Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Entertainment

Portland Art Museum Free Admission Day

Get free admission to the Portland Art Museum in August.  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 along with special … [Read more...] about Portland Art Museum Free Admission Day

2023 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 2023 Christmas on the Campground

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 Solstice Celebration at Leach Botanical Garden

Leach Botanical Garden invites you to take part in a tribute to the sun's return at the Winter Solstice celebration. 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 … [Read more...] about Winter Solstice Celebration at Leach Botanical Garden

2023 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 2023 Crafty Wonderland Holiday Art and Craft Market

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 2023 display, including the new … [Read more...] about The North Pole at Eagle Crest

Tour Portland’s Historic Lone Fir Cemetery

Looking for a one-of-a-kind experience to retrace Portland's history in an arboretum? Take a tour of Portland's historic Lone Fir Cemetery. Located in Southeast Portland, Lone Fir Cemetery is one of Portland’s oldest continuously used cemeteries. The 30 acres is the final resting place of many … [Read more...] about Tour Portland’s Historic Lone Fir Cemetery

Trackers Holiday Faire: Craft Fair, Cookies and Archery

Enjoy a craft fair, cookies and archery at the 10th 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 Lloyd Center for a day of family … [Read more...] about Trackers Holiday Faire: Craft Fair, Cookies and Archery

2023 Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition

Pioneer Courthouse Square is hosting 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 2023 event.  2023 Great Figgy Pudding … [Read more...] about 2023 Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition

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

2023 Portland Bazaar

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 year, the event is hosting three events at locations throughout the city. Here are the … [Read more...] about 2023 Portland Bazaar

Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Walk the trails of Tryon Creek Natural Area with outdoor experts during guided nature walks. 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 climate: trees covered in moss with huge … [Read more...] about Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek Natural Area

2023 ScanFair: Nordic Christmas Market

Enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes and traditions of a Nordic Christmas market at ScanFair.  Since 1986, Nordic Northwest has brought Scandinavia to Portland through traditional food, entertainment, goods and activities.  Here's what you can enjoy at this year's ScanFair. While you're … [Read more...] about 2023 ScanFair: Nordic Christmas Market

Free Admission Weekend at the Oregon Jewish Museum

To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education invites you to join them for a weekend of reflection, education and dialogue. The Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education, or OJMCHE, … [Read more...] about Free Admission Weekend at the Oregon Jewish Museum

Menorah Lighting Celebrations in and around Portland

Celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah at menorah lighting celebrations in and around Portland.. Hanukkah 2023 begins on the evening of Thursday, December 7 and ends on the evening of Friday, December 15. Events are held on various dates during the week of Hanukkah. These events are free to … [Read more...] about Menorah Lighting Celebrations in and around Portland

Tuba Christmas Concert at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Head to Portland's Living Room for a special tuba concert of epic proportions. Have you ever been to a tuba concert? What about 200 tubas play in harmony? The annual Tuba Christmas Concert at Pioneer Courthouse Square gets in the holiday spirit with a free concert for all to enjoy. Experience … [Read more...] about Tuba Christmas Concert at Pioneer Courthouse Square

OMSI Science Pubs at Kennedy School and the Museum

Bring your appetite for food, drinks and knowledge to OMSI Science Pubs. These events invite people of all ages to learn about an interesting science topic in a friendly, fun environment.  OMSI Science Pubs are monthly events that celebrate the marvel of science with food and drinks. Some of … [Read more...] about OMSI Science Pubs at Kennedy School and the Museum

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

2023 Portland Winter Ice Rink and Woodsy Winter Village

Glide into the season with the perfect blend of tradition and holiday magic at the Portland Winter Ice Rink and Woodsy Winter Village. As winter blankets the city with its chilly embrace, there's a magical spot waiting to be discovered by families and friends. The new winter ice rink is brimming … [Read more...] about 2023 Portland Winter Ice Rink and Woodsy Winter Village

Discount Days at Lloyd Center Ice Rink

Visit the Lloyd Center Ice Rink on discount days to get the best deal on your ice skating adventure. Despite the mass exodus of stores from the Lloyd Center Mall, the heart of the shopping center is still thriving. Located in the center of the mall, the Lloyd Center Ice Rink is open seven days a … [Read more...] about Discount Days at Lloyd Center Ice Rink

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 200,000 lights along with themed displays.  If you're looking for even more free holiday light displays, here … [Read more...] about Christmas on Franklin: A Neighborhood Light Display in Vancouver

Portland Night Market: Discover Local Creators and Chefs

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 Portland Night Market: Discover Local Creators and Chefs

Free Admission Day at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum

Visit the World Forestry Center during an upcoming free admission day.  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 is … [Read more...] about Free Admission Day at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum

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 BIPOC marketplace, My People's Market.  Started in November 2017, My People's Market was created to help entrepreneurs of color to the travel industry and professionals who can help scale their businesses. It … [Read more...] about My People’s Market: A Celebration of Business, Arts and Culture

Fremont Holiday Fest

Get in the spirit of the season at the Fremont Holiday Fest!  On Friday, December 1, 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, unless … [Read more...] about Fremont Holiday Fest

Troutdale First Friday Art Walk

Explore Troutdale's art community during the First Friday Art Walk. 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 Art Walk

2023 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 2023 Free Photos with Santa

A Pittock Mansion Christmas: Winter Wonderland

As the holiday season approaches, the iconic Pittock Mansion in Portland is gearing up to transform into a Winter Wonderland, marking the return of its beloved annual Christmas display. This year promises to be more enchanting than ever, with a festive theme that will transport visitors into a … [Read more...] about A Pittock Mansion Christmas: Winter Wonderland

Regal Holiday Classics Movie Series

Regal Cinemas is inviting you to come out and enjoy your favorite holiday movies for cheap. Regal Holiday Classics Movie Series is showing some of your festive films during the most wonderful time of year.  Here are the details about the 2023 event.  2023 Regal Holiday Classics Movie … [Read more...] about Regal Holiday Classics Movie Series

Pay What You Will at Portland Center Stage

Want to see shows at Portland Center Stage for cheap? Pay as little as a dollar and some change during Pay What You Will ticket specials.  Portland Center Stage is the largest theater company in Portland. This theater, located in a historic armory, hosts incredible shows throughout the … [Read more...] about Pay What You Will at Portland Center Stage

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

Hulu Deal: Sign Up for 99 Cents a Month

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Pay only $11.88 for 12 months of Hulu with this Black Friday deal. If your current subscription services are feeling a little boring, mix it up with this great Black Friday deal from Hulu! New subscribers and eligible returning subscribers can get Hulu for only 99 cents a month for 12 months. If … [Read more...] about Hulu Deal: Sign Up for 99 Cents a Month

Free Photos with Santa at Gresham Station

Gresham Station is transforming 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 … [Read more...] about Free Photos with Santa at Gresham Station

Only 25 Tickets Available: Get $10 Tickets to The Tesla City Stories Black Friday Special

Sponsored post Make your Thanksgiving weekend extra special with this fun activity for friends and family. Get $10 tickets to The Tesla City Stories Black Friday performance at TeslaTix.com. Use code CHEAP11. A monthly night of vintage radio comedy and drama live onstage in Portland, Oregon! … [Read more...] about Only 25 Tickets Available: Get $10 Tickets to The Tesla City Stories Black Friday Special

2023-2024 Oregon King Tides Schedule

See the Oregon Coast like never before. This 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 winter, known as king tides. These … [Read more...] about 2023-2024 Oregon King Tides Schedule

St. Johns Ugly Sweater 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 Ugly Sweater 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 … [Read more...] about St. Johns Ugly Sweater Tree Lighting

The Portland Pancakes and Booze Art Show

Portland's Underground Pop-Up Art Show 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 over 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

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

2023 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 2023 Silverton Christmas Market

Portland Audubon’s Wild Arts Festival

Celebrate art, literature, and nature at the Portland Audubon's Wild Arts Festival. For 43 years, the festival has brought together outdoor lovers to discover one-of-a-kind nature-inspired artwork and books. This event supports the Portland Audubon’s mission to inspire people to love and … [Read more...] about Portland Audubon’s Wild Arts Festival

Portland Veterans Day Parade

Honor the men and women who have served and currently serve in the armed forces at the Portland Veterans Day Parade. Since 1974, this event has been Portland’s only Veterans Day parade. It was founded by Vernon E. Ross, proprietor of Ross Hollywood Funeral Chapel. Here are all the details … [Read more...] about Portland Veterans Day Parade

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

2023 Plucky Maidens Holiday Fest Vintage Market

Head to Oaks Park this weekend for a special vintage market, Plucky Maidens Holiday Fest. This nationally recognized vintage market started in 2011 right here in Portland. The unique and popular Plucky Maidens event is hosting it last market this November.  More markets this weekend … [Read more...] about 2023 Plucky Maidens Holiday Fest Vintage 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 40 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

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

Patriot’s Train Ride on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad

The Chelatchie Prairie Railroad invites veterans and their families to embark on a unique journey during Veterans Day weekend.  A 1941 diesel locomotive transports passengers through scenic northern Clark County from Yacolt to Moulton Falls and back.  Chelatchie Prairie Railroad … [Read more...] about Patriot’s Train Ride on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad

Lunchtime Concerts at The Old Church Concert Hall

Portland's Sanctuary of Sound's free lunchtime concerts return in 2023. 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 celebrate the building’s historic … [Read more...] about Lunchtime Concerts at The Old Church Concert Hall

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