Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Family & Parenting

2025 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. 2025 … [Read more...] about 2025 Montavilla Street Fair

2025 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 2025 Vancouver Arts & Music Festival

2025 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 2025 Opera in the Park Portland

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

2025 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 2025 event.  2025 Peruvian Cultural Festival The Peruvian cultural art … [Read more...] about 2025 Peruvian Cultural Festival

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

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 color framing the … [Read more...] about Summer Flower Event at Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm

2025 Milwaukie Cruise-In

The 42nd annual Milwaukie Cruise-In offers free entertainment, discounted bowling and food deals.  On Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 3-10 p.m., the Milwaukie Bowl parking lot hosts cool, classic cars. Live entertainment includes a live DJ from 3-6 p.m. and The Average Joe's from 6-10 … [Read more...] about 2025 Milwaukie Cruise-In

2025 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. 2025 … [Read more...] about 2025 Gresham Arts Festival

Scooped Ice Cream Festival: A Sweet Summer Celebration in Vancouver

Get ready to chill out and indulge at the Scooped Ice Cream Festival. This event is the ultimate summer treat for ice cream lovers of all ages. Set up in Esther Short Park, the event promises a weekend filled with tasty delights and entertainment under the summer sun. If you're looking for … [Read more...] about Scooped Ice Cream Festival: A Sweet Summer Celebration in Vancouver

The Best Days to Visit Topgolf for Discount Play

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 The Best Days to Visit Topgolf for Discount Play

Sherwood Robin Hood Festival

For more than 70 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, … [Read more...] about Sherwood Robin Hood Festival

Parkrose Summer Nights Street Fair

Explore Northeast Portland during Parkrose Summer Nights Street Fair. This free, family-friendly celebration, hosted by Historic Parkrose, invites the community to come together for an evening of connection and summer fun. Here's what you can expect at the upcoming events: Parkrose Summer … [Read more...] about Parkrose Summer Nights Street Fair

Sandy Mountain Festival: Art, Music and Classic Cars

The beloved Sandy Mountain Festival returns this summer with two full days of handcrafted art, live entertainment and community fun. Each year, this festival brings together local artists, musicians and vendors in a beautiful forested setting in Sandy. Plus, new additions keep the fun rolling this … [Read more...] about Sandy Mountain Festival: Art, Music and Classic Cars

Portland Bastille Day Festival and French Market

Vive la France! Portland’s Bastille Day Festival and French Market returns for its 23rd year. Join the vibrant celebration of French culture, cuisine and community. Hosted by the Alliance Française de Portland, this event honors France’s national holiday.  Here are the details about the … [Read more...] about Portland Bastille Day Festival and French Market

2025 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 2025 Helvetia Lavender Festival

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

2025 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 2025 Mt. Tabor Summer Concert

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

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

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