Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Family & Parenting

Summer Solstice Celebration at Cornell Farm

Celebrate the summer solstice at this local, family-owned nursery. Cornell Farm is hosting a day of learning, food and fun.  Cornell Farm dates back to 1987 when the family started a retail stand selling flowers and vegetable plants. From one to 13 greenhouses, the Portland farm now grows … [Read more...] about Summer Solstice Celebration at Cornell Farm

Free and Cheap Father’s Day Weekend Activities in Portland

This year, start a new Father's Day tradition. Portland has numerous free and cheap Father's Day activities that let you spend quality time with your dad. Father's Day is the perfect opportunity to show appreciation for the dads and father figures in our lives. But celebrating doesn't have to … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Father’s Day Weekend Activities in Portland

4th of July Parade, Celebration and Concert 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. 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 gather to enjoy a day … [Read more...] about 4th of July Parade, Celebration and Concert in Lake Oswego

2026 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 2026 Portland Waterfront Fireworks Show

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

Vancouver Pollinator Festival at Marshall Park

The Pollinator Festival hosts a full day of activities for you and your family.  More than 40 agencies, organizations, universities, artisans and local businesses are participating in this free outdoor festival.  Here are the details about the event: Pollinator Festival at Clark … [Read more...] about Vancouver Pollinator Festival at Marshall Park

2026 Powell’s Summer Reading Challenge

Summer is the perfect time to lose yourself in the pages of a great book. Powell's Books invites readers of all ages to embark on a literary adventure during the Powell's Summer Reading Challenge. Designed to ignite your imagination and foster a love for reading, this challenge gives you a … [Read more...] about 2026 Powell’s Summer Reading Challenge

Portland Midsummer Festival at Oaks Park

Get ready for a joyful day of music, dancing and Swedish culture at the Portland Midsummer Festival. The annual event is hosted by New Sweden Cultural Heritage Society, an organization that has shared and preserved Swedish culture and heritage since 1989. Midsummer, or midsommar, is a Swedish … [Read more...] about Portland Midsummer Festival at Oaks Park

2026 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.  2026 Happy Valley 4th of July Family Festival On Saturday, July 4, the City of Happy Valley is hosting a daylong … [Read more...] about 2026 Happy Valley 4th of July Family Festival

2026 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 2026 Helvetia Lavender Festival

The Tesla City Stories Discount: Get Exclusive $12 Tickets

Sponsored post June brings the summer sun but also some vintage fun as The Tesla City Stories returns to the Old Church Concert Hall for a mix of comedy and action! Here's how you can claim discount tickets to this one-of-a-kind Portland performance.  Get $12 discount tickets to The Tesla … [Read more...] about The Tesla City Stories Discount: Get Exclusive $12 Tickets

Best Stargazing Spots in and near Portland

Welcome to the enchanting world of stargazing in Portland! In this city, we're known for our wonderful outdoor escapes and close proximity to nature. Take your exploration of the Rose City to another level by visiting the best stargazing spots in Portland, Oregon, and the surrounding … [Read more...] about Best Stargazing Spots in and near Portland

Parkrose Summer Nights Street Fair

Explore Northeast Portland during Parkrose Summer Nights Street Fair. This free, family-friendly celebration, hosted by Historic Parkrose, invites the community to come together for an evening of connection and summer fun. Here's what you can expect at the upcoming events: Parkrose Summer … [Read more...] about Parkrose Summer Nights Street Fair

Celebrate Portland’s Flour Power at this Baker Fair

Join a one-day gathering of independent bakers at Score: A Baker Fair. Score is a celebration of local talent, handcrafted treats and the tight-knit community of Portland bakers and foodies. Here are the details: Score: A Baker Fair On Sunday, June 14, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., head to … [Read more...] about Celebrate Portland’s Flour Power at this Baker Fair

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

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

Summer Market at Fubonn Shopping Center

Summer Market invites you to a multi-week celebration of AAPI makers, artists and culinary delights at Fubonn Shopping Center. The event is hosted by White Lotus Foundation, a local nonprofit committed to supporting and empowering individuals in the Asian American and Pacific Islander … [Read more...] about Summer Market at Fubonn Shopping Center

Free Bowling for Kids at Alleys in and around Portland

Here's a fun way to beat the heat and spend time with your family. Kids Bowl Free is a program that offers complimentary bowling to kids all summer long.  Kids who are registered for the program get two free games of bowling each day of the summer. Start and end dates vary by bowling … [Read more...] about Free Bowling for Kids at Alleys in and around Portland

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

Troutdale First Friday Street Fair

Explore Troutdale's art community during the First Friday Street Fair. 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 Street Fair

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Weekend Train Rides

Take a scenic trip through Clark County on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad this weekend. A 1941 diesel locomotive transports passengers through scenic northern Clark County from Yacolt to Moulton Falls to Chelatchie Prairie and back. During holidays, the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad hosts special … [Read more...] about Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Weekend Train Rides

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

Free Admission and Fishing on Oregon State Parks Day

Oregon State Parks Day is June 6, 2026. Make the most of the celebration with free admission and fishing across the state. More than 100 years ago, a 5-acre donation by Sarah Helmick created Oregon’s first official state park. Today, the state park system has 254 park properties and more than … [Read more...] about Free Admission and Fishing on Oregon State Parks Day

Free Summer Movies in the Parks

The Portland metro has an abundance of summertime movies in local parks. Find a complete list of Portland's movies in the parks along with Hillsboro, Beaverton, Tigard, Lake Oswego, Milwaukie, North Clackamas, Oregon City, Gladstone, West Linn, Troutdale and Vancouver movie series. Best of all, … [Read more...] about Free Summer Movies in the Parks

2026 Free Fishing Weekends in Oregon

    Every year, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife invites reeling newbies and advanced anglers to participate in free fishing weekends. During these events, no fishing licenses or tags are required to fish, crab or clam in Oregon.   This is a great opportunity for you to … [Read more...] about 2026 Free Fishing Weekends in Oregon

Burnside Bridge Centennial Celebration

For 100 years, the Burnside Bridge has stood as one of Portland’s most recognizable landmarks. This week, the city celebrates the bridge's 100th birthday with a daylong celebration on the bridge itself. More than just a crossing over the Willamette River, the Burnside Bridge has played a central … [Read more...] about Burnside Bridge Centennial Celebration

Free Summer Concerts in the Parks

Enjoying music outdoors is a quintessential summertime activity. Portland Parks and Recreation is hosting 17 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

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum are taking place throughout 2026.  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 … [Read more...] about Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum

Portland Flea Vintage, Handmade Market

Calling all vintage, handmade, food loving Portlanders! Explore one-of-a-kind goods at Portland Flea. For over a decade, 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 this … [Read more...] about Portland Flea Vintage, Handmade Market

Pick Strawberries at these Portland You-Pick Farms

It's strawberry season in the Pacific Northwest! Travel to these you-pick farms in and around Portland to fill your basket with fresh strawberries. We're lucky enough to live close to some incredible you-pick farms in and around Portland. One of the first crops to kick off the harvest season are … [Read more...] about Pick Strawberries at these Portland You-Pick Farms

Planet Fitness Gives Teens Free Summer Membership

Free gym membership? Yes, please. Planet Fitness has locations all over Portland metro offering a high school summer pass. This summer, the gym's commitment to low-cost memberships is about to get even sweeter for your teenager. Here's how you can participate: Planet Fitness High School … [Read more...] about Planet Fitness Gives Teens Free Summer Membership

Get $1.75 Tickets to Cinemark’s Summer Movie Clubhouse

Join the family-friendly movie club all summer long. The Summer Movie Clubhouse at Cinemark offers a fun, inexpensive movie theater experience.  In 2026, Cinemark is once again drawing the curtains on its popular and budget-friendly Summer Movie Clubhouse for 10 weeks of family … [Read more...] about Get $1.75 Tickets to Cinemark’s Summer Movie Clubhouse

Free and Cheap Memorial Day Weekend Events in Portland

Celebrate your three-day weekend at one of these free and cheap Memorial Day weekend events in Portland. I've compiled a list of activities and events to get you out and exploring our awesome city this holiday weekend. There is something for everyone, from festivals and train rides to markets and … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Memorial Day Weekend Events in Portland

Planetarium Sky Theater Shows at Mt. Hood Community College

The Planetarium Sky Theater at Mt. Hood Community College welcomes visitors into a world of cosmic wonders and astronomical marvels. The planetarium recently reopened to be public and offers shows on select dates each month.  Here are the details about Planetarium Sky Theater … [Read more...] about Planetarium Sky Theater Shows at Mt. Hood Community College

Multnomah County Fair at Oaks Park

This Memorial Day weekend, head to Oaks Park for some good, old-fashioned fun at the Multnomah County Fair. The annual fair has been entertaining Portlanders since 1906. Traditionally an event for locals to exhibit farming and homesteading techniques, fairs have expanded to showcase food, … [Read more...] about Multnomah County Fair at Oaks Park

Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Walk the trails of Tryon Creek Natural Area with outdoor experts during guided nature walks. 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 with huge … [Read more...] about Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek Natural Area

2026 Cascadia Fine Arts Festival

Connect with your community and support regional artists, studios, workshops, and galleries at the Cascadia Fine Arts Festival in downtown Troutdale along the Sandy River. Hosted by Cascadia Arts Association, the festival features artists, art demonstrations, musicians, local food and drinks, and … [Read more...] about 2026 Cascadia Fine Arts Festival

Sunday Parkways: A Family-Friendly Mobile Block Party

Every year, Portland Bureau of Transportation opens Portland streets to a special kind of traffic during Sunday Parkways. This summer program lets bikers, walkers and rollers stroll Portland neighborhoods together like one big mobile block party. It is family friendly and always draws big crowds … [Read more...] about Sunday Parkways: A Family-Friendly Mobile Block Party

2026 Portland Bloom Tour: Explore Immersive Floral Creations and Special Events

Get ready to celebrate spring in one of the most creative and colorful ways at the Portland Bloom Tour. This vibrant citywide event transforms Portland’s Downtown and Old Town into a blossoming canvas of floral art, immersive installations and community celebration. Flower enthusiasts, fashion … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Bloom Tour: Explore Immersive Floral Creations and Special Events

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

Discount Days at Lloyd Center Ice Rink

Visit the Lloyd Center Ice Rink on discount days to get the best deal on your ice skating adventure. Despite the mass exodus of stores from the Lloyd Center Mall, the heart of the shopping center is still thriving. Located in the center of the mall, the Lloyd Center Ice Rink is open seven days a … [Read more...] about Discount Days at Lloyd Center Ice Rink

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

Free Admission Days at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum

Celebrate World Forestry Center's 60th anniversary during 2026 free admission days.  We love our forests in Oregon. The World Forestry Center's Discovery Museum is located right here in our city, inviting visitors to examine forests and consider all the ways they benefit our … [Read more...] about Free Admission Days at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum

Bloom into Spring at the Camas Plant and Garden Fair

Looking to freshen up your yard or garden this spring? Stock up for the growing season at the Camas Plant and Garden Fair. This annual community event brings together local growers, artisan and garden enthusiasts for a full day of shopping and fun. Here are the 2026 details: 2026 Camas Plant … [Read more...] about Bloom into Spring at the Camas Plant and Garden Fair

Oregon Ice Cream Trail: A Sweet Adventure Awaits

The Oregon Ice Cream Trail makes your pursuit of a tasty frozen treat easy no matter where you are in the state. Oregon's diverse weather doesn't deter me from enjoying my favorite sweet and creamy treat: ice cream. Whether the sun is shining or rain is falling, there's always a good reason to … [Read more...] about Oregon Ice Cream Trail: A Sweet Adventure Awaits

Member of the Living on the Cheap Network

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.
Living on the Cheap in the media