Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Family & Parenting

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

4th of July Celebration and Laser Light Show 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 and Laser Light Show in Lake Oswego

First Thursdays on Fremont Street

Immerse yourself in eclectic charm and community spirit at First Thursdays on Fremont Street. Picture this: a lively atmosphere buzzing with excitement as some of your favorite local shops and restaurants offer exclusive events and discounts.  Nestled in the Northeast quadrant of … [Read more...] about First Thursdays on Fremont Street

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

Carioca Bowls 10th 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 10th Anniversary Party

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

Picnic in the Pearl: A Celebration in the Pearl District

Attend an extended First Thursday celebration at Picnic in the Pearl. Make your way to the Pearl District for a day filled with art, food, fun and community spirit. This unique combination of the First Thursday Street Gallery and Picnic in the Pearl promises to be a celebration like no … [Read more...] about Picnic in the Pearl: A Celebration in the Pearl District

Brentwood-Darlington Artisan Market

Celebrate creativity, community and local talent at the Brentwood-Darlington Artisan Market. The third annual market is Saturday, June 28, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Brentwood-Darlington Community Center. This free, family-friendly event is your chance to support more than 30 local artisans, … [Read more...] about Brentwood-Darlington Artisan Market

2025 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 2025 Portland Waterfront Fireworks Show

2025 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 2025 Portland Summer Festivals

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

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 Shakespeare in Portland Parks

Watch free Shakespeare performances in Portland Parks during OPS Fest this summer.  Original Practice Shakespeare Festival is celebrating its 17th season with 15 plays at 10 parks in the Portland metro area. The company presents a selection of Shakespeare’s most popular plays as well as a … [Read more...] about Free Shakespeare in Portland Parks

2025 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. 2025 … [Read more...] about 2025 Happy Valley 4th of July Family Festival

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

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

2025 Milk Carton Boat Race

Will it float? See who creates the most buoyant and swiftest homemade vessel at the 2025 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 2025 Milk Carton Boat Race

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

The Historic Trust’s Summer Solstice Celebration

Join the Historic Trust for a magical evening of reflection, movement and creativity at the Summer Solstice Celebration. Gather at the historic General O.O. Howard House in Vancouver for a free event honoring the longest day of the year. Here are the details: The Historic Trust's Summer … [Read more...] about The Historic Trust’s Summer Solstice Celebration

Portland Midsummer Festival at Oaks Park

Get ready for a joyful day of music, dancing and Swedish culture at the Portland Midsummer Festival. Midsummer, or midsommar, is a Swedish celebration of life and love during the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. Here's how you can participate in this local celebration: Portland … [Read more...] about Portland Midsummer Festival at Oaks Park

The Portland Aquarium: Mike Bennett’s Imaginative Ocean Adventure

There’s a new kind of aquarium making waves in Portland and it’s unlike anything you’ve seen before. Mike Bennett is back at it with his latest immersive experience: The Portland Aquarium.  From street signs and murals to exhibits and local partnerships, chances are you've seen Mike Bennett's … [Read more...] about The Portland Aquarium: Mike Bennett’s Imaginative Ocean Adventure

Free Admission, Camping and Fishing on Oregon State Parks Day

Oregon State Parks Day is June 7, 2025. Make the most of the celebration with free admission, camping 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 … [Read more...] about Free Admission, Camping and Fishing on Oregon State Parks Day

Free Open Play Swim Sessions at Portland Pools

Cool off this summer 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 first come, first … [Read more...] about Free Open Play Swim Sessions at Portland Pools

Be Wildfire Aware: World Forestry Center Free Admission and Activities

Visit the World Forestry Center for a special community preparedness event: Be Wildfire Aware.  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 Be Wildfire Aware: World Forestry Center Free Admission and Activities

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

2025 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 2025 Powell’s Summer Reading Challenge

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 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., head to Zenger … [Read more...] about Celebrate Portland’s Flour Power at this Baker Fair

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

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

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

2025 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 2025 Troutdale Arts Festival

2025 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, Old Town and Lloyd District into a blossoming canvas of floral art, immersive installations and community celebration. Flower … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Bloom Tour: Explore Immersive Floral Creations and Special Events

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

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

Mike Bennett’s Wonderwood Mini Golf Course

Mark your calendars! Mike Bennett's latest interactive creation is underway. The imaginative fantasy realm of Wonderwood is transforming into an interactive adventure for all ages. Wonderwood Mini Golf invites you on an exciting quest filled with magical wonders.  From street signs and … [Read more...] about Mike Bennett’s Wonderwood Mini Golf Course

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

McMenamins History Pubs: Uncover Oregon’s People and Places

McMenamins History Pub invites you to explore Oregon and Pacific Northwest history. Enjoy an evening with local experts, scholars, first-person experiencers and historians who dive into topics from Lewis and Clark to shipwrecks, hop growing to women pioneers and beyond. McMenamins History … [Read more...] about McMenamins History Pubs: Uncover Oregon’s People and Places

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 2025 details: 2025 Camas Plant … [Read more...] about Bloom into Spring at the Camas Plant and Garden Fair

Get a $9.99 Tulip Bouquet at Whole Foods Market

Just in time for Mother's Day, Whole Foods Market is offering a special tulip sale.  Celebrate your love for Mom or another special person in your life with a discount bouquet from Whole Foods Market.  Here are the details about the 2025 deal. Also, consider pairing this deal with … [Read more...] about Get a $9.99 Tulip Bouquet at Whole Foods Market

Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Mother’s Day Train Ride

Take a scenic trip through Clark County on the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Mother's Day Ride.  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 … [Read more...] about Chelatchie Prairie Railroad Mother’s Day Train Ride

2025 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 2025 Lilac Days at Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens

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