Portland Living on the Cheap

Your local guide to the best of what's affordable in Portland, Oregon.

Victoria

Get Free Shake Shack Sandwiches Weekly With Purchase in December

Want to save a little dough this December? Shake Shack serves up a special deal on burgers and sandwiches in December. The popular fast food chain gifts customers free Shack Sandwiches with a new burger or sandwich available every week. Here are the details: Get Free Shake Shack Sandwiches in … [Read more...] about Get Free Shake Shack Sandwiches Weekly With Purchase in December

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink

2025 Winterfest at Leach Botanical Garden

Embrace the holiday spirit at Leach Botanical Garden's Winterfest. The magical winter market event is your chance to find unique gifts, connect with local artisans and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the garden. 2025 Winterfest at Leach Botanical Garden Winterfest kicks off with a special opening … [Read more...] about 2025 Winterfest at Leach Botanical Garden

Troutdale Windy Wonderland and Tree Lighting

Celebrate the magic of the holidays at the Troutdale Windy Wonderland and Tree Lighting. The holiday spirit is alive and well in historic downtown Troutdale. The two-day festive extravaganza is packed with holiday cheer and offers something for everyone. Best of all, it supports Snow Cap … [Read more...] about Troutdale Windy Wonderland and Tree Lighting

Portland Drive-Through Christmas Lights

This December, soak in the magic of the season at these Portland drive-through Christmas lights. From the city to the suburbs, a handful of beloved events go all out with glowing arches, animated scenes and tunnels of light. You’ll find everything from classic reindeer and candy-cane themes to … [Read more...] about Portland Drive-Through Christmas Lights

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

Bird Alliance of Oregon’s Wild Arts Festival

Celebrate art, literature and nature at the Bird Alliance of Oregon's Wild Arts Festival. For 45 years, the festival has brought together outdoor lovers to discover one-of-a-kind nature-inspired artwork and books. This event supports the Bird Alliance of Oregon’s mission to inspire people to … [Read more...] about Bird Alliance of Oregon’s Wild Arts Festival

Sign Up for Portland’s Free Yard Tree Giveaway

Did you know fall in Portland is the best time to plant new trees? Portland Parks and Recreation's Urban Forestry Team is making it easier than ever to add some foliage to your yard by giving away thousands of free trees to Portlanders. Adding trees to your yard can offer shade, boost pollinator … [Read more...] about Sign Up for Portland’s Free Yard Tree Giveaway

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events

NW Marine Art Works Open Studio and Holiday Market

Spend your weekend celebrating art, creativity and community during this special holiday event. NW Marine Art Works Open Studio hosts a twice yearly event featuring talented local artists at a studio nestled in Portland’s NW industrial area. Here are the details about the holiday … [Read more...] about NW Marine Art Works Open Studio and Holiday Market

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Shopping

2025 Fungi Film Festival

Watch films from around the world at the Fungi Film Festival. The Fungi Film Fest is the world’s only film festival dedicated to the beauty, weirdness and human influences of fungi. The festival explores mushrooms, lichens and micro fungi in a variety of genres. The annual event premieres live … [Read more...] about 2025 Fungi Film Festival

Why Are There So Many Crows in Portland?

Have you noticed large gatherings of crows in downtown Portland recently? So have I. My curiosity lead me on a quest to figure out why there are so many crows flocking together in Portland during the winter. The crows in my neighborhood provide year-round entertainment on my daily walks. From 4-5 … [Read more...] about Why Are There So Many Crows in Portland?

The North Pole at Eagle Crest

Visit a truly magical Christmas display during The North Pole at Eagle Crest. This free holiday light display is open on select nights in December.  Every holiday season, a local family transforms their home into the North Pole. Here are the details about the 2025 display, including the new … [Read more...] about The North Pole at Eagle Crest

Holiday Light Display Map: Plan Your Self-Guided Tour

Find the best decorated homes in Portland with the Holiday Light Display Map. The holiday season brings with it a sense of magic and wonder that lights up communities around the world. For some, it's not just about celebrating within the four walls of their homes but sharing the joy and spirit of … [Read more...] about Holiday Light Display Map: Plan Your Self-Guided Tour

Must-See Holiday Light Displays in Portland

The holiday season is officially here! Portland is transforming into a winter wonderland. The Rose City has many magical holiday light displays. Whether you want to walk through stunning displays or see the rivers come to life with decorative ships, Portland has holiday lights for everyone. Don't … [Read more...] about Must-See Holiday Light Displays in Portland

2025 Beaverton Winter Lights

Every December, Beaverton City Park transforms into a sparkling holiday attraction, Beaverton Winter Lights.  The holiday display features the city's Christmas tree along with thousands of lights throughout the park.  Here's how you can enjoy this attraction. You may also enjoy … [Read more...] about 2025 Beaverton Winter Lights

Weihnachtsmarkt: A German Christmas Market

Step into the enchanting world of Weihnachtsmarkt: A German Christmas Market hosted by the German American Society of Portland. Since 1871, the German American Society of Portland has connected people to German and American heritage through relationships and cultural understanding. Here are … [Read more...] about Weihnachtsmarkt: A German Christmas Market

Holiday Sparkles at Powerland Heritage Park

Enjoy holiday lights and decorations from the comfort of your car at Powerland Heritage Park. Take a short drive south to visit the free Holiday Sparkles event. Drive through 62 acres of holiday lights and decorations at this free event.  Here are some more free holiday light displays you … [Read more...] about Holiday Sparkles at Powerland Heritage Park

2025 Portland Night Market

Explore the city's best vendors celebrating local food, culture, music, drinks and retail at Portland Night Market. Since 2015, the Portland Night Market has centered around Portland's creative scene. This event is a unique experience on the Central Eastside for Portlanders of all … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Night Market

2025 Portland Christmas Ships Parade Schedule

One of my favorite views of Portland is at night when the city lights reflect off of the glassy surface of the Willamette River. This sight becomes even more enchanting every holiday season during the annual Christmas Ships Parade. The annual tradition of Christmas ships gathering in fleets to … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Christmas Ships Parade Schedule

Holiday Drink Week: Get $10 Specialty Cocktails

Raise a glass to the holiday season during Holiday Drink Week. From December 1-7, 2025, each specialty drink is $10.  Each participating location is making a specially crafted cocktail for the event. Enjoy Holiday Drink Week at some of Portland's best bars and restaurants. Get out, support … [Read more...] about Holiday Drink Week: Get $10 Specialty Cocktails

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink Tagged With:

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

Christmas Tree Farms and Lots in and around Portland

Soak in that sweet pine smell at Christmas tree farms and lots around Portland. Nothing rings in the holiday season quite like the smell of a fresh cut Christmas tree. We're fortunate to live in an area where trees are plentiful and grow by the foot. It also means there are plenty of options for … [Read more...] about Christmas Tree Farms and Lots in and around Portland

Winter Village Skating at Orenco Station

Winter cheer is in the air as Hillsboro's Winter Village at Orenco Station. Celebrate the season with ice skating and fun activities.  During the holidays, Jerry Willey Plaza at Orenco Station transforms into a festive covered outdoor ice skating rink. Here's how to join in on the … [Read more...] about Winter Village Skating at Orenco Station

Free Admission Days at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum

Visit the World Forestry Center during this upcoming free admission days.  We love our forests in Oregon. The World Forestry Center's Discovery Museum is located right here in our city, inviting visitors to examine forests and consider all the ways they benefit our lives.  The museum … [Read more...] about Free Admission Days at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum

Portland Holiday Event Guide

The best Portland holiday events for all ages.  Our area has many holiday events that make the season magical. Use this Portland holiday event guide to mark your calendar for tried-and-true seasonal fun and start new traditions. The is a day-by-day list of holiday events happening in and … [Read more...] about Portland Holiday Event Guide

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

2025 Portland Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving

Where to dine out on Thanksgiving 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 Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 27, 2025. This year, many of these restaurants are offering … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink

Portland Movie Theaters Open on Thanksgiving

Make a new tradition this Thanksgiving by visiting one of these independent movie theaters in and around Portland. These 11 local theaters are showing new releases on November 27, 2025. All of them have theater snacks and some offer full meals. Head to your favorite location after you meal. If … [Read more...] about Portland Movie Theaters Open on Thanksgiving

Oregon Potters Association Holiday Fair

Explore local creators during the three-day Oregon Potters Association Holiday Fair. The association represents a group of diverse ceramic artists, makers, teachers and students. At the holiday event, members bring their creations under one roof for the whole community to enjoy. Here's what is … [Read more...] about Oregon Potters Association Holiday Fair

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Shopping

Thanksgiving Weekend Events in Portland

You’re finally done grocery shopping. The house is clean. You have a schedule of what's cooking for the next 24 hours. It is officially the calm before the holiday storm. But there is still one thing you might have overlooked: what do to with your guests over Thanksgiving weekend. Make new … [Read more...] about Thanksgiving Weekend Events in Portland

Wicked Craft’s Holiday Bazaar and Craft Fair

Ring in the holiday season with a day of magic, creativity and community at Wicked Craft's Holiday Bazaar and Craft Fair. Rooted in the earthy majesty of ancient arts and the divine strength of feminine creativity, Wicked Craft celebrates women from all walks of life. Here are the details about … [Read more...] about Wicked Craft’s Holiday Bazaar and Craft Fair

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Shopping

Paramount+ Offers $2.99 Black Friday Deal

Some of the links in this post are special! When you make a purchase through our links, we might earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

Have you wanted to try Paramount+ or are you looking to freshen up your streaming services for the winter season? You're in luck. Paramount+ offers a special Black Friday deal for a limited time. This streaming service keeps you up to date on the latest in shows, movies, sports, and … [Read more...] about Paramount+ Offers $2.99 Black Friday Deal

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

Get a Free Thanksgiving Meal at Prost’s Portland Pub

Give thanks for free food! Looking for a great meal and good company on Thanksgiving? Prost! Portland brings the holiday back to the basics: A wholesome meal celebrated by all. Prost! is joining the group of Portland restaurants open on Thanksgiving with a truly unbeatable offer. If you're … [Read more...] about Get a Free Thanksgiving Meal at Prost’s Portland Pub

2025 Portland Tree Lighting Ceremony

There is something magical about a tree covered in mesmerizing lights and charming decorations. It is even more impressive when the tree stands at 75 feet tall. Ring in the season at the Portland Tree Lighting Ceremony. On the day after Thanksgiving, Portlanders are invited to kick off  the … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Tree Lighting Ceremony

Free Park and Nature Area Entrance on Black Friday

Want a change of pace this Black Friday? Skip the hyper-consumerism and work off that holiday meal at your favorite park or natural area. On Friday, November 28, receive free entrance at select nature areas and parks. Free Park and Natural Area Entrance on Black Friday Green Friday at Oregon State … [Read more...] about Free Park and Nature Area Entrance on Black Friday

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

Regal Holiday Classics Movie Series

Regal Cinemas invites you to come out and enjoy your favorite holiday movies on the big screen. Regal Holiday Classics Movie Series shows some of your festive films during the most wonderful time of year.  Here are the details about the 2025 event.  2025 Regal Holiday Classics Movie … [Read more...] about Regal Holiday Classics Movie Series

Holiday Markets in and around Portland

Ready to start crossing off your holiday shopping list? Shop local at these Portland holiday markets. This list is your day-to-day guide to markets happening in the Portland area. Some of these markets have a special niche, like food or crafts. All of them are great places to support local makers … [Read more...] about Holiday Markets in and around Portland

Gresham Historical Society’s Christmas at the Museum

Step into a world of holiday magic this season at the Gresham Historical Society for its annual Christmas at the Museum celebration. After Thanksgiving, the museum transforms into a festive wonderland. View twinkling Christmas trees, whimsical gingerbread houses and a charming winter village. You … [Read more...] about Gresham Historical Society’s Christmas at the Museum

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

Green Friday at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Skip the stores and online shopping and celebrate Green Friday outside at Tryon Creek Natural Area.  Located in Southwest Portland, Tryon Creek is one of Portland’s best urban parks. This beautiful natural area is a great example of our temperate rainforest climate: trees covered in … [Read more...] about Green Friday at Tryon Creek Natural Area

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lotc_logo_100_gray_bgPortland Living on the Cheap is a member of Living on the Cheap, a network of websites published by frugalistas, journalists and consumer advocates. Find practical advice on saving money on groceries, travel and shopping, plus tips from our experts on how to live the good life for less at Living on the Cheap.
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