Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Entertainment

Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Rockwood Market Hall

Get ready for a day full of culture, music, food and community spirit at the Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Rockwood Market Hall. Bring your family and friends to a vibrant celebration that also marks three years since Rockwood Market Hall opened its doors. Here's what is in store: Cinco de Mayo … [Read more...] about Cinco de Mayo Celebration at Rockwood Market Hall

Portland Street Fairs You Won’t Want to Miss

Enjoy free summertime fun at these Portland street fairs. One of my favorite summertime activities in Portland is attending the totally free, family-friendly and fun neighborhood street fairs. If you're new to Portland or haven't explored the city in a while, this is a great way to get out there … [Read more...] about Portland Street Fairs You Won’t Want to Miss

Mother’s Day Birding and Wildflower Festival

If you're looking for a fun way to celebrate Mom while enjoying nature, attend the Mother’s Day Birding and Wildflower Festival at Silver Falls State Park. The park is in bloom and filled with winged and four-legged creatures hiding among the beautiful plant life and waterways that make this park … [Read more...] about Mother’s Day Birding and Wildflower Festival

Free and Cheap Mother’s Day Events in and around Portland

There's something for every mom in this list of free and cheap Mother's Day events in and around Portland. The best part is no one has to spend a bunch of money to celebrate Mom on this special day. Instead, opt for some quality time and a fun activity. Take a look at what Portland and … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Mother’s Day Events in and around Portland

Spring Garden Fair at Clackamas County Event Center

Enjoy a weekend of discovery, inspiration and fun at the annual Spring Garden Fair. The spring event, hosted by the Clackamas County Master Gardener Association, has taken place the weekend before Mother’s Day since 1984. What started as a small fuchsia sale has grown into a two-day fair with … [Read more...] about Spring Garden Fair at Clackamas County Event Center

Hood River Cider Fest

Discover some of the region's best hard cider at the Hood River Cider Fest. Just an hour from Portland, the 11th annual event is bringing together 20 Oregon and Washington cideries. Hood River Cider Fest The cider fest is taking place May 3, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. There are more than 30 … [Read more...] about Hood River Cider Fest

2025 Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Attend the 38th annual Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Tom McCall Waterfront Park in downtown Portland. The fiesta lights up the city with color, rhythm and flavor. The event is the largest multicultural festival in Oregon. The three-day bilingual event hosts special attractions and featured … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

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

Crafty Wonderland Spring Art and Craft Market

Plan your visit to the Crafty Wonderland Spring Art and Craft Market, the largest handmade craft show in the Northwest. Crafty Wonderland is the ultimate local handmade art and craft event of the season. If you haven’t attended this magical craft fair in the past, let me give you a little … [Read more...] about Crafty Wonderland Spring Art and Craft Market

Farm Walk About at Frog Pond Farm

Get up close with farm animals and enjoy family-friendly activities during a Farm Walk About at Frog Pond Farm. Every spring and summer, Frog Pond Farm invites the public to spend the day enjoying life on the 40-acre property. Here's how you can enjoy farm animals this weekend:  Farm … [Read more...] about Farm Walk About at Frog Pond Farm

New Year in the Park: Join the Southeast Asian Cultural Celebration

Join a cultural festival celebrated by Southeast Asian communities: New Year in the Park. This event promises a blend of tradition, community and celebration for everyone to enjoy. Local Southeast Asian communities honor traditions, elders and culture at this annual celebration. The event extends … [Read more...] about New Year in the Park: Join the Southeast Asian Cultural Celebration

Indigenous Culture Day at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Listen and learn from Indigenous educators in the culturally rich Tryon Creek State Natural Area during Indigenous Culture Day. 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 … [Read more...] about Indigenous Culture Day at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Portland Vintage Market: Discover Unique Finds at this Vintage Clothing Event

Attend one of Oregon’s largest vintage clothing events, Portland Vintage Market.  What began as a modest pop-up in the parking lot of Hollywood Vintage back in August 2020 has blossomed into a thriving vintage community. Built by and for vintage enthusiasts, Portland Vintage Market stays … [Read more...] about Portland Vintage Market: Discover Unique Finds at this Vintage Clothing Event

Spring Book and Media Sale at Beaverton City Library

Calling all book lovers, media collectors, and bargain hunters! The Spring Book and Media Sale at Beaverton City Library is just around the corner.  While stocking up your book shelves, you can also find various media to keep you entertained all year long.  Here's what you can expect at … [Read more...] about Spring Book and Media Sale at Beaverton City Library

2025 Free and Cheap Easter Events

Looking for a fun way to celebrate Easter with the whole family? Find an Easter egg hunt or event near your Portland neighborhood or neighboring city. From religious ceremonies to secular festivities, Easter is a time when families and communities come together to mark the end of winter, embrace … [Read more...] about 2025 Free and Cheap Easter Events

Oregon Potters Association Ceramic Showcase

In its 42nd year, the Oregon Potters Association invites the public to a free ceramic showcase. The association represents a group of diverse ceramic artists, makers, teachers and students. At the annual event, the members bring their creations under one roof for the whole community to … [Read more...] about Oregon Potters Association Ceramic Showcase

Tulip Fields at Holland America Flower Gardens

This location is no longer open to the public. A few years ago, I stumbled across a beautiful tulip field that seemed too good to be true. Located just 30 minutes from Portland, the tulip fields at Holland America Flower Gardens are in bloom and free to visit.  Holland America Flower … [Read more...] about Tulip Fields at Holland America Flower Gardens

Hortlandia Plant and Garden Art Sale

Get your garden ready for the growing season at the Hortlandia Plant and Garden Art Sale. The sale is hosted by the Hardy Plant Society of Oregon. Founded in 1984, the organization is dedicated to nurturing the gardening community in Oregon and Southwest Washington. The organization … [Read more...] about Hortlandia Plant and Garden Art Sale

2025 Portland Spring Festivals

Get ready for spring festivals in Portland. My favorite season in Portland is spring. By March, the sun starts to shine once again and our neighborhoods come to life with the sights and smells of springtime blooms. It feels like our city is rising anew with a bounty of opportunities to get out … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Spring Festivals

Target Offers Free Peacock Premium Subscription

Want to try a new streaming service? Target is letting you try Peacock Premium for free.  Peacock has lots of options, including new movies, hit series, live sports, Peacock Originals and more. Plus, find current NBC & Bravo shows, more than 50 always-on channels and live news. Best of … [Read more...] about Target Offers Free Peacock Premium Subscription

Discount Ride Home during St. Patrick’s Day Weekend

Get home safe from during St Patrick's Day weekend. City of Portland is offering a discount ride home to anyone who needs it. Take the stress out of paying for parking and finding a designated driver. Here's how you can claim this discount.  If you're looking for a place to celebrate, … [Read more...] about Discount Ride Home during St. Patrick’s Day Weekend

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Entertainment

Fiction Book Swap at McMenamins Kennedy School

Calling all bibliophiles! Spend the afternoon exchanging titles at the Fiction Book Swap at McMenamins Kennedy School. Belmont Books partnered with McMenamins Kennedy School for a special event centered around book lovers. Those looking to read more in the new year or eager to discover new stories … [Read more...] about Fiction Book Swap at McMenamins Kennedy School

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Entertainment · Shopping

Stream Apple TV+ for Free This Weekend

Interested in adding a new streaming service in 2025? Apple TV+ is giving you a chance to try its platform for free this weekend. It can be difficult to choose a new streaming service that will be worth the additional monthly cost. If you’re unfamiliar with Apple TV+ or are interested in some of … [Read more...] about Stream Apple TV+ for Free This Weekend

2024 Portland Winter Ice Rink

The winter ice rink is not open in 2025.  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 … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Winter Ice Rink

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

McMenamins Ugly Sweater Day

Get special discounts on select drinks and food during McMenamins Ugly Sweater Day! There’s something magical about ugly holiday sweaters—they’re embarrassing, thrilling, horrible, and delightful all at once. Whether your sweater features gag-worthy color combinations, tacky patterns, or that … [Read more...] about McMenamins Ugly Sweater Day

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

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

This event has not been announced for 2025.  Winter Gleam, a holiday light experience, returns to dazzle guests with colorful lights and fun displays at Oaks Amusement Park.  As you wander through the park, you'll be captivated by dynamic holiday lights that infuse the park with … [Read more...] about 2024 Winter Gleam: A Holiday Light Experience at Oaks Amusement Park

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

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

PDX Moon Market

Find unique, handcrafted items at the PDX Moon Market.  The market blends local artisans and makers and food and cocktail vendors with fun activities and a welcoming environment.  Here are the details about the upcoming event. Another upcoming market you might enjoy is Maizee … [Read more...] about PDX Moon Market

Bob’s Red Mill Harvest Festival

Looking for a fun way to celebrate fall? Attend the Bob’s Red Mill Harvest Festival for an afternoon full of family-friendly fun and seasonal excitement. Here are the details: Bob's Red Mill Harvest Festival Bob’s Red Mill Harvest Festival is Saturday, October 26 from 12-3 p.m. at the Whole … [Read more...] about Bob’s Red Mill Harvest Festival

Halloween Skate: Get Discount Admission at Lloyd Center Ice Rink

Make new spooky fun memories at the Lloyd Center Ice Rink this Halloween. Get discount admission during this special holiday event.   Did you know that the Lloyd Center Ice Rink made history when it first opened in 1960? It was the nation's first ice rink located inside a shopping … [Read more...] about Halloween Skate: Get Discount Admission at Lloyd Center Ice Rink

Haunted Haven Vintage Market: Step into the Spookiest Shopping Experience

Are you ready for a shopping experience with a twist? Attend Haunted Haven Vintage Market, a one-of-a-kind event where vintage fashion meets Halloween thrills. With so many unique vintage pieces, incredible vibes and a spooky atmosphere, this is one Portland event you won't want to … [Read more...] about Haunted Haven Vintage Market: Step into the Spookiest Shopping Experience

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Entertainment · Shopping

The Pumpkin Display at West Linn

The pumpkin display in West Linn is not open in 2025. Here's a list of other Halloween events: This home is transforming into a lair fit for a pumpkin king this fall. The Pumpkin Display at West Linn has more than 200 carvings to entertain Halloween lovers of all ages.  It all … [Read more...] about The Pumpkin Display at West Linn

The Compassionate Living Festival

Celebrate 20 years of community for people, the planet and animals at the Compassionate Living Festival. For 20 years, Northwest VEG has promoted plant-based diets and supported communities in their journey toward a vegan lifestyle. This special festival celebrates that journey by highlighting … [Read more...] about The Compassionate Living Festival

2024 Fall Harvest Festival at Topaz Farm

With vibrant autumn colors, family-friendly activities and the charm of the farm, the Fall Harvest Festival at Topaz Farm has everything you need to celebrate the season. The festival aims to give visitors an authentic harvest experience without the overcrowding or long lines. Here's what you … [Read more...] about 2024 Fall Harvest Festival at Topaz Farm

Open Archery Range at Trackers Portland

Learn a new skill during open archery range days at Trackers Portland. Trackers is a team of expert educators who connect kids and adults with real adventures in the natural world.  Here's how you can shoot your shot once a week at the organization's headquarters. Open Archery Range Days … [Read more...] about Open Archery Range at Trackers Portland

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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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