Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Entertainment

The Tesla City Stories Discount: Get Exclusive $12 Tickets for October 16th

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October brings the fall but also some vintage Halloween fun as The Tesla City Stories returns to the Old Church Concert Hall for a mix of comedy and spooky surprises! Here’s how you can claim discount tickets to this one-of-a-kind Portland performance.    Get $12 discount tickets to The … [Read more...] about The Tesla City Stories Discount: Get Exclusive $12 Tickets for October 16th

Free Estacada Lake Witches Paddle Returns October 4

Grab your pointiest hat and trade the broomstick for a paddle. The Estacada Lake Witches Paddle Boarding and Kayaking Event returns to Milo McIver State Park for its sixth year. On Sunday, October 4, witches, warlocks and other costumed paddlers are invited to take to Estacada Lake on stand-up … [Read more...] about Free Estacada Lake Witches Paddle Returns October 4

2026 Portland Greek Festival

The annual Portland Greek Festival invites the community to enjoy the flavors, dances and traditions of the Mediterranean culture. In the late 1800s, the first Greek immigrants came the Northwest to work in fishing, lumber, railroad and other jobs. That's when the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Greek Festival

Free El Tigre Fest Celebrates Latino Culture in Tigard

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a full day of live music, dancing, food and family activities at El Tigre Fest in Tigard. The free annual festival returns to Cook Family Park on Saturday, October 3. More than 70 vendors and community organizations are participating in this year's … [Read more...] about Free El Tigre Fest Celebrates Latino Culture in Tigard

Ride Oregon Pacific Railroad’s Train Through Portland

Want to see Portland by train? Climb aboard Oregon Pacific Railroad's train for a special ride around Portland. 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 Ride Oregon Pacific Railroad’s Train Through Portland

45th Annual Portland Regional Gem and Mineral Show

Rock hounds, fossil fans and anyone who likes a good shiny object can spend a weekend digging into their interests at the Portland Regional Gem and Mineral Show. The annual Hillsboro event brings together dozens of Northwest dealers, more than 70 displays, hands-on demonstrations and activities … [Read more...] about 45th Annual Portland Regional Gem and Mineral Show

Free and Cheap Events this Week in Portland

Never Miss Out on Affordable Fun in Portland Portland doesn’t have to be expensive. Every week, there are plenty of free and low-cost ways to get out, explore the city and do something fun. Use this roundup of free and cheap events in Portland this week to find festivals, cultural events, … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Events this Week in Portland

Free and Cheap Portland Comedy Nights

Our city is a great place for artistic expression. What you may not know about is the comedy scene, which offers lots of opportunities for amateurs and experienced comedians to test their sets in front of a live audience. If you're a lover of comedy and want to see the talent right here in your … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Portland Comedy Nights

First Thursday Street Gallery

Explore local artists at the First Thursday Street Gallery in the Pearl District. The event is hosted by Urban Art Network, a Portland nonprofit dedicated to empowering independent artists. Now in its 24th year, the event holds true to its artistic roots by bringing together our community of … [Read more...] about First Thursday Street Gallery

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum are taking place throughout 2026.  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

Powell’s After Hours Halloween Event in Portland

Powell’s City of Books is keeping the lights on after closing time for a Halloween party built around magicians, fortune tellers, carnival games and plenty of literary weirdness. Powell’s After Hours: A Most Peculiar Evening takes over the downtown Portland bookstore on Saturday, October 24, from … [Read more...] about Powell’s After Hours Halloween Event in Portland

Posted by Katie Lemon Filed Under: Entertainment · Shopping

2026 Mount Angel Oktoberfest

Get ready to eat, drink and Polka! The Mount Angel Oktoberfest brings the Bavarian tradition to our state.  Every year, the entire town of Mount Angel transforms into Oktoberfest. The event boasts nine entertainment venues brimming with beverages, entertainment, activities, food and … [Read more...] about 2026 Mount Angel Oktoberfest

Portland Middle Eastern Festival

Celebrate a day of traditional food, entertainment and fun at the Portland Middle Eastern Festival.  The event is hosted by the St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, which was founded in 1930 to serve the local Arabic speaking community.  Every year, the church opens its door to the … [Read more...] about Portland Middle Eastern Festival

2026 Portland Polish Festival

Experience the food, dance and music of Poland. The annual Polish Festival in Portland hosts a full weekend of free, family-friendly activities.  Started in 1993, the Polish Festival is the oldest Polish festival in the Western United States. This event celebrates Polish culture, traditions … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Polish Festival

The Fear PDX Haunted House: Portland’s Largest Halloween Event

One of Portland’s longest-running haunted attractions is back for its 15th Halloween season. The Fear PDX Haunted House opens September 26 with 13 haunted attractions in one location, including five full haunted houses, five scare zones and three mini-haunts. The event runs on select nights … [Read more...] about The Fear PDX Haunted House: Portland’s Largest Halloween Event

2026 El Grito Portland: Free Celebration Kicks Off Hispanic Heritage Month

Attend El Grito, a vibrant celebration of Latin American culture in Portland. El Grito is the celebration of Mexican independence and the most important holiday celebrated by the Hispanic community in Oregon. It honors the rich history, culture, and contributions of American citizens whose … [Read more...] about 2026 El Grito Portland: Free Celebration Kicks Off Hispanic Heritage Month

Nature Walk and Storytime at Tryon Creek

Take storytime into the forest at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Friends of Tryon Creek is hosting a fall and winter Nature Walk and Storytime series for families. Each event combines a nature-themed story with an activity and a short walk through the forest to learn about local plants and … [Read more...] about Nature Walk and Storytime at Tryon Creek

Free Book Swap at Kindred Vancouver

Your next great read doesn't have to cost anything. Kindred Vancouver is hosting a free three-day Book Swap September 11–13, where you can drop off books you’re finished with and take home new-to-you titles from other readers. Best of all, you do not need to bring a book to take a book. It's an … [Read more...] about Free Book Swap at Kindred Vancouver

Romancing Portland Festival Brings Romance Authors to Town

Romance readers are taking over downtown Portland this weekend. The first Romancing Portland convention takes place September 11–13 at The Sentinel, bringing romance and romantasy authors, panels, workshops, book shopping and special events together for an adults-only weekend centered around all … [Read more...] about Romancing Portland Festival Brings Romance Authors to Town

AMP Fest Returns to Portland September 11–12 With Affordable Live Music for a Cause

Looking for live music in Portland that won’t completely drain your wallet? AMP Music Festival returns to the Star Theater September 11–12 for two nights of local and touring musicians, with tickets starting at just $25 and proceeds supporting youth experiencing homelessness. The festival brings … [Read more...] about AMP Fest Returns to Portland September 11–12 With Affordable Live Music for a Cause

2026 Portland Dahlia Society Show

Nothing says fall flowers quite like the beauty of dahlias in bloom. Celebrate the best of this year's flowers at the Portland Dahlia Society Show. Since 1928, the Portland Dahlia Society has banded together to support and educate fellow dahlia growers. Whether you grow your own or simply have … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Dahlia Society Show

Lunchtime Concerts at The Old Church Concert Hall plus more free concerts

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 plus more free concerts

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

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Entertainment · Movies

Best Things to Do in Portland in September 

As summer transitions to fall, Portland offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences and culinary delights. Here's your guide to the best things to do in Portland in September. Whether you're a local looking for fresh ideas or a visitor eager to explore, this guide will … [Read more...] about Best Things to Do in Portland in September 

Haunted History Walking Tours in Vancouver

Are you intrigued by the ghostly tales that whisper through the buildings and streets of Downtown Vancouver? Do you have a fascination with the strange and peculiar aspects of local history? If so, you’re in for a treat this fall. The Clark County Historical Museum invites you to explore the darker … [Read more...] about Haunted History Walking Tours in Vancouver

Troutdale First Friday Street Fair

Explore Troutdale's art community during the First Friday Street Fair. On the first Friday of the month in the summer, the streets will be filled with vendors, sidewalk dining, live music, family-friendly activities and more. The fun continues during the fall months with activities moving … [Read more...] about Troutdale First Friday Street Fair

2026 Oktoberfests in and around Portland

From September to October, crowds pack beer halls and streets to celebrate Oktoberfest in Germany. Thankfully, you don't have to go on an international trip to partake in this Bavarian tradition. Portland Oktoberfests are plentiful and offer a variety of activities for all ages. At Oktoberfests … [Read more...] about 2026 Oktoberfests in and around Portland

Movie Madness Free Community Screenings

Movie Madness, Portland's very own video rental store, hosts free community screenings every week. Started in 1991, Movie Madness has more than 80,000 titles, including new releases, childhood classics, foreign films from more than 65 countries, an extensive LGBTQ section, and cult … [Read more...] about Movie Madness Free Community Screenings

Free Summer Concerts in the Parks

Enjoying music outdoors is a quintessential summertime activity. Portland Parks and Recreation is hosting 17 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

Join the Celebration at CullyFest

Looking for a vibrant, fun and community-focused event to attend? Attend CullyFest! The heart of the Cully neighborhood will come alive with music, arts, culture and an array of family-friendly activities that showcase the importance of community in Cully. Also this weekend is Belmont Street … [Read more...] about Join the Celebration at CullyFest

2026 Oaks Park Oktoberfest

Portland's iconic amusement park is celebrating the harvest with a fun, family-friendly celebration. The Oaks Park Oktoberfest is one fall festival you won't want to miss.  This Oktoberfest has activities everyone can enjoy. The festival is broken up into the Main Festhalle and a Northwest … [Read more...] about 2026 Oaks Park Oktoberfest

2026 Bethany Village Oktoberfest

Get ready to don your lederhosen and raise your steins. Bethany Village Oktoberfest is just around the corner. This September, Bethany Village Centre transforms into a lively celebration of German culture, complete with all the festive flair you’d expect from a traditional Oktoberfest. Bethany … [Read more...] about 2026 Bethany Village Oktoberfest

2026 Halloween Swamp Meet at Oaks Park

Ready for the spooky season? Attend the Halloween Swamp Meet! Mark your calendars and dust off your costumes for a special event to kick off the fall season. If you’re someone who takes Halloween seriously, this is the event you’ve been waiting for. Here are the details about this year's … [Read more...] about 2026 Halloween Swamp Meet at Oaks Park

2026 Bella Organic Fall Activities: Corn Maze, Pumpkin Patch and more

As the crisp air of fall settles in, there's no better way to celebrate the season than by immersing yourself in the bounty of the harvest and the thrill of autumn activities. Head to Bella Organic for special fall activities. The farm on Sauvie Island is a great destination for families, friends … [Read more...] about 2026 Bella Organic Fall Activities: Corn Maze, Pumpkin Patch and more

2026 Jade International Night Market

The Jade International Night Market brings together the best of Jade District's local small businesses for a day of food, performances and activities.  This annual event offers new opportunities to celebrate culture and diversity of the Jade District community. Here are the details about … [Read more...] about 2026 Jade International Night Market

Oregon City Outdoor Antique Fair

Ready to make something old new to you? Travel to Oregon's hometown for the annual outdoor antique market. The Oregon City Outdoor Antique Fair is celebrating its 30th year. Spend a day perusing booths and finding treasures at this annual event. Portland is full of great markets. Here are some … [Read more...] about Oregon City Outdoor Antique Fair

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

Tabor Dance Schedule: Join Portland’s Free Sunset Dance Party

Looking for something joyful, free and full of community fun? Tabor Dance hosts a sunset dance series at locations across Portland.  These community dances are popping up in parks and venues around Portland this spring and summer. This is your chance to connect, move and celebrate with a … [Read more...] about Tabor Dance Schedule: Join Portland’s Free Sunset Dance Party

Free Play at Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade

Calling all retro gamers! Ground Kontrol is Portland's classic arcade destination, plugged in to all your golden age classics to new favorites. More than 100 classic video games and pinball machines surround two full service bars serving tasty and cheap food and drinks. Featuring low prices and … [Read more...] about Free Play at Ground Kontrol Classic Arcade

Clay Commons Ceramic Market and Guilds Bazaar at Director Park

This summer, explore an array of handmade goods each week at Director Park. Clay Commons Ceramic Market and Guilds Bazaar host local creators at one of downtown Portland's best outdoor gathering spaces.  Clay Commons is dedicated to connecting makers and buyers who share a passion for … [Read more...] about Clay Commons Ceramic Market and Guilds Bazaar at Director Park

Last Thursday Art Walk on Alberta Street

On the last Thursday of summer months, Alberta Street opens to foot traffic only for a unique arts and culture experience. The Last Thursday Art Walk on Alberta Street invites the whole community to come out and enjoy the creativity of our city's art, culture, music and food. The summer … [Read more...] about Last Thursday Art Walk on Alberta Street

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