Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Entertainment

Free Pet Photos with Santa at PetSmart

Does your pet have a special spot on your holiday card? I'm sure you have hundreds—if not thousands—of photos of your pet being their adorable self. Why not make your holiday card extra special this year with a photo with Saint Nick? Free pet photos with Santa at PetSmart are happening on select … [Read more...] about Free Pet Photos with Santa at PetSmart

Troutdale Windy Wonderland and Tree Lighting

Celebrate the magic of the holidays at the Troutdale Windy Wonderland and Tree Lighting. The holiday spirit is alive and well in historic downtown Troutdale. The two-day festive extravaganza is packed with holiday cheer and offers something for everyone. Best of all, it supports Snow Cap … [Read more...] about Troutdale Windy Wonderland and Tree Lighting

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 Photos with Santa at Gresham Station

Gresham Station transforms into the North Pole for Santa's arrival. Sign up for free photos with Santa. Head to the Gresham shopping center to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and partake in fun activities. This is one of several opportunities to take a photo with Santa for free this holiday season. You … [Read more...] about Free Photos with Santa at Gresham Station

2025 Free Photos with Santa

We're all looking for ways to save during the holiday season. Capturing a moment you'll cherish for years to come should not break the bank. Thankfully, these local events are offering free photos with Santa!  These free photos with Jolly Old St. Nicholas are a great deal, yet the events are … [Read more...] about 2025 Free Photos with Santa

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

Why Are There So Many Crows in Portland?

Have you noticed large gatherings of crows in downtown Portland recently? So have I. My curiosity lead me on a quest to figure out why there are so many crows flocking together in Portland during the winter. The crows in my neighborhood provide year-round entertainment on my daily walks. From 4-5 … [Read more...] about Why Are There So Many Crows in Portland?

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

Holiday Light Display Map: Plan Your Self-Guided Tour

Find the best decorated homes in Portland with the Holiday Light Display Map. The holiday season brings with it a sense of magic and wonder that lights up communities around the world. For some, it's not just about celebrating within the four walls of their homes but sharing the joy and spirit of … [Read more...] about Holiday Light Display Map: Plan Your Self-Guided Tour

2025 Fremont Holiday Fest

Get in the spirit of the season at the Fremont Holiday Fest!  On Friday, December 5, 2025, from 4-7 p.m., the Beaumont Business Association is hosting an evening full of fun, free activities along NE Fremont from NE 42nd-50th. Most activities are happening for the duration of the event, … [Read more...] about 2025 Fremont Holiday Fest

Holiday Sparkles at Powerland Heritage Park

Enjoy holiday lights and decorations from the comfort of your car at Powerland Heritage Park. Take a short drive south to visit the free Holiday Sparkles event. Drive through 62 acres of holiday lights and decorations at this free event.  Here are some more free holiday light displays you … [Read more...] about Holiday Sparkles at Powerland Heritage Park

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

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

Winter Village Skating at Orenco Station

Winter cheer is in the air as Hillsboro's Winter Village at Orenco Station. Celebrate the season with ice skating and fun activities.  During the holidays, Jerry Willey Plaza at Orenco Station transforms into a festive covered outdoor ice skating rink. Here's how to join in on the … [Read more...] about Winter Village Skating at Orenco Station

Free Admission Days at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum

Visit the World Forestry Center during this upcoming free admission days.  We love our forests in Oregon. The World Forestry Center's Discovery Museum is located right here in our city, inviting visitors to examine forests and consider all the ways they benefit our lives.  The museum … [Read more...] about Free Admission Days at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum

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

Portland Movie Theaters Open on Thanksgiving

Make a new tradition this Thanksgiving by visiting one of these independent movie theaters in and around Portland. These 11 local theaters are showing new releases on November 27, 2025. All of them have theater snacks and some offer full meals. Head to your favorite location after you meal. If … [Read more...] about Portland Movie Theaters Open on Thanksgiving

Paramount+ Offers $2.99 Black Friday Deal

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Have you wanted to try Paramount+ or are you looking to freshen up your streaming services for the winter season? You're in luck. Paramount+ offers a special Black Friday deal for a limited time. This streaming service keeps you up to date on the latest in shows, movies, sports, and … [Read more...] about Paramount+ Offers $2.99 Black Friday Deal

When Are the King Tides on the Oregon Coast? View the Schedule

See the Oregon Coast like never before. This fall and winter, watch the beauty and power of the ocean as it reaches new heights during king tides season.  When the moon's orbit comes closest to the earth, the tide rises. The highest tides hit the coast during the late fall and winter, known … [Read more...] about When Are the King Tides on the Oregon Coast? View the Schedule

Regal Holiday Classics Movie Series

Regal Cinemas invites you to come out and enjoy your favorite holiday movies on the big screen. Regal Holiday Classics Movie Series shows some of your festive films during the most wonderful time of year.  Here are the details about the 2025 event.  2025 Regal Holiday Classics Movie … [Read more...] about Regal Holiday Classics Movie Series

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Santa Train Ride

Take a scenic trip through Clark County on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Santa Train Ride. A 1941 diesel locomotive transports passengers through scenic northern Clark County from Yacolt to Moulton Falls to Chelatchie Prairie and back. During the holidays, the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad hosts … [Read more...] about Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Santa Train Ride

The Scandinavian Christmas Goat Market

Visit a Scandinavian Christmas market featuring art, crafts and food. Do you know about the Yule goat? This Scandinavian symbol of the holiday season is a gift giver who is sometimes pictured as Santa's companion.  In the spirit of the Yule goat, start your holiday preparations at New … [Read more...] about The Scandinavian Christmas Goat Market

2025 Christmas on the Campground

Christmas on the Campground brings a traditional light display and special holiday event to Portland every year. The event illustrates a Merry Christmas with a life-size nativity, thousands of lights and the tallest decorated Christmas tree in Southeast Portland. This event is once again opening … [Read more...] about 2025 Christmas on the Campground

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

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

Portland Bazaar’s European Market

Put money back into the community when you shop local small businesses at Portland Bazaar. Since 2011, this event has highlighted the skilled artists, makers and small businesses of Portland, Oregon. This holiday season, the event is hosting three markets at locations throughout the city. You … [Read more...] about Portland Bazaar’s European Market

2025 Silverton Christmas Market

Take a drive to the Oregon Garden Resort for the annual Silverton Christmas Market, featuring a dazzling light display, German inspired market and family-friendly activities.  This beloved holiday tradition has taken place for more than a decade. Now held at the Oregon Garden Resort, the … [Read more...] about 2025 Silverton Christmas Market

Gem Faire at Westside Commons

Gem Faire is taking over the entire expo hall at Westside Commons for the three-day event. The fair is one of the largest gem, jewelry and bead shows in the U.S. With more than 30 shows a year, you're sure to see the best of the best in the gem industry. The dealers at Gem Faire are direct … [Read more...] about Gem Faire at Westside Commons

St. Johns Community Tree Lighting

Head to one of Portland’s most charming neighborhoods for a festive, community event. Be part of the decorating crew at St. Johns Community Tree Lighting. The tree lighting event is held at the St. Johns Plaza. Here are the activities you can partake in:  Decorate an ornament to hang on … [Read more...] about St. Johns Community Tree Lighting

Skamania Lodge Holiday Light Walk

Ready to see dazzling lights nestled in a Washington forest? Take a drive to Skamania Lodge for the second annual Holiday Light Walk. Skamania Lodge offers cozy, inviting accommodations outside of Stevenson in the Columbia River Gorge. During the holiday season, the lodge hosts a variety of … [Read more...] about Skamania Lodge Holiday Light Walk

Portland Flea Vintage, Handmade Market

Calling all vintage, handmade, food loving Portlanders! Explore one-of-a-kind goods at Portland Flea. For over a decade, Portland Flea has created a gathering place for our city's creators to showcase their talents. Get out and join your community of makers, food purveyors and curators at this … [Read more...] about Portland Flea Vintage, Handmade Market

The Portland Pancakes and Booze Art Show

Portland's pop-up art extravaganza is set to captivate art enthusiasts and pancake lovers alike at the Pancakes and Booze Art Show. Originating in Los Angeles in 2009, this event has popped up more than 500 times, spreading its creative wings across 35+ cities in Europe and North America. Now, … [Read more...] about The Portland Pancakes and Booze Art Show

Portland Art Museum Free Admission Days

Get free admission to the Portland Art Museum during it grand opening celebration.  Located in the heart of downtown, Portland Art Museum is internationally renowned for exciting art experiences. On free admission days, our community gets open access to one of our city's top attractions … [Read more...] about Portland Art Museum Free Admission Days

Hillsboro Holly Days Celebration

Kickoff the festive season at the annual Hillsboro Holly Days Celebration. Every year on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, the community gathers in downtown Hillsboro to enjoy performances, local artisans and activities for all ages. The event builds the excitement leading up to the tree … [Read more...] about Hillsboro Holly Days Celebration

OMSI on Ice: Indoor Skating at the Museum

This holiday season, Portland’s iconic Oregon Museum of Science and Industry brings you OMSI on Ice indoor skating. OMSI On Ice transforms the museum’s auditorium into a dazzling winter wonderland featuring a unique synthetic ice rink, offering all the fun of traditional skating without the … [Read more...] about OMSI on Ice: Indoor Skating at the Museum

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

2025 Planetarium Sky Theater Shows at Mt. Hood Community College

The Planetarium Sky Theater at Mt. Hood Community College welcomes visitors into a world of cosmic wonders and astronomical marvels. The planetarium recently reopened to be public and offers shows on select dates each month.  Here are the details about Planetarium Sky Theater Shows. 2025 … [Read more...] about 2025 Planetarium Sky Theater Shows at Mt. Hood Community College

Discount Ticket Alert: Get 52% Off The Tesla City Stories’ November Show

Sponsored post Give thanks for all-new episodes and discount admission at the The Tesla City Stories' November 21 show at the Old Church Concert Hall. Get $12 discount tickets to The Tesla City Stories November show at TeslaTix.com. Use code CHEAP33. Don't delay! Only 20 discount tickets are … [Read more...] about Discount Ticket Alert: Get 52% Off The Tesla City Stories’ November Show

2025 Plucky Maidens Holiday Fest Vintage Market

It's back! Head to Oaks Park for a special vintage market, Plucky Maidens Holiday Fest. This nationally recognized vintage market started in 2011 right here in Portland. After a hiatus in 2024, the unique and popular Plucky Maidens returns this November.  Here are the details:  2025 … [Read more...] about 2025 Plucky Maidens Holiday Fest Vintage Market

Veterans Day Parade at Fort Vancouver

Enjoy patriotic displays, music and tributes at the annual Lough Legacy Veterans Day Parade. For 37 years, the parade has brought a family-friendly celebration to Vancouver. With the cancellation of the Portland Veterans Day Parade in 2025, take a drive North to honor our nation’s heroes. Here … [Read more...] about Veterans Day Parade at Fort Vancouver

Frybread Fest: Culture, Community and Celebration

Join a celebration of Native American Heritage Month at Frybread Fest. This special event invites everyone to come together in a day of education, healing and celebration at Director Park in downtown Portland. Experience a rich lineup of activities that honor Native American culture and … [Read more...] about Frybread Fest: Culture, Community and Celebration

2025 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days

Get free entrance to Forest Service recreation areas on five holidays in 2025. Forest Service recreation area free days include recreation sites and trailheads in Oregon and Washington, such as the Columbia River Gorge, Mt. Hood National Forest, Gifford Pinchot National Forest and 14 more. These … [Read more...] about 2025 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days

Best Stargazing Spots in and near Portland

Welcome to the enchanting world of stargazing in Portland! In this city, we're known for our wonderful outdoor escapes and close proximity to nature. Take your exploration of the Rose City to another level by visiting the best stargazing spots in Portland, Oregon, and the surrounding … [Read more...] about Best Stargazing Spots in and near Portland

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