Rhythm Orchestra. The set list will include a variety of music from the Beatles to Green Day, each performed with big orchestral flare. Tickets are $25 per person, in advance, and $30 on the day of the ball.

Saturday, February 11, Ponzi Vineyards will explore ice wines and taste various styles during its Valentine’s themed seminar, “Sweet Wines for Sweethearts: Divine Ice Wines.” Tickets are still available, and space is limited. Tickets are $30 per person.

Back by popular demand, Montinore Estate is offering its blend-your-own wine event, “Bottle Up Your Love,” this Saturday, February 11. With samples from Montinore’s three best vineyard blocks, you can blend to create your own perfect Pinot Noir that will be bottled and taken home to enjoy. The event is $45 per couple, and includes blending samples, a bottle of your perfectly blended Pinot and two wine flights.

This weekend, February 11-12, world-famous saké brewery, SakéOne will put a little “shock” in your sweetheart with a special Valentine’s Saké Shock tasting flight.

Three Washington County wineries are pairing up for a special Valentine’s weekend, February 11-12. Enjoy “Valentines in Wine Country” at Ardiri Winery and Vineyards, Alloro Vineyards and Cooper Mountain Vineyards for special tastings and more. Pick up a “passport,” have it stamped at all three wineries and become eligible to win a gift basket.

Valentine’s Day

Hillsboro’s only professional theatre company, Bag&Baggage, presents “Love Letters,” a play that explores the relationship of two people, told by a series of letters written to each other. Back by popular demand, this play takes the stage February 13-14, and tickets are $25.

Dine in style during your Washington County getaway at the area’s notable and romantic eateries. On Valentine’s Day, Hall Street Grill will serve a special four-course menu with champagne, plus wine pairings. Dinner is $55 per person, $75 including the special wine pairings. Reservations are recommended.

Ongoing Events

Put a little musical theater into your Valentine’s weekend plans, courtesy of the Broadway Rose Theatre Company. The musical with a country flair, “Pump Boys and Dinettes,” runs weekends from February 2 through March 4. This charming, humorous tale of friendship, romance and heartbreak will offer you and your sweetie foot-stomping good time. Tickets are $20-40.

Finally, add a little romance to Valentine’s Day with an overnight stay by booking a romance package at an Oregon’s Washington County hotel. Stay overnight in a romantic room or suite and enjoy the special added treats for your dream Valentine’s Day weekend getaway.

Jenkins Estate: A Slice of History & Beauty

Posted on: June 2nd, 2011 by Angie Marsh No Comments

At Jenkins Estate. Photo courtesy of the Beaverton Historical Society.

Here in Beaverton is a 68-acre treasure that is a showcase of native plants, historic buildings and water features: Jenkins Estate.

Seeing its rhododendron garden up close reveals the established plants and sense of history that is evident throughout the grounds, which are open to the public for strolling and enjoying and occasional public events (Chocolate Fantasy tasting, anyone?) as well as for private events. Many a wedding, baby shower and high tea are enjoyed on these grounds.

Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, and operated by the Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District, Jenkins Estate offers these rentals:
The Gate House – This is the perfect space for a tea or other gathering of up to 25 people.
The Main House – The welcoming front porch gives way to an inviting space to enjoy the period architecture and different views of the gardens. Groups ranging from 60 to 175 people can rent this space, making use of the multiple rooms and veranda.
The Stable – This is not a stable in the traditional sense of the word! The hay was cleared out and this building has been revamped in warm wood and transformed into an ideal meeting, event or reception area complete with an upstairs level.

Keep an eye out for annual events at Jenkins Estate as well, which typically include a chocolate fantasy tasting, painters showcase and holiday tea.

For details, visit the THPRD Jenkins Estate page, where you can also follow them on Facebook.

Make Mother’s Day Memorable

Posted on: April 28th, 2011 by Angie Marsh No Comments

Mother’s Day weekend is approaching–but don’t let the mention of this holiday turn to panic. There are gifts as well as special events locally, and any one of these is sure to impress. Take it from me, a mom who is dropping hints about this holiday, you just can’t go wrong with a little planning ahead to show a lot of love.

Mother’s Day Special Events

Beaverton Civic Theatre is presenting a gala on Mother’s Day, which includes: a noon luncheon with wine tasting by Ava’s Catering, an 8×10 family photo, goody bag and two tickets to the production of “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.” The cost for this package is $50 for Mom and a guest.

Lavender Tea House in Sherwood is presenting a “Springtime in Paris” tea that includes French pastries, scones, tea sandwiches, fruit, teas and sparkling cider. This special French event will be Saturday, May 7, with seatings throughout the day; reservations required, $27 per person.

Plum Hill Vineyards in Gaston is offering a five-course, small plate luncheon with each course paired with one of their wines. This event begins at noon on Mother’s Day and cost is $20 per person; luncheon reservations are required.

Jenkins Estate in Beaverton presents its Barefoot Quilt Festival on both Saturday and Sunday, May 7 &8. Enjoy quilting displays and demonstrations, as well as quilting items for sale.
- On May 7, this event features “A Tea to Remember” at 12:30 p.m. for $30 per person, reservations required.
- On May 8, a dessert cafe will be available at the event from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Cooper Mountain Nature Park in Beaverton welcomes a naturalist to lead a hike, “Mother’s Day Birds and Blooms” on May 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Learn more about about wildflowers and songbirds while enjoying the Tualatin River.

Area farmers' markets offer fresh bouquets Mother's Day weekend.

Area farmers' markets offer fresh bouquets Mother's Day weekend.

Mother’s Day Gift-Buying Opportunities

So many local farmers’ markets are open Saturday, May 7th, that you’ll have an array of fresh choices ranging from hanging flower baskets at Beaverton Farmers Market to seasonal bouquets and herb pots at Sherwood, Hillsboro or Cedar Mill Saturday Market. The Tigard Farmers’ Market kicks off the very day of–Sunday, May 8–so stop by between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. for gifts ranging from garden art and plants to bakery goods and jewelry.

The Quilt Festival at Jenkins Estate on Saturday, May 7 and Sunday, May 8, also incorporates both an artisan craft fair and a plant sale from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sponsored by the Jenkins Estate Advisory Committee, the plant sale features colorful blooms for your yard and many plants grown on the estate. Jenkins Estate is located at 8005 SW Grabhorn Road in Beaverton.

Valentine’s Weekend Ideas

Posted on: January 12th, 2011 by Angie Marsh No Comments

Valentines_Choc+wine

Valentine’s Day weekend in Washington County is decadent; from a savory taste of sinful chocolate melting in your mouth, to a luscious glass of Pinot Noir tantalizing your sense of smell and taste, there’s an event just right for you.

Chocolate Fantasy

Taste the sweetness of the valentines season at the 14th annual Chocolate Fantasy event at Jenkins Estate in Beaverton, Friday, Feb. 11. Experience the the Northwest’s best chocolate, as well as baked goods, espresso and wine tasting. Culinary demonstrations, door prizes, and Valentine’s Day gifts round out the offerings. Admission is $5, and the event runs from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Valentine Shock

SakéOne in Forest Grove is offering its annual tasting Saturday, Feb. 12 and Sunday, Feb. 13, which features “a special valentine’s twist on our Sake shock tasting flight.”   This includes five pairings of Oregon craft sake with treats from Le Cookie Monkey.  To put a perfect finish on 5 great pairs, participants receive a glass of the new Thai Plum Fizz Saketini. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, and cost is $15 per person. Read more.

Kids’ Sleepover at the Zoo

Kids ages seven to 13 are invited to the “I Love the Zoo” overnight stay Saturday, Feb. 12, complete with guided tours, behind-the-scenes peeks and enrichment projects. The event is from 5 p.m. Saturday to 9:30 a.m. Sunday, and includes dinner, an evening snack and continental breakfast; cost is $48. Read more.

“Love Letters”

Bag&Baggage Productions presents “Love Letters, ” a play where two actors read aloud love letters. Showtime is Sunday, Feb. 13 at 7:30 p.m., at the Venetian Theatre in Hillsboro.

Head Over Heels in Love

It’s a date night unlike any other: Lulemon Athletica at Bridgeport Village in Tigard is hosting up to 25 couples in a special yoga class Sunday, Feb. 13 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Afterwards the participants can enjoy champagne, strawberries and personalized goody bags. Registration is required. Read more.

Love = A Big Steak Dinner

McMenamin’s Cornelius Pass Roadhouse is offering an elegant, multi-course dinner on Feb. 14 that includes antipasti, Italian wedding soup, New York Strip and more. Reservations are required for the 7 p.m. dinner, so act now: details.

The Wines of Love

On the big holiday–Monday, Feb. 14–Renaissance Wines at Orenco Station in Hillsboro is hosting a “wines of love” tasting, complete with two hours of live performances from Bag&Baggage Productions, as well as wine and appetizers, beginning at 7 p.m.
Tickets must be purchased in advance; $20 per person, by calling 503-345-9590.

Valentine Overnight Special

Sweethearts Package at McMenamins Grand Lodge

  • Lodging for two in a European-style room
  • Dinner at the Ironwork Grill or Yardhouse Pub
  • A bottle of Edgefield Winery’s sparkling wine with two keepsake flutes
  • Breakfast the following morning

Please note that a continental breakfast is available Monday through Friday mornings. Full Breakfast is available Saturday and Sunday morning. Package is available from Friday, February 4 to Monday, February 14.

Reservations may be made online or by calling the hotel at (503) 992-9533.

Why not book a Couple’s Massage at Ruby’s Spa to really make it a special getaway for your Valentine?  Enjoy a 60-minute side-by-side appointment, where you’ll both be treated to a massage by two trained therapists. Let them knead, ease and relieve tension as you and your partner enjoy each other’s company. Call (503) 992-3406 to set up an appointment!

A Century of Romance

Enjoy a romantic stay in a luxurious guest room at the Century Hotel in Tualatin, which also includes:

  • 3 Course Dinner for two at Hayden’s Grill
  • 2 glasses of champagne or wine
  • Breakfast & newspaper delivered to room

Available anytime during the month of February!

Please call 503-692-3600 or email us at reservations@thecenturyhotel.com to book your special Valentine’s Day package.  Must be reserved a least one day in advance.

Just Plain PinotPonzi_Reserve_Pinot

Oregon Pinot is always pouring in Washington County, and Valentine’s Day weekend is no exception. Make a date to visit the county’s newest tasting rooms, or forge your own wine trail to visit tasting rooms; read more on our wineries and breweries page.

For more hotel package specials, go here

Winners of the 2009 WCVA Vacation Photo Contest

Posted on: June 16th, 2009 by Guest Blogger No Comments

The results are in! The Washington County Visitors Association proudly announces the results of the inaugural photography contest. It was a difficult decision, as the WCVA staff reviewed submissions based on the following criteria:

  1. Originality
  2. Technical Excellence
  3. Composition
  4. Overall Impact
  5. Artistic Merit
  6. Relevance to Tourism

Thanks to all those who submited photos to our contest. And keep an eye out…you may just see one of YOUR Washington County photos in an advertisement or in our next Visitors Guide.

And the winners are (drum roll, please):

Grand prize: Swallow Squabble

Grand prize winner ($1,000) by ‘bescoles’, Barbara Scoles

Grand Prize Winner ($1,000) by ‘bescoles’, Barbara Scoles

Second Prize (x2): Henry Hagg Lake, Winter Sunrise

Second Prize ($500) by ‘moontan2008’, BobStreicher

Second Prize ($500) by ‘moontan2008’, Bob Streicher

Second Prize: Springhill Rd, Harvest, Gaston

Third Prize ($250) by ‘mlaphoto’, Mary Lane Anderson

Second Prize ($500) by ‘mlaphoto’, Mary Lane Anderson

Third Prize (x4): Red Carpet

Third Prize ($250) by ‘Bobshots’, Larry Andreasen

Third Prize ($250) by ‘Bobshots’, Larry Andreasen

Third Prize: Train Bridge

Third Prize ($250) by ‘kevinpastores’, Kevin Pastores

Third Prize ($250) by ‘kevinpastores’, Kevin Pastores

Third Prize: Jenkins-Estate, Cooper Mtn.

Third Prize ($250) by ‘yankeecam’, Robert Wayt

Third Prize ($250) by ‘yankeecam’, Bob Wayt

Third Prize: Scotch Church

Third Prize - ($250) 'scott.mcdonald1962', Scott McDonald

Third Prize - ($250) 'scott.mcdonald1962', Scott McDonald