Why buy your compost when you can get it for free? Portland Bureau of Transportation is making your spring gardening cheaper and easier with free compost days. In the fall, PBOT collects leaves from city streets and converts the debris into high-quality compost. In celebration of Earth Day, PBOT … [Read more...] about Calling All Gardeners: Load Up on Free Compost from PBOT
Always Free
2025 Abby’s Closet Prom Dress Giveaway
Need a prom dress, but can't afford to spend hundreds of dollars? Abby's Closet has you covered. Attend the nonprofit's upcoming prom dress giveaway. Abby’s Closet inspires confidence and respect in high schoolers by providing free formal dresses for prom or other memorable events. Since 2004, … [Read more...] about 2025 Abby’s Closet Prom Dress Giveaway
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
Portland Repair Fairs: Get Your Stuff Fixed for Free
Portland Repair Fair is here to fix your stuff for free. Portland Repair Fairs are free events that bring together people with various skillsets to help fix items and, most importantly, pass on knowledge to empower you to be more handy around your home. You'll be paired with a volunteer who will … [Read more...] about Portland Repair Fairs: Get Your Stuff Fixed for Free
Best Birthday Freebies in Portland
Do you love getting free stuff on your birthday? If so, you're in the right place. This list of Portland birthday freebies will have you feeling special all day long. Free birthday stuff comes in a range of categories. Local and national businesses in the Portland area offer free tasty treats, … [Read more...] about Best Birthday Freebies in Portland
How Do You Find Unclaimed Money? Here’s Your Guide.
Did you know there might be unclaimed money waiting for you? Yes, you read that right. But how do you find unclaimed money? It may be easier than you think. Here's your guide to finding out if you have extra cash waiting for you. Every year, millions of dollars go unclaimed. According to the … [Read more...] about How Do You Find Unclaimed Money? Here’s Your Guide.
Free Tax Preparation and Filing in Portland
Take the stress and expense out of filing taxes. Looking for free help with your tax preparation? You're in luck. These tax support programs help you prepare your documents and file your taxes. Taxes can be tricky, but filing them should not come at a high cost to you. Keep in mind that … [Read more...] about Free Tax Preparation and Filing in Portland
Sunday Parkways: A Family-Friendly Mobile Block Party
Every year, Portland Bureau of Transportation opens Portland streets to a special kind of traffic during Sunday Parkways. This summer program lets bikers, walkers and rollers stroll Portland neighborhoods together like one big mobile block party. It is family friendly and always draws big crowds … [Read more...] about Sunday Parkways: A Family-Friendly Mobile Block Party
When is the First Day of Spring? (+ Free Ice Cream)
As the cold winter days start to fade, many of us eagerly anticipate the arrival of spring. But when exactly is the first day of spring? The beginning of spring determined by the spring equinox, which typically falls on March 19, 20 or 21 in the Northern Hemisphere. Here's the 2025 date along … [Read more...] about When is the First Day of Spring? (+ Free Ice Cream)
When is Daylight Saving Time?
Daylight saving time, also referred to as daylight savings time, is the twice a year occasion when we set clocks forward by one hour in the spring and revert back an hour in the fall. Many of us remember it as springing forward and falling back. In recent years, daylight saving time has … [Read more...] about When is Daylight Saving Time?
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
Stream Movies and TV Shows for Free with Your Library Card
Did you know you can stream movies and TV shows for free with your library card? Libraries have so much more than books. Cultural passes let you explore Portland for free. Community events offer endless entertainment and reading programs give you wonderful prizes. The best part is all of these … [Read more...] about Stream Movies and TV Shows for Free with Your Library Card
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 isn't in everyone's budget, but in Portland we … [Read more...] about Need Tools? Borrow Them at Portland’s Tool Libraries
How to Raise Your Credit Score
Your credit score plays a significant role in your financial life, especially when it comes to loan approvals and better interest rates. But how do you raise your credit score? I recently researched ways to improve my credit score and have a few tips to share with you. Improving your credit score … [Read more...] about How to Raise Your Credit Score
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
2025 Federal and State Holidays: What’s Open and Closed
Making plans on a federal or state holiday? Here's your guide to what's open and closed on these holidays in 2025. I've gathered a list of federal and state holidays along with offices and services that are usually closed and open on these dates. 2025 Federal and State Holidays 2025 Federal … [Read more...] about 2025 Federal and State Holidays: What’s Open and Closed
2024 Veterans Day Deals: Free Food, Haircuts and Car Washes for Military
Thanking 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, Monday, November 11, 2024. If you’re not a military member, you probably know someone who can enjoy these … [Read more...] about 2024 Veterans Day Deals: Free Food, Haircuts and Car Washes for Military
Snowvana: Portland’s Winter Sports Festival
Join the celebration of winter at Snowvana! The Northwest's largest gear sale and ski swap is taking over the expo center with many unique experiences for snow sports lovers. Here are the details about the 2024 event. 2024 Snowvana: Portland's Winter Sports Festival Snowvana is taking … [Read more...] about Snowvana: Portland’s Winter Sports Festival
When is Daylight Saving Time Ending?
Daylight saving time, also referred to as daylight savings time, is the twice a year occasion when we set clocks forward by one hour in the spring and revert back an hour in the fall. Many of us remember it as springing forward and falling back. In recent years, daylight saving time has … [Read more...] about When is Daylight Saving Time Ending?
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
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
Portland’s Free Rose Gardens
Stop and smell the roses at these four Portland rose gardens. Portland is the Rose City, so it is only natural that rose gardens are one of the main attractions. Rose gardens have taken root rich history of our city. The four gardens highlighted below have been public attractions for more than … [Read more...] about Portland’s Free Rose Gardens
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
When Does Summer Start?
The promise of warmer weather has us all dreaming about the long, sunny summer days. But when exactly does summer start? The answer may seem straightforward, but it's actually quite nuanced. It's influenced by various factors ranging from traditions to astronomical events. Find out when summer … [Read more...] about When Does Summer Start?
Free Solar Eclipse Glasses at Warby Parker
An extraordinary celestial event is just around the corner, and Warby Parker is here to make sure you don't miss a moment of it. On April 8, the last total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044 will grace the skies. Whether you're in the path of totality or catching a … [Read more...] about Free Solar Eclipse Glasses at Warby Parker
How to Get Free At-Home COVID-19 Testing Kits
As COVID-19 numbers increase this fall and winter, have your testing kits ready. Here's how you can get free tests this fall. Take the hassle out of testing for COVID-19. You can once again get free testing kits sent right to your home. Here's how: Free At-Home COVID-19 Testing … [Read more...] about How to Get Free At-Home COVID-19 Testing Kits
Love Trivia? Play and Win at Portland Trivia Nights
Enjoy great drinks, food and fun at Portland trivia nights. Looking for a fun evening activity for you and your friends? Trivia nights are popular gatherings at bars and restaurants throughout the Portland metro. There are multiple trivia nights around town almost every night of the week. Trivia … [Read more...] about Love Trivia? Play and Win at Portland Trivia Nights
Sign Up for Emergency Alerts in and around Portland
Keeping up with what's happening in our communities can feel like quite the feat. Between checking social media, news outlets and online neighborhood groups, it's not always easy to find the most up-to-date information about emergency situations. Thankfully, there are free emergency alert systems … [Read more...] about Sign Up for Emergency Alerts in and around Portland
Free and Cheap Days at Portland’s Best Attractions
Here's how you can see Portland's best attractions on a budget. It can be expensive to see a city's best sites. That is not the case for Portland's best attractions. Many of the top attractions offer complimentary and reduced price days every month. If you have friends coming to town, vacationing … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Days at Portland’s Best Attractions
National Park Week: Free Entrance Day and Virtual Activities
During National Park Week, April 16-24, 2022, you can explore our country's most stunning national parks, both in person and from home. The National Park Service is helping us connect with nature through a free entrance day and digital opportunities that bring the national parks to … [Read more...] about National Park Week: Free Entrance Day and Virtual Activities
Ride Trimet for Free on Rosa Parks Day
Rosa Parks Day is February 4. TriMet is honoring this American icon by offering free rides all day. On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks boarded a bus heading home in Montgomery, Alabama. The city ordinance required Black passengers to give up their seat to white people, if the bus was full. … [Read more...] about Ride Trimet for Free on Rosa Parks Day
Get Free Greeting Cards from Hallmark
Sending and receiving cards is something that makes me feel more connected to the people closest to me. It is something I have done since I was a kid and a practice I still enjoy to this day. With everything that is going on right now, a thoughtful card may be just what the people in your life … [Read more...] about Get Free Greeting Cards from Hallmark
Get Free Taco Bell Flamin’ Hot Doritos Locos Taco on July 22
Take a bite out of this totally free taco at Taco Bell. Thanks to the restaurant’s NBA Comebacks promotion, every person in America who visits Taco Bell can get a free taco. The Milwaukee Bucks’ comeback in game 6 of the NBA Finals on July 20 triggered the promotion. Thanks to the Bucks' … [Read more...] about Get Free Taco Bell Flamin’ Hot Doritos Locos Taco on July 22
Ride TriMet for Free during 4th of July Weekend
Get around the city for free this 4th of July. TriMet is waiving fares all weekend long. From July 3-5, all train and bus rides will be free. That includes transfers, too. If you do accidentally tap your Hop card, you won't be charged. Ticket machines will not be accepting purchases … [Read more...] about Ride TriMet for Free during 4th of July Weekend
Where to Find Vaccine Freebies and Discounts in Portland
Got vaccinated? You can now partake in these freebies and discounts at Portland businesses. The recent announcement of the Take Your Shot Oregon campaign, which enters Oregonians 18 or over who have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine into a drawing for up to $1 million, … [Read more...] about Where to Find Vaccine Freebies and Discounts in Portland
Target Serves Up Free Subscription to Food Network Kitchen
Making your meals is so much cheaper than ordering takeout. Yet, meal planning and cooking day after day can get pretty tedious. Target is lending a helping hand in the kitchen to its customers with a special free subscription program that is designed to take the burden off of home cooks. No … [Read more...] about Target Serves Up Free Subscription to Food Network Kitchen
What to Do After You Pay Off Your Car in Portland
Congratulations! Here's what to do next. Last month, I (finally) paid off my car. This was my first financed vehicle and I had no idea what I was supposed to do next. Within a few days of paying off my car, I received my title in the mail from my bank, or lienholder. Along with the title was a … [Read more...] about What to Do After You Pay Off Your Car in Portland
Get a Free Greeting Card Every Month from Hallmark
There is something so special about getting a handwritten card in the mail. Get closer to your loved ones both near and far with free greeting cards from Hallmark. To reinvigorate the greeting card trend, Hallmark has launched its Just Because collection. The collection includes everything from … [Read more...] about Get a Free Greeting Card Every Month from Hallmark
Free Nikon Photography Classes Through End of Year
Want to learn how to take better photos? Here's your chance to improve your photography skills for free. Nikon is offering 10 free photography classes through December 31, 2020. The Nikon School offers classes you can stream online year round, usually priced from $20 and $50 each. These … [Read more...] about Free Nikon Photography Classes Through End of Year
Gift Card Giveaway: Portland Chocolate Laboratory
Win a $25 Gift Card to Portland Chocolate Laboratory Portland Living on the Cheap is supporting local businesses through our new subscriber gift card giveaway happening every week in June. For the rest of the month, this weekly giveaway will feature Black-owned eateries in Portland. Every new email … [Read more...] about Gift Card Giveaway: Portland Chocolate Laboratory
Get Your Free Multnomah County Library Card Online
For the first time ever, you can apply for a Multnomah County Library card to access electronic resources online. This new library card will give you access e-books, audiobooks, magazines and music from home. You can even stream movies and documentaries for free. Library cards are free … [Read more...] about Get Your Free Multnomah County Library Card Online
Portland-based Company Offers Free Face Mask for Every American
Portland-based clothing company Dhvani is on a mission to supply every American with a free face mask. Dhvani is known for its ethically- and sustainably-manufactured activewear. During this time, the company has shifted its manufacturing and distribution resources to create much-needed … [Read more...] about Portland-based Company Offers Free Face Mask for Every American
Read J.K. Rowling’s New Book Online for Free
J.K. Rowling is once again making magic for kids of all ages. During these difficult times, the beloved author is giving the world something new to enjoy, a new children’s book. In her own words, “The idea for The Ickabog came to me, while I was still writing Harry Potter. I … [Read more...] about Read J.K. Rowling’s New Book Online for Free
Portland Parks and Recreation Launches Stay and Play Video Series
Portland Parks and Recreation offers so many fun programs at their community centers and parks throughout the city. Since their facilities and gathering places are temporarily closed, the city department is looking for new ways to engage with our community. Portland Parks and Recreation has … [Read more...] about Portland Parks and Recreation Launches Stay and Play Video Series
Get Creative with Trail Blazers Color for a Cause
For all the sports fans out here, the NBA season came to an abrupt halt due to stay-at-home orders across the country. Moda Health and the Trail Blazers are teaming up to let you and your family show your Rip City spirit and support our community. Color for a Cause features Trail Blazers coloring … [Read more...] about Get Creative with Trail Blazers Color for a Cause
Get Free Digital Cards from American Greetings
We're all only a click or call away. But sometimes it feels hard to stay connected with friends and family. American Greetings is making it easier to keep our loved ones top of mind with its free digital cards. These digital postcards range from funny to comforting. You can send the … [Read more...] about Get Free Digital Cards from American Greetings
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s EduHam at Home Virtual School Program
To help keep kids on track, Lin-Manuel Miranda and the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History have launched EduHam at Home. This virtual school program allows students to create their own original pieces using history as their inspiration. EduHam at Home is an extension of the Hamilton … [Read more...] about Lin-Manuel Miranda’s EduHam at Home Virtual School Program
Arm & Hammer Gives Away Free Wildflower Seeds
Portland is going wild with beautiful springtime blooms. Bring a little nature to your doorstep with the help of Arm & Hammer's free wildflower seeds. Flowers brighten every situation and we all could use some cheering up right about now. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, Arm … [Read more...] about Arm & Hammer Gives Away Free Wildflower Seeds
Calm App Offers Free Wellness Resource
All of this uncertainty right now is stressful. Taking a moment to relax and recharge is important to maintain balance as we navigate this new territory for the foreseeable future. If you meditate or enjoy soothing sounds as you drift off to sleep, you’ve probably familiar with the popular … [Read more...] about Calm App Offers Free Wellness Resource
5 Ways You Can Host a Virtual Party with Friends
Being stuck inside our homes can feel very isolating, especially for all the extroverts out there. In this day and age, here really is no excuse to not be connecting right now. So shake off your sadness and be the first of your friend group to host a virtual party. In the past week, I've talked … [Read more...] about 5 Ways You Can Host a Virtual Party with Friends
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