Valentine’s Lights and Dolly Parton’s Symphony: Portland’s Top Events Today
A Luminous Finale and Romantic Markets
Welcome to your Saturday guide for Portland. Today, February 14, 2026, the city is buzzing with a unique blend of Valentine’s Day romance and the dazzling conclusion of one of our favorite winter traditions. Whether you are looking for a stroll through illuminated art or a night of symphonic storytelling, there is no shortage of ways to celebrate in the Rose City today.
The Portland Winter Light Festival: Final Night
Tonight marks the grand finale of the 11th annual Portland Winter Light Festival. This citywide celebration of light and art, themed “All The Little Things,” officially wraps up this evening. Head to the anchor sites at Pioneer Courthouse Square, the World Trade Center Plaza, and the Electric Blocks in the Central Eastside between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM. Visitors can explore over 160 light-based installations, including interactive sculptures and performances that have transformed the city into a glowing gallery over the last week.
Dolly Parton’s Threads at the Oregon Symphony
For music lovers, the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall hosts a spectacular evening with the Oregon Symphony. Tonight at 7:30 PM, the orchestra presents Dolly Parton’s Threads: My Songs in Symphony. This visual and musical journey takes audiences through the life and stories of the legendary Dolly Parton, featuring guest vocalists and a full symphonic arrangement of her most beloved hits. It is a perfect high-note for a Valentine’s evening out.
Valentine’s Edition at the Portland Night Market
The Portland Night Market returns to its Central Eastside location (100 SE Alder Street) for its special “Tunnel of Love” edition. Open from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM, this all-ages event features more than 175 local vendors. Beyond the shopping, attendees can enjoy themed activities such as “Blind Date with a Book,” Valentine Bingo, and speed dating. For those who want to skip the entrance line, a fast pass option is available, but general admission remains free for everyone.
Theater and Cinema Highlights
If you prefer the stage or the silver screen, Portland’s arts scene is in full swing:
- Portland Center Stage: The hit comedy The Play That Goes Wrong is nearing the end of its run at The Armory. While many slots are sold out, limited rush and standby tickets are often available at the box office.
- Tomorrow Theater: Located on SE Division, this venue is screening a romantic double feature including the 25th-anniversary edition of In the Mood for Love and the classic Howl’s Moving Castle.
- PAM CUT @ The Whitsell: The Portland Art Museum’s cinematic arm is hosting a special screening of the surreal anime masterpiece Paprika today at 1219 SW Park Ave.
Morning Markets and Community Gatherings
Start your day early at the PSU Farmers Market in the South Park Blocks, which remains open year-round from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Additionally, for those celebrating the Year of the Horse, a Lunar New Year block party is taking place this afternoon in Downtown Oregon City, featuring food, games, and a lion dance by the Portland Lee’s Association Lion Dance team starting at 2:00 PM.