Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Family & Parenting

2024 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 2024 Portland Sunflower Festivals and Fields

2024 Oregon City Porchfest

Get ready for a weekend of music, community and fun at the Oregon City Porchfest. Oregon City Porchfest is more than just a festival—it’s a community experience. Over two days, the McLoughlin neighborhood transforms into a vibrant stage where local talent shines. This event is an opportunity to … [Read more...] about 2024 Oregon City Porchfest

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 is mid-August. Get tickets for this popular attraction at the Hillsboro you-pick farm. Looking for more summertime … [Read more...] about Sunflower Field at West Union Gardens

Family Forest Days at Hoyt Arboretum

Take your family on a stroll through Portland's museum of trees. This summer, Hoyt Arboretum is hosting Family Forest Days.  This beautiful nature oasis features 2,300 species of trees and plants from around the world along 12 miles of trails. Hoyt Arboretum is free to visit with lots of … [Read more...] about Family Forest Days at Hoyt Arboretum

Topaz Farm Sunflower Maze

Take a trip to Sauvie Island for the sunflower maze at Topaz Farm. The Sauvie Island farm has a produce market, farm animals, you-pick crops, a grill and lots of harvest time events. The farm also plants a sunflower maze for visitors to enjoy in late summer. Here are the details about the 2024 … [Read more...] about Topaz Farm Sunflower Maze

Washington Park Summer Festival

The beloved Washington Park Summer Festival returns, featuring international performances in an inspiring outdoor setting. The event takes place at the Rose Garden Amphitheater in Washington Park, the keeper of Portland’s best attractions. The park features the International Rose Test Garden, … [Read more...] about Washington Park Summer Festival

2024 Opera in the Park Portland

Prepare for an enchanting evening of music and drama at Opera in the Park Portland. Opera in the Park Portland is dedicated to bringing world-class opera to our community free of charge. The annual event has become a beloved tradition in the Portland area. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, … [Read more...] about 2024 Opera in the Park Portland

2024 Portland Witches Paddle Boarding Event

**This event is on hiatus on 2024. The details below are from 2023.** Picture this: a convoy of witches on stand-up paddleboards gliding along the Willamette River against the backdrop of Portland's skyline. Watch witches descend on the downtown waterway at this annual paddle boarding event in … [Read more...] about 2024 Portland Witches Paddle Boarding Event

2024 Lee Farms Sunflower Festival

One of the most beautiful sights during the summertime harvest is a field full of sunflowers. The Lee Farms Sunflower Festival is back this year with family-friendly fun, including a sunflower field, maze, hay ride, and more farm activities. The Lee Farms Sunflower Festival, located in Tualatin, … [Read more...] about 2024 Lee Farms Sunflower Festival

2024 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 event. 2024 Obon Fest at … [Read more...] about 2024 Obon Fest at the Oregon Buddhist Temple

2024 India Festival at Beaverton City Park

Celebrate India’s Independence Day with live music, dance, food and other entertainment at Beaverton City Park. 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 Festival … [Read more...] about 2024 India Festival at Beaverton City Park

2024 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 2024 Chinese Festival at Pioneer Courthouse Square

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

2024 Vancouver Arts & Music Festival

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable weekend as the Vancouver Arts & Music Festival. This vibrant event is set to showcase award-winning musicians, talented visual artists from across the region and captivating local performers. Head to Esther Short Park for a celebration of creativity … [Read more...] about 2024 Vancouver Arts & Music Festival

2024 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 2024 Powell’s Summer Reading Challenge

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

Free Summer Concerts in the Parks

Enjoying music outdoors is a quintessential summertime activity. Portland Parks and Recreation is hosting 30 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

2024 Milwaukie Cruise-In

The 41st annual Milwaukie Cruise-In offers free entertainment, discounted bowling and food deals.  On Saturday, August 3, 2024, from 3-10 p.m., the Milwaukie Bowl parking lot hosts cool, classic cars. Live entertainment includes Dirty Dave the Record Slave from 3-6 p.m. and The Average Joes … [Read more...] about 2024 Milwaukie Cruise-In

Celebrate Harry Potter’s Birthday at Kennedy School

Are you 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

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

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

Summer Flower Event at Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm

New this year, Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm invites you to explore its bounty of summertime blooms. The summer flower event features vibrant sunflowers and a variety of other summer flowers. For more than 40 years, this Woodburn, Oregon, farm has delighted visitors with beautiful blossoms of every … [Read more...] about Summer Flower Event at Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm

2024 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. 2024 … [Read more...] about 2024 Montavilla Street Fair

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

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

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