New Year's Eve events in Portland are the perfect way to ring in 2026. Yet trying to find a celebration that doesn't cost a fortune can be difficult. Here's a round up of free and cheap New Year's Eve events in Portland. Keep in mind that entrance to these parties may be free or cheap, but … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap New Year’s Eve Events in Portland
Attractions & Museums
New Year’s Eve Skate Party at Oaks Park
Rink in the new year at Oaks Park! Bring together your whole family or a group of friends for a special New Year's Eve party at the roller rink. Oaks Amusement Park in Portland has been bringing joy to the young and young at heart since 1905. In fact, it is one of the oldest continually … [Read more...] about New Year’s Eve Skate Party at Oaks Park
What to Do in Portland on New Year’s Day
Stay busy on New Year's Day with these weekend activities. Welcome to 2026, everyone! January 1 is full for free and cheap activities to get you moving and exploring our wonderful city this year. Whether you like to be indoors or outdoors during the holiday, there is something for you to … [Read more...] about What to Do in Portland on New Year’s Day
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
Discount Day at OMSI
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, better known as OMSI, is one of the nation's leading science centers and we're lucky to have it right here in Portland. OMSI discount day is here to bring one of Portland's best attractions to you for cheap. Science lovers and explorers of the unknown … [Read more...] about Discount Day at OMSI
The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Clinton Street Theater
This long-standing screening is an ideal stop for a fun night out on the town. Get your tickets for The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Clinton Street Theater. Have you ever been to a showing of the cult classic? If not, add it to your Portland bucket list. The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Clinton … [Read more...] about The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Clinton Street Theater
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 one participating … [Read more...] about 2026 Museums on Us Free Museum Admission
2026 Portland Boat Show
If boating is part of your lifestyle—or part of your plans for 2026—attend the 66th annual Portland Boat Show. Known as the largest trailerable boat show in the West, the Portland Boat Show is the ultimate destination for boat shoppers, enthusiasts and anyone dreaming of life on the … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Boat Show
2025 Oregon ZooLights
The Oregon Zoo's special holiday attraction lets you walk on the wild side of a winter wonderland. Oregon ZooLights features more than 1.5 million lights and gives visitors a whole new zoo experience. This year, explore all the opportunities to experience one of Portland's best holiday light … [Read more...] about 2025 Oregon ZooLights
2026 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 2026 Free Days at U.S. National Parks
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
What to Do in Portland on Christmas Day
Christmas Day in Portland is one of my all-time favorite days of the year. The streets are quiet. There's no traffic. It is almost like the whole city is put on pause. Take advantage of this rare sleepy Wednesday in Portland and check out one of these Christmas Day activities. Whether you like to … [Read more...] about What to Do in Portland on Christmas Day
Portland Movie Theaters Open on Christmas Day
Make a new tradition on Christmas day by visiting one of these independent movie theaters in and around Portland. These 13 local theaters are showing new releases and Christmas classics on December 25. All of them have theater snacks and some offer full meals. If you want to take the stress … [Read more...] about Portland Movie Theaters Open on Christmas Day
Holiday Lights at Meinig Park
Every year, Sandy's crown jewel park transforms into a magical holiday experience. Visit the holiday lights at Meinig Park this season. The light display also hosts special events throughout the month. Here are the details about the holiday event. If you're looking for more sparkling lights, … [Read more...] about Holiday Lights at Meinig Park
2025 Winter Solstice Celebrations in Portland
Discover the magic of the Winter Solstice in Portland. Events are taking place throughout the city inviting you to feel the warmth of the season on the shortest day of the year. This ancient celebration marks a turning point—where the long, dark nights begin to wane, and the promise of light and … [Read more...] about 2025 Winter Solstice Celebrations in Portland
Celebrate Japanese New Year at Portland Japanese Garden
Celebrate Japanese New Year 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 sand and stone. Each garden highlights … [Read more...] about Celebrate Japanese New Year at Portland Japanese Garden
Holiday Express Train Ride in Portland
Have you ever dreamed of riding on the Polar Express? Here's a magical train ride in Portland this holiday season. Join Santa Claus and his elves on the Holiday Express train ride in Portland. This memorable ride behind Portland’s famous steam locomotives lets you travel inside a vintage rail car … [Read more...] about Holiday Express Train Ride in Portland
2025 Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway
Every holiday season, Portland International Raceway transforms its track into the largest light show West of the Mississippi. Starting the day after Thanksgiving, you can visit Winter Wonderland any day of the week. Since 1993, Winter Wonderland has been one of the must-see holiday light … [Read more...] about 2025 Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway
Christmas on Franklin: A Neighborhood Light Display in Vancouver
View 10 properties come to light this holiday season during Christmas on Franklin. Franklin Street in Vancouver is known for going all out during the holidays. The event features thousands of lights along with themed displays. If you're looking for even more free holiday light displays, … [Read more...] about Christmas on Franklin: A Neighborhood Light Display in Vancouver
Budget-Friendly Soaking Pools and Saunas in and around Portland
Looking for an inexpensive way to warm up and unwind in Portland? Here's your guide to soaking pools and saunas in and around Portland. These serene retreats provide locals and visitors alike an escape from the hustle and bustle. Unwind and rejuvenate in the tranquil spa settings. Whether … [Read more...] about Budget-Friendly Soaking Pools and Saunas in and around Portland
2026 Portland Winter Light Festival
During the darkest time of year, one Portland event brings the city together to celebrate creativity, culture and community through light. The annual Portland Winter Light Festival is one of the most popular winter festivals in the city. The citywide outdoor arts celebration features … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Winter Light Festival
2025 Portland Night Market
Explore the city's best vendors celebrating local food, culture, music, drinks and retail at Portland Night Market. Since 2015, the Portland Night Market has centered around Portland's creative scene. This event is a unique experience on the Central Eastside for Portlanders of all … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Night Market
Trackers Holiday Faire: Craft Fair, Cookies and Archery
Enjoy a craft fair, cookies and archery at the annual Trackers Holiday Faire. Trackers is a team of expert educators who connect kids and adults with real adventures in the natural world. During the holiday party, visit the organization's location at Trackers Lodge for a day of family fun. 2025 … [Read more...] about Trackers Holiday Faire: Craft Fair, Cookies and Archery
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
Where to Go Ice Skating In and Around Portland
If you're looking to try a new activity or wanting to experience some nostalgia from your childhood, plan a day to go ice skating at these Portland ice rinks. The locations below include seasonal ice skating experiences and year-round ice rinks. All of the ice rinks have public skating, … [Read more...] about Where to Go Ice Skating In and Around Portland
Must-See Holiday Light Displays in Portland
The holiday season is officially here! Portland is transforming into a winter wonderland. The Rose City has many magical holiday light displays. Whether you want to walk through stunning displays or see the rivers come to life with decorative ships, Portland has holiday lights for everyone. Don't … [Read more...] about Must-See Holiday Light Displays in Portland
Visit Whoville at Watts House Museum
Whoville has landed in Scappoose! Step inside a special Grinch-themed attraction at Scappoose Historical Society’s Watts House. Step into a magical holiday wonderland inspired by Whoville, where twinkling festive lights set the scene for family-friendly fun. Guests can enjoy cheerful … [Read more...] about Visit Whoville at Watts House Museum
2025 Holiday History Tours at the Victorian Belle
Experience the magic of the holiday season like never before during Holiday History Tours at the Victorian Belle. Journey back to the opulent 1880s at the Victorian Belle Mansion in North Portland. This December, the Victorian Belle invites you to step into a world of glittering charm and … [Read more...] about 2025 Holiday History Tours at the Victorian Belle
A Pittock Mansion Christmas: Home for the Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, the iconic Pittock Mansion in Portland gears up to transform into a Home for the Holidays, marking the return of its beloved annual Christmas display. This year promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a festive theme that transports visitors into a … [Read more...] about A Pittock Mansion Christmas: Home for the Holidays
Fort Vancouver Holiday Event
Embrace the festive spirit by stepping back in time during the Fort Vancouver holiday event. Nestled on the north bank of the Columbia River, Fort Vancouver boasts a diverse cultural past, evolving from a frontier fur trading post to a formidable military stronghold. The park unfolds tales of the … [Read more...] about Fort Vancouver Holiday Event
2025 Clackamas County Winter Fair
The Clackamas County Fairgrounds transforms into a winter wonderland. Clackamas County Winter Fair features a walk-through holiday light display, a holiday market and visits with Santa surrounded by the sights and sounds of Christmas. Get all the details on this event below. Now that … [Read more...] about 2025 Clackamas County Winter Fair
Silver Falls Winter Festival
Silver Falls State Park becomes even more magical in December during the Winter Festival. Enjoy fun holiday activities while exploring this incredible Oregon park. Here's what you can enjoy at the free festival. 2025 Silver Falls Winter Festival The Silver Falls Winter Festival is … [Read more...] about Silver Falls Winter Festival
Lunchtime Concerts at The Old Church Concert Hall
Portland's Sanctuary of Sound's free lunchtime concerts invite Portlanders to an afternoon of music. Built in 1882, The Old Church in downtown Portland is on the National Register of Historic Places. The concert venue hosts events meant to enhance the cultural life of the community and … [Read more...] about Lunchtime Concerts at The Old Church Concert Hall
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
Dongzhi: Winter Solstice Celebration at Lan Su Chinese Garden
Lan Su Chinese Garden invites you to immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Dongzhi, the winter solstice. Originating from the Han Dynasty, Dongzhi holds a special place in Chinese culture, symbolizing family reunions, good fortune and the promise of a bountiful year ahead. Lan Su … [Read more...] about Dongzhi: Winter Solstice Celebration at Lan Su Chinese Garden
2025 Tigard Holiday Lights Walk
This December, you’re invited to celebrate the season of light with friends and family at the Tigard Holiday Lights Walk. Take a stroll through the light route on foot or hop in the car and crank the the holiday tunes. Here's the route and more details the make the night extra … [Read more...] about 2025 Tigard Holiday Lights Walk
2025 Crafty Wonderland Holiday Art and Craft Market
Are you ready for Portland's best holiday art and craft market? Crafty Wonderland is the ultimate local handmade art and craft event of the season. If you haven't attended this magical holiday craft fair in the past, let me give you a little background. It all started when two local artists … [Read more...] about 2025 Crafty Wonderland Holiday Art and Craft Market
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
2025 Christmas Festival of Lights at The Grotto
In Northeast Portland, there's a sanctuary nestled among a tranquil forest: The Grotto. During the holidays, The Grotto transforms into a Festival of Lights. From sky high trees to small bushes, everything is adorned in twinkling lights. Take in all the sights, sounds and … [Read more...] about 2025 Christmas Festival of Lights at The Grotto
2025 ScanFair: Nordic Christmas Market
Enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes and traditions of a Nordic Christmas market at ScanFair. For more than 40 years, Nordic Northwest has brought Scandinavia to Portland through traditional food, entertainment, goods and activities. Here's what you can enjoy at this year's … [Read more...] about 2025 ScanFair: Nordic Christmas Market
My People’s Market: A Celebration of Business, Arts and Culture
Immerse yourself in a vibrant community of Portland creators at our city's largest market featuring diverse and vibrant entrepreneurs, artists and community members. Attend My People's Market this December. Started in November 2017, My People's Market was created to help entrepreneurs of color to … [Read more...] about My People’s Market: A Celebration of Business, Arts and Culture
2025 Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition
Pioneer Courthouse Square hosts the Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition. Head downtown for a special evening of song and holiday cheer. While you're there, stop by the Gingerbread Masterpiece at The Benson. Here are the details on the 2025 event. 2025 Great Figgy Pudding Caroling … [Read more...] about 2025 Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition
Portland Holiday Event Guide
The best Portland holiday events for all ages. Our area has many holiday events that make the season magical. Use this Portland holiday event guide to mark your calendar for tried-and-true seasonal fun and start new traditions. The is a day-by-day list of holiday events happening in and … [Read more...] about Portland Holiday Event Guide
The Benson Hotel’s Gingerbread Masterpiece
The Benson Hotel continues its long-standing tradition of creating a gingerbread masterpiece for the holiday season. For the 54th year, the historic Portland hotel makes a special gingerbread creation the centerpiece of its lobby. Here are details about the 2025 gingerbread … [Read more...] about The Benson Hotel’s Gingerbread Masterpiece
Free First Sunday at the Oregon Jewish Museum
Visit the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education during Free First Sunday. The Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education, or OJMCHE, explores the legacy of the Jewish people in Oregon while also teaching the universal relevance of the Holocaust and providing … [Read more...] about Free First Sunday at the Oregon Jewish Museum
Portland Drive-Through Christmas Lights
This December, soak in the magic of the season at these Portland drive-through Christmas lights. From the city to the suburbs, a handful of beloved events go all out with glowing arches, animated scenes and tunnels of light. You’ll find everything from classic reindeer and candy-cane themes to … [Read more...] about Portland Drive-Through Christmas Lights
Bird Alliance of Oregon’s Wild Arts Festival
Celebrate art, literature and nature at the Bird Alliance of Oregon's Wild Arts Festival. For 45 years, the festival has brought together outdoor lovers to discover one-of-a-kind nature-inspired artwork and books. This event supports the Bird Alliance of Oregon’s mission to inspire people to … [Read more...] about Bird Alliance of Oregon’s Wild Arts Festival
Free First Sunday at the Japanese American Museum of Oregon
Attend the Japanese American Museum of Oregon for Free First Sunday event. The Japanese American Museum of Oregon preserves and honors the history and culture of Japanese Americans in the Pacific Northwest. The museum educates the public about the Japanese American experience during WWII, … [Read more...] about Free First Sunday at the Japanese American Museum of Oregon
2025 Fungi Film Festival
Watch films from around the world at the Fungi Film Festival. The Fungi Film Fest is the world’s only film festival dedicated to the beauty, weirdness and human influences of fungi. The festival explores mushrooms, lichens and micro fungi in a variety of genres. The annual event premieres live … [Read more...] about 2025 Fungi Film Festival
The North Pole at Eagle Crest
Visit a truly magical Christmas display during The North Pole at Eagle Crest. This free holiday light display is open on select nights in December. Every holiday season, a local family transforms their home into the North Pole. Here are the details about the 2025 display, including the new … [Read more...] about The North Pole at Eagle Crest
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