Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Attractions & Museums

Free Summer Reading Programs for Kids, Teens and Adults

Looking for a fun reading program to keep your kids on track this summer? Or maybe you want to keep yourself on top of new releases and try different genres. Portland libraries and national companies offer summer reading programs for kids, teens and adults. Best of all, you can win prizes for … [Read more...] about Free Summer Reading Programs for Kids, Teens and Adults

Visit Wilhelm’s Portland Memorial Mausoleum Memorial Day Weekend

Portland's largest mausoleum is opening its doors for special public tours Memorial Day weekend. The Wilhelm's Portland Memorial Funeral Home in Sellwood is the final resting place of more than 97,000 people and home to the extraordinary Rae Room. During Memorial Day weekend, you get the rare … [Read more...] about Visit Wilhelm’s Portland Memorial Mausoleum Memorial Day Weekend

Multnomah County Fair at Oaks Park

This Memorial Day weekend, head to Oaks Park for some good, old-fashioned fun at the Multnomah County Fair. The annual fair has been entertaining Portlanders since 1906. Traditionally an event for locals to exhibit farming and homesteading techniques, fairs have expanded to showcase food, … [Read more...] about Multnomah County Fair at Oaks Park

Free and Cheap Memorial Day Weekend Events in Portland

Celebrate your three-day weekend at one of these free and cheap Memorial Day weekend events in Portland. I've compiled a list of activities and events to get you out and exploring our awesome city this holiday weekend. There is something for everyone, from festivals and train rides to markets and … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Memorial Day Weekend Events in Portland

Get Free Admission to Portland Rose Festival’s CityFair

Get free admission to the Portland Rose Festival's main attraction, CityFair. For more than 100 years, the Portland Rose Festival has been a beloved celebration of our beautiful city. The festival has tons of free and cheap activities your whole family can enjoy. For three weeks, CityFair … [Read more...] about Get Free Admission to Portland Rose Festival’s CityFair

Visit the Free Peony Fields at Adelman Peony Gardens

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of blooming flowers at Adelman Peony Gardens' free peony fields. Every springtime, the gardens invite the public to experience different colors and smells of peonies. Here's information about the 2024 event. Visit the Free Peony Fields at Adelman Peony … [Read more...] about Visit the Free Peony Fields at Adelman Peony Gardens

2024 Gem and Mineral Show

Where are all my rockhounds at? The Clackamette Mineral and Gem Club's annual Gem and Mineral Show is taking place Memorial Day weekend. The local club is a community of people who enjoy educating and sharing in many areas of expertise, including geology, rockhounding, mineral collection, … [Read more...] about 2024 Gem and Mineral Show

2024 McMenamins UFO Fest

McMenamins is hosting its annual festival for believers and skeptics alike. Head to the 24th annual UFO Fest this May. The festival is inspired by the 1950 UFO sighting on a farm outside McMinnville. The story goes that on the night of Thursday, May 11, 1950, Evelyn Trent went out to feed her … [Read more...] about 2024 McMenamins UFO Fest

Build a Bouquet of Peonies at Columbia Farms

Fill your home with a beautiful bouquet you built yourself from local flowers. Peonies are in bloom at Columbia Farms.  This Sauvie Island farm is one of the many you-pick farms you can enjoy this spring and summer. Columbia Farms prides itself on creating a quiet, quaint, working-farm … [Read more...] about Build a Bouquet of Peonies at Columbia Farms

Free and Cheap Mother’s Day Events in and around Portland

There's something for every mom in this list of free and cheap Mother's Day events in and around Portland. The best part is no one has to spend a bunch of money to celebrate Mom on this special day. Instead, opt for some quality time and a fun activity. Take a look at what Portland and … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Mother’s Day Events in and around Portland

Crafty Wonderland Spring Art and Craft Market

Plan your visit to the Crafty Wonderland Spring Art and Craft Market, the largest handmade craft show in the Northwest. Crafty Wonderland is the ultimate local handmade art and craft event of the season. If you haven’t attended this magical craft fair in the past, let me give you a little … [Read more...] about Crafty Wonderland Spring Art and Craft Market

AAPI Cultural Immersion Day Free Admission and Activities

On the first weekend of May, celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with free community performances, activities and admission to Portland cultural institutions. AAPI Cultural Immersion Day is hosted by Oregon Rises Above Hate and honors our Asian, Asian American, Native … [Read more...] about AAPI Cultural Immersion Day Free Admission and Activities

2024 Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Attend the 37th annual Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Tom McCall Waterfront Park in downtown Portland. The Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta lights up the city with color, rhythm and flavor. The event is the largest multicultural festival in Oregon. The three-day bilingual event hosts special … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden: Southeast Portland’s Botanical Oasis

Nestled between Reed College and the Eastmoreland Golf Course is an urban oasis called Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden. On the 9-acre property grows a collection of rare species and hybrid rhododendrons, azaleas, shrubs, companion plants and unusual trees. The garden blends water and land as … [Read more...] about Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden: Southeast Portland’s Botanical Oasis

Unique Markets Pop Up Features 125 Local Makers

Support Portland's independent brands at the Unique Markets pop up event. Find one-of-a-kind goods for loved ones or treat yourself to something special. This May market is featuring 125 of Portland's best emerging brands, makers, designers and artists.  Additional markets taking place … [Read more...] about Unique Markets Pop Up Features 125 Local Makers

Visit the Self-Serve Tulip Cooler for $5 Bouquets

Nothing says spring quite like a fresh bouquet of tulips. Holland America Flowers is here to brighten up your home with locally-grown flowers available at its self-serve cooler. Holland America Flower Gardens started when Benno and Klazina immigrated from Holland with their three children and … [Read more...] about Visit the Self-Serve Tulip Cooler for $5 Bouquets

Sci-Fi Film Festival at OMSI

Embark on an intergalactic journey through the vast realms of science fiction during the Sci-Fi Film Festival at OMSI. Over the course of eight weeks, the Empirical Theater's four-story screen will come alive with more than 40 of the genre's most iconic and unforgettable films. From timeless … [Read more...] about Sci-Fi Film Festival at OMSI

Open House at Leach Botanical Garden

Leach Botanical Garden invites you to step inside the historic home during open house events this spring.  Leach Botanical Garden is a natural oasis nestled in Southeast Portland. The 16-acre estate features more than 2,000 plant species growing along the banks of Johnson Creek. Adding to … [Read more...] about Open House at Leach Botanical Garden

Indigenous Culture Day at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Listen and learn from Indigenous educators in the culturally rich Tryon Creek State Natural Area during Indigenous Culture Day. Located in Southwest Portland, Tryon Creek is one of Portland’s best urban parks. This beautiful natural area is a great example of our temperate rainforest … [Read more...] about Indigenous Culture Day at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Hood River Cider Fest

Discover some of the region's best hard cider at the Hood River Cider Fest. Just an hour from Portland, the 9th annual event is bringing together 20 Oregon and Washington cideries. Hood River Cider Fest The cider fest is taking place April 27, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. There will be more than … [Read more...] about Hood River Cider Fest

Tax Day Freebies and Discounts in Portland

Celebrate Tax Day with these freebies and discounts in Portland. Take a deep breath. Tax Day 2024 is upon us. Instead of dwelling on what you might owe, or counting down the days till you get your refund, take a break and have some fun. There is so much to look forward to on Tax Day in … [Read more...] about Tax Day Freebies and Discounts in Portland

Tulip Fields at Holland America Flower Gardens

A few years ago, I stumbled across a beautiful tulip field that seemed too good to be true. Located just 30 minutes from Portland, the tulip fields at Holland America Flower Gardens are in bloom and free to visit.  Holland America Flower Gardens started when Benno and Klazina immigrated from … [Read more...] about Tulip Fields at Holland America Flower Gardens

Portland Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival

Head to the Portland Expo Center for all things crafty at the 11th annual Portland Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival. This annual event celebrates a new season of boundless possibilities. Spring is a great time to start planning homemade holiday gifts or get ideas for a project just for you to … [Read more...] about Portland Quilt, Craft & Sewing Festival

2024 Portland House and Outdoor Living Show

The Portland House and Outdoor Living Show wants to make your dream home a reality. This event promises a haven for homeowners and backyard enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to renovate, remodel or simply seeking inspiration, this is the place to be this weekend.  Also happening this … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland House and Outdoor Living Show

2024 Lilac Days at Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens

Every spring, the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens hosts Lilac Days to celebrate the beauty blooms and legacy of a plant pioneer. The annual event takes place for 23 days on a quaint historic farm just off of I-5 in Woodland, Washington.  Hulda Klager, known as the Lilac Lady, began hybridizing … [Read more...] about 2024 Lilac Days at Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens

Oregon Potters Association Ceramic Showcase

In its 41st year, the Oregon Potters Association invites the public to a free ceramic showcase. The association represents a group of diverse ceramic artists, makers, teachers and students. At the annual event, the members bring their creations under one roof for the whole community to … [Read more...] about Oregon Potters Association Ceramic Showcase

Trillium Festival at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Tyron Creek Natural Area is celebrating one of Portland's must-see spring blooms. The Trillium Festival invites you to get outside and enjoy this special seasonal flower.  Located in Southwest Portland, Tryon Creek is one of Portland’s best urban parks. This beautiful natural area is a … [Read more...] about Trillium Festival at Tryon Creek Natural Area

2024 Portland Spring Festivals

Get ready for spring festivals in Portland. My favorite season in Portland is spring. By March, the sun starts to shine once again and our neighborhoods come to life with the sights and smells of springtime blooms. It feels like our city is rising anew with a bounty of opportunities to get out … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Spring Festivals

Hortlandia Plant and Garden Art Sale

Get your garden ready for the growing season at the Hortlandia Plant and Garden Art Sale. The sale is hosted by the Hardy Plant Society of Oregon. Founded in 1984, the organization is dedicated to nurturing the gardening community in Oregon and Southwest Washington. The organization … [Read more...] about Hortlandia Plant and Garden Art Sale

Go on a Spring Break Adventure in and around Portland

Spring break in Portland is the ideal time to get out of the house and explore the many wonderful places our part of the Northwest has to offer. Portland area schools will be on spring break from March 25-29, 2024. If you're looking for a unique experience for the entire family, look no further … [Read more...] about Go on a Spring Break Adventure in and around Portland

2024 Bricks Cascade LEGO Fan Expo

Let your imagination run wild at Portland's premier public LEGO event this weekend. The Oregon Convention Center is transforming into a LEGO enthusiast's dream. In its 12th year, the Bricks Cascade LEGO Fan Expo brings together hundreds of builders from the Pacific Northwest and around the world … [Read more...] about 2024 Bricks Cascade LEGO Fan Expo

Easter Egg Hunt at Bella Organic Farm

Celebrate Easter on the farm! Kids and adults of all ages are welcome to participate in the Easter Egg Hunt at Bella Organic Farm. Bella Organic is a 100-acre certified organic farm and winery on Sauvie Island that is open year round. They grow more than 70 varieties of berries, fruits, … [Read more...] about Easter Egg Hunt at Bella Organic Farm

Thriftapalooza: Get Discount Tickets to the Sustainable Thrifting Market

Sponsored post Thriftapalooza is coming to Portland! Portland is known for its thrifting scene. From flea markets to secondhand shops to buy nothing groups, our community embraces sustainability and waste reduction in our everyday lives. If you love searching for new-to-you items and … [Read more...] about Thriftapalooza: Get Discount Tickets to the Sustainable Thrifting Market

Spring Equinox Garden Fair at Leach Botanical Garden

Celebrate the beginning of a new season, nature and gardening at the Spring Equinox Garden Fair. Leach Botanical Garden is a natural oasis nestled in Southeast Portland. The 16-acre estate features more than 2,000 plant species growing along the banks of Johnson Creek. Adding to the unique charm … [Read more...] about Spring Equinox Garden Fair at Leach Botanical Garden

Easter Bunny Express Train Ride

Celebrate the return of spring at the Easter Bunny Express train ride with the Oregon Rail Heritage Center. The Oregon Pacific Railroad is a family owned and operated freight railroad company. The company operates a special passenger train along the East Portland Division railroad line in … [Read more...] about Easter Bunny Express Train Ride

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Portland

After another grey, cold winter in Portland, I think I speak for all of us when I say spring cannot come soon enough. Thankfully, Portland is filled with one of the best signs that spring has officially sprung—cherry blossoms. From March to April, cherry blossoms burst into bloom throughout the … [Read more...] about Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Portland

NAYA’s Native Made Spring Marketplace

View hand made creations at NAYA’s Native Made Spring Marketplace. Native American Youth and Family Center, NAYA, is a family of numerous tribes and voices who are dedicated to sustaining tradition and building cultural wealth. This weekend, you can see local culture come to life at this … [Read more...] about NAYA’s Native Made Spring Marketplace

St. Patrick’s Day Events in Portland

Get your Irish on at St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Portland. St. Patrick's Day is Sunday, March 17. Locations across the city are hosting parties and festivals during the weekend. You’ll find plenty of Irish music, step dancers and bagpipes along with fun activities and food specials. Also, … [Read more...] about St. Patrick’s Day Events in Portland

All-Ireland Cultural Society’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

All-Ireland Cultural Society of Oregon is hosting a family-friendly St. Patrick's Day Celebration.  For more than 80 years, All-Ireland Cultural Society's all-volunteer nonprofit has been promoting social opportunities, Irish entertainment and Irish cultural events in Oregon and Southwest … [Read more...] about All-Ireland Cultural Society’s St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at McMenamins Edgefield

Attend the St. Patrick's Day Celebration at McMenamins Edgefield this weekend. Built in 1911 as the county poor farm, the historic Edgefield's original buildings have been carefully restored. The grounds are complete with gardens, restaurants, bars, a spa and a par 3 golf course. The location … [Read more...] about St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at McMenamins Edgefield

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at McMenamins Kennedy School

Enjoy a weekend of merriment, fun and food during the St. Patrick's Day Celebration at McMenamins Kennedy School. 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 … [Read more...] about St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at McMenamins Kennedy School

St. Patrick’s Day Festival at Paddy’s Bar and Grill

Join Paddy’s Bar and Grill for the annual St. Patrick's Day Festival. Paddy’s is the oldest Irish Pub in downtown Portland. It's been serving traditional Irish fare in the historic Powers Building for over 35 years. Get ready to celebrate the Irish holiday at this iconic location.  St. … [Read more...] about St. Patrick’s Day Festival at Paddy’s Bar and Grill

2024 Portland Irish Festival

Portland's iconic Irish pub, Kells, is expanding its Irish Festival with multiple days of music and fun. Since 1983, Kells has brought Irish food, drinks and a weekly lineup of music to Portlanders at its iconic pub. This St. Patrick's Day, put on your green and head downtown to celebrate at the … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Irish Festival

Festival of Quilts at Westside Commons

The Festival of Quilts is a vibrant celebration that brings together artisans, enthusiasts and creative minds. This annual event serves as a kaleidoscopic of craftsmanship, innovation and community spirit. The event is hosted by Northwest Quilters Inc. The organization's goal is to honor the … [Read more...] about Festival of Quilts at Westside Commons

Family Movie Nights at The Judy

Are you tired of the usual routine of family movie nights? The Northwest Children's Theater and School invites you to shake things up and experience the joy of cinema like never before during family movie nights at The Judy Kafoury Center for Youth Arts. The Judy Kafoury Center for Youth Arts in … [Read more...] about Family Movie Nights at The Judy

It’s a Leap Year! Portland Leap Day Deals

Celebrate the extra day in 2024 with these deals and discounts.  We all love getting a little something extra. For the Leap Year, companies are making sure we all take advantage of an extra day of the year. Check out these Portland area Leap Day deals, most happening on Thursday, February … [Read more...] about It’s a Leap Year! Portland Leap Day Deals

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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