There are so many incredible restaurants in our area, but finding a place the whole family will enjoy—including little appetites—can feel impossible. Yet have no fear. I've done the searching for you and compiled a list of places where kids eat free in Portland. I've also included cheap-eat deals … [Read more...] about Kids Eat Free (and Cheap) in Portland
Great Clips Celebrates College Football Playoff With $9.99 Haircuts
This deal is a cut above the rest. Give yourself a fresh look for the new year during this haircut discount at Great Clips. The popular salon is offering a rare opportunity to save money on your next haircut. Here's how you can take advantage of a rare deal at Great Clips: Great … [Read more...] about Great Clips Celebrates College Football Playoff With $9.99 Haircuts
Visit Vista House: The Crown Jewel of the Columbia River Gorge
Sitting atop Crown Point, Vista House is the crown jewel of the Columbia River Gorge. While the viewpoint and parking have remained open, Vista House has been mostly closed over the past two years. It had a limited reopening last fall and closed again for needed repairs. Now, the building is … [Read more...] about Visit Vista House: The Crown Jewel of the Columbia River Gorge
Free First Sunday at the Japanese American Museum of Oregon
Attend the Japanese American Museum of Oregon for Free First Sunday event. The Japanese American Museum of Oregon preserves and honors the history and culture of Japanese Americans in the Pacific Northwest. The museum educates the public about the Japanese American experience during WWII, … [Read more...] about Free First Sunday at the Japanese American Museum of Oregon
What to Do in Portland This Weekend
There is always something to do in Portland. Yet, not all events in the Rose City come with a cheap price tag. If you're looking to have a great time without breaking the budget, you've come to the right place.Free events in Portlandd Every week I will add new free and cheap events throughout the … [Read more...] about What to Do in Portland This Weekend
New Year’s Eve Celebration and Drone Show in Portland
Ring in 2026 during the New Year’s Eve Celebration in Downtown Portland at Pioneer Courthouse Square. Are you ready to welcome 2026 in the most spectacular way? Attend the second annual family-friendly celebration complete with live drones, dancing and fun. Here are the details: New … [Read more...] about New Year’s Eve Celebration and Drone Show in Portland
Bing in the New Year: A Milwaukie Celebration of the Bing Cherry Legacy
As the clock ticks down to the final moments of the year, Milwaukie is gearing up for a unique and exciting New Year's Eve celebration, Bing in the New Year. The event promises to be family-friendly and fantastically festive. Milwaukie holds a special place in the history of the Bing cherry. It … [Read more...] about Bing in the New Year: A Milwaukie Celebration of the Bing Cherry Legacy
Live Broadcast of New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Space Needle
Seattle's iconic Space Needle is set to host a breathtaking celebration that promises to dazzle viewers. This year, view the New Year's Eve Fireworks at the Space Needle from the comfort of your home or in person. The event features drones, lights and fireworks to ring in 2026 in style. … [Read more...] about Live Broadcast of New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Space Needle
Get a Free Trimet Ride on New Year’s Eve
On New Year’s Eve, Trimet is helping you get home safely for free. Free Ride on New Year’s Eve Starting at 8 p.m. on December 31, 2025, all rides on buses, MAX trains and streetcars are free. No need to tap your Hop card or buy a ticket at the station. All transfers are also free. If you’re … [Read more...] about Get a Free Trimet Ride on New Year’s Eve
Free and Cheap New Year’s Eve Events in Portland
New Year's Eve events in Portland are the perfect way to ring in 2026. Yet trying to find a celebration that doesn't cost a fortune can be difficult. Here's a round up of free and cheap New Year's Eve events in Portland. Keep in mind that entrance to these parties may be free or cheap, but … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap New Year’s Eve Events in Portland
New Year’s Eve Skate Party at Oaks Park
Rink in the new year at Oaks Park! Bring together your whole family or a group of friends for a special New Year's Eve party at the roller rink. Oaks Amusement Park in Portland has been bringing joy to the young and young at heart since 1905. In fact, it is one of the oldest continually … [Read more...] about New Year’s Eve Skate Party at Oaks Park
Native American New Year’s Eve Sobriety Powwow
Looking for a sober NYE celebration full of tradition? Head to the convention center for the 38th annual Native American New Year's Eve Sobriety Powwow. The event is hosted by the Native American Rehabilitation Association of the Northwest. The organization provides education, physical and mental … [Read more...] about Native American New Year’s Eve Sobriety Powwow
How to Watch the 2026 New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square
If you're hosting an NYE party at your house or plan to ring in the new year in your favorite jammies, here's an easy way to make the night festive: watch the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square. Portland has lots of free and cheap events on New Year's Eve. But a quiet night a home can be … [Read more...] about How to Watch the 2026 New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square
First Day Hikes at State Parks on New Year’s Day
Start your year off on the right foot at a first day hike. Oregon State Parks and Washington State Parks invite you to get outdoors on New Year’s Day. State parks have a range of activities to partake in, such as hiking, snowshoeing, kayaking and disc golfing. Below you'll find details about … [Read more...] about First Day Hikes at State Parks on New Year’s Day
Portland Restaurants Open on New Year’s Eve
Ring in the new year at these Portland restaurants. Cheers to the end of 2025! Here's a list of Portland restaurants open on New Year's Eve, Wednesday, December 31, 2025. Portland offers a host of New Year's Eve events. Restaurants join in on the fun by pulling out all the stops to celebrate … [Read more...] about Portland Restaurants Open on New Year’s Eve
What to Do in Portland on New Year’s Day
Stay busy on New Year's Day with these weekend activities. Welcome to 2026, everyone! January 1 is full for free and cheap activities to get you moving and exploring our wonderful city this year. Whether you like to be indoors or outdoors during the holiday, there is something for you to … [Read more...] about What to Do in Portland on New Year’s Day
Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum
Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum are taking place throughout 2025. Located in the heart of downtown, Portland Art Museum is internationally renowned for exciting art experiences. On the first Thursday of the month, our community gets open access to one of our city's top … [Read more...] about Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum
Discount Day at OMSI
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, better known as OMSI, is one of the nation's leading science centers and we're lucky to have it right here in Portland. OMSI discount day is here to bring one of Portland's best attractions to you for cheap. Science lovers and explorers of the unknown … [Read more...] about Discount Day at OMSI
The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Clinton Street Theater
This long-standing screening is an ideal stop for a fun night out on the town. Get your tickets for The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Clinton Street Theater. Have you ever been to a showing of the cult classic? If not, add it to your Portland bucket list. The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Clinton … [Read more...] about The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Clinton Street Theater
2026 Museums on Us Free Museum Admission
Bank of America's Museums On Us program lets customers visit Portland museums for free the first full weekend of the month. Hundreds of museums and attractions participate in the Bank of America free museum days in cities across the United States. In Portland, we have one participating … [Read more...] about 2026 Museums on Us Free Museum Admission
2026 Portland Boat Show
If boating is part of your lifestyle—or part of your plans for 2026—attend the 66th annual Portland Boat Show. Known as the largest trailerable boat show in the West, the Portland Boat Show is the ultimate destination for boat shoppers, enthusiasts and anyone dreaming of life on the … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Boat Show
Skamania Lodge Holiday Light Walk
Ready to see dazzling lights nestled in a Washington forest? Take a drive to Skamania Lodge for the second annual Holiday Light Walk. Skamania Lodge offers cozy, inviting accommodations outside of Stevenson in the Columbia River Gorge. During the holiday season, the lodge hosts a variety of … [Read more...] about Skamania Lodge Holiday Light Walk
2025 Oregon ZooLights
The Oregon Zoo's special holiday attraction lets you walk on the wild side of a winter wonderland. Oregon ZooLights features more than 1.5 million lights and gives visitors a whole new zoo experience. This year, explore all the opportunities to experience one of Portland's best holiday light … [Read more...] about 2025 Oregon ZooLights
2026 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days
Get free entrance to Forest Service recreation areas on nine holidays in 2026. Forest Service recreation area free days include recreation sites and trailheads in Oregon and Washington, such as the Columbia River Gorge, Mt. Hood National Forest, Gifford Pinchot National Forest and 14 more. These … [Read more...] about 2026 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days
2026 Free Parking Days in Portland
If you've ever ventured in or near downtown Portland, you know the challenge of finding a parking spot that won't break the bank. During select holidays throughout the year, parking in Portland is free. Free parking days in Portland are offered for metered City of Portland parking in each of the … [Read more...] about 2026 Free Parking Days in Portland
Christmas Tree Drop-Off at Topaz Farm
Looking for a sustainable way to get rid of your Christmas tree? Take it to the Christmas tree drop-off at Topaz Farm. The Sauvie Island farm is hosting its annual Christmas tree drop-off event. This event is part of Topaz Farm’s ongoing program to convert thousands of pounds of organic material … [Read more...] about Christmas Tree Drop-Off at Topaz Farm
Guided First Day Hike at Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Start your new year off on the right foot at Tryon Creek State Natural Area's first day hike. Located in Southwest Portland, Tryon Creek is a great example of our temperate rainforest climate: trees covered in moss with huge ferns lining the trails that leads to the waterway. More than 658 acres … [Read more...] about Guided First Day Hike at Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Baskin-Robbins: Get a Cheap Ice Cream Scoop on the 31st
Baskin-Robbins' Celebrate 31 promotion has returned! Get a cheap scoop on the 31st of the month. Why 31? The founders of Baskin-Robbins, Burt and Irv, launched the ice cream shop with 31 flavors. This let visitors have a new flavor to try every day of the month. Here's how you can get a … [Read more...] about Baskin-Robbins: Get a Cheap Ice Cream Scoop on the 31st
When Are the King Tides on the Oregon Coast? View the Schedule
See the Oregon Coast like never before. This fall and winter, watch the beauty and power of the ocean as it reaches new heights during king tides season. When the moon's orbit comes closest to the earth, the tide rises. The highest tides hit the coast during the late fall and winter, known … [Read more...] about When Are the King Tides on the Oregon Coast? View the Schedule
Hawks and Hot Chocolate: A Winter Birding Adventure on Sauvie Island
Calling all bird enthusiasts! Sip on warm beverages and witness the beauty of the city's wildlife. Hawks and Hot Chocolate invites you to celebrate majestic birds of prey and warm up with a delicious drink. Sauvie Island is a hotspot for birds of prey. Join the Bird Alliance of Oregon, … [Read more...] about Hawks and Hot Chocolate: A Winter Birding Adventure on Sauvie Island
2025 Lightopia: Hillsboro’s Free Drive-Through Light Display
Lightopia, Hillsboro's free drive-through light display, invites you to enjoy the twinkle of the award-winning event this December. It is one of the few free holiday light displays in the Portland area. Here's how you can claim your free spot for 2025 Lightopia: 2025 Lightopia: Hillsboro's Free … [Read more...] about 2025 Lightopia: Hillsboro’s Free Drive-Through Light Display
2026 Free Days at U.S. National Parks
The national parks get even better during free days. America's Best Idea — our national parks — is even better when admission is free! Mark your calendar now for entrance fee-free dates for the coming year. On these dates, free entrance is available at national parks across the country that … [Read more...] about 2026 Free Days at U.S. National Parks
2026 Free Entrance Days at Washington State Parks
Enjoy Washington's best nature trails during free days at Washington parks. In 2026, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is offering outdoor enthusiasts 12 free days to get out and see the wild side of the Evergreen State. Access to Washington State Parks typically requires a … [Read more...] about 2026 Free Entrance Days at Washington State Parks
2026 Portland Seafood and Wine Festival
Enjoy Oregon seafood and delicious beverages at the Portland Seafood and Wine Festival. For the past 20 years, Portlanders have gathered during the peak Dungeness crab season to savor the locally sourced, fermented and distilled food and drinks. 2026 Portland Seafood and Wine Festival The … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Seafood and Wine Festival
Free and Cheap Events this Week in Portland
Never Miss Out on Frugal Fun in Portland There are so many ways you can participate in fun activities in Portland without breaking your budget. Use this list of free and cheap events this week as your guide to having frugal fun throughout the metro area. To stay up to date on all the … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Events this Week in Portland
What to Do in Portland on Christmas Day
Christmas Day in Portland is one of my all-time favorite days of the year. The streets are quiet. There's no traffic. It is almost like the whole city is put on pause. Take advantage of this rare sleepy Wednesday in Portland and check out one of these Christmas Day activities. Whether you like to … [Read more...] about What to Do in Portland on Christmas Day
Portland Movie Theaters Open on Christmas Day
Make a new tradition on Christmas day by visiting one of these independent movie theaters in and around Portland. These 13 local theaters are showing new releases and Christmas classics on December 25. All of them have theater snacks and some offer full meals. If you want to take the stress … [Read more...] about Portland Movie Theaters Open on Christmas Day
Grocery Stores Open on Christmas
Christmas Day is widely known for closed shops and quiet streets, but some grocery stores remain open to serve last-minute needs and essential errands. Here are the Portland area grocery stores open on Christmas. I've provided a list of your favorite grocery stores throughout Portland, … [Read more...] about Grocery Stores Open on Christmas
Portland Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve and Day
Where to dine out on Christmas Eve and Day in Portland. Leave the stress of preparing a holiday feast behind by dining at one of these Portland restaurants. Here's a list of local and chain restaurants open on Christmas Eve, Wednesday, December 24, and Christmas Day, Thursday, December 25, … [Read more...] about Portland Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve and Day
Christmas Day at McMenamins Kennedy School
Once your stocking is emptied, presents are opened and you've eaten your tasty morning treats, what's on the agenda for the rest of your day? Many of us are asking ourselves what we are going to do in Portland on Christmas Day. The McMenamins Kennedy School has us covered. Here are the … [Read more...] about Christmas Day at McMenamins Kennedy School
How to Enter the Portland Snowplow Naming Contest
Here's your chance to put your creativity to work and earn bragging rights for the whole year. Submit your ideas to the Portland Snowplow Naming Contest. Portland Bureau of Transportation invites the public to participate in the second annual snowplow naming contest. Last year’s inaugural … [Read more...] about How to Enter the Portland Snowplow Naming Contest
2026 Portland Tacos, Tequila & Tamales Festival
Get ready for a vibrant celebration of Latin American culture, flavors and entertainment at the Portland Tacos, Tequila & Tamales Festival. This family-friendly event invites you to indulge in authentic cuisine, sip on premium tequila and immerse yourself in a weekend of dance, and … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Tacos, Tequila & Tamales Festival
Holiday Lights at Meinig Park
Every year, Sandy's crown jewel park transforms into a magical holiday experience. Visit the holiday lights at Meinig Park this season. The light display also hosts special events throughout the month. Here are the details about the holiday event. If you're looking for more sparkling lights, … [Read more...] about Holiday Lights at Meinig Park
2025 Peacock Lane: Portland’s Christmas Street
Every December, a quiet street in southeast Portland transforms its charming homes into a holiday spectacular for all to enjoy. Nothing says it is Christmastime in Portland quite like a trip down Peacock Lane, one of Portland's must-see holiday light displays. 2025 Peacock Lane: … [Read more...] about 2025 Peacock Lane: Portland’s Christmas Street
2025 Winter Solstice Celebrations in Portland
Discover the magic of the Winter Solstice in Portland. Events are taking place throughout the city inviting you to feel the warmth of the season on the shortest day of the year. This ancient celebration marks a turning point—where the long, dark nights begin to wane, and the promise of light and … [Read more...] about 2025 Winter Solstice Celebrations in Portland
Celebrate Japanese New Year at Portland Japanese Garden
Celebrate Japanese New Year at Portland Japanese Garden. Nestled in Washington Park, Portland Japanese Garden has been a place of serenity and tranquility for more than 50 years. Explore the eight unique garden spaces, from lush greens to ponds to sand and stone. Each garden highlights … [Read more...] about Celebrate Japanese New Year at Portland Japanese Garden
Holiday Express Train Ride in Portland
Have you ever dreamed of riding on the Polar Express? Here's a magical train ride in Portland this holiday season. Join Santa Claus and his elves on the Holiday Express train ride in Portland. This memorable ride behind Portland’s famous steam locomotives lets you travel inside a vintage rail car … [Read more...] about Holiday Express Train Ride in Portland
2026 Free Parking Days at Portland Metro Parks
Get out and enjoy Portland metro parks during free parking days. In 2026, there are 19 free parking days at Portland metro parks, a beach and boat ramps that typically charge a $5 parking fee per car. All of these locations get you up close to our unique waterways, including the Columbia and … [Read more...] about 2026 Free Parking Days at Portland Metro Parks
2025 Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway
Every holiday season, Portland International Raceway transforms its track into the largest light show West of the Mississippi. Starting the day after Thanksgiving, you can visit Winter Wonderland any day of the week. Since 1993, Winter Wonderland has been one of the must-see holiday light … [Read more...] about 2025 Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway
Christmas on Franklin: A Neighborhood Light Display in Vancouver
View 10 properties come to light this holiday season during Christmas on Franklin. Franklin Street in Vancouver is known for going all out during the holidays. The event features thousands of lights along with themed displays. If you're looking for even more free holiday light displays, … [Read more...] about Christmas on Franklin: A Neighborhood Light Display in Vancouver
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