Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Family & Parenting

Halloween Display Map: Plan Your Self-Guided Tour

Find the best decorated homes in Portland with the Halloween Display Map.  The holiday season brings with it a sense of magic and wonder that lights up communities around the world. For some, it's not just about celebrating within the four walls of their homes but sharing the joy and spirit … [Read more...] about Halloween Display Map: Plan Your Self-Guided Tour

Halloween Treat Map: Plan Your Neighborhood Trick-or-Treating Route

Want to know exactly where your ghouls and goblins can trick-or-treat in your Portland neighborhood? The Nextdoor Treat Map just made your haunting around the block a lot easier. No more second guessing where to go or who is giving out treats. You can see exactly which neighbors are ready to greet … [Read more...] about Halloween Treat Map: Plan Your Neighborhood Trick-or-Treating Route

Oregon Zoo’s Howloween: A Festive, Educational Halloween Event

Looking for a fun and educational way to celebrate Halloween with your family this October? Attend Howloween at the Oregon Zoo. This beloved tradition provides the perfect setting for families to enjoy trick-or-treating and spooky activities while learning about wildlife and conservation … [Read more...] about Oregon Zoo’s Howloween: A Festive, Educational Halloween Event

Budget-Friendly Soaking Pools and Saunas in and around Portland

Looking for an inexpensive way to warm up and unwind in Portland? Here's your guide to soaking pools and saunas in and around Portland.  These serene retreats provide locals and visitors alike an escape from the hustle and bustle. Unwind and rejuvenate in the tranquil spa settings. Whether … [Read more...] about Budget-Friendly Soaking Pools and Saunas in and around Portland

2024 Portland Book Festival

Book lovers are invited to join Literary Arts at the annual Portland Book Festival. This year, bibliophiles can partake in activities all day long at multiple locations in downtown Portland. 2024 Portland Book Festival The Portland Book Festival is on Saturday, November 2, from 10 a.m. to 6 … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Book Festival

Salmon Homecoming at Oxbow Park

Enjoy two days of fun, food and cultural connection at the Salmon Homecoming at Oxbow Park.  Indigenous educators, artists and culture keepers join Metro to celebrate one of the Pacific Northwest's keystone species as it returns to the Sandy River. Oxbow Park is known as one of the best … [Read more...] about Salmon Homecoming at Oxbow Park

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

Kids Monster Fest at Veterans Memorial Coliseum

If you have kids, it is not always easy to find family-friendly Halloween events that emphasize fun over fright. Kids Monster Fest is here to create an immersive Halloween experience during daylight hours. By night, the Veterans Memorial Coliseum transforms into one of the many local haunted … [Read more...] about Kids Monster Fest at Veterans Memorial Coliseum

The Pumpkin Display at West Linn

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 started with one pumpkin carving contest in 2013. Now, Brook Rice displays hundreds of creations at his home … [Read more...] about The Pumpkin Display at West Linn

Headless Horseman Halloween Train Ride

As autumn winds sweep through the scenic landscapes of northern Clark County, a vintage switch locomotive comes to life, inviting passengers on an enchanting journey. This isn't just any train ride. It's the Headless Horseman Halloween Train Ride, an annual event that promises thrills, chills and … [Read more...] about Headless Horseman Halloween Train Ride

Black Community Science Night at OMSI

Celebrate Black culture and community at this special OMSI science event. Black 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 OMSI, is one of the nation’s … [Read more...] about Black Community Science Night at OMSI

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 … [Read more...] about 2024 Hood River Valley Harvest Fest

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad’s Fall Leaves Train Ride

Take a scenic trip through Clark County on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad fall leaves train ride.  A newly restored 25-ton switch locomotive transports passengers through scenic northern Clark County from Yacolt to Moulton Falls to Chelatchie Prairie and back. During the fall, the … [Read more...] about Chelatchie Prairie Railroad’s Fall Leaves Train Ride

Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration at Barbie’s Village

Attend the Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration at Barbie's Village featuring good food, homemade items and a special Pow Wow.  This event is hosted by Future Generations Collaborative, an organization dedicated to healing and growing our local Indigenous community. Here what you can enjoy … [Read more...] about Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration at Barbie’s Village

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

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

Leach Botanical Garden Halloween Boo! Bash

Are you ready for a Halloween adventure like no other? Get ready to be spellbound as Leach Botanical Garden transforms into a magical realm of tricks and treats. Enjoy a fun, family friendly afternoon at the Leach Botanical Garden Halloween Boo! Bash. Here are the details about this spooky fun … [Read more...] about Leach Botanical Garden Halloween Boo! Bash

Halloween on Franklin: A Must-See Spooky Spectacle in Vancouver

If you're looking for a place to experience some spine-tingling Halloween magic, Vancouver’s Franklin Street should be at the top of your list. Known for its holiday displays, this neighborhood transforms into a hauntingly captivating spectacle during the month of October. One residence in … [Read more...] about Halloween on Franklin: A Must-See Spooky Spectacle in Vancouver

Dozer Day at Clark County Event Center

Dozer Day lets your kids and kids at heart get behind the wheel with construction professionals. The annual event aims to educate people of all ages by fostering an interest in the construction industry. Your family can get up close with heavy construction equipment along with other fun, … [Read more...] about Dozer Day at Clark County Event Center

Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Portland

Looking for some not-so-spooky activities this season? These Portland family-friendly Halloween events put an emphasis on fun over fright.  Events range from traditional trick-or-treating to immersive homemade displays to haunted attractions. Peruse the list below and start making fond … [Read more...] about Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Portland

Portland Regional Gem and Mineral Show

Are you ready to dive into the dazzling world of rocks, minerals, fossils and gems? Step inside a rock hound's paradise at the 43rd annual Portland Regional Gem and Mineral Show. This family-friendly event welcomes collectors, hobbyists and anyone who loves the natural beauty of the Earth’s … [Read more...] about Portland Regional Gem and Mineral Show

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

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

National Alpaca Farm Days

During the last weekend in September, alpaca farms across the country are opening their gates to the public for National Alpaca Farm Days.  On September 28 and 29, 2024, two nearby alpaca farms are participating in this annual celebration of the cute camelids and their incredible fibrous … [Read more...] about National Alpaca Farm Days

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

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

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, 2024 … [Read more...] about El Tigre Fest

Star Party at Glendoveer Golf Course

Enjoy a night of stargazing with OMSI and Rose City Astronomers during the Star Party at Glendoveer Golf Course. Looking for an exciting and educational way to spend your evening? Attend the Star Party. This family-friendly event promises a stellar experience as you explore the galaxy and learn … [Read more...] about Star Party at Glendoveer Golf Course

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

2024 Festa Italiana at Oaks Park

Enjoy all things Italian at the annual Festa Italiana at Oaks Park. Every year, the Italian festival brings together the community for a day of food, entertainment and family-friendly fun. Here are the details for the event: 2024 Festa Italiana On September 29, 2024, Oaks Park is … [Read more...] about 2024 Festa Italiana at Oaks Park

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

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

Join the Celebration at CullyFest

Looking for a vibrant, fun and community-focused event to attend this week? Attend CullyFest! The heart of the Cully neighborhood will come alive with music, arts, culture and an array of family-friendly activities that showcase the importance of community in Cully. Here's what you can … [Read more...] about Join the Celebration at CullyFest

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

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

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

Free Cultural Passes at Portland Libraries

Libraries have expanded way beyond books. From classes to e-catalogues to free Wi-Fi, libraries have become a resource hub for communities across the Portland area. Best of all, you can access all of these services for free. There are many perks of having a library card, including free cultural … [Read more...] about Free Cultural Passes at Portland Libraries

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 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

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 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

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

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

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