Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Family & Parenting

North Portland Free Clothing Exchange

Update your wardrobe at this free community clothing exchange. The North Portland Free Clothing Exchange was started by a group of friends who were looking for a way to pass along gently used clothing, especially for their kids who outgrew clothes quickly. The clothing exchange is built on the … [Read more...] about North Portland Free Clothing Exchange

Glow Skate Nights at Oaks Park Roller Rink

Get out of the house and enjoy a fun evening activity at Oaks Park Roller Rink's Glow Skate Nights. Oaks Amusement Park in Portland has been bringing joy to the young and young at heart since 1905. The roller rink is the park's year-round attraction and one of Portland’s last remaining roller … [Read more...] about Glow Skate Nights at Oaks Park Roller Rink

Plumper Pumpkin Patch Fall Activities

Every fall, Plumper Pumpkin Patch celebrates the harvest season with fun activities, an amazing variety of pumpkins and tasty treats. If you have never been to this farm, I highly recommend it. It has a wonderful small farm feel in one of the rare rural areas of Portland. Plumper Pumpkin Patch … [Read more...] about Plumper Pumpkin Patch Fall Activities

2024 Hood River Valley Harvest Fest

Celebrate the harvest season at one of the most plentiful valleys in Oregon. The Hood River Valley Harvest Fest invites you and your family to take a bite out of fall's delicious bounty at this October event. Here are the details about the 2024 festival.  2024 Hood River Valley Harvest … [Read more...] about 2024 Hood River Valley Harvest Fest

All New Episodes: Get Discount Tickets to The Tesla City Stories

Sponsored post Enjoy a truly unique night out at this one-of-a-kind Portland theater experience. Get $12.99 discount tickets to The Tesla City Stories September show at TeslaTix.com. Use code CHEAP9. Don't delay! Only 20 discount tickets are available. The Tesla City Stories is a monthly live 1944 … [Read more...] about All New Episodes: Get Discount Tickets to The Tesla City Stories

2024 Serbian Fest Portland

Taste, experience and discover the culture of Serbia at the annual Serbian Fest Portland. Attend a weekend of rich cultural experiences at the 17th annual Serbian Festival. This beloved event has been a cornerstone of the local Serbian community, offering a unique opportunity for festival-goers … [Read more...] about 2024 Serbian Fest Portland

2024 El Festival de Mariachi

Celebrate Hispanic culture through music, food and community at the 2024 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:  2024 El Festival de Mariachi The festival is Sunday, … [Read more...] about 2024 El Festival de Mariachi

El Tigre Fest

Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month at El Tigre Fest. The free festival hosts Latin American food, arts and crafts, dancing, live music, and children’s activity for all ages. Here's what you can expect at the 2024 event.  2024 El Tigre Fest El Tigre Fest is Saturday, October 5 from … [Read more...] about El Tigre Fest

2024 Portland Greek Festival

The annual Portland Greek Festival invites the community to enjoy the flavors, dances and traditions of the Mediterranean culture. In the late 1800s, the first Greek immigrants came the Northwest to work in fishing, lumber, railroad and other jobs. That's when the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Greek Festival

2024 Portland Polish Festival

Experience the food, dance and music of Poland. The annual Polish Festival in Portland hosts a full weekend of free, family-friendly activities.  Started in 1993, the Polish Festival is the oldest Polish festival in the Western United States. This event celebrates Polish culture, traditions … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Polish Festival

2024 Bethany Village Oktoberfest

Get ready to don your lederhosen and raise your steins. Bethany Village Oktoberfest is just around the corner. This September, Bethany Village Centre transforms into a lively celebration of German culture, complete with all the festive flair you’d expect from a traditional Oktoberfest. If … [Read more...] about 2024 Bethany Village Oktoberfest

2024 Division Clinton Street Fair

Come together with your community for a day of music, camaraderie and fun at the Division Clinton Street Fair. Clinton Street has lots of old school Portland charm. There's great restaurants, boutique and vintage shops, and iconic Portland businesses, like Clinton Street Theater.  The … [Read more...] about 2024 Division Clinton Street Fair

8 Salmon Spawning Locations Near Portland

Bumper-to-bumper traffic and high rises popping up on every block can make us forget about the natural wonderland just outside of the metro area. By taking a short trek east or west, we can breathe the fresh air, escape the noise and witness an incredible natural phenomenon happening right in our … [Read more...] about 8 Salmon Spawning Locations Near Portland

Free Tours at Hoyt Arboretum

Take a free guided tour of Portland's museum of trees. Hoyt Arboretum has multiple opportunities to learn about the unique trees and plants of the Pacific Northwest. This beautiful nature oasis features 2,300 species of trees and plants from around the world along 12 miles of trails. Hoyt … [Read more...] about Free Tours at Hoyt Arboretum

Go Back in Time at the Philip Foster Farm Cider Squeeze

Take a step back in time at the annual Philip Foster Farm Cider Squeeze. The Philip Foster Farm is a historic 1840s homestead featuring original and reconstructed buildings. Visitors to the farm participate in hands-on activities and get an insider's look at what life was like on a working farm … [Read more...] about Go Back in Time at the Philip Foster Farm Cider Squeeze

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum are back in 2024.  Located in the heart of downtown, Portland Art Museum is internationally renowned for exciting art experiences. On the first Thursday of the month, our community gets open access to one of our city's top attractions along with … [Read more...] about Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum

2024 Bella Organic Fall Activities: Corn Maze, Pumpkin Patch, Hayrides and more

As the crisp air of fall settles in, there's no better way to celebrate the season than by immersing yourself in the bounty of the harvest and the thrill of autumn activities. Head to Bella Organic for special fall activities. The farm on Sauvie Island is a great destination for families, friends … [Read more...] about 2024 Bella Organic Fall Activities: Corn Maze, Pumpkin Patch, Hayrides and more

Open Farm Days at Zenger Farm

Celebrate Saturday on the farm! Zenger Farm is hosting family-friendly activities during Open Farm Days. Zenger Farm is a 24-acre combined farm and wetland in southeast Portland. The urban farm hosts educational activities in a natural environment. Programs teach kids and adults the importance of … [Read more...] about Open Farm Days at Zenger Farm

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

The Pumpkin Patch Corn Maize Labor Day Discount

Get lost on Sauvie Island during the the Pumpkin Patch corn maize Labor Day discount event. This year, the 8-acre corn maize celebrates Charles Schulz's Peanuts 75th anniversary. The design features some of the beloved characters, including Charlie Brown, Snoopy and Sally Brown.   During … [Read more...] about The Pumpkin Patch Corn Maize Labor Day Discount

Troutdale First Friday Art Walk

Explore Troutdale's art community during the First Friday Art Walk. On the first Friday of the month in the summer, the streets will be filled with vendors, sidewalk dining, live music, family-friendly activities and more. The fun continues during the fall months with activities moving … [Read more...] about Troutdale First Friday Art Walk

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

2024 Art in the Pearl

More than 100 artists are taking over the Pearl District on Labor Day weekend to showcase their craft and skills. If you love art in all its forms, you won't want to miss Art in the Pearl. The annual event was started in 1997 by fifteen artists who wanted to showcase high-quality, handmade works … [Read more...] about 2024 Art in the Pearl

Molalla Train Park: Go for a Free Miniature Railway Ride

Since 1954, families have been making memories at Willamette Valley's original family destination experience: Molalla Train Park. Nestled on a picturesque four-acre property in Molalla, Oregon, this charming park promises a delightful day for all ages. As you step onto the grounds, you're greeted … [Read more...] about Molalla Train Park: Go for a Free Miniature Railway Ride

Ride Oregon Pacific Railroad’s Train Through Portland

Want to see Portland by train? Climb aboard Oregon Pacific Railroad's train for a special ride around Portland. The Oregon Pacific Railroad is a family owned and operated freight railroad company. The company operates a special passenger train along the East Portland Division railroad line in … [Read more...] about Ride Oregon Pacific Railroad’s Train Through Portland

Ride the Willamette Shore Trolley

Take a scenic ride aboard the vintage Willamette Shore Trolley in Lake Oswego. During your ride, you'll travel along a historic rail line dating back to the late 1800s. You'll go back in time to when electrified trolleys transported citizens throughout the Portland area. The Willamette Shore … [Read more...] about Ride the Willamette Shore Trolley

2024 Lee Farms Fall Harvest Festival and Pumpkin Patch

Harvest season is upon us and Lee Farms has all your fall farmyard favorites. Attend the Lee Farms Fall Harvest Festival and pumpkin patch. This seventh generation family farm goes all out for the fall season with traditional attractions you know and love, as well as new activities designed with … [Read more...] about 2024 Lee Farms Fall Harvest Festival and Pumpkin Patch

Free Craft Nights at collage

collage, a beloved independently-owned and family-operated art and craft store, hosts free craft nights for the creative souls of Portland! collage is a one of the local fabric and craft stores you need to visit. As a business deeply rooted in Portland, collage embraces the city's eclectic … [Read more...] about Free Craft Nights at collage

Free National Parks and Public Lands Passes for 4th Graders

Every 4th grader in the United States has the opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the nation with their family for free, thanks to the Every Kid Outdoors Program. This program gives 4th grade students and their families free access to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas, including … [Read more...] about Free National Parks and Public Lands Passes for 4th Graders

2024 Hawthorne Street Fair

Priding itself as Portland’s original “shop local” district, the Hawthorne Street Fair is one of the oldest and biggest street fairs in Portland. Starting in 1984 with a guitarist and a few local organizations, the event now features 150 community vendors and two stages of local … [Read more...] about 2024 Hawthorne Street Fair

2024 Bella Organic Sunflower Festival

Immerse yourself in a sea of vibrant sunflowers at the Bella Organic Sunflower Festival. Bella Organic is a 100-acre certified organic farm and winery on Sauvie Island that is open year round. They grow more than 70 varieties of berries, fruits, vegetables, pumpkins, vineyard grapes and herbs. In … [Read more...] about 2024 Bella Organic Sunflower Festival

Free First Sunday at the Japanese American Museum of Oregon

Attend the Japanese American Museum of Oregon for Free First Sunday event.  The Japanese American Museum of Oregon preserves and honors the history and culture of Japanese Americans in the Pacific Northwest. The museum educates the public about the Japanese American experience during WWII, … [Read more...] about Free First Sunday at the Japanese American Museum of Oregon

Portland Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes and Hayrides

Find the perfect pumpkin at a farm near you. Buying a pumpkin at the grocery store does not come close to picking the perfect pumpkin right from the field. Just outside our great city are many you-pick farms celebrating the fall harvest with corn mazes, hay rides and many varieties of pumpkins, … [Read more...] about Portland Pumpkin Patches, Corn Mazes and Hayrides

2024 Portland Celtic Fantasy Faire

Take a journey to a storybook world at the Portland Celtic Fantasy Faire.  The annual event brings the community together to celebrate Celtic culture, fun and fantasy. Here's what is in store for this event in August.  2024 Portland Celtic Fantasy Faire The 9th annual Portland Celtic … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Celtic Fantasy Faire

2024 Beaverton Music Festival

Get ready for a day filled with music, food and fun at the Beaverton Music Festival. This free, family-friendly event promises to be a special experience for music lovers of all ages. Pack your low back chairs and blankets for a full day of music in the park. Here are the details about this … [Read more...] about 2024 Beaverton Music Festival

Free Birthday Admission at Leach Botanical Garden

In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Leach Botanical Garden is offering free birthday admission to everyone in 2024.  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 … [Read more...] about Free Birthday Admission at Leach Botanical Garden

Tree Time! Preschool Walks at Hoyt Arboretum

Preschool walks at Hoyt Arboretum invite you and your kids to explore the outdoors. This beautiful nature oasis features 2,300 species of trees and plants from around the world along 12 miles of trails. Every week, the arboretum hosts a special event of its youngest visitors. Here's how you … [Read more...] about Tree Time! Preschool Walks at Hoyt Arboretum

2024 Oaks Park Oktoberfest

Portland's iconic amusement park is celebrating the harvest with a fun, family-friendly celebration. The Oaks Park Oktoberfest is one fall festival you won't want to miss.  This Oktoberfest has activities everyone can enjoy. The festival is broken up into the Main Festhalle and a Northwest … [Read more...] about 2024 Oaks Park Oktoberfest

Swift Watch at Chapman Elementary School

See an amazing natural phenomenon happening in Portland during Swift Watch in September.  Every year, Vaux's Swifts roost in a chimney located in Northwest Portland. If you love birds and incredible nature sights, you'll want to attend at least one night of Swift Watch. Swift Watch at … [Read more...] about Swift Watch at Chapman Elementary School

Mid-Autumn Festival Moonlight Market at Lan Su Chinese Garden

Celebrate a special Chinese holiday at Lan Sun Chinese Garden's Mid-Autumn Festival Moonlight Market. The Mid-Autumn Festival celebrates the harvest moon during the autumnal equinox. In Chinese culture, the image of a full moon symbolizes a happy family reunion. Lan Su Chinese Garden is … [Read more...] about Mid-Autumn Festival Moonlight Market at Lan Su Chinese Garden

2024 West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta

There is something about a giant pumpkin that draws your attention. But what about hollowed out giant pumpkins supporting costume clad characters as they race around a lake? If this piqued your interest, you won't want to miss the 2024 West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta. Since 2004, the West Coast … [Read more...] about 2024 West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta

Ukrainian Day at Westmoreland Park

Celebrate Ukrainian culture at Westmoreland Park this weekend. 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 … [Read more...] about Ukrainian Day at Westmoreland Park

Portland Flea Vintage, Handmade Market

Calling all vintage, handmade, food loving Portlanders! Explore one-of-a-kind goods at Portland Flea. For the past 12 years, Portland Flea has created a gathering place for our city's creators to showcase their talents. Get out and join your community of makers, food purveyors and curators at … [Read more...] about Portland Flea Vintage, Handmade Market

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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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