Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Family & Parenting

Sunflower Field at West Union Gardens

Standing out in a field of beautiful flowers and taking pictures with your loved ones is a great outdoor activity for everyone. The West Union Gardens sunflower field is in bloom for the 2023 season. Get tickets for this popular attraction at the Hillsboro you-pick farm. Sunflower Field at West … [Read more...] about Sunflower Field at West Union Gardens

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

2023 India Festival at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Celebrate India’s Independence Day with live music, dance, food and other entertainment at Pioneer Courthouse Square. The event is hosted by the India Cultural Association, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing Indian cultural awareness in Portland, Oregon. Every year, ICA hosts the popular India … [Read more...] about 2023 India Festival at Pioneer Courthouse Square

Free Pools, Splash Pads and Interactive Fountains at Portland Parks

You don't have to go far to find a place to cool off this summer. Portland parks have pools, splash pads and interactive fountains, kid-friendly water features designed with fun and safety in mind. There are 18 splash pads and seven interactive fountains at Portland parks all over the city. … [Read more...] about Free Pools, Splash Pads and Interactive Fountains at Portland Parks

PDX Sidewalk Joy Map: Visit Neighborhood Galleries, Exchanges and Displays

Take a self-guided tour of local creations using the PDX Sidewalk Joy Map. This map showcases fun, interactive neighborhood galleries, exchanges and displays. While exploring the joy map, you may also come across Portland's beloved monkey puzzle trees.  Here's how you can make the most … [Read more...] about PDX Sidewalk Joy Map: Visit Neighborhood Galleries, Exchanges and Displays

2023 Chinese Festival at Pioneer Courthouse Square

The Oregon Chinese Coalition is hosting the annual Chinese Festival in August. Celebrate Chinese American culture while enjoying a full lineup of entertainment, Chinese food, authentic arts and crafts, and family-friendly activities. Here are the scheduled entertainment, activities, food and … [Read more...] about 2023 Chinese Festival at Pioneer Courthouse Square

2023 Milwaukie Cruise-In

The 40th annual Milwaukie Cruise-In offers free entertainment, discounted bowling and food deals.  On Saturday, August 5 from 3-10 p.m., the Milwaukie Bowl parking lot will host cool, classic cars. Live entertainment includes Dirty Dave the Record Slave from 3-6 p.m. and The Rollers from … [Read more...] about 2023 Milwaukie Cruise-In

Free Open Play Swim Sessions at Portland Pools

The summer heat wave is here. Cool off at one of our city's outdoor pools for free during open play swim sessions. All of Portland Parks and Recreation's outdoor pools are offering free open play swim sessions this summer. No registration is required to swim. Free admission is available on a … [Read more...] about Free Open Play Swim Sessions at Portland Pools

2023 Montavilla Street Fair

The Montavilla Street Fair is held along a trendy stretch of Stark Street just east of Mt Tabor. The event hosts some of Portland's best art, food and creative scene. This is one of several Portland street fairs. The event invites the community to come together for a day of summertime fun. 2023 … [Read more...] about 2023 Montavilla Street Fair

Celebrate Harry Potter’s Birthday at Kennedy School

Are you a Hufflepuff, Gryffindor, Ravenclaw or Slytherin? No matter your Hogwarts House, you're invited to gather at Kennedy School for Harry Potter's birthday.  Wizarding Weekend is a magical celebration full of activities. Aspiring wizards and witches of all ages can head to Kennedy School … [Read more...] about Celebrate Harry Potter’s Birthday at Kennedy School

2023 Obon Fest at the Oregon Buddhist Temple

Attend Obon Fest, a Japanese summertime celebration, at the Oregon Buddhist Temple. For the past 30 years, the Oregon Buddhist Temple has welcomed families, non-Buddhist neighbors, and fun-loving food lovers to the festival.  Here's how you can participate in the 2023 event. 2023 Obon … [Read more...] about 2023 Obon Fest at the Oregon Buddhist Temple

Hollywood Theatre’s Outdoor Movies in Oregon State Parks

Celebrate Oregon State Parks and classic cinema at these outdoor movies presented by Hollywood Theatre.  Since 2016, the Hollywood Theatre has partnered with Oregon State Parks to host a series of screenings in state parks. All of the events are held at parks within an hour of Portland. Films … [Read more...] about Hollywood Theatre’s Outdoor Movies in Oregon State Parks

Unique Markets Summer Event Features 60 Portland Makers

Support Portland's independent brands at the Unique Markets summer pop-up event. Find one-of-a-kind goods for loved ones or treat yourself to something special. This summer market pop-up is featuring 60 of Portland's best emerging brands, makers and artists. Additional markets taking place … [Read more...] about Unique Markets Summer Event Features 60 Portland Makers

2023 Portland Sunflower Festivals and Fields

It's harvest time in the Pacific Northwest. One crop that brings universal admiration for its lofty stalks and full faced color is the sunflower. Portland sunflower festivals and fields are opening in August, inviting our community to come take in this bloom while it lasts.  Portland has … [Read more...] about 2023 Portland Sunflower Festivals and Fields

Portlandia Mermaid Parade and Festival

Have you ever wanted to be a mermaid? The Portlandia Mermaid Parade and Festival invites everyone to dress up as merfolk or other mythical water creatures for a walk downtown.  Since 2016, the Portlandia Mermaid Parade has been a free grassroots artistic event celebrating our community's … [Read more...] about Portlandia Mermaid Parade and Festival

2023 Peruvian Cultural Festival

Enjoy food, art, vendors and performances at the Peruvian Cultural Festival. Founded in 2018, the event invites the community to come together in celebration of Peruvian culture.  Here are the details about the 2023 event.  2023 Peruvian Cultural Festival The Peruvian cultural art … [Read more...] about 2023 Peruvian Cultural Festival

2023 Flicks on the Bricks

In July, Portland's living room transforms into a free movie theater for all to enjoy. The annual Flicks on the Bricks at Pioneer Courthouse Square is back with a three-day movie event. For three days, the square will be transformed into Portland’s largest outdoor movie theater. Here are the … [Read more...] about 2023 Flicks on the Bricks

National Ice Cream Day at Nico’s Ice Cream 

Nico's Ice Cream is serving up a special freebie on National Ice Cream Day. Enjoy this New Zealand style treat featuring fresh Willamette Valley fruit with Oregon made vanilla ice cream.  On National Ice Cream Day, you can try this special delight for free.  National Ice Cream … [Read more...] about National Ice Cream Day at Nico’s Ice Cream 

Escape to Portland’s Best Urban Parks

  Find a great urban park in your neighborhood Finding a place where you can escape the city may be easier than you think. Many of us leave Portland to enjoy nature and find it isn't quite what we expected. I am sure many of you have experienced the dread of driving an hour to a hiking … [Read more...] about Escape to Portland’s Best Urban Parks

Discount Days at Oaks Park

Save on your admission to Oaks Park during discount days.  Oaks Park has been Portland's amusement park since 1905. It is a summertime favorite for families and friends with thrilling rides, fun carnival games, an indoor roller skating rink and mini golf. While it will cost you a pretty … [Read more...] about Discount Days at Oaks Park

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

2023 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 2023 Portland Waterfront Fireworks Show

4th of July Fireworks and Celebrations in and around Portland

Have a blast at one of these 4th of July events in and around Portland. Some celebrations have a whole day's worth of fun activities, games, live music and entertainment your whole family will enjoy. Portland firework shows and celebrations are held throughout the area. Keep in mind, the use of … [Read more...] about 4th of July Fireworks and Celebrations in and around Portland

2023 Helvetia Lavender Festival

Wander through the lavender fields, cut your own flower bundles, and take in stunning views of the Willamette Valley during the 2023 Helvetia Lavender Festival. Helvetia Lavender Farm is a short drive from Portland and showcases 60 different varieties of lavender. During the annual festival, … [Read more...] about 2023 Helvetia Lavender Festival

2023 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. In addition to this event, check out all the 4th of July fireworks and celebrations in and around Portland. 2023 … [Read more...] about 2023 Happy Valley 4th of July Family Festival

2023 Portland Summer Festivals

Summer has finally arrived in Portland. With the warm weather and longer days come so many opportunities for us to get out and enjoy everything our city has to offer.  I've gathered a list of Portland summer festivals you won't want to miss. These all ages activities range from free to … [Read more...] about 2023 Portland Summer Festivals

Oak Hills 4th of July Celebration

The Oak Hills Homeowners Association in Beaverton is hosting its annual 4th of July celebration with fun-filled activities all day long.  The neighborhood is located north of Sunset Highway and is the first mid-century historic district in Oregon added to the National Register of Historic … [Read more...] about Oak Hills 4th of July Celebration

Discount Days at Topgolf Hillsboro

Topgolf is on par with Portland's most entertaining attractions. Here are the days you should visit to save big on game play. Whether you're an experienced golfer working on your game or a newbie looking to have fun with friends, Topgolf offers a casual, fun environment for all to enjoy. The … [Read more...] about Discount Days at Topgolf Hillsboro

Oregon Midsummer Festival at Nordic Northwest

Enjoy Nordic traditions during the Oregon Midsummer Festival at Nordic Northwest.  The annual event is hosted by Nordic Northwest, an organization that plans celebrations throughout the year focused on the cultures of Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Norway and Sweden. The Oregon Midsummer … [Read more...] about Oregon Midsummer Festival at Nordic Northwest

Pride 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 Pride Vegan Night Market

2023 Milk Carton Boat Race

Will it float? See who creates the most buoyant and swiftest homemade vessel at the 2023 Milk Carton Boat Race. The annual event is hosted by the Royal Rosarians. You may recognize our city's official greeters and goodwill ambassadors from the Portland Rose Festival. The family-friendly event … [Read more...] about 2023 Milk Carton Boat Race

2023 Vancouver Summer Fest

Summer Fest invites the community to play, connect and celebrate this Independence Day. Held at Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, this all day event has a full line up of activities and entertainment for families and people of all ages. View my full list of local 4th of July fireworks … [Read more...] about 2023 Vancouver Summer Fest

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. Make new memories that will last a lifetime with these free and cheap Father's Day weekend events. Free and Cheap Father's Day Weekend … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Father’s Day Weekend Activities in Portland

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

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

Free Family Craft Events at Michaels

Get creative and crafty with your kids. Michaels hosts free family craft events every week.  Michaels' Sunday Makebreak 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

Carioca Bowls 8th Anniversary Party

Celebrate Carioca Bowls' anniversary with fun activities and tasty food all day.  Since 2015, Carioca Bowls has been serving handcrafted açaí bowls in a vibrant and inspiring setting.  Attend the anniversary party for free entertainment, food deals and giveaways.  Carioca Bowls … [Read more...] about Carioca Bowls 8th Anniversary Party

2023 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 2023 Free Fishing Weekends in Oregon

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

Free Bowling for Kids at Alleys in and around Portland

Here's a fun way to beat the heat and have fun 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 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

Juneteenth Celebration at Zenger Farm

Head to Zenger Farm for the 5th annual Juneteenth Celebration focused on history, community and education. 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 … [Read more...] about Juneteenth Celebration at Zenger Farm

2023 Troutdale Arts Festival

Connect with your community and support regional artists, studios, workshops, and galleries at the Troutdale 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 a … [Read more...] about 2023 Troutdale Arts Festival

Free Admission Weekend at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum

Visit the World Forestry Center during an upcoming free admission day.  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 impact our lives.  The museum is … [Read more...] about Free Admission Weekend at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum

Free Admission, Camping and Fishing on Oregon State Parks Day

Oregon State Parks Day is June 3, 2023. Make the most of the celebration with free admission, camping and fishing across the state. More than a hundred 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 … [Read more...] about Free Admission, Camping and Fishing on Oregon State Parks Day

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

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 many farming and homesteading techniques, fairs have expanded to showcase food, … [Read more...] about Multnomah County Fair at Oaks Park

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. Planet Fitness High School Summer Pass From May 15 … [Read more...] about Planet Fitness Gives Teens Free Summer Membership

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

Open Archery Range Days 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 twice a week at the organization's headquarters. Open Archery Range … [Read more...] about Open Archery Range Days at Trackers Portland

Tulip Fields at Holland America Flower Gardens

This weekend, 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

2023 Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Attend the 36th annual Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Tom McCall Waterfront Park in downtown Portland. The fiesta is the largest multicultural festival in Oregon. The bilingual event hosts special attractions and featured performances during the three day festival. Here are the details about … [Read more...] about 2023 Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Vappu 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 event called Vappu. Vappu Celebration at Nordic … [Read more...] about Vappu Celebration at Nordic Northwest

2023 Lilac Days at Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens

Every spring, the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens hosts Lilac Days to celebrate the beauty blooms and legacy of a plant pioneer. The annual event takes place for 23 days on a quaint historic farm just off of I-5 in Woodland, Washington.  Hulda Klager, known as the Lilac Lady, began hybridizing … [Read more...] about 2023 Lilac Days at Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens

Kids Eat Free (and Cheap) in Portland

There are so many incredible restaurants in Portland, but finding a place the whole family will enjoy—including little appetites—can feel impossible. Yet have no fear. We've done the searching for you and compiled a list of places where kids eat free. Kids eat free and cheap in Portland at these … [Read more...] about Kids Eat Free (and Cheap) in Portland

Holi Celebration: Join Portland’s Festival of Colors

Dress in white and play with colors at Portland's Holi celebration. The family-friendly event is hosted by Mumbai native DJ Prashant, an ex-Intel engineer turned DJ who founded his own dance company and tours across the U.S. Attend this upcoming springtime celebration. Holi Celebration: Join … [Read more...] about Holi Celebration: Join Portland’s Festival of Colors

2023 Easter Brunch and Dinner To Go in Portland

Looking for an alternative for your feast this Easter? Portland restaurants and grocery stores are offering holiday brunch and dinner to go.  This is a great way to have a delicious meal with all the fixings from the comfort of your home, while taking the stress out of preparing it yourself. … [Read more...] about 2023 Easter Brunch and Dinner To Go in Portland

Get a Free Photo with the Easter Bunny at Cabela’s

Hop over to Cabela's in Tualatin for a free photo with the Easter Bunny.  This year, Cabela's has nine days of free photo opportunities for local families. Along with this event, you may enjoy these free and cheap Easter events in and around Portland. Here are the details about the 2023 … [Read more...] about Get a Free Photo with the Easter Bunny at Cabela’s

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