Before we get too ahead of ourselves here, let remember the poll above and come back to it, ok?
Living just blocks from the McMenamins Kennedy School, I have had a few pints by the gigantic chiminea on the patio, seen a flick or two in the comfy theater and even been to a wedding on the patio, but never have I been to this event. This year, I’m going to attend with my trusty camera in hand. No costume. I’m not a big dresser-upper. This guarantees to be an out-of-body experience.
If you’ve never been to the Kennedy School, it’s an old grade school that has been transformed into a huge, art-filled, beautifully landscaped lodge, restaurant, with many quaint little bars to sit and quench your thirst. Play shuffleboard, catch up with friends.
Mcmenamins describes it like this: “McMenamins has renovated the once-abandoned scholastic gem and turned it into Portland’s most delightful lodging establishment. Here you’ll find 35 comfy guestrooms fashioned from former classrooms (complete with original chalkboards and cloakrooms, private baths, telephones and modems), a truly unique restaurant, multiple cozy bars, a movie theater, soaking pool, and even a working brewery (just wait until the principal hears about this!). Extensive original artwork and historical photographs cover the walls, ceilings, doorways and hallways of this place.”
View of the "Bolier Room"
The Cozy Theatre
So, on to the event! Celebrate the birthday of Tolkien by coming dressed as your favorite Hobbit, elf, wizard or other character from one of his amazing novels. Hobbit-inspired food specials, the entire “Lord of the Rings” trilogy in the Theater, performances by Willamette Radio Workshop and much more. The Lord of the Rings trilogy defied cinematic standards in the earlier years of the past decade. What was once reserved for fantasy novel geeks and the hobbit-obsessed was adapted by director Peter Jackson into three of the most highly acclaimed films ever made, sweeping award nominations and winning over the hearts of all. Now, it is time to honor the genius behind the legend, author of the trilogy J.R.R. Tolkien with the annual Birthday Bash at the Kennedy School. Be warned, this celebration is not for the wayward fan. Each year, Tolkien admirers gather early in their best Aragorn or Gandalf inspired attire to watch the trilogy The Fellowship of the Ring (2001), The Two Towers (2002) and The Return of the King (2003) in full and enjoy some live juggling, theme-appropriate grub and music by the Freak Mountain Ramblers. What’s even better, the bash is free! This is a one-of-a-kind party that you won’t find anywhere else in Portland.
J.R.R. TOLKIEN BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
- Saturday, January 16 | McMenamins Kennedy School
- With jugglers, live music by the Freak Mountain Ramblers, the entire Lord of the Rings trilogy and more! Come in costume to compete for prizes!
- 11 a.m. ’til close; music at 7 p.m.
- Event is Free!
- Movies: $3 or Free with Oregon Food Bank donation!
- All ages welcome
SCHEDULE
(Films are free with Oregon Food Bank donation)
11 a.m. · “The Fellowship of the Ring”
2 p.m. · Willamette Radio Workshop
3 p.m. · “The Two Towers”
3:30 p.m. · Costume Contest
4 p.m. · Willamette Radio Workshop
7 p.m. · “The Return of the King” (extended version)
7 p.m. · Freak Mountain Ramblers
Some content Courtesy Travel Portland and McMenamins
Is this better r worse than a Star Trek Convention? I might check it out in disguise, LOL.
OMG, we accidentally went there during this last year, what a hoot!
Meh, the food and service aren’t too good there.