Category: Entertainment

Entertainment, Food and Drink, New Business

Secret Sauna is Social in Montavilla

Article and photos originally published in Bridgetown Bites by

Meg Cotner

Secret Sauna: The name is intriguing right off the bat. So what is it? It’s literally a sauna parked on the patio behind Montavilla’s Replicant Wine Bar (shared by Mudd Works Cafe in the mornings). It offers a place to relax, enjoy some drinks and food, sit around the fire pit, and have a sauna. And as of today, it is officially open.

I met with Sarah Mayo, the owner of the Secret Sauna, to learn more about the sauna and its connection to the businesses that are hosting it.

Sign indicating patio hours, stating 'Patio closes at 9 pm!' above a cardboard poster announcing 'Coming Soon... secret sauna' with an Instagram handle.
It’s a sign (Meg Cotner – Bridgetown Bites)

Secret Sauna Overview

I’ll also add that this interview was a first for Bridgetown Bites: The majority of it took place in the sauna itself, wood fire happily burning in its stove. And yes, it was very relaxing.

Interior of a wooden sauna featuring a black stove with rocks and an open flame, surrounded by wooden benches.
Sauna, rocks, fire, and window inside the Secret Sauna (Meg Cotner – Bridgetown Bites)

It’s a barrel-style sauna structure—but not perfectly round like most barrel saunas are. Think of it as a square with rounded corners. That means straighter sides, giving more space inside the sauna, adding to the comfort level. It is made of cedar wood, and produced by AC Forest Saunas in BC, Canada.

The sauna itself is warmed by a wood fire rather than by infrared technology. There is a bucket with water that you can use to ladle over the hot igneous rocks (the best kind of rocks for a sauna) to create steam.

There is room for about a dozen people inside the sauna (more, if people want to be closer to each other). There will be an area for cold showers (an easier setup than a cold plunge, while still providing contrast therapy), and there is also an outbuilding that holds four dressing rooms, a stack of rental towels and sandals, and a check-in desk.

Connection to Replicant and Mudd Works

I was curious to know what Sarah’s connection was to the Replicant/Mudd Works space. She’s a neighbor and a fan.

Interior view of a cozy cafe featuring a wooden bar with black stools, colorful artwork on the walls, plants, and warm lighting.
Replicant Wine Bar and Mudd Works Cafe space (Meg Cotner – Bridgetown Bites)

“So I live in Montavilla and this is my favorite spot to just come and have a glass of wine,” she explained. “And I love the patio—I was here all summer last year. And there’s these big trees behind that I think are so unique for this space. We’re behind the building, have a little bit of privacy, and then these trees are just so great.”

Tall evergreen tree with dense green foliage viewed from below against a cloudy sky.
The tops of the trees by the Secret Sauna (Meg Cotner – Bridgetown Bites)

Sara’s Previous Work

Before she got into the sauna business, she worked in investor relations for commercial real estate investment companies. “I was doing that full-time in-house for a few different companies up until 2023,” she explained. “At that time, it was venture capital instead of commercial real estate, but still in the investor relations field.”

She also worked with startups and did consulting for smaller companies in this same field for a couple years. But at one point, something changed.

“My values had been shifting a lot,” she explained. “And once I was not working on [investor] projects anymore and thinking more about what I was actually doing, I realized that it was making rich people richer.” It’s safe to say that she craved doing something that supported community rather than participating in something she considered to be destructive.

The Start of the Secret Sauna

So how did the Secret Sauna come to be? It began with COVID. “So this whole thing started in October,” Sarah said. “I had COVID twice back to back, and I was sitting at home for eight weeks, basically losing my mind. I knitted a hat, and then I’m like, ‘What do I do now?’”

The Sauna Business, and a Partnership

“I was looking for something new to do anyway, and I kind of always had this idea to do a sauna business—but I hadn’t seriously explored it,” said Sarah. While she was stuck at home with COVID she started building a financial model for the potential business, along with creating a business plan. “And then I thought, ‘This could actually work!’” she exclaimed.

As soon as she got a negative COVID test, she messaged the Instagram account for Replicant Wine Bar, which was her number one choice of location for the sauna.

“And so I messaged the Instagram account,” explained Sarah. “Mila [short for Gianpiero Milani, the owner of Replicant—and yes, it’s a “Blade Runner” reference] answered within five minutes. We didn’t know each other—he had probably seen me here, but we hadn’t met each other. I showed the idea to him and he said ‘That sounds really cool. And can you come in to talk?’” She came in the next day, and the rest is history.

She appreciates how collaborative he is and how he caught on to her vision so easily. “I didn’t even have to explain a whole lot about the idea,” she said. “He could just like see it, and was getting excited about it, too. He thought this was a great way to use the space.”

When Marco at Mudd Works heard about, he, too, was excited about it and wanted to support the project.

What Type of Sauna Is the Secret Sauna?

I wondered if she was going to encourage any specific type of sauna culture—the two that came to mind immediately were Finnish and Russian. She replied, “It’s a PNW-type of sauna, but I think that I’m kind of trying to emulate the Finnish style. I don’t have Finnish roots, so I’m not trying to like culturally appropriate it or anything. But I think that’s the style that a lot of people are familiar with.”

A wooden barrel sauna with a rounded roof, featuring a main door with circular windows, wooden benches on either side, and an orange bucket for supplies placed nearby.
Sauna room (Meg Cotner – Bridgetown Bites)

The Secret Sauna Is Social

Sarah says she wants to create a sauna atmosphere that is social, a way for guests to connect. “The vibe that I really want to go for is making this more of a social experience,” she explained. “Not like at other saunas that I’ve been to, where you’re kind of sitting silently, everyone’s quiet, and you’re almost afraid to make noise.”

She continued, “The sauna experiences that I’ve liked the most are where strangers are talking to each other and maybe even making friends and plans for later. And that was part of the vision—if I could be in an environment that is already somewhat social (like a bar and bonus coffee shop), then that was what I was going for when I was envisioning this.”

However, she may consider creating some designated quiet hours, “so people can self-direct into the type of experience they want,” she said.

Managing Your Secret Sauna Session: Inside and Outside

During a sauna session, it usually involves breaks, which could be a cold plunge or simply sitting outside to cool down. Sarah has a number of chairs nearby to sit in, and there is a fire pit to sit around where you can also be social.

Outdoor seating area with orange wire chairs arranged around a black fire pit, surrounded by a wood stack and trees.
Fire pit outside sauna room (Meg Cotner – Bridgetown Bites)

At this point in your sauna experience, you can enjoy a beverage—whether that’s a drink from Replicant or coffee from Mudd Works, or drinks (herbal tea, lemon water, electrolyte drink) that Sarah will provide.

They will also install some showers just to the south of the sauna structure. They want them to be heated as well as having cold water for contrast therapy.

So why a cold shower and not a cold plunge? It’s a practical choice. “Cold plunges in Portland are kind of hard to do ,” Sarah explained. “They’re classified as pools, so then you’re required to have all of the same level of filtration and circulation that a pool has.” This was more involved than her resources could handle. So instead of a cold plunge, you can do a cold shower if you want to. I’ve had this experience at other saunas, and it has been satisfying.

How To Dress in the Secret Sauna

A visit to the sauna during public hours will require you to be clothed (like in a swimsuit or athletic clothes—but not street clothes) but any private events can be clothing-optional. You’ll just need to wrap yourself in a towel when you step outside from the sauna. Next door to Replicant/Mudd Works/Secret Sauna is an auto shop, and there are private homes nearby.

A wooden structure with a rounded door featuring three circular windows, accompanied by an orange bucket labeled 'MORE DOING: FILL CHECK REPEAT' filled with sticks.
The sauna, seating, and the patio seating for Replicant/Mudd Works (Meg Cotner – Bridgetown Bites)

Additionally, this is a shared space among folks who are eating and drinking things from Replicant and Mudd Works who are not planning to sauna. There is no hard separation between the patio seating area for the two businesses and the sauna side, apart from the big sauna structure itself. That means anyone can stop by over near the sauna and use that seating. “We’re not keeping anything strictly segregated at all,” said Sarah.

Drinking and Eating Inside the Sauna

At this point here will be no food or drinks inside the sauna for a variety of reasons—of course there’s the potential mess from liquids and comestibles, as well as the risky warming of some food; any kind of glass itself could get quite hot, too.

As a solution to help guests keep track of their drinks from the wine bar or cafe, is that there will be set of racks with cubbies for storage.

Collabs With Replicant and Mudd Works

I was curious to see if there were any future collaborations with Replicant and/or Mudd Works on drinks or food. “I would love to like collab on that with them,” said Sarah. “My focus has just been on getting open.” This is fair.

She’d like to talk with them more about ideas they have regarding collaborations. One idea she had was to create promotions—discounts on drinks. or a combo of a sauna sesson and a drink. She has not nailed down any specifics on that quite yet.

Winter vs. Summer

I was curious to learn if the Secret Sauna will be available all year, or just during the winter/colder seasons. Summers can be hot so perhaps a sauna is less appealing then. “My plan initially was that I’d be closed during the summer,” said Sarah. “And Mila wants the backyard space fully back during the summer, so I am committed to moving this on out during the summer.”

In case it wasn’t obvious, the sauna is on wheels.

“And this is a trial year, so we’re going to see how this goes and then see what people want. If I’m still super busy in May, then maybe I would look for another place to be during the summer. I’m just not sure exactly yet.”

Pricing

A social session is $40 for a 75 minute session and $270 for a private session. She is also considering a multi punch pass where it’s like cheaper per visit if you buy multiple sessions ahead of time. She is also considering memberships, but that idea needs to be hashed out a bit first.  

Sauna Hours

Right now, she’s planning on having the sauna available to reserve starting at noon with the final slot at 7:40pm. She may adjust that in the future—for instance, she’d like to be open in the mornings, but it requires having enough staff.

They had a little bit of a soft opening last week, and now the places is open for booking!

Also note that the sauna is for those age 18 and older only.

What Sets the Secret Sauna Apart

First, it’s heated via wood-fire rather than infrared. Sarah has strong feelings about infrared saunas. She points out that the two heating elements work in different ways, and she prefers the traditional heat source—wood fire warms your body in a way that is easy and familiar.

Infrared heat has been around a fraction of the time (decades) compared to traditional wood fire (thousands of years). “I don’t think that they have the amount of longitudinal research [for infrared saunas] that exists for traditional saunas,” she said.

That said, she acknowledges that people will gravitate towards the type of experience that they want to have—whether it’s the way a sauna is heated, or the level of social interaction in a particular sauna. “I think the biggest differentiator here is this social vibe that we’re trying to cultivate, and how you can have like a beer or a glass of wine.” Also note there are some food options (pastries, pizza) to enjoy along with beverages in the back by the sauna.

She wants the accoutrements to a Secret Sauna experience to be solid, as well. That’s the hot herbal tea, lemon water, and electrolyte drink; secure changing rooms; a dry floor, secure hooks on the wall, and a shelf or cubby for your things. “We’ve thought through all of those little details,” she added.

This also includes the availability of towels and shoes for rent, swimsuits for sale, in case you find yourself at Replicant/Mudd Works and realize there is a sauna in the back, but you didn’t prepare yourself ahead of time.

Additional Details

Right now she is open five days a week, Wednesday through Sunday. The sauna’s day off will include doing any cleaning that  needs to be done aside from what is done throughout the week, and a chance for Sarah to catch up on admin work and other projects for the sauna, too. And, to take a break.

You can book your sauna session on the Secret Sauna website.

This is a very interesting mix of sauna relaxation, access to food and drink, and an unconventional social opportunity, all in one place in the north section of the Montavilla neighborhood. Replicant/Mudd Works is cozy, the sauna is cozy, and it’s a nice place to hang out in.

Wishing Sarah all the best with the Secret Sauna!

Secret Sauna [opened January 29, 2026]
Behind Replicant Wine Bar and Mudd Works Cafe
7033 NE Glisan Street, Portland
Secret Sauna website | Instagram

Article and photos originally published in Bridgetown Bites by

Meg Cotner

This article originally published in Bridgetown Bites on January 29th, 2026. Montavilla News republished it with permission of the editor and author. All copyrights remain with the original publisher.

Meg Cotner lives in NE Portland and is the editor and publisher of the independent Portland food news website Bridgetown Bites. She is also an active editor and writer, and the author of “Food Lovers’ Guide to Queens” (2023, Globe Pequot Press)

Community, Entertainment, History

Trolley Art Installation Honors Montavilla Roots and Draws Visitors to Present-day Community

On November 12th, crews completed the installation of a roughly 5-by-10-foot art display within the Montavilla Street Plaza at SE 79th Avenue and Stark Street. The artistic representation of a historic streetcar is part of a grant-funded program titled “Meet Me in Montavilla,” with a focus on celebrating the town-turned-Portland-neighborhood’s diverse history while attracting present-day Portlanders to its vibrant community. A December 3rd ribbon-cutting ceremony will officially introduce the outdoor art exhibit to the public, but it is now open to visitors at the center of Montavilla’s historic main street.

The Montavilla East Tabor Business Association (METBA) developed the interactive art and history project with a $50,000 Major Impact Grant from Venture Portland. METBA President Neil Mattson explained that the Meet Me in Montavilla District Activation Project idea originated from board member Becca Clover’s work at a board retreat, seeding the idea for a successful grant application in 2024. The awarded funds originate from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocations directed by Prosper Portland and the Portland City Council. Mattson said that the Meet Me in Montavilla project will complete its first phase with the launch of the Plaza art installation and subsequent launch of the meetmeinmontavilla.com website.

A person unloading a small streetcar model from the back of a red van onto a street in Montavilla. The van's doors are open, and there are greenery and a storefront visible in the background.

The art installation features a historically inspired streetcar profile produced by High Order fabricators, incorporating optical elements to create a three-dimensional perspective from its relatively flat representation. Yaqui-Mexican-American artist Marilyn Shawe led the project’s art direction and designed the trolley with cutout windows, allowing inclined visitors to pose for pictures “inside” the streetcar. Local historian and Montavilla News contributor, Patricia Sanders, assisted with the streetcar’s color accuracy and researched information for the piece. Its scale and interactive elements encourage youthful play around the artwork, while the backside of the piece offers information on the trolley line’s influence in shaping Montavilla. “The trolley was one of five primary themes of significance to our community,” said Mattson. The transit availability in this remote area allowed the town to grow from a community outside the Portland City limits into a prosperous neighborhood that officials quickly annexed in the early 1900s. “The trolley became symbolic of the community,” said Mattson. Although the project will have other phases of work across the neighborhood, he explained that the Meet Me in Montavilla project team decided to focus early work at the SE 79th Avenue Plaza because it has become the current center point of the community in Montavilla and is just one block from where the original streetcar spur line terminated on 80th Avenue.

Local lumber company Mr. Plywood donated the weather-resistant building materials for the trolley installation, and the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) contributed to the project, which resides within one of the bureau’s 20 Public Street Plazas. Mattson explained that PBOT’s partnership was helpful because the installation resides within a public street’s parking lane that is currently part of the car-free plaza space, but still needs to adhere to City policy. “It is physically bolted to the street, which requires a certain amount of engineering, approval, permitting, and insurance,” said Mattson. He also noted that METBA can remove the trolley and store it if needed. It was essential for the team to preserve these community investments, allowing for relocation if the plaza were to reopen to vehicle traffic.

Similar to the trolley installation, team members will design the other Meet Me in Montavilla project elements with a sense of permanence and strong historical ties. Future installations in Phase Two will highlight other themes that significantly shaped the area. They include contributions by Japanese American berry farmers, Montavilla’s Black community, and Dehen Knitting Mills. Public installations around those formative community elements, along with others, will roll out in 2026.

A person working on a colorful, wooden streetcar model labeled 'MONTAVILLA' in a plaza setting, with trees and outdoor seating visible in the background.

For 14 months, the Meet Me in Montavilla project team of Rebecca Clover, Brenda Dunn, Leah Kohlenberg, Neil Mattson, Patricia Sanders, and artist Marilyn Shawe, collaborated with contractors to bring the neighborhood’s newest public art to the streets, allowing everyone to enjoy and learn from it. Look for specifics on the December 3rd ribbon-cutting event on the METBA website. People are free to stop by anytime to take their own pictures with the Montavilla Trolley, now on display in the Street Plaza at SE 79th Avenue and Stark Street.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Update November 20, 2025: The art installation’s ribbon cutting ceremony in the plaza will take place on on Wednesday, December 3rd at 3:30 p.m. Attendees can meet the artists and team members responsible for the artistic streetcar representing Montavilla’s first trolley line dating back to 1891.

Promotion: Montavilla News is supported by contributions from businesses like Greg Beddor – SEO Specialist, an Oregon based digital marketing consultancy. The company markets customer’s websites and provide SEO services to grow their business. We thank them for their support.

Community, Entertainment

New Ocean Mural Brightens SE Division

A new mural by artist Jeremy Nichols adds an underwater view to the side of Ocean Blue Seafood on SE Division Street. This colorful presentation at 8335 SE Division Street transformed a blank and often tagged wall at the seafood distributor into a vibrant coral reef with aquatic life navigating the blue waters lapping at the top of the building’s parapet.

A vibrant mural featuring an underwater scene on the side of Ocean Blue Seafood, showcasing colorful coral, fish, and aquatic plants.
Mural at at 8335 SE Division St. (Sara Sjol and Tiffany Conklin)

APANO commissioned this mural, capturing the underwater landscape through spray paint, with funding from a Venture Portland grant. The Portland Street Art Alliance (PSAA) managed the project and supported the renowned Asian American artist, working under the name “Plastic Birdie.” The business owner, Bing Chan, is a longtime supporter of the Jade District and APANO’s efforts in the area. He is excited to have this artwork adorn his building, enhancing the streetscape along the busy roadway.

A vibrant underwater mural by artist Jeremy Nichols on the Ocean Blue Seafood building, featuring colorful coral and fish, with a worker applying finishing touches on scaffolding.
Jeremy Nichols, “Plastic Birdie,” working on mural at at 8335 SE Division St. (Sara Sjol and Tiffany Conklin)

The Ocean Blue Seafood building is on the same block as the long-anticipated Jade Lofts development. Its project leaders anticipate the four-story multifamily apartment building will bring just under 150 units of housing to the area, driving increased activity along this section of SE Division Street. Creating an inviting pedestrian zone is an essential component to cultivating a safe space for patrons of local businesses, as well as future and current residents navigating the Jade District. APANO representatives believe this mural is a significant step toward creating a more walkable environment. The new mural is complete, and all users of SE Division Street can now enjoy the ocean view as they pass by the building.

by

Jacob Loeb

Promotion: Montavilla News is supported by contributions from businesses like Greg Beddor – SEO Specialist, an Oregon based digital marketing consultancy. The company markets customer’s websites and provide SEO services to grow their business. We thank them for their support.

Entertainment, Event, Food and Drink

NE Glisan Business Fall Event Oct 12

From noon to 5 p.m. on October 12th, businesses on NE Glisan Street, from 70th to 74th Avenues, will host the inaugural “Gored Gourd Gala on Glisan,” featuring food, music, and retail specials. Over 15 vendors and four bands will join the collection of events sponsored by the local businesses as they welcome the community for a family-friendly fall event. People will find vendors in pop-up tents on both sides of NE Glisan Street between NE 71st and 72nd avenues, along with other promotions by area shops.

An advertisement for the inaugural Gored Gourd Gala on Glisan, featuring a large, expressive pumpkin graphic. The event details include a date of Sunday, October 12, from noon to 5 p.m. at NE 70th-74th Glisan, highlighting fall specials, local craft vendors, food, and live music.

The businesses Wildcard Barber, Hinterland, and NightOwl Custom Apparel will present live music on the back patio behind the shops from 12:15 to 4:30 p.m., featuring Base Band, Tragic Lovers, and Diludead. Booth vendors on the sidewalk include Sam Pletcher Goods, Wolf Tea Creations, Yellow Heart Sunshine, Cat Around Stamp, The Way Home Shop, Smash Me Daddy (smashed burgers), Rose City Rec Room, Sister Garden PDX, Think Tank Woodworks, EAB Crafts (crocheted items), Pet Bloc Mutual Aid, Mending Bloc Mutual Aid, and People’s Free Library. Additionally, the majority of businesses on NE Glisan, from 70th to 74th avenues, will open for the event with fall specials on October 12th. Attendees will find other vendors providing face painting and tooth gems. Wildcard Barber will host a flash tattoo artist to offer permanent inking from a set library of artwork.

The NE Glisan business community hopes people will attend their Sunday afternoon inaugural “Gored Gourd Gala on Glisan.” They intend to keep this as a new tradition that attracts neighbors within walking distance and others in the wider community to visit this growing commercial corridor.

Article and photo by

Jacob Loeb

Promotion: Montavilla News is supported by contributions from businesses like Otter Wax, a neighborhood producer of small-batch specialty goods handcrafted in Portland. Using only natural ingredients, they make modern care products that are steeped in tradition. We thank them for their support.

Community, Entertainment, Event

Play Streets Coming to SE 79th on Three Sundays

On Sunday, September 14th, SE 79th Avenue will close to traffic from SE Stark Street to SE Pine Street for a family-friendly event series called Play Streets. The national nonprofit Playworks is partnering with the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) to present a free three-part gathering in the Montavilla neighborhood, running from 10 a.m. to noon. Organizers will create a car-free play zone for kids, families, and neighbors during those two hours, then return on Sunday, September 28th and October 19th to do it all over again.

Sign indicating 'No Parking' during the Play Streets event on SE 79th Avenue, with scheduled dates and times.

Play Streets began appearing in Portland when PBOT’s Streets team launched the program in 2018, joining a nationwide movement to create a safe space for kids to play in the street. The pandemic paused the program until its return in 2023. Past events included bounce houses, chalk art, basketball games, giant Jenga, snacks, and music. American Rescue Plan Act funding in 2024 supported a City program for nonprofits to host the Play Street series.

This upcoming series is open to all ages, and organizers encourage adults to play alongside the kids. The play area will extend the already well-used Montavilla Plaza near Threshold Brewing & Blending. Alcohol consumption is not allowed inside the play area, and organizers ask that it remain smoke-free. Attendees will find games for kids of all ages alongside snacks, water, and music.

A street view of SE 79th Avenue with parked cars on either side, showing a clear sky and trees lining the street. A 'Dead End' sign is visible, indicating no vehicle access beyond a certain point, except for bicycles.
SE 79th Ave looking south from SE Pine St towards the Montavilla Plaza at SE Stark St

Organizers invite people with children and community members to stop by and see what the Play Street has to offer. The program aims to support communities with limited access to green areas, demonstrating how a car-free street can meet children’s play needs. More details are on the PBOT program’s webpage, and Montavilla News will update this article with information from the first Sunday event.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Promotion: Montavilla News is supported by contributions from businesses like Greg Beddor – SEO Specialist, an Oregon based digital marketing consultancy. The company markets customer’s websites and provide SEO services to grow their business. We thank them for their support.

Entertainment, Event, Food and Drink

Montavilla Jazz Village Partner Events

The Montavilla Jazz Festival kicks off its 2025 performances on August 29th with ticketed events throughout the neighborhood and in various locations around Portland’s Eastside. However, the music celebration is not limited to indoor and outdoor music venues. The group worked with Montavilla businesses to create “Village Partner Events” in Montavilla’s Historic Downtown and along NE Glisan Street. People can visit those establishments all three weekend nights to take in Jazz without a festival ticket.

A storefront in Montavilla featuring a blue exterior with yellow trim, displaying signs for 'Red X' and 'Opening Soon'.
Exterior view of Montavilla Brew Works featuring a bright yellow wall with the words 'Fresh Beer' painted on it, white tents set up outside, and a nearby street sign for 76th Avenue.
Exterior view of Threshold Brewing & Blending, featuring the business name on a red wall and an 'open' sign in the window.

On Friday, August 29th, the Academy Theater will play Spike Lee’s 1990 movie “Mo’ Better Blues” at 4 p.m. Then Replicant Beer & Wine PDX will feature performances by Edad del Pavo at 6 p.m. and DJ Joe Ball at 7 p.m. Saturday, August 30th, Replicant Beer & Wine PDX will feature a Clackamas CC Duo at noon, with the Spy Mohr Trio on stage at 5:30 p.m. and DJ Papa Warrior at 7:30 p.m. Threshold Brewing & Blending will start hosting performances at 3 p.m. with Shiloh Rush. Then they feature Swingin’ Sounds Jam at 5 p.m. People can continue the fun by visiting Montavilla Brew Works at 6 p.m. to hear MHCC Hogan Street Combo, and then hop over to Vino Veritas Wine Bar and Bottle Shop for a 7 p.m. show from a PSU Student Combo.

Exterior view of the Academy Theater with illuminated marquee displaying current movies, including 'Gladiator 2', 'Wicked', and 'Moana 2'.

The Academy Theater will offer repeat showings of “Mo’ Better Blues” at 1 p.m. on the weekend and then on Sunday, August 31st, Replicant Beer & Wine PDX will host another Clackamas CC Duo at noon. Starting up again at 4 p.m. that evening, they will feature Thilo Kluth Trio, followed by DJ Sanjo at 6 p.m. Threshold Brewing & Blending has Eli Amundson performing at 1 and 3 p.m., followed by Swingin’ Sounds Jam at 5 p.m. Montavilla Brew Works will host the MHCC Kane Street Combo at 6 p.m. and at 7 p.m., a second PSU Student Combo will play at Vino Veritas Wine Bar and Bottle Shop.

Event organizers hope that anyone interested in enjoying the Montavilla Jazz Festival will have the opportunity to find a performance that suits their schedule and preferred venue. People should visit montavillajazz.org to view detailed information or to purchase tickets.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Entertainment, Event

Montavilla Jazz Festival 2025 Starts Aug 29

Next Friday, the 12th annual Montavilla Jazz Festival (MJF) will kick off a weekend full of 26 featured concerts in five venues across the neighborhood and locations in Portland’s Eastside. The three-day celebration of musical artistry starts on Friday, August 29th, and runs through Sunday, the 31st, featuring free-donation-based and paid ticketed events. Each year, MJF brings music fans of all ages to the neighborhood and expands Portlanders’ appreciation for jazz.

12th Annual Montavilla Jazz Festival promotional banner featuring event dates August 29-31, 2025, with a colorful geometric design.
Graphic courtesy Montavilla Jazz Festival

The yearly late summer music programming spans indoor venues and outdoor locations such as Mt. Tabor Caldera Amphitheater and Montavilla’s SE 79th Avenue Street Plaza. The MJF website has a detailed list of event locations, times, and links to secure tickets or reservations when necessary. Portland Metro Arts at SE 90th Avenue and Stark Street will present two nights of performances, with The 1905 and Alberta Rose Theatre hosting additional MJF performances.

Thanks to Prosper Portland’s Scale Up Grant in 2024, MJF leaders say the festival doubled attendance with more than twice the number of performances as the previous year. They hope that trend will continue with a second year of grant support. MJF is the only Portland festival focused on original music from the city’s jazz artists. Performances will feature the rising stars and creative artists connected to Portland.

MJF now offers a three-tiered pass system for concerts in Montavilla. A free with donation “Tabor Village Weekend” grants attendees access to four concerts over two nights at Mt. Tabor Park’s Caldera Amphitheater, and six SoundsTruck NW Stage concerts at the Montavilla Plaza on SE 79th Avenue and Stark Street. People purchasing the “Jazz Adventure” pass can use an MJF Shuttle running from the park through Montavilla to the Plaza and Portland Metro Arts. The up to $249 “VIP Experience” pass grants seating and parking perks. Additional concerts, ticketed individually, will take place at the Alberta Rose Theatre and The 1905.

A diverse audience seated under tents at an outdoor event, enjoying the performances at the Montavilla Jazz Festival.
2024 MJF attendees at the SoundsTruck NW Stage next to the Montavilla Plaza

For the third year, MJF honors the late Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish’s contribution to the city’s jazz community by presenting an award in his name. On August 31st, presenters will deliver this year’s Nick Fish Jazz Community Award to bandleader, broadcaster, and percussionist Nick Gefroh. The city’s jazz community credits Gefroh with starting the first Latin Jazz band in Portland and significantly shaping the regional jazz landscape.

People interested in attending should look at the event schedule and secure their access. All festival events require passes for entry. Everyone in the neighborhood should plan for a busier weekend around event locations starting on August 29th. Check with local businesses offering MJF specials around the festival, as some will host DJs and late-night sets.

Correction: An earlier version of this article indicated that it was taking place this Friday instead of the following Friday, August 29th. Montavilla News regrets this error.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Entertainment, Event, Food and Drink

2025 Jade Night Market Aug 16

The 9th Annual Jade International Night Market returns to the Portland Community College’s Southeast campus on August 16th for an evening offering food, entertainment, and vendor booths. The event organizers invite people to arrive any time between 3 and 10 p.m. at 2305 SE 82nd Avenue for the Saturday community gathering that celebrates the people who make up the multicultural district.

Event poster for the Jade International Night Market featuring the date, time, and location details.
Graphic and title image courtesy of the Jade District

The one-day community celebration will concentrate its family-focused events earlier in the afternoon with a free plant potting booth for youth sponsored by Portland Nursery. People ages 20 and younger can decorate a free pot and fill it with a selection of donated plants, while supplies last. Twenty-five food vendors and 19 drink specialists will sell tasty treats to attendees throughout the event. Scheduled speakers and performers will begin the entertainment on the main stage at 5 p.m., with a program that runs until 10 p.m.

Performers on stage at the Jade International Night Market, with an enthusiastic audience engaging in the event.

Entertainment will start with The Last Regiment of Syncopated Drummers, followed by the Portland Art & Cultural Dance Team. Around 6 p.m., Ballet Papalotl will perform folkloric dance from across Mexico in traditional dress and with authentic choreography. Then the Cambodian Dance Troupe of Oregon will perform, followed by Team Japonesque, which represents Japanese culture through a mixture of traditional and modern dance movement, music, and costumes. Other performances include the White Lotus Dragon and Lion Dance team, pop and R&B artist Rachel Wong, martial arts movements by Summit Wushu Academy, Nattasinh Lao PDX, McDaniel High School Stomp & Shake, Huehueteoh Ihtotiani, and Japanese taiko drumming group Portland Taiko. Event organizers note that performers and the order of appearance are subject to change.

A vendor pouring batter into a cooking device at a food stall, with multiple round molds filled with batter and various food items in the background.

The performances are always free to watch, and 20 community partner booths offer information to all attendees. Still, event organizers wanted to make sure everyone has access to the cuisine and products available at the Night Market. “We are offering a program called Jade Dollars to lower financial barriers by giving out vouchers for both food and retail,” explained Alisa Kajikawa from market sponsors the Jade District and APANO. “Everyone belongs [at the Night Market] and we do this for the community. There are tons of things that you don’t need money for to enjoy. At the same time, it’s still about commerce, and it’s still about supporting our small business owners. So we’ll have five-dollar increments of Jade Dollars that we will give out to folks in two different ways.” People can receive $10 worth of vouchers at the Jade District booth by showing government benefits like SNAP or OHP cards. Additionally, anyone can receive a $5 voucher for completing a survey.

A busy outdoor market scene with people walking between colorful vendor tents featuring various food offerings. Attendees are engaged in conversation, enjoying food and drinks, under a clear blue sky with green trees in the background.

Last year’s Jade International Night Market had an estimated 13,000 attendees, and they anticipate similar interest this year. The market will maintain last year’s layout, with food vendors along the west edge of the campus in the parking lot and booths lining the inner courtyard walkways. Unlike other fairs, Night Market organizers provide canopies, offering consistency and convenience to participants. “It looks nice because it’s all uniform with three different colors,” said Kajikawa. The main stage is north of the booths next to Tabor Hall.

A promotional graphic for the Luminous Together Art Grove at the Jade International Night Market, featuring descriptions of community activities like the Hungry Ghost Ritual Feast and Love Letter to the Land, set against a backdrop of green trees.
People can enjoy an interactive art installation during the market located west of the food vendors

Jade Night Market planners recognize the long-standing importance of this event, but circumstances this year have reinforced the need to appreciate all the cultures and communities that feed into the district’s foundation. “It’s very important for our communities to come together right now and show support for people and families who are being targeted and attacked for their identities by the government,” said Kajikawa. “I think it’s important to come together and show that everyone is welcome at the night market.”

A busy outdoor scene at the Jade International Night Market, with diverse attendees strolling between vendor booths, colorful tents, and trees under a clear blue sky.

People interested in attending the Jade International Night Market should plan on large crowds and limited parking options. Organizers recommend people take public transit via the TriMet 72 bus line or the SE Division FX 2 bus rapid transit system. The mid-August date often brings warm temperatures. The campus has many shade-providing trees, but anticipate significant sun exposure while walking around. The Night Market’s web page and social media will have updates about the schedule and event information. Anyone interested in volunteering for the Night Market should complete the form at bit.ly/nm25-volunteer, which offers several three-hour shift options and shorter post-event cleanup opportunities. Volunteers receive a meal voucher and a free t-shirt.

Pictures from the 2025 Jade International Night Market

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Community, Entertainment, Event, Food and Drink

2025 Montavilla Street Fair July 27

On Sunday, July 27th, the Montavilla East Tabor Business Association (METBA) will host the 12th annual Street Fair on SE Stark Street. Early that morning, crews will close the road from SE 82nd to 76th Avenues along with segments of side streets to allow the 150 booth operators to set up ahead of the 10 a.m. opening. Vendors will sell a variety of items, including food and drinks, unique artwork, handcrafted goods, and clothing. Mixed in with people selling items, organizations will provide information, and performers will entertain the crowds until 6 p.m. Vehicle traffic will resume on the street later that evening after organizers clear the area. Still, people can stay in the neighborhood to visit the bars and restaurants along SE Stark and NE Glisan Streets. Last year, an estimated 25,000 people visited Montavilla’s historic downtown from around the region, participating in the annual 1,400-foot-long community party.

Graphic promoting the Montavilla Street Fair featuring a live music stage and an audience of diverse people, with a dog and food vendor tents in the scene. The event date is displayed as Sunday, July 27, 2025.

On Wednesday, July 16th, sign installers placed the banner over SE Stark Street at 80th Avenue, announcing the Street Fair dates to everyone passing by. Although many people in the area have already marked the date on their calendars, raising the banner represents Montavilla’s invitation to the city of Portland. Thousands of visitors attend this annual neighborhood event, driving record sales to local businesses and introducing people to the historic Montavilla downtown area.

Banner announcing the Montavilla Street Fair hanging over SE Stark Street, with shops and trees visible in the background.

Event organizers will feature the big brass sounds of a mini HONK! Fest PDX on SE 80th Avenue. People can also enjoy performances at the SE 79th Avenue Plaza Stage next to the Threshold Brewing beer garden. The main stage will feature a diverse mix of local Portland music and national touring artists. Montavilla Brew Works will sponsor a special stage located across from their brewery at SE Stark Street and 78th Avenue, where they will host one of the four beer gardens, with Tinker Tavern and The Observatory rounding out the beer-centered street fair destinations. Many past fair booth operators are returning, alongside a new crop of makers, food vendors, and organizations. As a bonus, the Montavilla Farmers Market will be open during its regular hours on the 27th, providing attendees with access to more booths and food options at SE 76th Avenue and Stark.

A colorful promotional poster for the Montavilla Street Fair and HONK! Portland event, featuring playful watermelon graphics, dates, and event details.

Sponsorship from Adventist Health Portland, OnPoint Community Credit Union, Mr. Plywood, and the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) helps fund what has become one of the largest street fairs in Portland. People can find day-of-event updates and the full music lineup, including performance times, at the METBA website (metba.org).

Update July 21, 2025: This article was updated with more detailed information about the side street music offerings and beer gardens.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Promotion: Montavilla News will have a booth at the fair this year. We will giving away stickers and sell year subscriptions that will come with a logoed hat or pin, while supplies last.

A mannequin wearing a dark blue shirt with the Montavilla News logo and a maroon beanie hat featuring the same logo.
Bar, Entertainment, Event, Food and Drink

Friday Beer Event and Hot Dog Cookoff in Montavilla Plaza

On Friday, June 20th, the second annual “Hop Dogs” event will greet hungry and thirsty guests from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Montavilla Plaza on SE 79th Avenue at SE Stark Street. Last year’s winner, Ruse Brewing, will compete against Grand Fir Brewing, Gold Dot Beer, Foreland Beer, and Threshold Brewing. The brewers will offer the crowd a custom hot dog with creative toppings designed by the team, which people can pair with one of their hoppiest West Coast IPA beers.

Interior view of a brewery taproom featuring a chalkboard menu with various beer options and prices, two staff members serving customers, and a rustic wooden bar with merchandise.

The all-ages venue allows families to participate in this event, presented as part of Portland Beer Week, a City-Wide yearly celebration running from June 13th to the 22nd in 2025. The Montavilla-hosted cookoff features five West Coast IPA brewers bringing their best hot dog recipes to the public in a friendly competition of flavors and brew craft. Drinking-age adults can select beers and hot dogs in several paired combos ranging from full pints, full dogs, half pints, and shorty dogs. A $7 ticket purchased at the event will allow attendees to pick up either one full-size hot dog or one full-size beer, so people can mix and match as they desire. Curious culinary adventures can also choose to purchase a flight of five shorty dogs to sample the range of flavors for three tickets. The cookoff is an open event, with no need to reserve a spot. However, hotdogs will be available while supplies last, starting at 5 p.m.

A colorful graphic featuring four superhero characters, each holding a beer, alongside a golden retriever wearing a cape, amidst a backdrop of hop plants. The words 'HOP DOGS' and 'West Coast IPA & Hot Dogs' are prominently displayed.
Graphic courtesy Portland Beer Week

This returning hot dog and brew event is building momentum as more people enjoy the artful pairing. “Hop Dogs is based on a concept I have been kicking around for a few years. The brewers have a ton of fun and enthusiasm for the hot dogs as well as the beers; they can get really into it, even hand-making the toppings themselves. We worked out the kinks last year, where we had a handful of people making all of the different dogs. Last year, we used a large hot dog roller, but this year, Threshold founder and brewmaster Jarek Szymanski will be grilling them himself,” explained Ezra Johnson-Greenough with Portland Beer Week. “Also, this year, there will be individual brewery reps making each dog; this way, they can really get into the groove of that custom hot dog and put it together to perfection.”

Event organizers will conduct a “people’s choice” vote for Best Dog and also Best West Coast IPA, presenting two awards. People should look over the available hot dog options and come hungry this Friday night.

  • Threshold Brewing – Tropic Thunder: Good Dog Guava Teriyaki Mustard, Kewpy, Mango, Jalapeño and Pickled Onion Chutney, Fried Wonton Crumble
  • Gold Dot Brewing – Dan Dan Dog: Cream Cheese, Dan Dan Sauce, Yacai, Roasted Peanuts, Green Onions, Sichuan Peppercorn
  • Grand Fir Brewing – Farmers Market Dog: Heirloom Tomatoes, Pickled Peppers, Whipped Cheese with Poppy Seeds, Green Garlic Ranch Sauce
  • Ruse Brewing – Michigan-Style Coney Dog: Zesty Meat Sauce, Minced Onions and Yellow Mustard
  • ForeLand Beer – Der Snack: Obatzda Bavarian Cheese, Beer Mustard, Onions and Chives

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb