Memorial Day Weekend is an indicator of the beginning of summer in Portland, as gray skies and rain finally give way to sunny weather and patio dining. It’s a three-day weekend for many, and an opportunity to escape the city for a few days. Because of this, most restaurants and bars avoid hosting Memorial Day events, but we’ve rounded up a few if you don’t have plans yet for the weekend. If we missed any of the going-ons this Memorial Day Weekend, let us know on Facebook or Twitter.

Wine Country Weekend
May is Oregon Wine Month, and the celebrations culminate with the Memorial Weekend Wine Country celebration. Over 100 wineries, including some of the smaller, more private vintners, will be participating with a variety of tastings, parties, classes, picnics, and more. The event lasts all three days of the weekend and is held all over the state. Find out more information about what your nearest or favorite wineries are doing at the event page.

Rose Festival Fireworks
Memorial Day Weekend also marks the beginning of the Rose Festival Weekend, which includes a fair, parades, fleet week, the Rose Queen coronation, and more. The weekend festivities begin on Friday with a firework show on the waterfront. While you can always join the crowds at the waterfront to watch them from below, we suggest heading to one of our favorite bars with a view to watch them with a glass of wine or cocktail in hand.

Portland Flea + Food Market
Every last Sunday of the month is the Portland Flea Market, hosted at Jacobsen Salt Co. and Rejuvenation. This monthly event gathers Portland designers, curators, crafters, and food purveyors, and is generally just a great party to celebrate Portland craft and culture. Without work the next day, you can spend extra time perusing goods and sampling drinks and food. There are usually a few food carts around the market, and more food and drinks sold inside the Jacobsen Salt building.

Photo via Flickr user Chris Harley