As winter descends upon the city, a peculiar and thrilling tradition is set to unfold—the Portland Krampus Parade. The event, known as the Krampus Lauf, embodies the darker side of the holiday spirit. This unique event promises a blend of tradition, creativity and community spirit that … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Krampus Parade
Free Events
The Benson Hotel’s Gingerbread Masterpiece
The Benson Hotel continues its long-standing tradition of creating a gingerbread masterpiece for the holiday season. For the 54th year, the historic Portland hotel makes a special gingerbread creation the centerpiece of its lobby. Here are details about the 2025 gingerbread … [Read more...] about The Benson Hotel’s Gingerbread Masterpiece
Free Pet Photos with Santa at PetSmart
Does your pet have a special spot on your holiday card? I'm sure you have hundreds—if not thousands—of photos of your pet being their adorable self. Why not make your holiday card extra special this year with a photo with Saint Nick? Free pet photos with Santa at PetSmart are happening on select … [Read more...] about Free Pet Photos with Santa at PetSmart
2025 Ukrainian Winterfest
Enjoy entertainment, family-friendly activities and traditional food at the Ukrainian Winterfest. The third annual event invites everyone to celebrate Ukrainian culture while also fundraising for Ukraine's critical needs. Here's what is in store at the upcoming event: 2025 Ukrainian … [Read more...] about 2025 Ukrainian Winterfest
2025 Winterfest at Leach Botanical Garden
Embrace the holiday spirit at Leach Botanical Garden's Winterfest. The magical winter market event is your chance to find unique gifts, connect with local artisans and enjoy the peaceful beauty of the garden. 2025 Winterfest at Leach Botanical Garden Winterfest kicks off with a special opening … [Read more...] about 2025 Winterfest at Leach Botanical Garden
Troutdale Windy Wonderland and Tree Lighting
Celebrate the magic of the holidays at the Troutdale Windy Wonderland and Tree Lighting. The holiday spirit is alive and well in historic downtown Troutdale. The two-day festive extravaganza is packed with holiday cheer and offers something for everyone. Best of all, it supports Snow Cap … [Read more...] about Troutdale Windy Wonderland and Tree Lighting
Discount Day at OMSI
The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, better known as OMSI, is one of the nation's leading science centers and we're lucky to have it right here in Portland. OMSI discount day is here to bring one of Portland's best attractions to you for cheap. Science lovers and explorers of the unknown … [Read more...] about Discount Day at OMSI
2025 Lightopia: Hillsboro’s Free Drive-Through Light Display
Lightopia, Hillsboro's free drive-through light display, invites you to enjoy the twinkle of the award-winning event this December. It is one of the few free holiday light displays in the Portland area. Here's how you can claim your free spot for 2025 Lightopia: 2025 Lightopia: Hillsboro's Free … [Read more...] about 2025 Lightopia: Hillsboro’s Free Drive-Through Light Display
Free Photos with Santa at Gresham Station
Gresham Station transforms into the North Pole for Santa's arrival. Sign up for free photos with Santa. Head to the Gresham shopping center to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and partake in fun activities. This is one of several opportunities to take a photo with Santa for free this holiday season. You … [Read more...] about Free Photos with Santa at Gresham Station
Free First Sunday at the Japanese American Museum of Oregon
Attend the Japanese American Museum of Oregon for Free First Sunday event. The Japanese American Museum of Oregon preserves and honors the history and culture of Japanese Americans in the Pacific Northwest. The museum educates the public about the Japanese American experience during WWII, … [Read more...] about Free First Sunday at the Japanese American Museum of Oregon
Sign Up for Portland’s Free Yard Tree Giveaway
Did you know fall in Portland is the best time to plant new trees? Portland Parks and Recreation's Urban Forestry Team is making it easier than ever to add some foliage to your yard by giving away thousands of free trees to Portlanders. Adding trees to your yard can offer shade, boost pollinator … [Read more...] about Sign Up for Portland’s Free Yard Tree Giveaway
NW Marine Art Works Open Studio and Holiday Market
Spend your weekend celebrating art, creativity and community during this special holiday event. NW Marine Art Works Open Studio hosts a twice yearly event featuring talented local artists at a studio nestled in Portland’s NW industrial area. Here are the details about the holiday … [Read more...] about NW Marine Art Works Open Studio and Holiday Market
2025 Free Photos with Santa
We're all looking for ways to save during the holiday season. Capturing a moment you'll cherish for years to come should not break the bank. Thankfully, these local events are offering free photos with Santa! These free photos with Jolly Old St. Nicholas are a great deal, yet the events are … [Read more...] about 2025 Free Photos with Santa
Sign Up for Free Photos with Santa at Cabela’s
Taking an annual photo with Santa is a holiday tradition for many families. Cabela's is keeping this tradition alive by offering free photos with Santa. The annual event is called Santa's Wonderland, featuring free photos with Santa at Cabela's, a chance to mail a letter to Santa and free … [Read more...] about Sign Up for Free Photos with Santa at Cabela’s
Holiday Light Display Map: Plan Your Self-Guided Tour
Find the best decorated homes in Portland with the Holiday Light Display Map. The holiday season brings with it a sense of magic and wonder that lights up communities around the world. For some, it's not just about celebrating within the four walls of their homes but sharing the joy and spirit of … [Read more...] about Holiday Light Display Map: Plan Your Self-Guided Tour
2025 Fremont Holiday Fest
Get in the spirit of the season at the Fremont Holiday Fest! On Friday, December 5, 2025, from 4-7 p.m., the Beaumont Business Association is hosting an evening full of fun, free activities along NE Fremont from NE 42nd-50th. Most activities are happening for the duration of the event, … [Read more...] about 2025 Fremont Holiday Fest
What to Do in Portland This Weekend
There is always something to do in Portland. Yet, not all events in the Rose City come with a cheap price tag. If you're looking to have a great time without breaking the budget, you've come to the right place.Free events in Portlandd Every week I will add new free and cheap events throughout the … [Read more...] about What to Do in Portland This Weekend
2025 Beaverton Winter Lights
Every December, Beaverton City Park transforms into a sparkling holiday attraction, Beaverton Winter Lights. The holiday display features the city's Christmas tree along with thousands of lights throughout the park. Here's how you can enjoy this attraction. You may also enjoy … [Read more...] about 2025 Beaverton Winter Lights
Holiday Sparkles at Powerland Heritage Park
Enjoy holiday lights and decorations from the comfort of your car at Powerland Heritage Park. Take a short drive south to visit the free Holiday Sparkles event. Drive through 62 acres of holiday lights and decorations at this free event. Here are some more free holiday light displays you … [Read more...] about Holiday Sparkles at Powerland Heritage Park
2025 Portland Night Market
Explore the city's best vendors celebrating local food, culture, music, drinks and retail at Portland Night Market. Since 2015, the Portland Night Market has centered around Portland's creative scene. This event is a unique experience on the Central Eastside for Portlanders of all … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Night Market
2025 Portland Christmas Ships Parade Schedule
One of my favorite views of Portland is at night when the city lights reflect off of the glassy surface of the Willamette River. This sight becomes even more enchanting every holiday season during the annual Christmas Ships Parade. The annual tradition of Christmas ships gathering in fleets to … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Christmas Ships Parade Schedule
Free and Cheap Events this Week in Portland
Never Miss Out on Frugal Fun in Portland There are so many ways you can participate in fun activities in Portland without breaking your budget. Use this list of free and cheap events this week as your guide to having frugal fun throughout the metro area. To stay up to date on all the … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Events this Week in Portland
Free Admission Days at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum
Visit the World Forestry Center during this upcoming free admission days. 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 lives. The museum … [Read more...] about Free Admission Days at World Forestry Center’s Discovery Museum
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
Oregon Potters Association Holiday Fair
Explore local creators during the three-day Oregon Potters Association Holiday Fair. The association represents a group of diverse ceramic artists, makers, teachers and students. At the holiday event, members bring their creations under one roof for the whole community to enjoy. Here's what is … [Read more...] about Oregon Potters Association Holiday Fair
Thanksgiving Weekend Events in Portland
You’re finally done grocery shopping. The house is clean. You have a schedule of what's cooking for the next 24 hours. It is officially the calm before the holiday storm. But there is still one thing you might have overlooked: what do to with your guests over Thanksgiving weekend. Make new … [Read more...] about Thanksgiving Weekend Events in Portland
Wicked Craft’s Holiday Bazaar and Craft Fair
Ring in the holiday season with a day of magic, creativity and community at Wicked Craft's Holiday Bazaar and Craft Fair. Rooted in the earthy majesty of ancient arts and the divine strength of feminine creativity, Wicked Craft celebrates women from all walks of life. Here are the details about … [Read more...] about Wicked Craft’s Holiday Bazaar and Craft Fair
When Are the King Tides on the Oregon Coast? View the Schedule
See the Oregon Coast like never before. This fall and winter, watch the beauty and power of the ocean as it reaches new heights during king tides season. When the moon's orbit comes closest to the earth, the tide rises. The highest tides hit the coast during the late fall and winter, known … [Read more...] about When Are the King Tides on the Oregon Coast? View the Schedule
Get a Free Thanksgiving Meal at Prost’s Portland Pub
Give thanks for free food! Looking for a great meal and good company on Thanksgiving? Prost! Portland brings the holiday back to the basics: A wholesome meal celebrated by all. Prost! is joining the group of Portland restaurants open on Thanksgiving with a truly unbeatable offer. If you're … [Read more...] about Get a Free Thanksgiving Meal at Prost’s Portland Pub
2025 Portland Tree Lighting Ceremony
There is something magical about a tree covered in mesmerizing lights and charming decorations. It is even more impressive when the tree stands at 75 feet tall. Ring in the season at the Portland Tree Lighting Ceremony. On the day after Thanksgiving, Portlanders are invited to kick off the … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Tree Lighting Ceremony
Free Park and Nature Area Entrance on Black Friday
Want a change of pace this Black Friday? Skip the hyper-consumerism and work off that holiday meal at your favorite park or natural area. On Friday, November 28, receive free entrance at select nature areas and parks. Free Park and Natural Area Entrance on Black Friday Green Friday at Oregon State … [Read more...] about Free Park and Nature Area Entrance on Black Friday
Green Friday at Tryon Creek Natural Area
Skip the stores and online shopping and celebrate Green Friday outside at Tryon Creek Natural Area. Located in Southwest Portland, Tryon Creek is one of Portland’s best urban parks. This beautiful natural area is a great example of our temperate rainforest climate: trees covered in … [Read more...] about Green Friday at Tryon Creek Natural Area
Sign Up for Free Photos with Portland’s Black Santa
Black Santa is coming to town! Participate in this Portland tradition at these free events this holiday season. Leroy Barber, Portland's Black Santa, took on the role in 2016. These volunteer-led Black Santa events offer a diverse representation of Jolly Old Saint Nicholas. In 2025, there … [Read more...] about Sign Up for Free Photos with Portland’s Black Santa
2025 Christmas on the Campground
Christmas on the Campground brings a traditional light display and special holiday event to Portland every year. The event illustrates a Merry Christmas with a life-size nativity, thousands of lights and the tallest decorated Christmas tree in Southeast Portland. This event is once again opening … [Read more...] about 2025 Christmas on the Campground
Holiday Lights at Meinig Park
Every year, Sandy's crown jewel park transforms into a magical holiday experience. Visit the holiday lights at Meinig Park this season. The light display also hosts special events throughout the month. Here are the details about the holiday event. If you're looking for more sparkling lights, … [Read more...] about Holiday Lights at Meinig Park
Portland Bazaar’s European Market
Put money back into the community when you shop local small businesses at Portland Bazaar. Since 2011, this event has highlighted the skilled artists, makers and small businesses of Portland, Oregon. This holiday season, the event is hosting three markets at locations throughout the city. You … [Read more...] about Portland Bazaar’s European Market
2025 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 2025 Free Fishing Weekends in Oregon
St. Johns Community Tree Lighting
Head to one of Portland’s most charming neighborhoods for a festive, community event. Be part of the decorating crew at St. Johns Community Tree Lighting. The tree lighting event is held at the St. Johns Plaza. Here are the activities you can partake in: Decorate an ornament to hang on … [Read more...] about St. Johns Community Tree Lighting
Skamania Lodge Holiday Light Walk
Ready to see dazzling lights nestled in a Washington forest? Take a drive to Skamania Lodge for the second annual Holiday Light Walk. Skamania Lodge offers cozy, inviting accommodations outside of Stevenson in the Columbia River Gorge. During the holiday season, the lodge hosts a variety of … [Read more...] about Skamania Lodge Holiday Light Walk
Topaz Farm Winter Wonderland
Enjoy fresh Christmas trees, visits with Santa and a holiday market at the Topaz Farm Winter Wonderland. The Sauvie Island farm has a produce market, farm animals, you-pick crops, a grill and lots of harvest time events. The farm also hosts special activities in celebration of the winter … [Read more...] about Topaz Farm Winter Wonderland
Portland Flea Vintage, Handmade Market
Calling all vintage, handmade, food loving Portlanders! Explore one-of-a-kind goods at Portland Flea. For over a decade, Portland Flea has created a gathering place for our city's creators to showcase their talents. Get out and join your community of makers, food purveyors and curators at this … [Read more...] about Portland Flea Vintage, Handmade Market
Every Husband’s Nightmare Bazaar and Vintage Marketplace
Are you ready for 1,300-square-feet of local creations and vintage finds? Head to Every Husband's Nightmare Bazaar and Vintage Marketplace. Celebrating its 37th year, the event features local vendors specializing in handcrafted items, gourmet food, vintage treasures and collectibles. Here's … [Read more...] about Every Husband’s Nightmare Bazaar and Vintage Marketplace
Portland Art Museum Free Admission Days
Get free admission to the Portland Art Museum during it grand opening celebration. Located in the heart of downtown, Portland Art Museum is internationally renowned for exciting art experiences. On free admission days, our community gets open access to one of our city's top attractions … [Read more...] about Portland Art Museum Free Admission Days
Hillsboro Holly Days Celebration
Kickoff the festive season at the annual Hillsboro Holly Days Celebration. Every year on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, the community gathers in downtown Hillsboro to enjoy performances, local artisans and activities for all ages. The event builds the excitement leading up to the tree … [Read more...] about Hillsboro Holly Days Celebration
How to Get a Free LEGO Magazine for Your Kids
Are your kids LEGO enthusiasts? If so, here’s an exciting opportunity they’re going to love. Here's how you can get a free LEGO Magazine for your kids. The LEGO Magazine is completely free. There's no hidden costs, no credit card required and even delivery is on the house. It's a perfect … [Read more...] about How to Get a Free LEGO Magazine for Your Kids
2025 Veterans Day Deals: Free Food, Haircuts and Car Washes for Military
Businesses throughout Portland are giving back to those who serve with Veterans Day deals. To thank our veterans and active military members, many businesses are offering free food, admission and services on Veterans Day, Tuesday, November 11, 2025. If you’re not a military member, you … [Read more...] about 2025 Veterans Day Deals: Free Food, Haircuts and Car Washes for Military
2025 Free Parking Days at Portland Metro Parks
Get out and enjoy Portland metro parks during free parking days. In 2025, there are 19 free parking days at Portland metro parks, a beach and boat ramps that typically charge a $5 parking fee per car. All of these locations get you up close to our unique waterways, including the Columbia and … [Read more...] about 2025 Free Parking Days at Portland Metro Parks
Veterans Day Parade at Fort Vancouver
Enjoy patriotic displays, music and tributes at the annual Lough Legacy Veterans Day Parade. For 37 years, the parade has brought a family-friendly celebration to Vancouver. With the cancellation of the Portland Veterans Day Parade in 2025, take a drive North to honor our nation’s heroes. Here … [Read more...] about Veterans Day Parade at Fort Vancouver
Military Members Get Free Great Clips Haircut on Veterans Day
The popular salon is celebrating those who are a cut above the rest with a special Veterans Day offer. You or the military member in your life can get a free haircut at Great Clips on Veterans Day. While you may not have served, chances are you know someone who is either an active member or … [Read more...] about Military Members Get Free Great Clips Haircut on Veterans Day
Free Car Washes for Veterans at Washman
Washman honors those who served on Veterans Day with a special deal. Known for quickly delivering a clean, dry and shiny car, Washman has 20 locations in Portland, Gresham, Sandy, Salem and Longview that accommodate vehicles up to 10 feet tall. Check out this upcoming deal for veterans … [Read more...] about Free Car Washes for Veterans at Washman
Portland Living on the Cheap is a member of 