Winter Lights and Stage Nights: Your Guide to Portland’s Friday the 13th Events

A Glowing Friday in the City of Roses

Today, Friday, February 13, 2026, Portland transforms into a luminous playground as the city celebrates both the peak of the winter season and a rare Friday the 13th. Whether you are looking for immersive light art, world-class theater, or high-energy nightlife, the Rose City has a packed schedule for residents and visitors alike.

Portland Winter Light Festival Highlights

The centerpiece of today’s activities is the Portland Winter Light Festival, which officially reopens its major anchor sites this evening. From 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, Pioneer Courthouse Square, the World Trade Center, and the Electric Blocks will be illuminated with large-scale interactive art installations. This year’s theme, “All The Little Things,” is further explored through special pop-up experiences across the city.

• The Art Bus Experience: Head to Director Park for a free, roaming visual art and music experience that combines mobile creativity with local sounds.
• LAIKA Projections at PSU: In a collaboration with the world-renowned animation studio LAIKA, Portland State University will host projected light displays on the windows of the Smith Memorial Student Union and Simon Benson House.
• Glow Bar: For those 21 and over, the Glow Bar at 111 SW Columbia Street offers a pop-up lounge experience with DJs and unique light art, staying open until midnight.

Live Theater and Performance

Portland’s theater scene is in full swing tonight with several major productions taking the stage. If you are in the mood for laughter, the Portland Center Stage at The Armory is hosting "The Play That Goes Wrong," a riotous murder mystery comedy. Meanwhile, the Winningstad Theatre presents the classic musical "Pippin" at 7:30 PM.

For something truly unique, the Alberta Rose Theatre is hosting "Valentine – A Night of Circus, Music & Love." This production by the Rose City Circus features a blend of aerialists, jugglers, and live music, providing a perfect pre-Valentine’s Day outing.

Nightlife and Music

The energy continues after dark with a diverse lineup of musical performances. At Nova PDX, the "Spellbound: An Evening of Dark Decadence" event kicks off at 6:30 PM, celebrating the Friday the 13th date with goth music, burlesque, and aerial arts. For indie music fans, Neil Frances takes the stage at Realm Pdx at 7:00 PM. Additionally, the Low Bar Chorale will be performing at Polaris Hall, offering an interactive singing experience for the community starting at 7:30 PM.

Local Markets

For those looking to get an early start on their weekend shopping, the Troutdale Farm Market is open today from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Columbia Gorge Outlets. This indoor/outdoor hybrid market offers a variety of local crafts and fresh regional goods, making it a great Friday afternoon stop for community members.