Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Victoria

2024 Powell’s Summer Reading Challenge

Summer is the perfect time to lose yourself in the pages of a great book. Powell's Books invites readers of all ages to embark on a literary adventure during the Powell's Summer Reading Challenge. Designed to ignite your imagination and foster a love for reading, this challenge gives you a … [Read more...] about 2024 Powell’s Summer Reading Challenge

Free Open Play Swim Sessions at Portland Pools

Cool off this summer at one of our city's outdoor pools for free during open play swim sessions. All of Portland Parks and Recreation's outdoor pools are offering free open play swim sessions this summer. No registration is required to swim. Free admission is available on a first come, first … [Read more...] about Free Open Play Swim Sessions at Portland Pools

Legendary Makers Market: A Celebration of Asian American Heritage

Oregon’s biggest Asian-centered night market returns this weekend! The Legendary Makers Market is celebrating a new venue and more than 200 vendors focused on Asian American culture and creativity. Here are details about the event.  You may also like Portland Flea Vintage, Handmade … [Read more...] about Legendary Makers Market: A Celebration of Asian American Heritage

Free Admission for Educators at Portland Museums

A group of Portland museums have banded together to offer free admission to educators. On select days this summer, educators can visit the museums to enjoy complimentary tickets and tours.  Here are the details for each participating museum along with the scheduled educator focused … [Read more...] about Free Admission for Educators at Portland Museums

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

The Oregon Film Trail: Discover Oregon Through Its Film Legacy

Did you know Oregon has served as the production backdrop for more than 500 films and television shows? See the state's iconic movie moments come to life with the Oregon Film Trail. Taking a trip to the sights of some of your favorite films has never been easier. The Oregon Film Trail is a … [Read more...] about The Oregon Film Trail: Discover Oregon Through Its Film Legacy

2024 Milwaukie Cruise-In

The 41st annual Milwaukie Cruise-In offers free entertainment, discounted bowling and food deals.  On Saturday, August 3, 2024, from 3-10 p.m., the Milwaukie Bowl parking lot hosts cool, classic cars. Live entertainment includes Dirty Dave the Record Slave from 3-6 p.m. and The Average Joes … [Read more...] about 2024 Milwaukie Cruise-In

Celebrate Harry Potter’s Birthday at Kennedy School

Are you Hufflepuff, Gryffindor, Ravenclaw or Slytherin? No matter your Hogwarts House, you're invited to gather at Kennedy School for Harry Potter's birthday.  Wizarding Weekend is a magical celebration full of activities. Aspiring wizards and witches of all ages can head to Kennedy School … [Read more...] about Celebrate Harry Potter’s Birthday at Kennedy School

Enjoy $1 Family Flicks at Regal Cinemas Summer Movie Express

Regal Cinemas Summer Movie Express is bringing cheap family-friendly movies all summer break to a theater near you.  Keep the kids entertained all summer long. Spend every week of summer vacation viewing family-friendly movies at your closest Regal Cinemas … [Read more...] about Enjoy $1 Family Flicks at Regal Cinemas Summer Movie Express

Portlandia Mermaid Parade and Festival

Have you ever wanted to be a mermaid? The Portlandia Mermaid Parade and Festival invites everyone to dress up as merfolk or other mythical water creatures for a walk downtown.  Since 2016, the Portlandia Mermaid Parade has been a free grassroots artistic event celebrating our community's … [Read more...] about Portlandia Mermaid Parade and Festival

Summer Flower Event at Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm

New this year, Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm invites you to explore its bounty of summertime blooms. The summer flower event features vibrant sunflowers and a variety of other summer flowers. For more than 40 years, this Woodburn, Oregon, farm has delighted visitors with beautiful blossoms of every … [Read more...] about Summer Flower Event at Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm

2024 Montavilla Street Fair

The Montavilla Street Fair is held along a trendy stretch of Stark Street just east of Mt Tabor. The event hosts some of Portland's best art, food and creative scene. This is one of several Portland street fairs. The event invites the community to come together for a day of summertime fun. 2024 … [Read more...] about 2024 Montavilla Street Fair

Looking for Wildflower Hikes? Use This Bloom Map

Get out and enjoy our region's beautiful flora on a wildflower hike. You'll always know what's in bloom with this map. Spring has sprung in the Northwest. We've already seen many of the best springtime blooms filling our neighborhoods and parks with vibrant colors. If you enjoy hiking and want to … [Read more...] about Looking for Wildflower Hikes? Use This Bloom Map

OPS Fest: Free Shakespeare in Portland Parks

Watch free Shakespeare performances in Portland Parks during OPS Fest this summer.  Original Practice Shakespeare Festival is celebrating its 16th season with 21 plays at 10 parks in the Portland metro area. The company will present a selection of Shakespeare’s most popular plays as well as … [Read more...] about OPS Fest: Free Shakespeare in Portland Parks

2024 Milwaukie Porchfest

The Milwaukie Arts Committee is hosting Porchfest, an event that invites local musicians and performers to showcase their talents to the community from their porches, driveways and front yards. Started in 2020, Porchfest showcases local talent with informal concerts decentralized across the city. … [Read more...] about 2024 Milwaukie Porchfest

Americana Harvest Fest Summer Concert Series at Topaz Farm

Enjoy live music at a one-of-a-kind venue this summer. Get your tickets for Americana Harvest Fest Summer Concert Series at Topaz Farm. Located on Sauvie Island, Topaz Farm is a great outdoor escape. In the summer, the farm has you-pick berries, fruits and flowers, good eats and drinks, a market … [Read more...] about Americana Harvest Fest Summer Concert Series at Topaz Farm

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

Treat your aunt to a free pretzel at Auntie Anne's on National Aunt Day.  Auntie Anne’s is giving away lots of dough in celebration of National Aunt Day. Here's how you can get a special deal. Get a Free Auntie Anne’s Pretzel on National Aunt Day On July 26, 2024, you can get a free Auntie … [Read more...] about Get a Free Auntie Anne’s Pretzel on National Aunt Day

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Food & Drink

Need Tools? Borrow Them at Portland’s Tool Libraries

Use these Portland tool libraries to save on your next home improvement project. I don't know about you, but my toolkit consists of a random assortment of screws, a hammer and a butter knife that I used to assemble my IKEA bookcase. Buying tools is not in my budget, but in Portland I don't have … [Read more...] about Need Tools? Borrow Them at Portland’s Tool Libraries

National Ice Cream Day at Nico’s Ice Cream 

Nico's Ice Cream is serving up a special freebie on National Ice Cream Day. Nico's Ice Cream in Portland is a beloved local gem, known for its inventive flavors and commitment to quality. The artisanal approach uses fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to craft unique and delectable … [Read more...] about National Ice Cream Day at Nico’s Ice Cream 

2024 Peruvian Cultural Festival

Enjoy food, art, vendors and performances at the Peruvian Cultural Festival. Founded in 2018, the event invites the community to come together in celebration of Peruvian culture.  Here are the details about the 2024 event.  2024 Peruvian Cultural Festival The Peruvian cultural art … [Read more...] about 2024 Peruvian Cultural Festival

2024 Cathedral Park Jazz Festival

The annual Cathedral Park Jazz Festival is Portland's best free concert of the summer. This three-day event features the region's most talented Jazz and Blues musicians harmonizing with the incredible backdrop of the St. Johns Bridge at Cathedral Park. This year, the festival will have a full … [Read more...] about 2024 Cathedral Park Jazz Festival

La Strada dei Pastelli Chalk Art Festival

The streets of downtown Hillsboro become a canvas during the La Strada dei Pastelli Chalk Art Festival. Tualatin Valley Creates is bringing together talented artists that will make the sidewalks come to life with their incredible creations. Tualatin Valley Creates serves Washington County’s 15 … [Read more...] about La Strada dei Pastelli Chalk Art Festival

Portland’s Street Bazaar at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Street Bazaar brings together the bold flavors, bright colors and vibrant energy of Portland’s food, drink, art and music scene.  The summertime event is brought to you by the producers of some of Portland's best markets, including Portland Flea, Roux Portland and Portland Bazaar. Attend … [Read more...] about Portland’s Street Bazaar at Pioneer Courthouse Square

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

Get $1.75 Tickets to Cinemark’s Summer Movie Clubhouse

Join the family-friendly movie club all summer long. The Summer Movie Clubhouse at Cinemark offers a fun, inexpensive movie theater experience.  In 2024, Cinemark is once again drawing the curtains on its popular and budget-friendly Summer Movie Clubhouse for 10 weeks of family … [Read more...] about Get $1.75 Tickets to Cinemark’s Summer Movie Clubhouse

Discount Days at Oaks Park

Save on your admission to Oaks Park during discount days.  Oaks Park has been Portland's amusement park since 1905. It is a summertime favorite for families and friends with thrilling rides, fun carnival games, an indoor roller skating rink and mini golf. While it will cost you a pretty … [Read more...] about Discount Days at Oaks Park

Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade

Gather with our local LGBTQIA2S+ community and allies at the Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade. The annual event has been a tradition in our city since 1994. This year, Portland's premier Pride event is in July.  Here are the details about the 2024 event:  2024 Portland … [Read more...] about Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade

Portland Thai Festival: The Taste of Thailand

Portland Thai Festival, known as the Taste of Thailand, is a vibrant cultural event that brings the essence of Thailand to our city through a delightful showcase of food and entertainment. This festival is not just about savoring delicious dishes but also about experiencing Thai … [Read more...] about Portland Thai Festival: The Taste of Thailand

Summer Market at Shun Fat Supermarket

Summer Market invites you to a multi-week celebration of AAPI makers, artists and culinary delights at Shun Fat Supermarket. The event is hosted by White Lotus Foundation, a local nonprofit committed to supporting and empowering individuals in the Asian American and Pacific Islander … [Read more...] about Summer Market at Shun Fat Supermarket

2024 Mississippi Street Fair

Don't miss Portland's largest street fair this summer. The annual Mississippi Street Fair brings together the eclectic, flavorful, fun-loving flair of one of Portland's best neighborhoods into the largest family-friendly block party of the summer. This is one of several Portland street fairs that … [Read more...] about 2024 Mississippi Street Fair

2024 Gresham Arts Festival

Meet, browse and shop from a select group of juried Pacific Northwest artisans at the Gresham Arts Festival. Experience art in the heart of the city. This free, family-friendly event includes live music, a kids village and local cuisine. Here's what you can expect at the annual event. 2024 … [Read more...] about 2024 Gresham Arts Festival

Farm Walk About at Frog Pond Farm

Get up close with farm animals and enjoy family-friendly activities during a Farm Walk About at Frog Pond Farm. Every spring and summer, Frog Pond Farm invites the public to spend the day enjoying life on the 40-acre property. Here's how you can enjoy farm animals this weekend:  Farm … [Read more...] about Farm Walk About at Frog Pond Farm

2024 Helvetia Lavender Festival

Wander through the lavender fields, cut your own flower bundles and take in stunning views of the Willamette Valley during the Helvetia Lavender Festival. Helvetia Lavender Farm is a short drive from Portland and showcases 60 different varieties of lavender. During the annual festival, guests are … [Read more...] about 2024 Helvetia Lavender Festival

Escape to Portland’s Best Urban Parks

  Find a great urban park in your neighborhood Finding a place where you can escape the city may be easier than you think. Many of us leave Portland to enjoy nature and find it isn't quite what we expected. I am sure many of you have experienced the dread of driving an hour to a hiking … [Read more...] about Escape to Portland’s Best Urban Parks

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

East Portland Summer Arts Festival

Celebrate music and expression at the East Portland Summer Arts Festival.  At this year's festival, you'll be treated to Grammy caliber performers filling a Portland park with an evening of music and good vibes.  The event is part of Portland Parks and Recreation's Summer Free For … [Read more...] about East Portland Summer Arts Festival

2024 Vancouver Summer Fest’s Picnic in the Park

Summer Fest's Picnic in the Park invites the community to play, connect and celebrate this July. Held at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, this all-day event has a full line-up of activities and entertainment for families and people of all ages. View my full list of local 4th of July … [Read more...] about 2024 Vancouver Summer Fest’s Picnic in the Park

Sherwood Robin Hood Festival

For 71 years, Sherwood, Oregon, has celebrated the annual Sherwood Robin Hood Festival.  Take a short drive to Old Town Sherwood for a community parade, live entertainment on two stages, medieval reenactments, Maid Marian's Court, Robin Hood and his Merry Men, a knighting ceremony, a castle … [Read more...] about Sherwood Robin Hood Festival

4th of July Fireworks and Celebrations in and around Portland

Have a blast at one of these 4th of July events in and around Portland. Some celebrations have a whole day's worth of fun activities, games, live music and entertainment your whole family will enjoy. Portland firework shows and celebrations are held throughout the area. Keep in mind, the use of … [Read more...] about 4th of July Fireworks and Celebrations in and around Portland

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.
Living on the Cheap in the media