Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Festivals

2023 Portland Winter Light Festival

During the darkest time of year, one Portland event brings the city together to celebrate creativity, culture, and community through light.  The annual Portland Winter Light Festival is one of the most popular winter festivals in the city. The citywide outdoor arts celebration features … [Read more...] about 2023 Portland Winter Light Festival

PDX Motorcycle Film Festival

Do you have a passion for motorcycles? Attend the Portland Motorcycle Film Festival this weekend. Watch feature length and short films that showcase riders and their machines. Go on journeys, view personal visions and get your heart racing on the track.  The annual festival, hosted by the … [Read more...] about PDX Motorcycle Film Festival

Portland Mercado’s Winter Soup Festival

Let the spices and aromas of Latin American soups warm your bones during the Portland Mercado's Winter Soup Festival.  Portland Mercado is the hub of Latin culture in our city. The public market space features eight food carts and six indoor businesses representing the diverse flavors of … [Read more...] about Portland Mercado’s Winter Soup Festival

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Festivals · Food & Drink

Chinese New Year Cultural Fair

Celebrate the Year of the Rabbit during the 2023 Chinese New Year Cultural Fair at the Oregon Convention Center. The Year of the Rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace, and prosperity. Join in on the daylong celebration of a year of hope. 2023 Chinese New Year Cultural Fair On Saturday, January … [Read more...] about Chinese New Year Cultural Fair

2023 Chinese New Year at Lan Su Chinese Garden

Portland's most popular Chinese New Year Celebration is back at Lan Su Chinese Garden. The two-week festival features hanging red lanterns, performances, light displays and activities. The Chinese New Year festival is celebrating the Year of the Rabbit from January 21-February 5, 2023. Here's how … [Read more...] about 2023 Chinese New Year at Lan Su Chinese Garden

Koleda Winter Solstice Festival

Follow in the footsteps of ancient winter traditions at Koleda, a Slavic winter solstice festival. The Oregon Latvian Society is hosting a day of revel, feasting, dressing up as animals and magical creatures, singing carols, dancing and telling fortunes for the whole community.  Koleda … [Read more...] about Koleda Winter Solstice Festival

2023 Portland Seafood and Wine Festival

Enjoy Oregon seafood and delicious beverages at the Portland Seafood and Wine Festival.  For the past 17 years, Portlanders have gathered during the peak Dungeness crab season to savor the locally sourced, fermented and distilled food and drinks. 2023 Portland Seafood and Wine Festival The … [Read more...] about 2023 Portland Seafood and Wine Festival

Free and Cheap New Year’s Eve Events in Portland

New Year's Eve events in Portland are the perfect way to ring in a brand new decade. Yet trying to find a celebration that doesn't cost a fortune can be difficult. Here's a round up of free and cheap New Year's Eve events in Portland.  Keep in mind that entrance to these parties may be free … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap New Year’s Eve Events in Portland

Celebrate Japanese New Year at Portland Japanese Garden

Celebrate Japanese New Year at Portland Japanese Garden.  Nestled in Washington Park, Portland Japanese Garden has been a place of serenity and tranquility for more than 50 years. Explore the eight unique garden spaces, from lush greens to ponds to sand and stone. Each garden highlights … [Read more...] about Celebrate Japanese New Year at Portland Japanese Garden

2022 Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway

Every holiday season, Portland International Raceway transforms its track into the largest light show West of the Mississippi. Starting the day after Thanksgiving, you can visit Winter Wonderland any day of the week. Since 1993, Winter Wonderland has been one of the must-see holiday light … [Read more...] about 2022 Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway

Winter Solstice Celebration at Leach Botanical Garden

Leach Botanical Garden invites you to take part in a tribute to the sun's return at the Winter Solstice celebration. 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 … [Read more...] about Winter Solstice Celebration at Leach Botanical Garden

2022 Holiday Light Display at the Victorian Belle

What could be more beautiful than a 1885 Victorian home dressed top to bottom in twinkly lights and tasteful holiday decor? The Victorian Belle is a spectacular holiday wonderland during the holiday light display.  On the outside, take in the dazzling lights decorating the home and the … [Read more...] about 2022 Holiday Light Display at the Victorian Belle

Portland Holiday Event Guide

The best Portland holiday events for all ages.  Our area has many holiday events that make the season magical. Use this Portland holiday event guide to mark your calendar for tried-and-true seasonal fun and start new traditions. The is a day-by-day list of holiday events happening in and … [Read more...] about Portland Holiday Event Guide

Portland Audubon’s Wild Arts Festival

Celebrate art, literature, and nature at the Portland Audubon's Wild Arts Festival. For 42 years, the festival has brought together nature lovers to discover one-of-a-kind nature-inspired artwork and books. This event supports the Portland Audubon’s mission to inspire people to love and … [Read more...] about Portland Audubon’s Wild Arts Festival

Silver Falls Winter Festival

Silver Falls State Park is becoming even more magical this December during the Winter Festival. Enjoy fun holiday activities while exploring this incredible Oregon park.  The Silver Falls Winter Festival is December 10 and 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy family-friendly seasonal crafts, … [Read more...] about Silver Falls Winter Festival

2022 ScanFair: Nordic Christmas Market

Enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes and traditions of a Nordic Christmas market at ScanFair.  Since 1986, Nordic Northwest has brought Scandinavia to Portland through traditional food, entertainment, goods and activities.  Here's what you can enjoy at this year's ScanFair. While you're … [Read more...] about 2022 ScanFair: Nordic Christmas Market

Portland Cider Company Wassail

Portland Cider Company is hosting its annual Wassail. Join the Portland Revels in song as you celebrate the night with performances, cider and cheer. Wassail is a centuries-old celebration filled with toasting, sharing and giving thanks during the Yuletide. Portland Cider Company's event captures … [Read more...] about Portland Cider Company Wassail

2022 Crafty Wonderland Holiday Art and Craft Market

Are you ready for Portland's best holiday art and craft market? Crafty Wonderland is the ultimate local handmade art and craft event of the season.  If you haven't attended this magical holiday craft fair in the past, let me give you a little background. It all started when two local artists … [Read more...] about 2022 Crafty Wonderland Holiday Art and Craft Market

Portland Night Market: Discover Local Creators and Chefs

Since 2015, the Portland Night Market has centered around Portland's creative scene. Bringing together food, culture, music, drinks and retail, this bimonthly event is a unique experience on the Central Eastside for Portlanders of all ages.   2022 Portland Night Market Portland Night … [Read more...] about Portland Night Market: Discover Local Creators and Chefs

Unique Markets Winter Event Features 160 Portland Makers

Support Portland's independent brands at the Unique Markets winter event. Find one-of-a-kind goods for loved ones or treat yourself to something special. This winter market pop up is featuring 160 of Portland's best emerging brands, makers and artists. Items include accessories, clothing, … [Read more...] about Unique Markets Winter Event Features 160 Portland Makers

Fremont Holiday Fest

Get in the spirit of the season at the Fremont Holiday Fest!  On Friday, December 2, from 4-7 p.m., the Beaumont Business Association is hosting an evening full of fun, free activities along NE Fremont from NE 42nd-47th. Most activities are happening for the duration of the event, unless … [Read more...] about Fremont Holiday Fest

Holiday Markets in and around Portland

Ready to start crossing off your holiday shopping list? Shop local at these Portland holiday markets. This list is your day-to-day guide to holiday markets happening in the Portland area. Some of these markets have a special niche, like food or crafts. All of them are great places to support … [Read more...] about Holiday Markets in and around Portland

2022 Silverton Christmas Market

Take a drive to the Oregon Garden Resort for the annual Silverton Christmas Market, featuring a dazzling light display, German inspired market and family-friendly activities.  This beloved holiday tradition has taken place for more than a decade. Now held at the Oregon Garden Resort, the … [Read more...] about 2022 Silverton Christmas Market

2022 Plucky Maidens Holiday Fest Vintage Market

Head to Oaks Park this weekend for a special vintage market, Plucky Maidens. This nationally recognized vintage market started in 2011 right here in Portland. The unique and popular Plucky Maidens event is hosted two times a year.  Visit the November market this weekend. Here are the … [Read more...] about 2022 Plucky Maidens Holiday Fest Vintage Market

Gem Faire at Westside Commons

Gem Faire is taking over the entire expo hall at Westside Commons for the three-day event. Gem Faire is one of the largest gem, jewelry and bead shows in the U.S. With more than 40 shows a year, you're sure to see the best of the best in the gem industry. The dealers at Gem Faire are direct … [Read more...] about Gem Faire at Westside Commons

Portland Holiday Market at the Expo Center

Portland's Holiday Market is coming to town! Shop outside the big box at the Portland Expo Center. Does this event sound familiar? Instead of the annual America's Largest Christmas Bazaar, the Portland Expo Center is hosting the Portland Holiday Market. This new holiday shopping experience … [Read more...] about Portland Holiday Market at the Expo Center

My People’s Market: A Celebration of Business, Arts and Culture

Immerse yourself in a vibrant community of Portland creators at our city's largest BIPOC marketplace, My People's Market.  Started in November 2017, My People's Market was created to help entrepreneurs of color to the travel industry and  professionals who can help scale their … [Read more...] about My People’s Market: A Celebration of Business, Arts and Culture

Snowvana: Portland’s Winter Sports Festival

Join the celebration of winter at Snowvana! The Northwest's largest gear sale and ski swap is taking over the convention center with many unique experiences for snow sports lovers. 2022 Snowvana Snowvana is taking place November 18-20, 2022. This is your chance to save big on gear and lift tickets … [Read more...] about Snowvana: Portland’s Winter Sports Festival

Portland Holiday Food and Gift Festival

Want to get a jump start on your holiday shopping? The Portland Holiday Food and Gift Festival, one of the largest holiday celebrations in the Northwest, is back this November. The 33rd annual festival features hundreds of local creators showcasing one-of-a-kind gifts. Items include art, crafts, … [Read more...] about Portland Holiday Food and Gift Festival

2022 Portland Book Festival

Book lovers are invited to join Literary Arts at the annual Portland Book Festival. This year, bibliophiles can partake in activities all day long at multiple locations in downtown Portland. 2022 Portland Book Festival The Portland Book Festival is on Saturday, November 5, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. … [Read more...] about 2022 Portland Book Festival

2022 West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta

There is something about a giant pumpkin that draws your attention. But what about hollowed out giant pumpkins supporting costume clad characters as they race around a lake? If this piqued your interest, you won't want to miss the 2022 West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta. Since 2004, the West Coast … [Read more...] about 2022 West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta

Snack Fest: Take a Bite Out of Portland’s Food Market

Portland foodies are in for a feast at Snack Fest. The creators of Portland Night Market are hosting a special food-themed event for two nights in October. 2022 Snack Fest Snack Fest is October 14-15, 2022. The event is open Friday from 6-10 p.m. and Saturday from 1-10 p.m. Portland's food … [Read more...] about Snack Fest: Take a Bite Out of Portland’s Food Market

NW Scandinavian Gnome Festival

The Red Sled Market is hosting a special event all about the lovable creature from European folklore: gnomes. The 3rd annual NW Scandinavian Gnome Festival hosts gnome vendors from all over the Pacific Northwest. Since 1997, the Red Sled Market has been a seasonal pop-up shop in Sherwood. It … [Read more...] about NW Scandinavian Gnome Festival

2022 Portland Oddities and Curiosities Expo

Get ready for a showcase of all things weird at the Portland Oddities and Curiosities Expo. If you love the strange, unusual and bizarre, you won't want to miss this collection of artists and small businesses as they descend on Portland. The Oddities and Curiosities Expo is the original traveling … [Read more...] about 2022 Portland Oddities and Curiosities Expo

2022 Hood River Valley Harvest Fest

  Celebrate the harvest season at one of the most plentiful valleys in Oregon. The Hood River Valley Harvest Fest invites you and your family to take a bite out of fall's delicious bounty at this weekend's event.  2022 Hood River Valley Harvest Fest The 40th annual Hood River Valley … [Read more...] about 2022 Hood River Valley Harvest Fest

2022 Portland Greek Festival

The 69th annual Portland Greek Festival invites the community to enjoy the flavors, dances and traditions of the Mediterranean culture. In the late 1800s, the first Greek immigrants came the Northwest to work in fishing, lumber, railroad and other jobs. That's when the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox … [Read more...] about 2022 Portland Greek Festival

2022 Oktoberfests in and around Portland

From September to October, crowds will pack the beer halls and streets to celebrate Oktoberfest in Germany. Thankfully, you don't have to go on an international trip to partake in this German tradition. Portland Oktoberfests are plentiful and offer a variety of activities for all ages. At … [Read more...] about 2022 Oktoberfests in and around Portland

2022 El Festival de Mariachi

Celebrate Hispanic culture through music at the 2022 El Festival de Mariachi. The festival honoring Hispanic Heritage Month is hosted by Unitus Community Credit Union. Here's what is in store at this free event:  2022 El Festival de Mariachi El Festival de Mariachi is Sunday, September 25, … [Read more...] about 2022 El Festival de Mariachi

Multicultural Kids Festival

Explore new cultures in a fun, creative setting at the Multicultural Kids Festival.  The event is hosted by the Slavic Community Center of NW, Inc. The local nonprofit helps its community members succeed in America through various programs and services. This weekend, the Multicultural … [Read more...] about Multicultural Kids Festival

2022 Mount Angel Oktoberfest

Get ready to eat, drink and Polka! The Mount Angel Oktoberfest is bringing the Bavarian tradition to our state.  Every year, the entire town of Mount Angel transforms into Oktoberfest. The event boasts eight entertainment venues brimming with beverages, entertainment, activities, food and … [Read more...] about 2022 Mount Angel Oktoberfest

2022 Spirit of Halloweentown in St. Helens

Celebrate the haunting holiday all month long during Spirit of Halloweentown in St. Helens. Visiting St. Helens during the fall may feel like a trip back to your childhood. In 1998, Disney Channel's Halloween classic “Halloweentown" was filmed in the small city of St. Helens, Oregon. Since then, … [Read more...] about 2022 Spirit of Halloweentown in St. Helens

Night Market Vancouver

Celebrate an evening out at Night Market Vancouver. For three nights this summer, the market is hosting special gatherings for our community to explore local makers and creators. At Clark College, discover local brands and shop products from more than 100 local vendors. All ages are welcome to … [Read more...] about Night Market Vancouver

Go Back in Time at the Philip Foster Farm Cider Squeeze

Take a step back in time at the annual Philip Foster Farm Cider Squeeze. The Philip Foster Farm is a historic 1840s homestead featuring original and reconstructed buildings. Visitors to the farm participate in hands-on activities and get an insider's look at how life was on a working farm along … [Read more...] about Go Back in Time at the Philip Foster Farm Cider Squeeze

2022 Lee Farms Fall Harvest Pumpkin Patch Festival

Harvest season is upon us and Lee Farms is bringing back all of our fall farmyard favorites in 2022 This seventh generation family farm goes all out for the fall season with traditional attractions you know and love, as well as new activities designed with kids in mind.  Here's the details … [Read more...] about 2022 Lee Farms Fall Harvest Pumpkin Patch Festival

Plumper Pumpkin Patch Fall Activities

Every fall, Plumper Pumpkin Patch celebrates the harvest season with fun activities, an amazing variety of pumpkins and tasty treats. If you have never been to this farm, I highly recommend it. It has a wonderful small farm feel in one of the rare rural areas of Portland. Plumper Pumpkin Patch … [Read more...] about Plumper Pumpkin Patch Fall Activities

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 now in bloom for the 2022 season. Get tickets for this popular attraction at the Hillsboro you-pick farm. Sunflower Field at … [Read more...] about Sunflower Field at West Union Gardens

2022 St. Johns Comedy Festival

The second annual St. Johns Comedy Festival is a celebration of laughter and community. Come together with fellow comedy lovers for this community festival in August. 2022 St. Johns Comedy Festival The 2022 St. Johns Comedy Festival is taking place August 25-27 at two Portland venues: Curious … [Read more...] about 2022 St. Johns Comedy Festival

Last Thursday Art Walk on Alberta Street

On the last Thursday of summer months, Alberta Street opens to foot traffic only for a unique arts and culture experience. The Last Thursday Art Walk on Alberta Street invites the whole community to come out and enjoy the creativity of our city's art, culture, music and food. The summer … [Read more...] about Last Thursday Art Walk on Alberta Street

2022 Dahlia Festival at Swan Island Dahlias

Visit one of the Portland area's beloved flower farms this summer during the Dahlia Festival at Swan Island Dahlias. Swan Island Dahlias in Canby has been growing beautiful blooms for more than 93 years. The flower farm is the largest and leading dahlia grower in the United States. With roots in … [Read more...] about 2022 Dahlia Festival at Swan Island Dahlias

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Festivals · Free Events

Beaverton Night Market

Beaverton Night Market invites you to join the vibrant, intercultural, family-friendly event reminiscent of international night markets. Starting in 2015, the summer event has grown into a large-scale event that brings together around 14,000 people each year. This summer, the City of Beaverton is … [Read more...] about Beaverton Night Market

Sunday Parkways: A Family-Friendly Mobile Block Party

Every year, Portland Bureau of Transportation opens Portland streets to a special kind of traffic during Sunday Parkways. This summer program lets bikers, walkers and rollers stroll Portland neighborhoods together like one big mobile block party. It is family friendly and always draws big crowds of … [Read more...] about Sunday Parkways: A Family-Friendly Mobile Block Party

Washington Park Summer Festival

The beloved Washington Park Summer Festival returns, featuring world-class 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

9 Portland Street Fairs You Won’t Want to Miss

Enjoy free summertime fun at these Portland street fairs. One of my favorite summertime activities in Portland is attending the totally free, family-friendly and fun neighborhood street fairs. If you're new to Portland or haven't explored the city in a while, this is a great way to get out there … [Read more...] about 9 Portland Street Fairs You Won’t Want to Miss

2022 Oaks Park Oktoberfest

The 2022 Oaks Park Oktoberfest is cancelled. View more upcoming Oktoberfests. As Portland's iconic amusement park is celebrating the harvest with a fun, family-friendly celebration of the season. The Oaks Park Oktoberfest is one fall festival you won't want to miss.  This Oktoberfest has … [Read more...] about 2022 Oaks Park Oktoberfest

2022 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. After a two-year hiatus, the event is back this July! This is one of several Portland street fairs that invites the community to … [Read more...] about 2022 Montavilla Street Fair

Sherwood Robin Hood Festival

For 69 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 re-enactments, Maid Marian's Court, Robin Hood and his Merry Men, a knighting ceremony, a castle … [Read more...] about Sherwood Robin Hood Festival

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 across multiple stages.  The new festival is inspired by the Spanish evening stroll that reawakens the city. Paseo is the first large … [Read more...] about Portland Parks Foundation’s Paseo Festival

La Strada dei Pastelli Chalk Art Festival

The streets of downtown Hillsboro become a canvas during the La Strada dei Pastelli Chalk Art Festival. Tualatin Valley Creates is bringing together talented artists that will make the sidewalks come to life with their incredible creations. Tualatin Valley Creates serves Washington County’s 15 … [Read more...] about La Strada dei Pastelli Chalk Art Festival

2022 Cathedral Park Jazz Festival

Attend Portland's free summer jazz concert. The annual Cathedral Park Jazz Festival is Portland's best free concert of the summer. This three-day event features the region's most talented Jazz and Blues musicians harmonizing with the incredible backdrop of the St Johns Bridge at Cathedral … [Read more...] about 2022 Cathedral Park Jazz Festival

East Portland Summer Arts Festival

Celebrate music and expression at the first annual East Portland Summer Arts Festival.  The event is part of Portland Parks and Recreation's Summer Free For All program, which hosts 42 summer events including festivals, Movies in the Park, Concerts in the Park, and other free special events … [Read more...] about East Portland Summer Arts Festival

Ridgefield Sausage Festival

Link up at the Ridgefield Sausage Festival July 8 and 9.  The annual family-friendly event features food vendors, a bier garden, live entertainment, shopping, and kids' activities. Food options include sausages available in mild or spicy, boiled or grilled, smoked and grilled chicken, … [Read more...] about Ridgefield Sausage Festival

The Big Float X at Waterfront Park

Bring your favorite floatie to the 10th and final year of The Big Float at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. The Big Float is a celebration of the Willamette River.  The annual event benefits the Human Access Project, a local nonprofit that helps people connect with their river. Here are the … [Read more...] about The Big Float X at Waterfront Park

2022 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. This event is replacing the fireworks show at Fort … [Read more...] about 2022 Vancouver Summer Fest

2022 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 2022 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 are back this year along with lots of celebrations throughout the area. … [Read more...] about 4th of July Fireworks and Celebrations in and around Portland

2022 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. 2022 … [Read more...] about 2022 Happy Valley 4th of July Family Festival

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

2022 Tigard Festival of Balloons

Look up as hot air balloons take to the sky over Cook Park during the Tigard Festival of Balloons.  The festival is all about community. It provides fundraising opportunities for local nonprofit organizations while inviting the public to come together for a fun celebration. The event … [Read more...] about 2022 Tigard Festival of Balloons

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