1. The world of dams
The Vancouver Watersheds Alliance kicks off its fifth annual Food and Film series. Attendees can enjoy a free slice of pizza and an environmental film screening every fourth Tuesday of the month, through June. “DamNation” explores the world of dams, from engineering wonders to the life and health of the rivers and landscapes they’ve altered. The film will be shown 6 to 8 p.m. Jan. 27 at the Vancouver Community Library, 901 C St., Vancouver. 360-852-9189 or www.vancouverwatersheds.org
2. What’s in your cup?
Drink This! highlights local makers of coffee, beer, soda and more. The self-guided tour features tastings and chats with the local artisans, with maps available at five starting points in Vancouver: Charlie’s Bodega, 1220 Main St.; The Grocery Cocktail and Social, 115 W. Seventh St.; Tommy O’s, 801 Washington St.; Dirty Hands Brewing, 114 E. Evergreen Blvd.; and Cellar 55 Tasting Room, 1812 Washington St. The event is 5 to 9 p.m. Jan. 24. Tasting fee may apply. www.drinkthisvancouver.com
3. A nighttime favorite
There are still spots available for the last three Lantern Tours held at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 24, Feb. 14 and Feb. 28. Visitors ages 10 and older will be guided through the fort’s buildings at night, with costumed interpreters bringing history to life with a mix of theater and historical re-enactment, all by candle light. Reservations required. The tours start at Fort Vancouver’s gates, 1001 E. Fifth St., Vancouver. Admission is $10, $7 for ages 10 to 15. 360-816-6232 or nps.gov/fova
4. For the love of cacao
The 10th annual ChocolateFest features chocolates from more than 60 vendors, along with wine tastings, chocolate and cooking demonstrations. Proceeds benefit the World Forestry Center. The festival is open 4 to 9 p.m. Jan. 23; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 24; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 25 at the Oregon Convention Center, 777 N.E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Portland. Admission is limited to those 21 and older on Friday. Tickets are $15, $13 for seniors, $8 for students, $7 for ages 5 to 17. 800-992-8499 or www.chocolatefest.org
