Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Entertainment

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

2024 Portland Adult Soapbox Derby

Mt. Tabor is transforming into a raceway for the annual Portland Adult Soapbox Derby. Once a year, Portlanders convene on the slopes of the city park. Some are there to put their homemade, human-powered vehicles to the test. Others are there to simply enjoy the show.  Here's how you can join … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Adult Soapbox Derby

2024 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 2024 Beaverton Night Market

Cheap and Awesome Ways to Catch Live Music in Portland

See live music in Portland at one of these venues during your next night out.  Portland is celebrated for its vibrant music scene. Although this city does not always get the headliners that stop by our west coast neighbors like San Francisco and Seattle, Portlanders go all out for bands that … [Read more...] about Cheap and Awesome Ways to Catch Live Music in Portland

2024 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 2024 Oregon City Porchfest

Music on Main: Free Outdoor Concert Series

The Music on Main free outdoor concert series is back for its 17th year in 2024. Portland’5 is taking advantage of thesummer weather to bring you a fantastic lineup of live music. Located on Main Street next to the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall, these concerts showcase popular local musicians … [Read more...] about Music on Main: Free Outdoor Concert Series

2024 Portland Goth Float

Gather with your fellow Goth community at the 10th 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 2024 float. 2024 … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Goth Float

Topaz Farm Sunflower Maze

Take a trip to Sauvie Island for the sunflower maze at Topaz Farm. The Sauvie Island farm has a produce market, farm animals, you-pick crops, a grill and lots of harvest time events. The farm also plants a sunflower maze for visitors to enjoy in late summer. Here are the details about the 2024 … [Read more...] about Topaz Farm Sunflower Maze

Washington Park Summer Festival

The beloved Washington Park Summer Festival returns, featuring international performances in an inspiring outdoor setting. The event takes place at the Rose Garden Amphitheater in Washington Park, the keeper of Portland’s best attractions. The park features the International Rose Test Garden, … [Read more...] about Washington Park Summer Festival

Music Millennium’s Customer Appreciation Bar-B-Q

Music Millennium is celebrating its customers with live performances, deals and complimentary food at the 31st annual Customer Appreciation Bar-B-Q. Music Millennium has been a staple of the Laurelhurst neighborhood since 1969. It also holds the title of oldest record store in the Pacific … [Read more...] about Music Millennium’s Customer Appreciation Bar-B-Q

2024 Portland Witches Paddle Boarding Event

**This event is on hiatus on 2024. The details below are from 2023.** Picture this: a convoy of witches on stand-up paddleboards gliding along the Willamette River against the backdrop of Portland's skyline. Watch witches descend on the downtown waterway at this annual paddle boarding event in … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Witches Paddle Boarding Event

2024 Obon Fest at the Oregon Buddhist Temple

Attend Obon Fest, a Japanese summertime celebration, at the Oregon Buddhist Temple. For the past 30 years, the Oregon Buddhist Temple has welcomed families, non-Buddhist neighbors, and fun-loving food lovers to the festival.  Here's how you can participate in the event. 2024 Obon Fest at … [Read more...] about 2024 Obon Fest at the Oregon Buddhist Temple

2024 India Festival at Beaverton City Park

Celebrate India’s Independence Day with live music, dance, food and other entertainment at Beaverton City Park. 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 Festival … [Read more...] about 2024 India Festival at Beaverton City Park

2024 Chinese Festival at Pioneer Courthouse Square

The Oregon Chinese Coalition is hosting the annual Chinese Festival in August. Celebrate Chinese American culture while enjoying a full lineup of entertainment, Chinese food, authentic arts and crafts, and family-friendly activities. Here are the scheduled entertainment, activities, food and … [Read more...] about 2024 Chinese Festival at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Hollywood Theatre’s Outdoor Movies in Oregon State Parks

Celebrate Oregon State Parks and classic cinema at these outdoor movies presented by Hollywood Theatre.  Since 2016, the Hollywood Theatre has partnered with Oregon State Parks to host a series of screenings in state parks. All of the events are held at parks within an hour of Portland. Films … [Read more...] about Hollywood Theatre’s Outdoor Movies in Oregon State Parks

2024 Vancouver Arts & Music Festival

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable weekend as the Vancouver Arts & Music Festival. This vibrant event is set to showcase award-winning musicians, talented visual artists from across the region and captivating local performers. Head to Esther Short Park for a celebration of creativity … [Read more...] about 2024 Vancouver Arts & Music Festival

Free Open Play Swim Sessions at Portland Pools

Cool off this summer at one of our city's outdoor pools for free during open play swim sessions. All of Portland Parks and Recreation's outdoor pools are offering free open play swim sessions this summer. No registration is required to swim. Free admission is available on a first come, first … [Read more...] about Free Open Play Swim Sessions at Portland Pools

Legendary Makers Market: A Celebration of Asian American Heritage

Oregon’s biggest Asian-centered night market returns this weekend! The Legendary Makers Market is celebrating a new venue and more than 200 vendors focused on Asian American culture and creativity. Here are details about the event.  You may also like Portland Flea Vintage, Handmade … [Read more...] about Legendary Makers Market: A Celebration of Asian American Heritage

Free Admission for Educators at Portland Museums

A group of Portland museums have banded together to offer free admission to educators. On select days this summer, educators can visit the museums to enjoy complimentary tickets and tours.  Here are the details for each participating museum along with the scheduled educator focused … [Read more...] about Free Admission for Educators at Portland Museums

Free Summer Concerts in the Parks

Enjoying music outdoors is a quintessential summertime activity. Portland Parks and Recreation is hosting 30 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

2024 Milwaukie Cruise-In

The 41st annual Milwaukie Cruise-In offers free entertainment, discounted bowling and food deals.  On Saturday, August 3, 2024, from 3-10 p.m., the Milwaukie Bowl parking lot hosts cool, classic cars. Live entertainment includes Dirty Dave the Record Slave from 3-6 p.m. and The Average Joes … [Read more...] about 2024 Milwaukie Cruise-In

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 … [Read more...] about Enjoy $1 Family Flicks at Regal Cinemas Summer Movie Express

Portlandia Mermaid Parade and Festival

Have you ever wanted to be a mermaid? The Portlandia Mermaid Parade and Festival invites everyone to dress up as merfolk or other mythical water creatures for a walk downtown.  Since 2016, the Portlandia Mermaid Parade has been a free grassroots artistic event celebrating our community's … [Read more...] about Portlandia Mermaid Parade and Festival

OPS Fest: Free Shakespeare in Portland Parks

Watch free Shakespeare performances in Portland Parks during OPS Fest this summer.  Original Practice Shakespeare Festival is celebrating its 16th season with 21 plays at 10 parks in the Portland metro area. The company will present a selection of Shakespeare’s most popular plays as well as … [Read more...] about OPS Fest: Free Shakespeare in Portland Parks

2024 Milwaukie Porchfest

The Milwaukie Arts Committee is hosting Porchfest, an event that invites local musicians and performers to showcase their talents to the community from their porches, driveways and front yards. Started in 2020, Porchfest showcases local talent with informal concerts decentralized across the city. … [Read more...] about 2024 Milwaukie Porchfest

Americana Harvest Fest Summer Concert Series at Topaz Farm

Enjoy live music at a one-of-a-kind venue this summer. Get your tickets for Americana Harvest Fest Summer Concert Series at Topaz Farm. Located on Sauvie Island, Topaz Farm is a great outdoor escape. In the summer, the farm has you-pick berries, fruits and flowers, good eats and drinks, a market … [Read more...] about Americana Harvest Fest Summer Concert Series at Topaz Farm

2024 Peruvian Cultural Festival

Enjoy food, art, vendors and performances at the Peruvian Cultural Festival. Founded in 2018, the event invites the community to come together in celebration of Peruvian culture.  Here are the details about the 2024 event.  2024 Peruvian Cultural Festival The Peruvian cultural art … [Read more...] about 2024 Peruvian Cultural Festival

2024 Cathedral Park Jazz Festival

The annual Cathedral Park Jazz Festival is Portland's best free concert of the summer. This three-day event features the region's most talented Jazz and Blues musicians harmonizing with the incredible backdrop of the St. Johns Bridge at Cathedral Park. This year, the festival will have a full … [Read more...] about 2024 Cathedral Park Jazz Festival

La Strada dei Pastelli Chalk Art Festival

The streets of downtown Hillsboro become a canvas during the La Strada dei Pastelli Chalk Art Festival. Tualatin Valley Creates is bringing together talented artists that will make the sidewalks come to life with their incredible creations. Tualatin Valley Creates serves Washington County’s 15 … [Read more...] about La Strada dei Pastelli Chalk Art Festival

Portland’s Street Bazaar at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Street Bazaar brings together the bold flavors, bright colors and vibrant energy of Portland’s food, drink, art and music scene.  The summertime event is brought to you by the producers of some of Portland's best markets, including Portland Flea, Roux Portland and Portland Bazaar. Attend … [Read more...] about Portland’s Street Bazaar at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Discount Days at Oaks Park

Save on your admission to Oaks Park during discount days.  Oaks Park has been Portland's amusement park since 1905. It is a summertime favorite for families and friends with thrilling rides, fun carnival games, an indoor roller skating rink and mini golf. While it will cost you a pretty … [Read more...] about Discount Days at Oaks Park

Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade

Gather with our local LGBTQIA2S+ community and allies at the Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade. The annual event has been a tradition in our city since 1994. This year, Portland's premier Pride event is in July.  Here are the details about the 2024 event:  2024 Portland … [Read more...] about Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade

Portland Thai Festival: The Taste of Thailand

Portland Thai Festival, known as the Taste of Thailand, is a vibrant cultural event that brings the essence of Thailand to our city through a delightful showcase of food and entertainment. This festival is not just about savoring delicious dishes but also about experiencing Thai … [Read more...] about Portland Thai Festival: The Taste of Thailand

2024 Gresham Arts Festival

Meet, browse and shop from a select group of juried Pacific Northwest artisans at the Gresham Arts Festival. Experience art in the heart of the city. This free, family-friendly event includes live music, a kids village and local cuisine. Here's what you can expect at the annual event. 2024 … [Read more...] about 2024 Gresham Arts Festival

2024 Helvetia Lavender Festival

Wander through the lavender fields, cut your own flower bundles and take in stunning views of the Willamette Valley during the Helvetia Lavender Festival. Helvetia Lavender Farm is a short drive from Portland and showcases 60 different varieties of lavender. During the annual festival, guests are … [Read more...] about 2024 Helvetia Lavender Festival

East Portland Summer Arts Festival

Celebrate music and expression at the East Portland Summer Arts Festival.  At this year's festival, you'll be treated to Grammy caliber performers filling a Portland park with an evening of music and good vibes.  The event is part of Portland Parks and Recreation's Summer Free For … [Read more...] about East Portland Summer Arts Festival

2024 Vancouver Summer Fest’s Picnic in the Park

Summer Fest's Picnic in the Park invites the community to play, connect and celebrate this July. Held at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, this all-day event has a full line-up of activities and entertainment for families and people of all ages. View my full list of local 4th of July … [Read more...] about 2024 Vancouver Summer Fest’s Picnic in the Park

Sherwood Robin Hood Festival

For 71 years, Sherwood, Oregon, has celebrated the annual Sherwood Robin Hood Festival.  Take a short drive to Old Town Sherwood for a community parade, live entertainment on two stages, medieval reenactments, Maid Marian's Court, Robin Hood and his Merry Men, a knighting ceremony, a castle … [Read more...] about Sherwood Robin Hood Festival

4th of July Fireworks and Celebrations in and around Portland

Have a blast at one of these 4th of July events in and around Portland. Some celebrations have a whole day's worth of fun activities, games, live music and entertainment your whole family will enjoy. Portland firework shows and celebrations are held throughout the area. Keep in mind, the use of … [Read more...] about 4th of July Fireworks and Celebrations in and around Portland

2024 Portland Waterfront Fireworks Show

The Portland Waterfront Blues Festival is once again celebrating the 4th of July with a fireworks show over the Portland waterfront. You don't have to buy tickets to enjoy the show. Instead, view the Portland waterfront fireworks show from various vantage points throughout the city! Here's some … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Waterfront Fireworks Show

Picnic in the Pearl: A July 4 Celebration in the Pearl District

This year, First Thursday Street Gallery is hosting an extended event in celebration of July 4. Attend an afternoon of fun activities at Picnic in the Pearl, a special celebration in the Pearl District.  Make your way to the Pearl District for a day filled with art, food, fun and community … [Read more...] about Picnic in the Pearl: A July 4 Celebration in the Pearl District

Oak Hills 4th of July Celebration

The Oak Hills Homeowners Association in Beaverton is hosting its annual 4th of July celebration with fun-filled activities all day long.  The neighborhood is located north of Sunset Highway and is the first mid-century historic district in Oregon added to the National Register of Historic … [Read more...] about Oak Hills 4th of July Celebration

2024 Latino Cultural Festival

Celebrate Latino heritage, music and cuisine at the 18th annual Latino Cultural Festival. The event is hosted by the Hillsboro Hops at Hillsboro Ballpark. Head to the stadium for a day full of family-friendly activities. 2024 Latino Cultural Festival The 2024 Latino Cultural Festival is Sunday, … [Read more...] about 2024 Latino Cultural Festival

4th of July Celebration in Lake Oswego

Celebrate 4th of July all day in Lake Oswego. The city is hosting a parade and festival as well as a concert and laser light show. From morning till night, the city comes alive with lots of festivities that capture the essence of American patriotism and community spirit. Families and friends … [Read more...] about 4th of July Celebration in Lake Oswego

2024 Happy Valley 4th of July Family Festival

Happy Valley Park is transforming into a family festival for the 4th of July. Enjoy a hike, parade, activities and a fireworks show.  Here's the full schedule of events. In addition to this event, check out all the 4th of July fireworks and celebrations in and around Portland. 2024 … [Read more...] about 2024 Happy Valley 4th of July Family Festival

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