Event Picks for November | Visit McMinnville

There’s a lot to see and experience in McMinnville year round. And while COVID-19 put a halt to events over the past year and a half-ish, we’re starting to see their return. As a musician and thespian myself (and just a big fan of the arts in general), I have deeply missed performing at and attending live events, so I am thrilled to bask again in that indelible glow induced by live entertainment!

When folks come to McMinnville for a visit, many wonder what there is to do beyond wine tasting. You can always check our events calendar for an extensive list of happenings, but if you’re having difficulty deciding what to do, allow me to offer up some recommendations. Here’s what I’m most excited to attend this month.

Underground Open Mic Night with Freddie Lamb: Thursdays 7-9:30pm

Open mic is most every Thursday night from 7-9:30 at McMenamins Hotel Oregon. Historically this event has been held in the intimate Cellar Bar, which remains closed, but I’m super stoked to see the it continue on the main level in the Paragon Room. Grab a pint, cocktail, dinner or whatever suits your fancy and nestle into a booth for some live entertainment. (Or sign up to perform!) If there are not enough sign-ups to fill the time, gracious and talented Freddie Lamb steps up to finish the night with a reliably entertaining set.

Gallery Theater Presents All Together Now: November 12-14th, times vary

Music Theatre International has created a musical revue intended to be produced by community theaters around the world on the same weekend. McMinnville’s long-standing Gallery Theater has joined more than 2,500 schools and theaters to do just that. They have enlisted some of their most memorable and talented singers to perform, so I’m looking forward to an energetic and enjoyable experience. Note: COVID-19 vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of the performance required.

2nd Saturday Art & Wine: November 13th, 1-4pm

*This picture is from a 2nd Saturday event in June 2020. Expect all participants to be wearing masks for the time being.*

The Gallery at Ten Oaks does a beautiful job of providing a comfortable space to sip and peruse a wide variety of regionally created art. This month for their 2nd Saturday event, they’re featuring oil painter Richard T. Schanche, jewelry maker Lori Schanche and Benza Vineyards. Tasting is free, but if you’re like me, you’ll probably buy a bottle to take home. And if you find a piece of art to purchase, skip the hassle of fitting it into your car; have it shipped home! Note: The Gallery at Ten Oaks requires all guests to be fully vaccinated.

Live Music at Hotel Oregon: Friday and Saturday nights, 7:30-9:30pm

In October, Hotel Oregon quietly resumed booking live music in their Paragon Room. The lineup through the rest of the month is impressive, including McMenamins regulars and newbies. This month I’m particularly looking forward to catching Marcus Logan Glaze on the 19th and Sam Densmore on the 27th.

Live DJs at HiFi Wine Bar: Saturdays in November, 7-10pm

The newly opened HiFi Wine Bar has quickly become one my favorite haunts. Their intimate, moody vibe makes you feel right at home, compounded by the novelty of selecting your favorite record from their vast collection to add to the night’s playlist. However, sometimes the occasion warrants you to relinquish that control, because HiFi is hosting live DJs on Saturday nights in November. Find a spot at their sexy bar to watch them work their magic! Note: HiFi requests that all patrons be fully vaccinated.

So mark up your calendars and I’ll see you soon.

About the Author: Jamie Corff is the Marketing Coordinator for Visit McMinnville. It’s common to find her enjoying the arts in the form of theater, music, and the written word. She is also a passionate cheerleader for the people and businesses that are integral to the vibrancy of her beloved Downtown McMinnville.