Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Victoria

Discount Ticket Alert: Get 52% Off The Tesla City Stories’ November Show

Sponsored post Give thanks for all-new episodes and discount admission at the The Tesla City Stories' November 21 show at the Old Church Concert Hall. Get $12 discount tickets to The Tesla City Stories November show at TeslaTix.com. Use code CHEAP33. Don't delay! Only 20 discount tickets are … [Read more...] about Discount Ticket Alert: Get 52% Off The Tesla City Stories’ November Show

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 Holiday Market at the Expo Center

The Portland Holiday Market is coming to town! Shop outside the big box at the Portland Expo Center. Does this event sound familiar? Instead of the annual America's Largest Christmas Bazaar, the Portland Expo Center hosts the Portland Holiday Market. This reimagined holiday shopping experience … [Read more...] about Portland Holiday Market at the Expo Center

2025 Plucky Maidens Holiday Fest Vintage Market

It's back! Head to Oaks Park for a special vintage market, Plucky Maidens Holiday Fest. This nationally recognized vintage market started in 2011 right here in Portland. After a hiatus in 2024, the unique and popular Plucky Maidens returns this November.  Here are the details:  2025 … [Read more...] about 2025 Plucky Maidens Holiday Fest Vintage Market

50% Off Sale at St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store

Celebrate the one year anniversary of St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store with a special sale all weekend.  St. Vincent de Paul is an organization known for helping the most vulnerable in our communities. Last year, the nonprofit opened a thrift store in Portland, where proceeds go directly to … [Read more...] about 50% Off Sale at St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Sale · Shopping

2025 Veterans Day Deals: Free Food, Haircuts and Car Washes for Military

Businesses throughout Portland are giving back to those who serve with Veterans Day deals. To thank our veterans and active military members, many businesses are offering free food, admission and services on Veterans Day, Tuesday, November 11, 2025.  If you’re not a military member, you … [Read more...] about 2025 Veterans Day Deals: Free Food, Haircuts and Car Washes for Military

Veterans Day Parade at Fort Vancouver

Enjoy patriotic displays, music and tributes at the annual Lough Legacy Veterans Day Parade. For 37 years, the parade has brought a family-friendly celebration to Vancouver. With the cancellation of the Portland Veterans Day Parade in 2025, take a drive North to honor our nation’s heroes. Here … [Read more...] about Veterans Day Parade at Fort Vancouver

Military Members Get Free Great Clips Haircut on Veterans Day

The popular salon is celebrating those who are a cut above the rest with a special Veterans Day offer. You or the military member in your life can get a free haircut at Great Clips on Veterans Day. While you may not have served, chances are you know someone who is either an active member or … [Read more...] about Military Members Get Free Great Clips Haircut on Veterans Day

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Shopping

2025 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 2025 Free Days at U.S. National Parks

2025 Thanksgiving Meals To Go

Looking for an alternative for your feast on November 27? Portland restaurants and grocery stores are offering special Thanksgiving meals to go.  This is a great way to have a delicious meal with all the fixings from the comfort of your home, while taking the stress out of preparing a feast … [Read more...] about 2025 Thanksgiving Meals To Go

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink

Free Military Admission to Oregon Zoo on Veterans Day

There are many free meals, activities, freebies and discounts for military on Veterans Day. The Oregon Zoo is celebrating by sharing a day of wild fun at no cost to military personnel and their families.  Oregon Zoo Veterans Day Deal On Tuesday, November 11, military veterans and active … [Read more...] about Free Military Admission to Oregon Zoo on Veterans Day

2025 Sacred Sheep: Portland’s Fiber Art Celebration

November is a special month for fiber enthusiasts in Portland, Oregon. That’s when the beloved Sacred Sheep event returns, a celebration of all things fiber, artistry and community. Organized by the talented team at Ritual Dyes, a local dye studio, Sacred Sheep offers a weekend packed with local … [Read more...] about 2025 Sacred Sheep: Portland’s Fiber Art Celebration

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Shopping

North Portland Free Clothing Exchange

Update your wardrobe at this free community clothing exchange. The North Portland Free Clothing Exchange was started by a group of friends who were looking for a way to pass along gently used clothing, especially for their kids who outgrew clothes quickly. The clothing exchange is built on the … [Read more...] about North Portland Free Clothing Exchange

Oregon Tax Kicker: How Much Will You Get Back on Your 2025 Tax Return?

Get ready, Oregonians. The Oregon Department of Revenue is giving back money 2025. You're in for a special tax kicker on your 2025 state personal income tax returns. Find out how the Oregon tax kicker works and how much you'll get back. While you're exploring the tax kicker, check to see if you … [Read more...] about Oregon Tax Kicker: How Much Will You Get Back on Your 2025 Tax Return?

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Sale · Shopping

Frybread Fest: Culture, Community and Celebration

Join a celebration of Native American Heritage Month at Frybread Fest. This special event invites everyone to come together in a day of education, healing and celebration at Director Park in downtown Portland. Experience a rich lineup of activities that honor Native American culture and … [Read more...] about Frybread Fest: Culture, Community and Celebration

Get Free Reusable Red Cup from Starbucks on November 13

Starbucks is kicking off the giving season with a festive freebie filled to the brim with one of the cafe's special holiday beverages. Here's how you can get this free cup on Thursday:  Get Free Reusable Red Cup from Starbucks Every year, Starbucks gives away a free reusable red holiday … [Read more...] about Get Free Reusable Red Cup from Starbucks on November 13

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink

Finders Keepers: How to Find Glass Floats in Lincoln City

Imagine walking along the Oregon Coast and finding a colorful glass ball in the sand. This can be your reality by participating in Lincoln City's Finders Keepers.  More than 3,000 hand-blown glass floats are scattered along the city’s seven miles of sandy beaches each year. True to the name, … [Read more...] about Finders Keepers: How to Find Glass Floats in Lincoln City

Free Play at Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade

Calling all retro gamers! Ground Kontrol is Portland's classic arcade destination, plugged in to all your golden age classics to new favorites. More than 100 classic video games and pinball machines surround two full service bars serving tasty and cheap food and drinks. Featuring low prices and … [Read more...] about Free Play at Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade

Nordic Vintage and Treasure Sale

Shop a market of vintage treasures at the upcoming Nordic Vintage and Treasure Sale. The event is hosted by Nordic Northwest, an organization that hosts celebrations throughout the year focused on the cultures of Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Norway and Sweden. Nordic Northwest is an inclusive … [Read more...] about Nordic Vintage and Treasure Sale

Portland Restaurants Offer Free Food for SNAP Recipients

Do you or someone you know receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits? These Portland restaurants offer free food and meals to help SNAP recipients during the government shutdown.  Some of these locations require you to show your SNAP card to receive free meals or food … [Read more...] about Portland Restaurants Offer Free Food for SNAP Recipients

2025 Christmas Tree Permits: Get a $5 Tree from Mt. Hood National Forest

Want to decorate with a beautiful, real Christmas tree without going over budget? Locals can get inexpensive Christmas tree permits and choose their own trees from Mt. Hood National Forest. Picking the perfect Christmas tree is a quintessential tradition. For many of us, it is one of the first … [Read more...] about 2025 Christmas Tree Permits: Get a $5 Tree from Mt. Hood National Forest

2025 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days

Get free entrance to Forest Service recreation areas on five holidays in 2025. 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 2025 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days

Best Stargazing Spots in and near Portland

Welcome to the enchanting world of stargazing in Portland! In this city, we're known for our wonderful outdoor escapes and close proximity to nature. Take your exploration of the Rose City to another level by visiting the best stargazing spots in Portland, Oregon, and the surrounding … [Read more...] about Best Stargazing Spots in and near Portland

2025 Free Entrance Days at Washington State Parks

Enjoy Washington's best nature trails during free days at Washington parks. In 2025, 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 2025 Free Entrance Days at Washington State Parks

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Nature

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

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

Patriot’s Train Ride on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad

The Chelatchie Prairie Railroad invites veterans and their families to embark on a unique journey during Veterans Day weekend.  A 1941 diesel locomotive transports passengers through scenic northern Clark County from Yacolt to Moulton Falls and back.  Chelatchie Prairie Railroad … [Read more...] about Patriot’s Train Ride on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad

Glow Skate Nights at Oaks Park Roller Rink

Get out of the house and enjoy a fun evening activity at Oaks Park Roller Rink's Glow Skate Nights. Oaks Amusement Park in Portland has been bringing joy to the young and young at heart since 1905. The roller rink is the park's year-round attraction and one of Portland’s last remaining roller … [Read more...] about Glow Skate Nights at Oaks Park Roller Rink

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

Veterans Day Deal at Portland Japanese Garden

Portland Japanese Garden invites military members to enjoy peace and tranquility in celebration of Veterans Day. Nestled among Washington Park, the Portland Japanese Garden deems itself the most authentic Japanese garden outside of Japan. It features five traditional styles of Japanese gardens … [Read more...] about Veterans Day Deal at Portland Japanese Garden

NW’s Largest Garage Sale and Vintage Sale

Want to visit more than 800 garage sales all under one roof? Attend one of the NW's Largest Garage Sale and Vintage Sale events.  Since 2009, this event has brought together a community of people who enjoy making the old new again. Come find new to you treasures at this year's events. If … [Read more...] about NW’s Largest Garage Sale and Vintage Sale

Sunday Scaries: Spooky Stories from Portland Comedians

Looking for something a little spooky, a little silly and completely Portland? Sunday Scaries Comedy Show is the perfect blend of paranormal tales and laughs hosted by Andie Main and her crew of quick-witted friends. This show blends paranormal stories, improv and stand up comedy making each … [Read more...] about Sunday Scaries: Spooky Stories from Portland Comedians

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Entertainment

Gobble Up Portland Specialty Food Show

Get a taste of Portland's best local food and beverages at Gobble Up Portland. Gobble Up Portland, Urban Craft Uprising’s specialty food show, features more than 85 local and independent food, beverage and kitchenware makers along with food trucks. The event has plenty for the everyday snacker … [Read more...] about Gobble Up Portland Specialty Food Show

Movie Madness Free Community Screenings

Movie Madness, Portland's very own video rental store, hosts free community screenings every week. Started in 1991, Movie Madness has more than 80,000 titles, including new releases, childhood classics, foreign films from more than 65 countries, an extensive LGBTQ section, and cult … [Read more...] about Movie Madness Free Community Screenings

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

Crafts and Cocktails: A Holiday Market at the Crystal Ballroom

Portland’s holiday season is kicking off in style with Crafts and Cocktails at the Crystal Ballroom. This new market event is hosted by Urban Art Network, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering independent artists. Get ready for the perfect fusion of creativity, community and celebration. Here … [Read more...] about Crafts and Cocktails: A Holiday Market at the Crystal Ballroom

2025 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 Shows. 2025 … [Read more...] about 2025 Planetarium Sky Theater Shows at Mt. Hood Community College

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

Free Cultural Passes at Portland Libraries

Libraries have expanded way beyond books. From classes to e-catalogues to free Wi-Fi, libraries have become a resource hub for communities across the Portland area. Best of all, you can access all of these services for free. There are many perks of having a library card, including free cultural … [Read more...] about Free Cultural Passes at Portland Libraries

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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