Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Entertainment

Silent Book Club Events in and around Portland

Silent Book Club is a book club movement that celebrates the joy of reading and fosters a community of book lovers who relish the tranquil embrace of a good book. Imagine a gathering where book enthusiasts come together to revel in the shared companionship of a silent reading experience. Let's … [Read more...] about Silent Book Club Events in and around Portland

Free concert presented by The Historic Trust

The Historic Trust's final concert in the 2026 Summer Concert Series will feature Huckle Buck Highway, a high-energy cover band that plays your favorite rock and country songs from groups like Kansas, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and The Eagles.  This outdoor concert will be 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, … [Read more...] about Free concert presented by The Historic Trust

Free Summer Movies in the Parks

The Portland metro has an abundance of summertime movies in local parks. Find a complete list of Portland's movies in the parks along with Hillsboro, Beaverton, Tigard, Lake Oswego, Milwaukie, North Clackamas, Oregon City, Gladstone, West Linn, Troutdale and Vancouver movie series. Best of all, … [Read more...] about Free Summer Movies in the Parks

Ukrainian Day at Westmoreland Park

Celebrate Ukrainian culture at Westmoreland Park. The event is hosted by Ukrainian Foundation, a local organization that was established in 2006 to help Ukrainian refugees adjust to their new home in the United States. The organization is also sending food, medical and basic supplies to help … [Read more...] about Ukrainian Day at Westmoreland Park

Free and Cheap Summer Activities for Kids

How long has it been since summer break started? If you're running out of ideas to keep your kids busy, there are some great free and inexpensive activities throughout Portland. These activities take place every week and some every day. Make it a whole summer of fun by planning these events into … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Summer Activities for Kids

Summer Festival at Portland Japanese Garden

Celebrate community, culture and continuity during Bon-Odori Summer Festival 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 … [Read more...] about Summer Festival at Portland Japanese Garden

Rockstar Energy Open 2026 skateboard and music festival

Skateboarding culture is taking over downtown Portland when the Rockstar Energy Open 2026 returns to Waterfront Park from August 14 to 16, 2026. This free festival features world-class men’s and women’s street and park skateboarding, live musical performances, athlete signings and interactive fan … [Read more...] about Rockstar Energy Open 2026 skateboard and music festival

2026 El Festival de Mariachi

Celebrate Hispanic culture through music, food and community at the El Festival de Mariachi. The festival honoring Hispanic Heritage Month is hosted by Unitus Community Credit Union. Here's what is in store at this free event:  2026 El Festival de Mariachi The festival is Sunday, September … [Read more...] about 2026 El Festival de Mariachi

Multicultural Kids Festival

Explore new cultures in a fun, creative setting at the Multicultural Kids Festival.  The event is hosted by the Slavic Community Center of NW, Inc. The local nonprofit helps its community members succeed in America through various programs and services. The organization hosts this annual … [Read more...] about Multicultural Kids Festival

2026 Catio Tour: Explore Creative Feline Spaces in Portland

Calling all cat lovers! If you've been thinking about upgrading your cat's living space, this is the event for you. The Bird Alliance of Portland and Feral Cat Coalition are hosting the annual Catio Tour, showcasing creative and unique catios from around the Portland area. First things first. … [Read more...] about 2026 Catio Tour: Explore Creative Feline Spaces in Portland

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Entertainment · Home · Pets

Lowest Tide Days on the Oregon Coast

The Oregon Coast is known for its rugged beauty. The lowest tide days make a trip to the coast even more magical. These tidal vents reveal hidden wonders for nature enthusiasts, photographers and adventurers to explore. I've gathered a list of the lowest tide days along with some recommendations … [Read more...] about Lowest Tide Days on the Oregon Coast

The Best Days to Visit Topgolf for Discount Play

Topgolf is on par with Portland's most entertaining attractions. Here are the days you should visit to save big on game play. Whether you're an experienced golfer working on your game or a newbie looking to have fun with friends, Topgolf offers a casual, fun environment for all to enjoy. The … [Read more...] about The Best Days to Visit Topgolf for Discount Play

2026 Beaverton Night Market

Beaverton Night Market invites you to join the vibrant, cultural, family-friendly event reminiscent of international night markets. Starting in 2014, the summer event has grown into a large-scale event that brings together around 14,000 people each year. This summer, the City of Beaverton is … [Read more...] about 2026 Beaverton Night Market

PDX Pop Now! free music festival

Portland’s favorite volunteer-run local music celebration is back. PDX Pop Now! 2026 brings three full days of live local music, food carts, and community vibes to downtown Portland. Music genres range from folk and shoegaze to indie rock, hip-hop, and post-punk. Whether you're a long-time … [Read more...] about PDX Pop Now! free music festival

Oregon City Festival of the Arts

Get ready for a weekend of creativity, live performances and family fun at the Oregon City Festival of the Arts. This beloved annual event is Oregon City’s premier arts celebration. Plus, it’s free and open to the public. Also, don't miss Oregon City Porchfest and McLoughlin Garage Sale this … [Read more...] about Oregon City Festival of the Arts

2026 Oregon City Porchfest

Get ready for a weekend of music, community and fun at the Oregon City Porchfest. Oregon City Porchfest is more than just a festival—it’s a community experience. Over two days, the McLoughlin neighborhood transforms into a vibrant stage where local talent shines. This event is an opportunity to … [Read more...] about 2026 Oregon City Porchfest

2026 Portland Goth Float

Gather with your fellow Goth community at the 12th annual Portland Goth Float. This annual event invites locals to a fun day floating the Clackamas River. Put on your best goth bathing suit and accessories for a one-of-a-kind day spent outdoors. Here are the details about the 2026 float. 2026 … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Goth Float

Bethany Village Summer Concert and Markets

The Bethany Village Summer Concert & Market Series involves three summer concerts during July and August, plus a market that features vendors,  kids' activities, pony rides and more. The event features a free concert. The last concert in the series, originally scheduled for Thursday, … [Read more...] about Bethany Village Summer Concert and Markets

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

Best free and cheap things to do in August in Portland

Our August events calendar features a wide variety of affordable entertainment in the Portland metropolitan region. We’ll continue to update this calendar throughout the month as organizers announce new events. As always, we focus on events with a regular adult admission price of $15 or less. … [Read more...] about Best free and cheap things to do in August in Portland

Posted by Teresa Mears Filed Under: Entertainment

Free Game Fridays at The People’s Courts

Looking for something fun and free to do on a Friday night? Look no further than Free Game Fridays at The People's Courts. This multi-court recreational and social space in Portland offers an evening filled with friendly competition, great food and good vibes. Here's what to expect: Free Game … [Read more...] about Free Game Fridays at The People’s Courts

2026 Portland FoodieLand Food Festival

Taste the world at the Portland FoodieLand Food Festival. Vendors are ready to wow your taste buds with a full weekend of food and fun. Snack on authentic street food, decadent desserts and explore bold new flavors at this one-of-a-kind event. Here are the details: 2026 Portland FoodieLand … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland FoodieLand Food Festival

The Portland Aquarium: Mike Bennett’s Imaginative Ocean Adventure

There’s a new kind of aquarium making waves in Portland and it’s unlike anything you’ve seen before. Mike Bennett is back at it with his latest immersive experience: The Portland Aquarium.  From street signs and murals to exhibits and local partnerships, chances are you've seen Mike Bennett's … [Read more...] about The Portland Aquarium: Mike Bennett’s Imaginative Ocean Adventure

2026 India Festival at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Celebrate India’s Independence Day with live music, dance, food and other entertainment at Pioneer Courthouse Square. The event is hosted by the India Cultural Association, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing Indian cultural awareness in Portland, Oregon. Every year, ICA hosts the popular India … [Read more...] about 2026 India Festival at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Portland Art Museum Free Admission Day

Get free admission to the Portland Art Museum during the Miller Family Community Free Day. 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 Day

Summer Solstice Celebration at Cornell Farm

Celebrate the summer solstice at this local, family-owned nursery. Cornell Farm is hosting a day of learning, food and fun.  Cornell Farm dates back to 1987 when the family started a retail stand selling flowers and vegetable plants. From one to 13 greenhouses, the Portland farm now grows … [Read more...] about Summer Solstice Celebration at Cornell Farm

Wicked Craft’s Summer Solstice Night Market

Ring in the longest day of the year with an evening of magic, creativity and community at Wicked Craft’s Summer Solstice Night Market. Rooted in the earthy majesty of ancient arts and the divine strength of feminine creativity, Wicked Craft celebrates women from all walks of life. Here are the … [Read more...] about Wicked Craft’s Summer Solstice Night Market

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 continually used cemeteries. The 30 acres is the final resting place of many … [Read more...] about Tour Portland’s Historic Lone Fir Cemetery

Vancouver Pollinator Festival at Marshall Park

The Pollinator Festival hosts a full day of activities for you and your family.  More than 40 agencies, organizations, universities, artisans and local businesses are participating in this free outdoor festival.  Here are the details about the event: Pollinator Festival at Clark … [Read more...] about Vancouver Pollinator Festival at Marshall Park

Portland’s Free Rose Gardens

Stop and smell the roses at these four Portland rose gardens. Portland is the Rose City, so it is only natural that rose gardens are one of the main attractions. Rose gardens have taken root rich history of our city. The four gardens highlighted below have been public attractions for more than … [Read more...] about Portland’s Free Rose Gardens

Sunday Scaries: Spooky Stories from Portland Comedians

Looking for something a little spooky, a little silly and completely Portland? Sunday Scaries Comedy Show is the perfect blend of paranormal tales and laughs hosted by Andie Main and her crew of quick-witted friends. This show blends paranormal stories, improv and stand up comedy making each … [Read more...] about Sunday Scaries: Spooky Stories from Portland Comedians

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Entertainment

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

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

Portland Rose Festival Free and Cheap Events

For more than 100 years, the Portland Rose Festival has been a beloved celebration of our beautiful city. It takes place every year from the end of May through June. This citywide celebration is inclusive of everyone with many free and cheap events to enjoy.  The 2026 Rose Festival is May … [Read more...] about Portland Rose Festival Free and Cheap Events

2026 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days

Get free entrance to Forest Service recreation areas on nine holidays in 2026. 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 2026 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Weekend Train Rides

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

Enjoy $1 Family Flicks at Regal Cinemas Summer Movie Express

Regal Cinemas Summer Movie Express is bringing cheap family-friendly movies all summer break to a theater near you.  Keep the kids entertained all summer long. Spend every week of summer vacation viewing family-friendly movies at your closest Regal Cinemas location. During its Summer … [Read more...] about Enjoy $1 Family Flicks at Regal Cinemas Summer Movie Express

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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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