Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Entertainment

Vappu and Valborg Celebration at Nordic Northwest

Celebrate the end of winter at Nordic Northwest's Vappu Celebration.  Since 1986, Nordic Northwest has brought Scandinavia to Portland through traditional food, entertainment, goods and activities. Visit the Portland headquarters for a special Finnish and Swedish event. Vappu Celebration at … [Read more...] about Vappu and Valborg Celebration at Nordic Northwest

PlanetCon: A Free Recycling, Reuse and Sustainability Fair

Recycle, donate and find something new to you at PlanetCon. The free recycling, reuse and sustainability fair features recycling of plastics, electronics, small appliances and batteries; a free market swap area; a repair fair; and donation of goods. Here's how you can participate in this … [Read more...] about PlanetCon: A Free Recycling, Reuse and Sustainability Fair

Tulip Fields at Holland America Flower Gardens

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 Gardens started when Benno and Klazina immigrated from … [Read more...] about Tulip Fields at Holland America Flower Gardens

Oregon Potters Association Ceramic Showcase

In its 41st 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

Your Guide to the Partial Solar Eclipse on April 8

A partial solar eclipse can be seen in Oregon this April. Here's your guide to making the most of this astronomical event. Here's what you need to know about this natural phenomenon. I've gathered information about the upcoming eclipse along with how to safely see an eclipse and the best spots in … [Read more...] about Your Guide to the Partial Solar Eclipse on April 8

2024 Bricks Cascade LEGO Fan Expo

Let your imagination run wild at Portland's premier public LEGO event this weekend. The Oregon Convention Center is transforming into a LEGO enthusiast's dream. In its 12th year, the Bricks Cascade LEGO Fan Expo brings together hundreds of builders from the Pacific Northwest and around the world … [Read more...] about 2024 Bricks Cascade LEGO Fan Expo

Free Family Craft Events at Michaels

Get creative and crafty with your kids. Michaels hosts free family craft events every week.  Michaels' Sunday Make Break offers a fun outlet for kids and adults of all ages. Here's how you can participate in an upcoming event. Free Family Craft Events at Michaels Free family craft events … [Read more...] about Free Family Craft Events at Michaels

Family Movie Nights at The Judy

Are you tired of the usual routine of family movie nights? The Northwest Children's Theater and School invites you to shake things up and experience the joy of cinema like never before during family movie nights at The Judy Kafoury Center for Youth Arts. The Judy Kafoury Center for Youth Arts in … [Read more...] about Family Movie Nights at The Judy

Portland Chinatown Museum Anniversary Party

Join a celebration of local Chinese American history at the Portland Chinatown Museum's 10th anniversary party.   Opened in 2018, the Portland Chinatown Museum proudly stands as Oregon’s inaugural museum dedicated to Chinese American history, art and culture. It features permanent and … [Read more...] about Portland Chinatown Museum Anniversary Party

LEGO Animation Festival at Movie Madness

Attend a special event that combines the magic of LEGO and the art of stop-motion animation. The LEGO Animation Festival is a delightful afternoon filled with original films, creative animations and endless building possibilities. Hosted in collaboration with Bricks & Minifigs and Movie … [Read more...] about LEGO Animation Festival at Movie Madness

Shabu Dance Fair: Free 45-minute Classes

Calling all dance enthusiasts! Shabu Studios invites you to embark on a thrilling dance adventure at Shabu Dance Fair, where you can explore various dance styles for free. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just looking to dip your toes into the world of dance, this is the perfect opportunity … [Read more...] about Shabu Dance Fair: Free 45-minute Classes

1990’s and 2000’s Dance Flashbacks at Crystal Ballroom

Gather a group of your friends and dance to the '90s and '00s greatest hits at these special dance nights at McMenamins' historic venue, Crystal Ballroom. 1990's Dance Flashback and 2000's Dance Flashback are music video dance nights. You'll dance the night away to the best music videos from … [Read more...] about 1990’s and 2000’s Dance Flashbacks at Crystal Ballroom

Project Illumination in Downtown Portland

Take a stroll through the winter light display Project Illumination in Downtown Portland. This year, more than 850 street trees and several special light installations are on display. The nine light displays include: Holiday lighting street trees Ankeny St. Curtain of Light Star … [Read more...] about Project Illumination in Downtown Portland

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

Hulu Deal: Sign Up for 99 Cents a Month

Some of the links in this post are special! When you make a purchase through our links, we might earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

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

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

Your Guide to Oregon’s Annular Solar Eclipse on October 14

A ring of fire is traveling directly over Oregon this October. Here's your guide to making the most of the upcoming annular solar eclipse.  It’s been 11 years since the last annular eclipse in Oregon and the next one won't happen until 2077. It is definitely a bucket-list-worthy event you … [Read more...] about Your Guide to Oregon’s Annular Solar Eclipse on October 14

Oregon City Harvest Festival

Enjoy an afternoon of family-friendly fun featuring food, vendors and fun at the second annual Oregon City Harvest Festival. The event starts at Liberty Plaza and extends to the shops along Main Street. Activities include games, entertainment and contests. There is a special thriller flash mob … [Read more...] about Oregon City Harvest Festival

Indigenous Peoples Day at Tryon Creek

Spend an evening celebrating and learning on Indigenous Peoples Day at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. 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 … [Read more...] about Indigenous Peoples Day at Tryon Creek

Creature Feature in the Dark Haunted Drive-in Movie

Watch your favorite horror films from the comfort of your vehicle while spooky creatures perform skits, performances and a unique haunted experience. Celebrate Halloween early at a Creature Feature in the Dark haunted drive-in movie in September.  Here's how you can enjoy a fun night … [Read more...] about Creature Feature in the Dark Haunted Drive-in Movie

The Fall Market on Alberta Street

Celebrate the changing of the seasons at The Fall Market on Alberta Street.  Celebrate Portland, an organization dedicated to producing diverse, inclusive, and unforgettable events, is hosting their largest market of the year this week.  Here are the details about this upcoming … [Read more...] about The Fall Market on Alberta Street

Fiesta Latina en el Parque

Celebrate Latino culture and heritage in North Clackamas Park.  North Clackamas Parks and Recreation District was created to provides Clackamas County with exceptional parks and recreation programs. At this event, the district invites the community to learn about diverse tradi­tions through … [Read more...] about Fiesta Latina en el Parque

2023 Mid-Autumn Moon Festival

Join the local Asian American Pacific Islander community at this one-of-a-kind night market and cultural celebration. The Mid-Autumn Moon Festival hosts a night of food, activities and performances. The event is hosted by White Lotus Foundation, a local nonprofit committed to supporting and … [Read more...] about 2023 Mid-Autumn Moon Festival

2023 Ankeny Alley Festivals

Ankeny Alley Festivals invites the community to return to downtown for unique eats and fantastic entertainment at six celebrations this summer and fall.  Ankeny Alley is home to many popular Portland eateries, from Voodoo Doughnut to the historic Dan & Louis Oyster Bar. During the … [Read more...] about 2023 Ankeny Alley Festivals

Brazilian Festival at Portland Mercado

The 6th annual Brazilian Festival gathers some of our city's best Brazilian flavors and goods for a special one-day celebration. The Portland Mercado is the hub of Latin culture in our city. The public market space features eight food carts and five indoor businesses representing the diverse … [Read more...] about Brazilian Festival at Portland Mercado

National Cinema Day: $4 Tickets at Select Portland Theaters

Get $4 tickets on National Cinema Day thanks to the Cinema Foundation.  This blockbuster deal is available for one day only for select movies at theaters throughout the Portland area.  Here's more information about this deal: National Cinema Day: $4 Tickets at Select Portland … [Read more...] about National Cinema Day: $4 Tickets at Select Portland Theaters

Community Day at Rose City Golf Course

Portland Parks and Recreation is hosting a free community day full of family-friendly activities at Rose City Golf Course.  Head to the golf course in Northeast Portland for activities, games, nature, and a live concert. Here are the details: Community Day at Rose City Golf … [Read more...] about Community Day at Rose City Golf Course

Portland Art Picnic at Grant Park

Grant Park becomes an art gallery this weekend. Explore the creations of local artists in a picturesque setting at Portland Art Picnic this weekend.  Portland Art Picnic is a pop-up, outdoor art gallery and sale to promote Portland local artists. Here are the details about Saturday's … [Read more...] about Portland Art Picnic at Grant Park

Asian American Pacific Peoples Community Science Night at OMSI

Celebrate Asian American culture and community at this special OMSI science night. Asian American Pacific Peoples Community Science Night is a family-friendly night of museum exploring, science demos, lectures and cultural entertainment. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, better known as … [Read more...] about Asian American Pacific Peoples Community Science Night at OMSI

Portland Mercado’s Taste of Latin America

Portland Mercado’s Taste of Latin America brings together some of our city's best Latin flavors and goods.  The Portland Mercado is the hub of Latin culture in our city. The public market space features six food carts and four indoor businesses representing the diverse flavors of Latin … [Read more...] about Portland Mercado’s Taste of Latin America

Flash Waltz at Peninsula Park Rose Garden

Spend an evening dancing in one of Portland's iconic rose gardens during Flash Waltz. As the Rose City, Portland has many beautiful rose gardens that are completely free to visit. Summer events make these blooms even more special.  Here's how you can dance the night away at Peninsula Park … [Read more...] about Flash Waltz at Peninsula Park Rose Garden

Nature Fair at Leach Botanical Garden

Attend Nature Fair at one of Portland's best outdoor escapes. Head to Leach Botanical Garden for fun activities and time spent together in nature. 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 … [Read more...] about Nature Fair at Leach Botanical Garden

The 4th Wall PDX Free and Cheap Events

Update: The 4th Wall PDX is closed.  Attend one of these fun events at Portland's cinema-themed cafe, The 4th Wall PDX. The 4th Wall PDX is a cafe and lounge along Hawthorne Boulevard. This casual hangout spot uses its large screen to host movie and game events almost every day of the … [Read more...] about The 4th Wall PDX Free and Cheap Events

Rose City Sneakerfest

Where are all my sneakerheads at? Shoe lovers in the Portland area won't want to miss Rose City Sneakerfest. This is Portland's first premier sneaker event. Organizers invite you to come out and meet others who share your passions for shoes and streetwear. Here are the details about the summer … [Read more...] about Rose City Sneakerfest

2023 Mt. Tabor Summer Concert

Come together with the community to dance and celebrate in nature at the Mt. Tabor Summer Concert. Summer concerts are a long-standing tradition at Mt. Tabor, one of Portland's best picnic parks. Head to Southeast Portland for an evening of family-friendly fun. If you're looking for more great … [Read more...] about 2023 Mt. Tabor Summer Concert

Portland Parks Foundation’s Paseo Festival

Portland Parks Foundation has created a first-of-its-kind summer festival in downtown Portland. Paseo is a free community event featuring creative artists and family-friendly activities.  In its second year, the festival is inspired by the Spanish evening stroll that reawakens the city. … [Read more...] about Portland Parks Foundation’s Paseo Festival

Good in the Hood Multicultural Music and Food Festival

Good in the Hood has been canceled in 2024. The next event is scheduled for June 28-29, 2025. The 30th annual Good in the Hood Multicultural Music and Food Festival is strengthening unity in the community. The annual festival in Northeast Portland sets the stage for locally and nationally … [Read more...] about Good in the Hood Multicultural Music and Food Festival

Pollinator Festival at Clark Public Utilities

Celebrate National Pollinator Week with Clark Public Utilities. The family-friendly Pollinator Festival has a full day of activities for you and your family.  More than 25 agencies, organizations, universities, artisans and local businesses are participating in this free outdoor … [Read more...] about Pollinator Festival at Clark Public Utilities

Latin American Community Ciencias Night at OMSI

Celebrate Latin American culture and community at this special OMSI science night. Latin American Community Ciencias Night is a family-friendly night of museum exploring, science demos, lectures and cultural entertainment. The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, better known as OMSI, is one of … [Read more...] about Latin American Community Ciencias Night at OMSI

OJMCHE Cultural Festival Street Party

Celebrate the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education's reopening at the Cultural Festival Street Party. View the opening of a new gallery and three exhibitions along with a street-wide festival.  Here are the details about the event:  OJMCHE Cultural Festival Street … [Read more...] about OJMCHE Cultural Festival Street Party

Hulu Deal: Pay $2 per Month for 3 Months

Some of the links in this post are special! When you make a purchase through our links, we might earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

I don't know about you, but Hulu has been my go-to streaming service lately. The service consistently has new shows and movies that draw me in. I have become a big fan of many of the streaming service's original series, including The Great, The Bear, Only Murders in the Building and several … [Read more...] about Hulu Deal: Pay $2 per Month for 3 Months

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