Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Entertainment

New Year’s Eve Celebration and Drone Show in Portland

  Ring in 2025 at the New Year’s Eve Celebration in Downtown Portland at Pioneer Courthouse Square. Are you ready to welcome 2025 in the most spectacular way? Attend the inaugural family-friendly celebration complete with live drones, dancing and fun.  Here are the … [Read more...] about New Year’s Eve Celebration and Drone Show in Portland

How to Watch the 2025 New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square

If you're hosting an NYE party at your house or plan to ring in the new year in your favorite jammies, here's an easy way to make the night festive: watch the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square. Portland has lots of free and cheap events on New Year's Eve. But a quiet night a home can be … [Read more...] about How to Watch the 2025 New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square

Free and Cheap New Year’s Eve Events in Portland

New Year's Eve events in Portland are the perfect way to ring in 2025. Yet trying to find a celebration that doesn't cost a fortune can be difficult. Here's a round up of free and cheap New Year's Eve events in Portland.  Keep in mind that entrance to these parties may be free or cheap, but … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap New Year’s Eve Events in Portland

Free State Park Entrance on New Year’s Day

Start your year off on the right foot with free state park entrance. Oregon State Parks and Washington State Parks invite you to get outdoors on New Year’s Day. Day-use parking fees will be waived at participating parks on January 1, 2025. State parks have a range of activities to partake in, such … [Read more...] about Free State Park Entrance on New Year’s Day

2024 Portland Winter Ice Rink

Glide into the season with the perfect blend of tradition and holiday magic at the Portland Winter Ice Rink. 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 with family-friendly … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Winter Ice Rink

Bing in the New Year: A Milwaukie Celebration of the Bing Cherry Legacy

As the clock ticks down to the final moments of the year, Milwaukie is gearing up for a unique and exciting New Year's Eve celebration, Bing in the New Year. The event promises to be both family-friendly and fantastically festive. Milwaukie holds a special place in the history of the Bing cherry. … [Read more...] about Bing in the New Year: A Milwaukie Celebration of the Bing Cherry Legacy

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

Menorah Lighting Celebrations in and around Portland

Celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah at menorah lighting celebrations in and around Portland.. Hanukkah begins on the evening of Wednesday, December 25, 2024, and ends on the evening of Thursday, January 2, 2025.  Events are held on various dates during the week of Hanukkah. These events … [Read more...] about Menorah Lighting Celebrations in and around Portland

Portland Movie Theaters Open on Christmas Day

Make a new tradition on Christmas day by visiting one of these independent movie theaters in and around Portland. These 12 local theaters are showing new releases and Christmas classics on December 25. All of them have theater snacks and some offer full meals. If you want to take the stress out … [Read more...] about Portland Movie Theaters Open on Christmas Day

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

Christmas on Franklin: A Neighborhood Light Display in Vancouver

View eight 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, … [Read more...] about Christmas on Franklin: A Neighborhood Light Display in Vancouver

Native American New Year’s Eve Sobriety Powwow

Looking for a sober NYE celebration full of tradition? Head to the convention center for the 37th annual Native American New Year's Eve Sobriety Powwow. The event is hosted by the Native American Rehabilitation Association of the Northwest. The organization provides education, physical and mental … [Read more...] about Native American New Year’s Eve Sobriety Powwow

Live Broadcast of New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Space Needle

Seattle's iconic Space Needle is set to host a breathtaking celebration that promises to dazzle viewers. This year, view the New Year's Eve Fireworks at the Space Needle from the comfort of your home or in person.  The event features drones, lights and fireworks to ring in 2025 in style. … [Read more...] about Live Broadcast of New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Space Needle

2024 Winter Solstice Celebrations in Portland

Discover the magic of the Winter Solstice in Portland. Events are taking place throughout the city inviting you to feel the warmth of the season on the shortest day of the year. This ancient celebration marks a turning point—where the long, dark nights begin to wane, and the promise of light and … [Read more...] about 2024 Winter Solstice Celebrations in Portland

Procrastinators Holiday Market at Clackamas High School

Celebrate the season at the 13th annual Procrastinators Holiday Market. Join a celebration of 13 incredible years of bringing the joy of the holidays to Happy Valley at this two-day event.  Here are the details about the upcoming market:  Procrastinators Holiday Market at Clackamas … [Read more...] about Procrastinators Holiday Market at Clackamas High School

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

Christmas Day at McMenamins Kennedy School

Once your stocking is emptied, presents are opened and you've eaten your tasty morning treats, what's on the agenda for the rest of your day? Many of us are asking ourselves what we are going to do in Portland on Christmas Day. The McMenamins Kennedy School has us covered.  Here are the … [Read more...] about Christmas Day at McMenamins Kennedy School

Tuba Christmas Concert at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Head to Portland's Living Room for a special tuba Christmas 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 … [Read more...] about Tuba Christmas Concert at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Trackers Holiday Faire: Craft Fair, Cookies and Archery

Enjoy a craft fair, cookies and archery at the 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 Trackers Lodge for a day of family fun. 2024 … [Read more...] about Trackers Holiday Faire: Craft Fair, Cookies and Archery

2024 Tigard Chanukah Festival

Get ready to experience a beautiful celebration of light and community at the annual Tigard Chanukah Festival. The Tigard Chanukah Festival is part of a worldwide tradition of public menorah lightings. With nearly 15,000 similar events take place across the globe, the lighting of the menorah … [Read more...] about 2024 Tigard Chanukah Festival

Christmas Eve-Eve Celebration at Freeland Spirits

Kick off your festive celebrations with Freeland Spirits at the Christmas Eve-Eve Party. The Portland-based distillery is pulling out all the stops to ensure a day filled with merriment, laughter and, of course, delicious spirits. Here are the details about the event:  Christmas Eve-Eve … [Read more...] about Christmas Eve-Eve Celebration at Freeland Spirits

A Pittock Mansion Christmas: Home for the Holidays

As the holiday season approaches, the iconic Pittock Mansion in Portland is gearing up to transform into a Home for the Holidays, 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 … [Read more...] about A Pittock Mansion Christmas: Home for the Holidays

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

2024 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 2024 Christmas Festival of Lights at The Grotto

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

New Year’s Eve Skate Party at Oaks Park

Rink in the new year at Oaks Park! Bring together your whole family or a group of friends for a special New Year's Eve party at the roller rink.  Oaks Amusement Park in Portland has been bringing joy to the young and young at heart since 1905. In fact, it is one of the oldest continually … [Read more...] about New Year’s Eve Skate Party at Oaks Park

2024 Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition

Pioneer Courthouse Square hosts 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 2024 event.  2024 Great Figgy Pudding Caroling … [Read more...] about 2024 Great Figgy Pudding Caroling Competition

A Christmas Bazaar at Clark College

Celebrate the holidays at A Christmas Bazaar in Vancouver, where festive cheer meets handmade treasures. With an exciting lineup of activities and vendors, make your holiday shopping a wrap at this weekend's market.  Here are the details: A Christmas Bazaar at Clark College A Christmas … [Read more...] about A Christmas Bazaar at Clark College

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

2024 Winter Gleam: A New Holiday Light Experience at Oaks Amusement Park

Portland has a new must-see attraction this winter! Winter Gleam, a holiday light experience, will make its sparkling debut at Oaks Amusement Park.  As you wander through the park, you'll be captivated by dynamic holiday lights that infuse the park with festive energy, creating the perfect … [Read more...] about 2024 Winter Gleam: A New Holiday Light Experience at Oaks Amusement Park

2024 Holiday History Tours at the Victorian Belle

Experience the magic of the holiday season like never before during Holiday History Tours at the Victorian Belle. Journey back to the opulent 1880s at the Victorian Belle Mansion in North Portland. This December, the Victorian Belle invites you to step into a world of glittering charm and … [Read more...] about 2024 Holiday History Tours at the Victorian Belle

2024 Christmas at the Park in Vancouver

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. What better way to celebrate than at the 10th annual Christmas at the Park. This cherished community tradition is back and bigger than ever to spread holiday joy and make this season truly magical for everyone. Here's how you can participate in this … [Read more...] about 2024 Christmas at the Park in Vancouver

Polish Christmas Bazaar in Portland

As the holidays draw near, it's time to immerse yourself in the festive spirit. The Polish Christmas Bazaar brings together the warmth of tradition, the joy of community and the magic of Christmas in one delightful afternoon. Stock up on unique goods at this weekend market.  Here are the … [Read more...] about Polish Christmas Bazaar in Portland

Dongzhi: Winter Solstice Celebration at Lan Su Chinese Garden

Lan Su Chinese Garden invites you to immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Dongzhi, the winter solstice.  Originating from the Han Dynasty, Dongzhi holds a special place in Chinese culture, symbolizing family reunions, good fortune and the promise of a bountiful year ahead. Lan Su … [Read more...] about Dongzhi: Winter Solstice Celebration at Lan Su Chinese Garden

2024 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 2024 Crafty Wonderland Holiday Art and Craft Market

Peppermints and Ponies at Silver Buckle Ranch

Do you have a horse crazy kid in your life? Take them to Peppermints and Ponies at Silver Buckle Ranch. Silver Buckle Ranch is a nonprofit that uses equine therapy to help youth build self-confidence, learn the value of completing tasks, achieve personal growth, overcome fears, connect socially … [Read more...] about Peppermints and Ponies at Silver Buckle Ranch

Holiday Vegan Night Market

Portland has so many delicious vegan eats. Whether you live by a plant-based diet or you're curious about vegan cuisine, stop by the Vegan Night Market for an evening of food and fun. Come support local vegan restaurants, pop-ups, businesses, nonprofits and grassroots organizations at the … [Read more...] about Holiday Vegan Night Market

Forest Festive: World Forestry Center Free Admission and Activities

Kick off your holiday season with a day of creativity, education and festive cheer during Forest Festive at the World Forestry Center. On Saturday, December 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., bring your family and friends to enjoy a variety of free activities celebrating the beauty of Oregon’s forests … [Read more...] about Forest Festive: World Forestry Center Free Admission and Activities

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

Bird Alliance of Oregon’s Wild Arts Festival

Celebrate art, literature and nature at the Bird Alliance of Oregon's Wild Arts Festival. For 44 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

2024 ScanFair: Nordic Christmas Market

Enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes and traditions of a Nordic Christmas market at ScanFair.  For 40 years, 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.  2024 … [Read more...] about 2024 ScanFair: Nordic Christmas Market

2024 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 2024 Free Photos with Santa

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 2024 display, including the new … [Read more...] about The North Pole at Eagle Crest

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 2024 event.  2024 Regal Holiday Classics Movie … [Read more...] about Regal Holiday Classics Movie Series

2024 Fremont Holiday Fest

Get in the spirit of the season at the Fremont Holiday Fest!  On Friday, December 6, 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 2024 Fremont Holiday Fest

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

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