Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Victoria

2025 Mount Angel Oktoberfest

Get ready to eat, drink and Polka! The Mount Angel Oktoberfest brings the Bavarian tradition to our state.  Every year, the entire town of Mount Angel transforms into Oktoberfest. The event boasts nine entertainment venues brimming with beverages, entertainment, activities, food and … [Read more...] about 2025 Mount Angel Oktoberfest

POP Cats Portland: The Ultimate Immersive Experience for Cat Lovers

Calling all cat enthusiasts! Get ready for an unforgettable weekend at POP Cats Portland. POP Cats is a special celebration of our feline friends along with creativity and entertainment.  Here's how you can participate in this upcoming event.  2025 POP Cats Portland POP Cats … [Read more...] about POP Cats Portland: The Ultimate Immersive Experience for Cat Lovers

Hidden Benefits of a AAA Membership You Might Not Know About

Did you know that a AAA membership goes beyond roadside assistance? The membership program offers drivers across the nation a helping hand when life happens on the road. Knowing you can call for help with a flat tire, dead battery or tow is peace of mind in your pocket. Yet, AAA offers so much more … [Read more...] about Hidden Benefits of a AAA Membership You Might Not Know About

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Shopping · Travel

8 Salmon Spawning Locations Near Portland

Bumper-to-bumper traffic and high rises popping up on every block can make us forget about the natural wonderland just outside of the metro area. By taking a short trek east or west, we can breathe the fresh air, escape the noise and witness an incredible natural phenomenon happening right in our … [Read more...] about 8 Salmon Spawning Locations Near Portland

Troutdale First Friday Art Walk

Explore Troutdale's art community during the First Friday Art Walk. On the first Friday of the month in the summer, the streets will be filled with vendors, sidewalk dining, live music, family-friendly activities and more. The fun continues during the fall months with activities moving … [Read more...] about Troutdale First Friday Art Walk

2025 Bethany Village Oktoberfest

Get ready to don your lederhosen and raise your steins. Bethany Village Oktoberfest is just around the corner. This September, Bethany Village Centre transforms into a lively celebration of German culture, complete with all the festive flair you’d expect from a traditional Oktoberfest. If … [Read more...] about 2025 Bethany Village Oktoberfest

Multicultural Kids Festival

Explore new cultures in a fun, creative setting at the Multicultural Kids Festival.  The event is hosted by the Slavic Community Center of NW, Inc. The local nonprofit helps its community members succeed in America through various programs and services. The organization hosts this annual … [Read more...] about Multicultural Kids Festival

2025 Bella Organic Fall Activities: Corn Maze, Pumpkin Patch, Hayrides and more

As the crisp air of fall settles in, there's no better way to celebrate the season than by immersing yourself in the bounty of the harvest and the thrill of autumn activities. Head to Bella Organic for special fall activities. The farm on Sauvie Island is a great destination for families, friends … [Read more...] about 2025 Bella Organic Fall Activities: Corn Maze, Pumpkin Patch, Hayrides and more

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

Portland Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes and Hayrides

Find the perfect pumpkin at a farm near you. Buying a pumpkin at the grocery store does not come close to picking the perfect pumpkin right from the field. Just outside our great city are many you-pick farms celebrating the fall harvest with corn mazes, hay rides and many varieties of pumpkins, … [Read more...] about Portland Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes and Hayrides

Stars Antiques Malls Labor Day Weekend Sale

Head to Westmoreland and find something new to you at Stars Antiques Malls weekend sale.  Opened in 1990, Stars Antiques Mall is owned by three friends who turned a passion for collecting and decorating into a business. The mall has two locations right across the street from each other on … [Read more...] about Stars Antiques Malls Labor Day Weekend Sale

Portland Gear Warehouse Sale

Portland Gear is hosting a Warehouse Sale with special deals on a variety of items.  It all started with the @portland Instagram page and has grown into an apparel brand that lets you show off your Portland pride everywhere you go. Since 2014, Portland Gear has made one-of-a-kind apparel … [Read more...] about Portland Gear Warehouse Sale

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Sale · Shopping

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Weekend Train Ride

Take a scenic trip through Clark County on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad this weekend. 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 hosts special … [Read more...] about Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Weekend Train Ride

Flock Fridays Pop Up Market

This summer, Flock Fridays Pop Up Market is bringing the energy, creativity and culture to downtown every month at Flock Food Hall. Flock is a downtown food hall and event space serving up flavors from across the globe. Get a bite to eat and support small businesses at this monthly … [Read more...] about Flock Fridays Pop Up Market

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink

2025 Art in the Pearl

More than 100 artists are taking over the Pearl District on Labor Day weekend to showcase their craft and skills. If you love art in all its forms, you won't want to miss Art in the Pearl. The annual event was started in 1997 by fifteen artists who wanted to showcase high-quality, handmade works … [Read more...] about 2025 Art in the Pearl

Hidden Benefits of a Costco Membership You Might Not Know About

When people think of Costco, they often picture giant carts overflowing with bulk groceries, free samples and the occasional impulse purchase of a kayak or giant teddy bear. Yet, beyond the obvious perks, a Costco membership comes with a variety of hidden benefits that can save you money and … [Read more...] about Hidden Benefits of a Costco Membership You Might Not Know About

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Shopping · Travel

Free Summer Movies in the Parks

The Portland metro has an abundance of summertime movies in local parks. Find a complete list of Portland's movies in the parks along with Hillsboro, Beaverton, Tigard, Lake Oswego, Milwaukie, North Clackamas, Oregon City, Gladstone, West Linn, Troutdale and Vancouver movie series. Best of all, … [Read more...] about Free Summer Movies in the Parks

Haunted History Walking Tours in Vancouver

Are you intrigued by the ghostly tales that whisper through the buildings and streets of Downtown Vancouver? Do you have a fascination with the strange and peculiar aspects of local history? If so, you’re in for a treat this fall. The Clark County Historical Museum invites you to explore the darker … [Read more...] about Haunted History Walking Tours in Vancouver

Cooling Centers and Spaces in and around Portland

Need a place to escape the summer heat? Here's a list of cooling centers and spaces in and around Portland. Whenever a heat wave rolls into town, it can feel like a frenzied effort to find a place to cool off during the hottest times of the day. Thankfully, there are free resources throughout the … [Read more...] about Cooling Centers and Spaces in and around Portland

2025 Hawthorne Street Fair

Priding itself as Portland’s original “shop local” district, the Hawthorne Street Fair is one of the oldest and biggest street fairs in Portland. Starting in 1984 with a guitarist and a few local organizations, the event now features 150 community vendors and two stages of local … [Read more...] about 2025 Hawthorne Street Fair

Oregon Ice Cream Trail: A Sweet Adventure Awaits

The Oregon Ice Cream Trail makes your pursuit of a tasty frozen treat easy no matter where you are in the state. Oregon's diverse weather doesn't deter me from enjoying my favorite sweet and creamy treat: ice cream. Whether the sun is shining or rain is falling, there's always a good reason to … [Read more...] about Oregon Ice Cream Trail: A Sweet Adventure Awaits

Oregon City Outdoor Antique Fair

Ready to make something old new to you? Travel to Oregon's hometown for the annual outdoor antique market. The Oregon City Outdoor Antique Fair is celebrating its 28th year. Spend a day perusing booths and finding treasures at this annual event. Portland is full of great markets. Here are some … [Read more...] about Oregon City Outdoor Antique Fair

2025 India Festival at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Celebrate India’s Independence Day with live music, dance, food and other entertainment at Pioneer Courthouse Square. The event is hosted by the India Cultural Association, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing Indian cultural awareness in Portland, Oregon. Every year, ICA hosts the popular India … [Read more...] about 2025 India Festival at Pioneer Courthouse Square

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

Cinnabon Celebrates 40th Birthday with $1.25 Cinnamon Rolls

There is something nostalgic about the sweet and spicy smell of a Cinnabon cinnamon roll. This August, cash in on a discount roll during Cinnabon's anniversary.  This year marks Cinnabon’s 40th birthday. The shop invites you to take a trip back to 1985 with a sweet deal on its signature … [Read more...] about Cinnabon Celebrates 40th Birthday with $1.25 Cinnamon Rolls

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink

Summer Festival at Portland Japanese Garden

Celebrate community, culture and continuity during Bon-Odori Summer Festival 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 … [Read more...] about Summer Festival at Portland Japanese Garden

Free Pools, Splash Pads and Interactive Fountains at Portland Parks

You don't have to go far to find a place to cool off this summer. Portland parks have pools, splash pads and interactive fountains, kid-friendly water features designed with fun and safety in mind. There are 18 splash pads and seven interactive fountains at Portland parks all over the city. … [Read more...] about Free Pools, Splash Pads and Interactive Fountains at Portland Parks

6 Places to Hide from the Heat in Portland

With temperatures reaching record highs, Portlanders are bracing for another hot summer. No disrespect to the sun worshipers—I know some of you are loving it—but for the rest of us, it’s time to seek shelter and wait for the heat wave to break. If you have AC at home, staying in is the easiest … [Read more...] about 6 Places to Hide from the Heat in Portland

Free Summer Concerts in the Parks

Enjoying music outdoors is a quintessential summertime activity. Portland Parks and Recreation is hosting 30 outdoor concerts at parks throughout the city.  Every event features a new musician or band, genre and park. This is a great way to spend time at your nearby park or explore parks … [Read more...] about Free Summer Concerts in the Parks

Ukrainian Day at Westmoreland Park

Celebrate Ukrainian culture at Westmoreland Park this weekend. The event is hosted by Ukrainian Foundation, a local organization that was established in 2006 to help Ukrainian refugees adjust to their new home in the United States. The organization is also sending food, medical and basic supplies … [Read more...] about Ukrainian Day at Westmoreland Park

Top 5 Multnomah County Library Card Perks You Need to Know About

The the library is one of the last remaining places where you can access resources and services at no cost. From classes to skills training to e-catalogues, libraries have become a resource hub for communities across the Portland area. The best part is all of these services are completely free to … [Read more...] about Top 5 Multnomah County Library Card Perks You Need to Know About

Your Guide to Senior Discounts in Portland, Oregon

Looking to save money? Portland, Oregon businesses offer a variety of discounts to seniors on entertainment, services, everyday essentials and more. Whether you're looking for reduced fares on public transit, special pricing at local attractions or deals on groceries and retail shopping, there are … [Read more...] about Your Guide to Senior Discounts in Portland, Oregon

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Sale · Shopping

2025 Beaverton Music Festival

Get ready for a day filled with music, food and fun at the Beaverton Music Festival. This free, family-friendly event promises to be a special experience for music lovers of all ages. Pack your low back chairs and blankets for a full day of music in the park. Here are the details about this … [Read more...] about 2025 Beaverton Music Festival

2025 Catio Tour: Explore Creative Feline Spaces in Portland

Calling all cat lovers! If you've been thinking about upgrading your cat's living space, this is the event for you. The Bird Alliance of Portland and Feral Cat Coalition are hosting the annual Catio Tour, showcasing creative and unique catios from around the Portland area. First things first. … [Read more...] about 2025 Catio Tour: Explore Creative Feline Spaces in Portland

Summer Shred: Portland’s Free All-Day Rock Festival

Get ready to turn up the volume, Portland. Summer Shred Music Festival invites you to hang and head bang this August.  On Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 12 to 11 p.m., the Central Eastside transforms into a high-energy celebration of local rock, cold drinks, good food and community … [Read more...] about Summer Shred: Portland’s Free All-Day Rock Festival

2025 Portland Adult Soapbox Derby

Mt. Tabor is transforming into a raceway for the annual Portland Adult Soapbox Derby. Once a year, Portlanders convene on the slopes of the city park. Some are there to put their homemade, human-powered vehicles to the test. Others are there to simply enjoy the show.  Here's how you can join … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Adult Soapbox Derby

Portland Burger Week: Take a Bite Out of $10 Burgers

Get a juicy deal at Portland's best burger joints. Portland Burger Week is August 11-17, 2025. Each specialty burger is only $10 at participating locations. Each participating location is creating a one-of-a-kind burger. This food week can be enjoyed at some of Portland's favorite restaurants. So … [Read more...] about Portland Burger Week: Take a Bite Out of $10 Burgers

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink

2025 Portland Sunflower Festivals and Fields

It's harvest time in the Pacific Northwest. One crop that brings universal admiration for its lofty stalks and full faced color is the sunflower. Portland sunflower festivals and fields are opening in August, inviting our community to come take in this bloom while it lasts.  Portland has … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Sunflower Festivals and Fields

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