Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Family & Parenting

OPS Fest: Free Shakespeare in Portland Parks

Watch free Shakespeare performances in Portland Parks during OPS Fest this summer.  Original Practice Shakespeare Festival is celebrating its 16th season with 21 plays at 10 parks in the Portland metro area. The company will present a selection of Shakespeare’s most popular plays as well as … [Read more...] about OPS Fest: Free Shakespeare in Portland Parks

Americana Harvest Fest Summer Concert Series at Topaz Farm

Enjoy live music at a one-of-a-kind venue this summer. Get your tickets for Americana Harvest Fest Summer Concert Series at Topaz Farm. Located on Sauvie Island, Topaz Farm is a great outdoor escape. In the summer, the farm has you-pick berries, fruits and flowers, good eats and drinks, a market … [Read more...] about Americana Harvest Fest Summer Concert Series at Topaz Farm

National Ice Cream Day at Nico’s Ice Cream 

Nico's Ice Cream is serving up a special freebie on National Ice Cream Day. Nico's Ice Cream in Portland is a beloved local gem, known for its inventive flavors and commitment to quality. The artisanal approach uses fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to craft unique and delectable … [Read more...] about National Ice Cream Day at Nico’s Ice Cream 

2024 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 2024 event.  2024 Peruvian Cultural Festival The Peruvian cultural art … [Read more...] about 2024 Peruvian Cultural Festival

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

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 2024, 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

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

Portland Thai Festival: The Taste of Thailand

Portland Thai Festival, known as the Taste of Thailand, is a vibrant cultural event that brings the essence of Thailand to our city through a delightful showcase of food and entertainment. This festival is not just about savoring delicious dishes but also about experiencing Thai … [Read more...] about Portland Thai Festival: The Taste of Thailand

Summer Market at Shun Fat Supermarket

Summer Market invites you to a multi-week celebration of AAPI makers, artists and culinary delights at Shun Fat Supermarket. 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 Shun Fat Supermarket

2024 Gresham Arts Festival

Meet, browse and shop from a select group of juried Pacific Northwest artisans at the Gresham Arts Festival. Experience art in the heart of the city. This free, family-friendly event includes live music, a kids village and local cuisine. Here's what you can expect at the annual event. 2024 … [Read more...] about 2024 Gresham Arts Festival

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

2024 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 2024 Helvetia Lavender Festival

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

Cooling Centers and Spaces in and around Portland

Need a place to escape the summer heat? Here's a list of cooling centers and spaces in and around Portland. Whenever a heat wave rolls into town, it can feel like a frenzied effort to find a place to cool off during the hottest times of the day. Thankfully, there are free resources throughout the … [Read more...] about Cooling Centers and Spaces in and around Portland

2024 Vancouver Summer Fest’s Picnic in the Park

Summer Fest's Picnic in the Park invites the community to play, connect and celebrate this July. 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 … [Read more...] about 2024 Vancouver Summer Fest’s Picnic in the Park

Sherwood Robin Hood Festival

For 71 years, Sherwood, Oregon, has celebrated the annual Sherwood Robin Hood Festival.  Take a short drive to Old Town Sherwood for a community parade, live entertainment on two stages, medieval reenactments, Maid Marian's Court, Robin Hood and his Merry Men, a knighting ceremony, a castle … [Read more...] about Sherwood Robin Hood Festival

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

2024 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 2024 Portland Waterfront Fireworks Show

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

Picnic in the Pearl: A July 4 Celebration in the Pearl District

This year, First Thursday Street Gallery is hosting an extended event in celebration of July 4. Attend an afternoon of fun activities at Picnic in the Pearl, a special celebration in the Pearl District.  Make your way to the Pearl District for a day filled with art, food, fun and community … [Read more...] about Picnic in the Pearl: A July 4 Celebration in the Pearl District

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

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

Free Carousel and Train Rides at Oaks Park

Oaks Amusement Park invites the community to enjoy two vintage pieces of Portland's history free of charge.  Portland's very own amusement park has been bringing joy to the young and young at heart since 1905. In fact, it is one of the oldest continually operating amusement parks in the … [Read more...] about Free Carousel and Train Rides at Oaks Park

2024 Mt. Hood Rock Club Rock and Gem Show

Are you ready for a weekend filled with sparkling treasures, fascinating rocks and fun activities for the entire family? The Mt. Hood Rock Club invites you to the annual Rock and Gem Show. Here's how you can participate in the 2024 event.  2024 Mt. Hood Rock Club Rock and Gem Show The Mt. … [Read more...] about 2024 Mt. Hood Rock Club Rock and Gem Show

4th of July Celebration 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 and laser light show. 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 … [Read more...] about 4th of July Celebration in Lake Oswego

2024 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. 2024 … [Read more...] about 2024 Happy Valley 4th of July Family Festival

Cathedral Park River Fest

The Human Access Project hosts a special grand opening party for new waterfront recreation at Cathedral Park. Participate in an afternoon of fun at the Cathedral Park River Fest. This celebration marks a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to restore and enhance the recreational value of … [Read more...] about Cathedral Park River Fest

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

2024 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, including Portland summer festivals.   Summer in Portland is a season when the city's vibrant spirit truly comes alive. … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Summer Festivals

Preview Free Movies: Get Paid to Watch a New Movie or TV Show

Sponsored post Want to watch a movie or TV show and get paid for it? Read on to learn how! June 22: Parent and Child Ages 4-8 Preview Free Movies is recruiting audiences to a private screening of the upcoming feature film, The Sneetches, on Saturday, June 22, 2024. The screenings will take … [Read more...] about Preview Free Movies: Get Paid to Watch a New Movie or TV Show

2024 Milk Carton Boat Race

Will it float? See who creates the most buoyant and swiftest homemade vessel at the 2024 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 2024 Milk Carton Boat Race

Juneteenth Free Admission Day at Leach Botanical Garden

In celebration of Juneteenth, Leach Botanical Garden is offering free admission. 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 Creek. Adding to the unique charm is the historic … [Read more...] about Juneteenth Free Admission Day at Leach Botanical Garden

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

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

2024 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 2024 Troutdale Arts Festival

Flea Market at Kindred Homestead Supply

The monthly Downtown Alley Flea Market at Kindred Homestead Supply invites you to support your local community of collectors, makers, movers and shakers. The downtown Vancouver business is a low-waste, bulk refillery for your home and personal care needs. You bring your own containers and fill … [Read more...] about Flea Market at Kindred Homestead Supply

2023 Flicks on the Bricks

Flicks on the Bricks is not taking place in 2024. It may return in 2025.  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 … [Read more...] about 2023 Flicks on the Bricks

2024 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 Shows. 2024 … [Read more...] about 2024 Planetarium Sky Theater Shows at Mt. Hood Community College

Free Admission, Camping and Fishing on Oregon State Parks Day

Oregon State Parks Day is June 1, 2024. 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

Free Summer Reading Programs for Kids, Teens and Adults

Looking for a fun reading program to keep your kids on track this summer? Or maybe you want to keep yourself on top of new releases and try different genres. Portland libraries and national companies offer summer reading programs for kids, teens and adults. Best of all, you can win prizes for … [Read more...] about Free Summer Reading Programs for Kids, Teens and Adults

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

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

2024 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 2024 Free Fishing Weekends in Oregon

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

Mother’s Day Birding and Wildflower Festival

If you're looking for a fun way to celebrate Mom while enjoying nature, attend the Mother’s Day Birding and Wildflower Festival at Silver Falls State Park. The park is in bloom and filled with winged and four-legged creatures hiding among the beautiful plant life and waterways that make this park … [Read more...] about Mother’s Day Birding and Wildflower Festival

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