portland
thursday 15 - sunday 18
The Oregon Truffle Festival
Perhaps lesser known then the grapes of the Willamette Valley are the French Truffles that grow abundantly in Oregon. In fact, the same advantageous climate that allows for a flourishing wine industry also produces what are known among the experts as the highest quality truffles outside of Europe. The Oregon Truffle Festival features a weekend of hyper-palatable pleasantries featuring some of Portland’s top chefs and Oregon’s best wines. For a full schedule of events and tickets, OregonTruffleFestival.com.
friday 16
Big Head Todd and the Monsters
The blues-fueled quartet best known for its energetic live performances recently released Black Beehive (the title inspired by the late Amy Winehouse). BHTM will satisfy those who like their blues a bit more Stevie Ray Vaughan, with tracks like “I Get Smooth” as well as listeners who know blues of a more John Mayer variety with “Josephina.” 7 pm. Crystal Ballroom. $25.
friday 16
Tennis
Distinguished by strong soulful female vocals and original scores catchy enough for the radio but best suited for a venue in Northeast Portland, the duo’s most recent album, Ritual in Repeat was created with help from Spoon’s Jim Eno and The Black Keys’ producer Patrick Carney. A year and a half in the making, the new tracks have staying power. Tennis has birthed a much deeper, richer sound while staying true to the poppy-synth roots that gave them much of their acclaim in previous albums. 7:30 pm. Wonder Ballroom. $15.
eugene
sunday 18
Disciples of Dirt: All Comers Meet XI
Now in its 11th year, the Disciples of Dirt Mountain Bike Club out of Eugene hosts the largest free mountain bike event in the Northwest. There will be guided rides on the Whypass trail network and the opening of some brand new singletrack. Brews will be supplied by Ninkasi Brewing and Niner will be on hand to demo their fleet of high-end rides. The day’s events will culminate with food, beverages, and a communal bonfire. The ACM is not a race; more a party open to all abilities. 9:45 am. Carpenter Bypass Recreation Area. Free.
