Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Victoria

Free and Cheap Mother’s Day Events in and around Portland

There's something for every mom in this list of free and cheap Mother's Day events in and around Portland. The best part is no one has to spend a bunch of money to celebrate Mom on this special day. Instead, opt for some quality time and a fun activity. Take a look at what Portland and … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Mother’s Day Events in and around Portland

First Thursday Street Gallery

Explore local artists at the First Thursday Street Gallery in the Pearl District. The event is hosted by Urban Art Network, a Portland nonprofit dedicated to empowering independent artists. Now in its 24th year, the event holds true to its artistic roots by bringing together our community of … [Read more...] about First Thursday Street Gallery

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Mother’s Day Train Ride

Take a scenic trip through Clark County on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Mother's Day Ride.  A 1941 diesel locomotive transports passengers through scenic northern Clark County from Yacolt to Moulton Falls to Chelatchie Prairie and back. During holidays, the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad … [Read more...] about Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Mother’s Day Train Ride

Free Fly Fishing Workshop at Blue Lake Regional Park

If you’ve ever been curious about fly fishing but didn’t know where to start, attend an upcoming  free fly fishing workshop. Led by fisheries biologist Anna Le, this hands-on learning experience is designed to give beginners the skills and knowledge they need to feel confident stepping into … [Read more...] about Free Fly Fishing Workshop at Blue Lake Regional Park

Get $12 Discount Tickets to The Tesla City Stories

Sponsored post Tell those April showers to dry up and those May flowers to hang on for a sec: there’s a new show of The Tesla City Stories coming your way! Choose your seat for all-new live episodes on May 8 at the Old Church Concert Hall. Plus, you can get an exclusive discount.  Get $12 … [Read more...] about Get $12 Discount Tickets to The Tesla City Stories

Go By Bike Day at Oaks Park

Go By Bike Day at Oaks Park invites locals to trade four wheels for two and experience a day packed with fun, connection and classic amusement park thrills. From 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., cyclists of all ages are encouraged to ride their way to Oaks Park, turning the journey itself into part of the … [Read more...] about Go By Bike Day at Oaks Park

2026 Cascadia Fine Arts Festival

Connect with your community and support regional artists, studios, workshops, and galleries at the Cascadia Fine Arts Festival in downtown Troutdale along the Sandy River. Hosted by Cascadia Arts Association, the festival features artists, art demonstrations, musicians, local food and drinks, and … [Read more...] about 2026 Cascadia Fine Arts Festival

Spring Book and Media Sale at Beaverton City Library

Calling all book lovers, media collectors, and bargain hunters! The Spring Book and Media Sale at Beaverton City Library is just around the corner.  While stocking up your book shelves, you can also find various media to keep you entertained all year long.  Here's what you can expect at … [Read more...] about Spring Book and Media Sale at Beaverton City Library

Bloom into Spring at the Camas Plant and Garden Fair

Looking to freshen up your yard or garden this spring? Stock up for the growing season at the Camas Plant and Garden Fair. This annual community event brings together local growers, artisan and garden enthusiasts for a full day of shopping and fun. Here are the 2026 details: 2026 Camas Plant … [Read more...] about Bloom into Spring at the Camas Plant and Garden Fair

PDX Sidewalk Joy Map: Visit Neighborhood Galleries, Exchanges and Displays

Take a self-guided tour of local creations using the PDX Sidewalk Joy Map. This map showcases fun, interactive neighborhood galleries, exchanges and displays. While exploring the joy map, you may also come across Portland's beloved monkey puzzle trees.  Here's how you can make the most … [Read more...] about PDX Sidewalk Joy Map: Visit Neighborhood Galleries, Exchanges and Displays

Planetarium Sky Theater Shows at Mt. Hood Community College

The Planetarium Sky Theater at Mt. Hood Community College welcomes visitors into a world of cosmic wonders and astronomical marvels. The planetarium recently reopened to be public and offers shows on select dates each month.  Here are the details about Planetarium Sky Theater … [Read more...] about Planetarium Sky Theater Shows at Mt. Hood Community College

Mother’s Day Birding and Wildflower Festival

If you're looking for a fun way to celebrate Mom while enjoying nature, attend the Mother’s Day Birding and Wildflower Festival at Silver Falls State Park. The park is in bloom and filled with winged and four-legged creatures hiding among the beautiful plant life and waterways that make this park … [Read more...] about Mother’s Day Birding and Wildflower Festival

Children’s Day at Gresham Japanese Garden

Join a joyful celebration for the whole family during Children’s Day at Gresham Japanese Garden. This year, Children’s Day at the Gresham Japanese Garden delivers a lively and heartwarming event filled with tradition, creativity and fun for all ages. Here's what is in store: Children’s Day at … [Read more...] about Children’s Day at Gresham Japanese Garden

Love Live Entertainment? Visit Portland’s Dueling Piano Bar

Are you ready for an unforgettable night filled with music, laughter and interactive excitement? Look no further than the sensational Portland dueling piano bar. This weekly event promises a unique experiences for live entertainment enthusiasts. With top-tier performers flown in from across the … [Read more...] about Love Live Entertainment? Visit Portland’s Dueling Piano Bar

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum are taking place throughout 2026.  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

Indigenous Culture Day at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Listen and learn from Indigenous educators in the culturally rich Tryon Creek State Natural Area during Indigenous Culture Day. 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 … [Read more...] about Indigenous Culture Day at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Build a Free LEGO Star Wars N-1 Starfighter at this Make-and-Take Event

Looking for a fun and creative way to celebrate Sunday? Build your very own LEGO Star Wars N-1 Starfighter. While you're at it, get LEGO magazine for free.  Here are the details:  Build a Free LEGO Star Wars N-1 Starfighter This special make-and-take event is the perfect way for … [Read more...] about Build a Free LEGO Star Wars N-1 Starfighter at this Make-and-Take Event

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 three participating … [Read more...] about 2026 Museums on Us Free Museum Admission

Spring Garden Fair at Clackamas County Event Center

Enjoy a weekend of discovery, inspiration and fun at the annual Spring Garden Fair. The spring event, hosted by the Clackamas County Master Gardener Association, has taken place the weekend before Mother’s Day since 1984. What started as a small fuchsia sale has grown into a two-day fair with … [Read more...] about Spring Garden Fair at Clackamas County Event Center

Tabor Dance Schedule: Join Portland’s Free Sunset Dance Party

Looking for something joyful, free and full of community fun? Tabor Dance hosts a sunset dance series at locations across Portland.  These community dances are popping up in parks and venues around Portland this spring and summer. This is your chance to connect, move and celebrate with a … [Read more...] about Tabor Dance Schedule: Join Portland’s Free Sunset Dance Party

Free Comic Book Day: Find a Participating Portland Store

Free Comic Book Day is taking place in May and several Portland-area stores are participating in the annual event. Every year, participating shops across North America and around the world give away comic books absolutely free to anyone who stops by. Comics range from major publishers, such as DC … [Read more...] about Free Comic Book Day: Find a Participating Portland Store

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

Where to Find a Free Seed Library in Portland

Are you an avid gardener or someone looking to cultivate your green thumb? Organizations throughout Portland offer unique and community-centric resources: free seed libraries. Seed libraries are perfect for anyone interested in growing their own vegetables, flowers or herbs. Let's explore how … [Read more...] about Where to Find a Free Seed Library in Portland

Self-Guided Tour of Portland’s Monkey Puzzle Trees

Looking for a fun, outdoor activity like no other? Let me tell you why a self-guided tour of Portland's monkey puzzle trees should be your next adventure. Monkey puzzle trees, Araucaria araucana, are one of the most unique looking species in our city. I remember the first time I noticed one I … [Read more...] about Self-Guided Tour of Portland’s Monkey Puzzle Trees

New Year in the Park: Join the Southeast Asian Cultural Celebration

Join a cultural festival celebrated by Southeast Asian communities: New Year in the Park. This event promises a blend of tradition, community and celebration for everyone to enjoy. Local Southeast Asian communities honor traditions, elders and culture at this annual celebration. The event extends … [Read more...] about New Year in the Park: Join the Southeast Asian Cultural Celebration

Visit the Free Peony Fields at Adelman Peony Gardens

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of blooming flowers at Adelman Peony Gardens' free peony fields. Every springtime, the gardens invite the public to experience different colors and smells of peonies. Here's information about the 2026 event. Visit the Free Peony Fields at Adelman Peony … [Read more...] about Visit the Free Peony Fields at Adelman Peony Gardens

The Portland Aquarium: Mike Bennett’s Imaginative Ocean Adventure

There’s a new kind of aquarium making waves in Portland and it’s unlike anything you’ve seen before. Mike Bennett is back at it with his latest immersive experience: The Portland Aquarium.  From street signs and murals to exhibits and local partnerships, chances are you've seen Mike Bennett's … [Read more...] about The Portland Aquarium: Mike Bennett’s Imaginative Ocean Adventure

Free National Parks and Public Lands Passes for 4th Graders

Every 4th grader in the United States has the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the nation with their family for free, thanks to the Every Kid Outdoors Program. This program gives 4th grade students and their families free access to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas, including … [Read more...] about Free National Parks and Public Lands Passes for 4th Graders

Get a Free Auntie Anne’s Pretzel on National Pretzel Day

Do you prefer salty or sweet? The choice is yours on National Pretzel Day. Auntie Anne's is mixing, twisting and baking its delicious treats to golden brown perfection, and handing out a great deal to customers. On Sunday, April 26, customers can stop by an Auntie Annie's location to get a free … [Read more...] about Get a Free Auntie Anne’s Pretzel on National Pretzel Day

Kennedy School’s History and Art Tour

Journey back in time at Kennedy School’s History and Art Tour. Since its 1915 opening, this historic elementary school has been a beloved fixture of Portland. It now boasts guest rooms, a restaurant, multiple small bars, a movie theater, gift shop and a brewery. If you're looking for a … [Read more...] about Kennedy School’s History and Art Tour

Molalla Train Park: Go for a Free Miniature Railway Ride

Since 1954, families have been making memories at Willamette Valley's original family destination experience: Molalla Train Park. Nestled on a picturesque four-acre property in Molalla, Oregon, this charming park promises a delightful day for all ages. As you step onto the grounds, you're greeted … [Read more...] about Molalla Train Park: Go for a Free Miniature Railway Ride

Free Community Swap Events at Kindred Vancouver

Refresh your home, wardrobe or hobbies without spending a dollar and save usable items from the landfill at these free community swap events at Kindred Vancouver. These events bring the community together to exchange items they no longer need for things they’ll actually use, creating a win for … [Read more...] about Free Community Swap Events at Kindred Vancouver

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Shopping

Take a Bite Out of Wetzel’s Pretzels Freebie on National Pretzel Day

Get all twisted up in this tasty treat on National Pretzel Day. Wetzel's Pretzels is celebrating the annual food holiday with an awesome freebie. On Sunday, April 26, Wetzel's Pretzels hosts its annual National Wetzel Day. Every customer who visits the pretzel shop from 3 p.m. to close can get a … [Read more...] about Take a Bite Out of Wetzel’s Pretzels Freebie on National Pretzel Day

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink

Hood River Cider Fest

Discover some of the region's best hard cider at the Hood River Cider Fest. Just an hour from Portland, the annual event is bringing together 20 Oregon and Washington cideries. Hood River Cider Fest The cider fest is taking place May 2, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. There are 28 ciders on tap from … [Read more...] about Hood River Cider Fest

Crafty Wonderland Spring Art and Craft Market

Plan your visit to the Crafty Wonderland Spring Art and Craft Market, the largest handmade craft show in the Northwest. Crafty Wonderland is the ultimate local handmade art and craft event of the season. If you haven’t attended this magical craft fair in the past, let me give you a little … [Read more...] about Crafty Wonderland Spring Art and Craft Market

2026 Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Attend the annual Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Tom McCall Waterfront Park in downtown Portland. The fiesta lights up the city with color, rhythm and flavor. The event is the largest multicultural festival in Oregon. The three-day bilingual event hosts special attractions and featured … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Portland Flea Vintage, Handmade Market

Calling all vintage, handmade, food loving Portlanders! Explore one-of-a-kind goods at Portland Flea. For over a decade, Portland Flea has created a gathering place for our city's creators to showcase their talents. Get out and join your community of makers, food purveyors and curators at this … [Read more...] about Portland Flea Vintage, Handmade Market

2026 Home and Garden Idea Fair

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your space. Gather ideas and inspiration at this free event, the Home and Garden Idea Fair. Now a much-anticipated community tradition, the Home and Garden Idea Fair draws over 15,000 attendees across two days. Here's what you can enjoy at the event: 2026 … [Read more...] about 2026 Home and Garden Idea Fair

Member of the Living on the Cheap Network

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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