Details & Faqs

Story telling time slots are first come first serve.

• All storytellers must be registered in advance of the event.

Is there a story theme for the event?

• Not yet! Share whatever tale inspires you.

• Future events may have themed nights with longer story slots and fewer speakers.

Can I bring notes?

• Storytellers are welcome to bring notes or a written version to read.

What happens if I speak too long or too short?

• Story length: 5-7 minutes.

• Short story? No problem—concise is great!

• Timer options: Countdown clock or bell ding to stay on track.

• If over time: Clock turns red or multiple bell dings as a signal to wrap up.

What can I talk about?

• Personal stories—your life, your story.

• Should be mostly true with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

• Can be funny, sad, scary, dramatic, or a mix.

• Need help? Contact Ryan for an editorial meeting.

What can’t I talk about?

• No graphic sexual or violent details.

• No hate speech, bullying, or public rants.

• No elevator pitches.

• No politics

What is the format for written feedback? Is it required?

• Feedback is optional for both storytellers and audience members.

We offer the same 3 questions for each story and ask our audience to provide a thoughtful, kind and constructive critique.

Feedback is optional for both storytellers and audience members.

1. Positive: What part of the story stood out to you the most?

2. Actionable: Was anything unclear, rushed, or missing detail?

3. Reflective: What stuck with you after hearing the story?

Will there be drinks and food?

• Yes! We will be serving snacks, s’mores, beer, wine, hot chocolate, and tea.

Is there a story theme for the event?

• Not yet! Future events may have themed nights with longer story slots and fewer speakers.

What will the stories be about?

• Personal stories from our story tellers - they could be anything.

Will there be sensitive material?

We can’t control everything said on the campfire stage but we have basic guidelines:

• No graphic sexual or violent details.

• No hate speech, bullying, or public rants.

• No elevator pitches.

• No politics

What is the format for written feedback? Is it required?

Feedback is optional for both storytellers and audience members.

We ask the same 3 questions for each story and ask our audience to provide a thoughtful, kind and constructive critique.

1. Positive: What part of the story stood out to you the most

2. Actionable: Was anything unclear, rushed, or missing detail?

3. Reflective: What stuck with you after hearing the story?

Will there be drinks and food?

• Yes! We will be serving snacks, s’mores, beer, wine, hot chocolate, and tea.

Workshops and classes will be coming in fall.

Subscribe to our newsletter here to learn more about our class schedule.

Currently you can book a one on one story editing session with Ryan via email @ campfirepdx@gmail.com

We love good helpers and volunteering with Campfire Tales is a great way to be part of this amazing community!

Email us @ Campfirepdx@gmail.com

to be involved!

We are currently located above Portland’s coolest retail store @urbanitepdx.

Our venue is for adults 18+

The Campfire space is cozy, bohemian and funky, a great place to inspire great stories and community - but it's not ADA accessible (stairs, no elevator).

As we grow, we'll move to a more inclusive venue.

“Storytelling is healing out loud.” — Molly Chen