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?

    • Nope - 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