Explore new local ceramic creators during the two-day Oregon Potters Association Emerging Artist Fair. The association represents a group of diverse ceramic artists, makers, teachers and students. At the January event, new artists bring their creations under one roof for the whole community to … [Read more...] about Oregon Potters Association Emerging Artist Fair
Free Events
Knit Night at Starlight Knitting Society
In the heart of Portland's vibrant Woodstock neighborhood lies a gem that beckons to creators, Starlight Knitting Society. Come together with fellow crafters during the shop's Knit Night. This haven for yarn enthusiasts offers more than just materials. It fosters a sense of belonging and … [Read more...] about Knit Night at Starlight Knitting Society
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
MLK Day Free Admission and Guided Walks at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
Spend Martin Luther King Jr Day immersed in the beauty of this transfixing garden. Nestled between Reed College and the Eastmoreland Golf Course is an urban oasis called Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden. On the 9-acre property grows a collection of rare species and hybrid rhododendrons, … [Read more...] about MLK Day Free Admission and Guided Walks at Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden
2026 MLK Day Events in Portland
Honor the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. at one of these activities in and around Portland. On Monday, January 19, 2026, celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. by giving back to your community, getting out into nature or connecting with community leaders and activists. All … [Read more...] about 2026 MLK Day Events in Portland
2026 World Arts Foundation’s Martin Luther King Tribute
Celebrate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with the World Arts Foundation. Since 1978, the World Arts Foundation has been celebrating and preserving African-American contributions in American culture. The organization brings together arts and education for … [Read more...] about 2026 World Arts Foundation’s Martin Luther King Tribute
2026 Milwaukie Puzzle Swap
Puzzle enthusiasts, get ready! The third annual Milwaukie Puzzle Swap is just around the corner. Get ready to swap out your old puzzles and pick up a few new-to-you games at the upcoming event. This community-favorite event is the perfect opportunity to refresh your puzzle collection, meet … [Read more...] about 2026 Milwaukie Puzzle Swap
Portland Puzzle Exchange Free Monthly Events
Do you love puzzles? Portland Puzzle Exchange hosts monthly events for you to meet fellow puzzle enthusiasts, swap ones you've finished and pick up new-to-you puzzles. Here's the monthly event schedule. Started in 2006, the group built a place to trade completed puzzles with friends. It has … [Read more...] about Portland Puzzle Exchange Free Monthly Events
Share the Love: Glass Hearts Hidden at Tualatin Parks
In February, Tualatin Parks and Recreation Department is spreading joy and warmth through its special program, Share the Love. This delightful initiative encourages park visitors to embark on a heartwarming adventure as they search for intricately hand-blown glass hearts scattered throughout … [Read more...] about Share the Love: Glass Hearts Hidden at Tualatin Parks
Movie Madness Free Community Screenings
Movie Madness, Portland's very own video rental store, hosts free community screenings every week. Started in 1991, Movie Madness has more than 80,000 titles, including new releases, childhood classics, foreign films from more than 65 countries, an extensive LGBTQ section, and cult … [Read more...] about Movie Madness Free Community Screenings
North Portland Free Clothing Exchange
Update your wardrobe at this free community clothing exchange. The North Portland Free Clothing Exchange was started by a group of friends who were looking for a way to pass along gently used clothing, especially for their kids who outgrew clothes quickly. The clothing exchange is built on the … [Read more...] about North Portland Free Clothing Exchange
Stars Antiques Malls Weekend Sale
Head to Westmoreland and find something new to you at Stars Antiques Malls weekend sale. Opened in 1990, Stars Antiques Mall is owned by three friends who turned a passion for collecting and decorating into a business. The mall has two locations right across the street from each other on … [Read more...] about Stars Antiques Malls Weekend Sale
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
Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek Natural Area
Walk the trails of Tryon Creek Natural Area with outdoor experts during guided nature walks. 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 moss with huge … [Read more...] about Guided Nature Walks at Tryon Creek Natural Area
2026 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days
Get free entrance to Forest Service recreation areas on nine holidays in 2026. Forest Service recreation area free days include recreation sites and trailheads in Oregon and Washington, such as the Columbia River Gorge, Mt. Hood National Forest, Gifford Pinchot National Forest and 14 more. These … [Read more...] about 2026 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days
2026 Free Entrance Days at Washington State Parks
Enjoy Washington's best nature trails during free days at Washington parks. In 2026, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is offering outdoor enthusiasts 12 free days to get out and see the wild side of the Evergreen State. Access to Washington State Parks typically requires a … [Read more...] about 2026 Free Entrance Days at Washington State Parks
2026 Portland Fine Print Fair
Buy prints from 16 top dealers from across North America at the Portland Fine Print Fair. In its 13th year, this annual event gives Portlanders the opportunity to browse and buy at the largest and most comprehensive print fair on the West Coast. Here are the details about the weekend … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Fine Print Fair
2026 Cascade Festival of African Films
In celebration of Black History Month, Portland Community College hosts the annual Cascade Festival of African Films. The Cascade Festival of African Films was founded in 1991 by four Portland Community College faculty members. Now in its 36th year, the festival is the longest running … [Read more...] about 2026 Cascade Festival of African Films
2026 Free Parking Days at Portland Metro Parks
Get out and enjoy Portland metro parks during free parking days. In 2026, 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 2026 Free Parking Days at Portland Metro Parks
Celebrate J.R.R. Tolkien’s Birthday at Kennedy School
Calling all Lord of the Ring lovers! Celebrate J.R.R. Tolkien's birthday at McMenamins Kennedy School this weekend. John Ronald Reuel Tolkien was an English writer and poet who is best known for creating the magical world of Middle-earth. Through his world building in the novel The Hobbit … [Read more...] about Celebrate J.R.R. Tolkien’s Birthday at Kennedy School
Tree Time! Preschool Walks at Hoyt Arboretum
Preschool walks at Hoyt Arboretum invite you and your kids to explore the outdoors. This beautiful nature oasis features 2,300 species of trees and plants from around the world along 12 miles of trails. Every week, the arboretum hosts a special event of its youngest visitors. Here's how you … [Read more...] about Tree Time! Preschool Walks at Hoyt Arboretum
Plant Sale and Swap at River Maiden Coffee
Suburban Succulents and River Maiden Coffee team up to bring you a special monthly plant sale and swap inside a botanically inspired coffeehouse. If you haven't been to this River Maiden, you need to add it to your list of must-visit local coffee shops. This oasis for coffee and plant lovers … [Read more...] about Plant Sale and Swap at River Maiden Coffee
Free Craft Nights at collage
collage, a beloved independently-owned and family-operated art and craft store, hosts free craft nights for the creative souls of Portland! collage is a one of the local fabric and craft stores you need to visit. As a business deeply rooted in Portland, collage embraces the city's eclectic … [Read more...] about Free Craft Nights at collage
Silent Book Club Events in and around Portland
Silent Book Club is a book club movement that celebrates the joy of reading and fosters a community of book lovers who relish the tranquil embrace of a good book. Imagine a gathering where book enthusiasts come together to revel in the shared companionship of a silent reading experience. Let's … [Read more...] about Silent Book Club Events in and around Portland
Portland Repair Fairs: Get Your Stuff Fixed for Free
Portland Repair Fair is here to fix your stuff for free. Portland Repair Fairs are free events that bring together people with various skillsets to help fix items and, most importantly, pass on knowledge to empower you to be more handy around your home. You'll be paired with a volunteer who will … [Read more...] about Portland Repair Fairs: Get Your Stuff Fixed for Free
Radical Harvest Craft Faire and Clothing Swap
Explore Portland's finest crafters and bring home a new-to-you outfit at Radical Harvest Craft Faire and Clothing Swap. This event blends shopping, fun activities and food all into one free cozy indoor market. Here are the details about the January event: Radical Harvest Craft Faire and … [Read more...] about Radical Harvest Craft Faire and Clothing Swap
Free Game Fridays at The People’s Courts
Looking for something fun and free to do on a Friday night? Look no further than Free Game Fridays at The People's Courts. This multi-court recreational and social space in Portland offers an evening filled with friendly competition, great food and good vibes. Here's what to expect: Free Game … [Read more...] about Free Game Fridays at The People’s Courts
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
SOLVE Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service Volunteer Events
Want to give back on Martin Luther King Jr. Day? SOLVE has multiple volunteer opportunities happening throughout Portland. Since 1969, SOLVE’s mission has been bringing Oregonians together to improve the environment and build a legacy of stewardship. The nonprofit mobilizes volunteers to areas … [Read more...] about SOLVE Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service Volunteer Events
Free Community Swap Events at Kindred Vancouver
Refresh your home, wardrobe or hobbies without spending a dollar and save usable items from the landfill at these free community swap events at Kindred Vancouver. These events bring the community together to exchange items they no longer need for things they’ll actually use, creating a win for … [Read more...] about Free Community Swap Events at Kindred Vancouver
Lunchtime Concerts at The Old Church Concert Hall
Portland's Sanctuary of Sound's free lunchtime concerts invite Portlanders to an afternoon of music. Built in 1882, The Old Church in downtown Portland is on the National Register of Historic Places. The concert venue hosts events meant to enhance the cultural life of the community and … [Read more...] about Lunchtime Concerts at The Old Church Concert Hall
2026 Portland Winter Festivals
Portland winters are long, dark and rainy. Bring a little light, music and culture into the drizzly season at these Portland winter festivals. From dazzling light displays to cultural festivals, Portland winters a filled with opportunities for the community to come together and celebrate. … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Winter Festivals
Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum
Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum are taking place throughout 2025. Located in the heart of downtown, Portland Art Museum is internationally renowned for exciting art experiences. On the first Thursday of the month, our community gets open access to one of our city's top … [Read more...] about Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum
Finders Keepers: How to Find Glass Floats in Lincoln City
Imagine walking along the Oregon Coast and finding a colorful glass ball in the sand. This can be your reality by participating in Lincoln City's Finders Keepers. More than 3,000 hand-blown glass floats are scattered along the city’s seven miles of sandy beaches each year. True to the name, … [Read more...] about Finders Keepers: How to Find Glass Floats in Lincoln City
2026 Portland Mardi Gras Parade and Celebration
Celebrate Fat Tuesday at the most authentic Louisiana Mardi Gras experience in the Pacific Northwest. Every year, the Portland Mardi Gras Parade on North Mississippi Avenue. The event is hosted by the Mysti Krewe of Nimbus, a group formed in 2010 to bring the Louisiana Mardi Gras spirit to … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Mardi Gras Parade and Celebration
2026 Free Days at U.S. National Parks
The national parks get even better during free days. America's Best Idea — our national parks — is even better when admission is free! Mark your calendar now for entrance fee-free dates for the coming year. On these dates, free entrance is available at national parks across the country that … [Read more...] about 2026 Free Days at U.S. National Parks
Free First Sunday at the Oregon Jewish Museum
Visit the Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education during Free First Sunday. The Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education, or OJMCHE, explores the legacy of the Jewish people in Oregon while also teaching the universal relevance of the Holocaust and providing … [Read more...] about Free First Sunday at the Oregon Jewish Museum
2026 Portland Jazz Festival: Free Performances and Events
The Portland Jazz Festival has celebrated jazz music and culture in Portland for more than 20 years. View all of the free performances scheduled during the two-week festival. Explore live performances, jazz conversations and events. Artists cover a full range of the genre, from new … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Jazz Festival: Free Performances and Events
Visit Vista House: The Crown Jewel of the Columbia River Gorge
Sitting atop Crown Point, Vista House is the crown jewel of the Columbia River Gorge. While the viewpoint and parking have remained open, Vista House has been mostly closed over the past two years. It had a limited reopening last fall and closed again for needed repairs. Now, the building is … [Read more...] about Visit Vista House: The Crown Jewel of the Columbia River Gorge
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
New Year’s Eve Celebration and Drone Show in Portland
Ring in 2026 during the New Year’s Eve Celebration in Downtown Portland at Pioneer Courthouse Square. Are you ready to welcome 2026 in the most spectacular way? Attend the second annual family-friendly celebration complete with live drones, dancing and fun. Here are the details: New … [Read more...] about New Year’s Eve Celebration and Drone Show in Portland
Bing in the New Year: A Milwaukie Celebration of the Bing Cherry Legacy
As the clock ticks down to the final moments of the year, Milwaukie is gearing up for a unique and exciting New Year's Eve celebration, Bing in the New Year. The event promises to be family-friendly and fantastically festive. Milwaukie holds a special place in the history of the Bing cherry. It … [Read more...] about Bing in the New Year: A Milwaukie Celebration of the Bing Cherry Legacy
Live Broadcast of New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Space Needle
Seattle's iconic Space Needle is set to host a breathtaking celebration that promises to dazzle viewers. This year, view the New Year's Eve Fireworks at the Space Needle from the comfort of your home or in person. The event features drones, lights and fireworks to ring in 2026 in style. … [Read more...] about Live Broadcast of New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Space Needle
Get a Free Trimet Ride on New Year’s Eve
On New Year’s Eve, Trimet is helping you get home safely for free. Free Ride on New Year’s Eve Starting at 8 p.m. on December 31, 2025, all rides on buses, MAX trains and streetcars are free. No need to tap your Hop card or buy a ticket at the station. All transfers are also free. If you’re … [Read more...] about Get a Free Trimet Ride on New Year’s Eve
Free and Cheap New Year’s Eve Events in Portland
New Year's Eve events in Portland are the perfect way to ring in 2026. 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 or cheap, but … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap New Year’s Eve Events in Portland
Native American New Year’s Eve Sobriety Powwow
Looking for a sober NYE celebration full of tradition? Head to the convention center for the 38th annual Native American New Year's Eve Sobriety Powwow. The event is hosted by the Native American Rehabilitation Association of the Northwest. The organization provides education, physical and mental … [Read more...] about Native American New Year’s Eve Sobriety Powwow
How to Watch the 2026 New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square
If you're hosting an NYE party at your house or plan to ring in the new year in your favorite jammies, here's an easy way to make the night festive: watch the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square. Portland has lots of free and cheap events on New Year's Eve. But a quiet night a home can be … [Read more...] about How to Watch the 2026 New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square
First Day Hikes at State Parks on New Year’s Day
Start your year off on the right foot at a first day hike. Oregon State Parks and Washington State Parks invite you to get outdoors on New Year’s Day. State parks have a range of activities to partake in, such as hiking, snowshoeing, kayaking and disc golfing. Below you'll find details about … [Read more...] about First Day Hikes at State Parks on New Year’s Day
What to Do in Portland on New Year’s Day
Stay busy on New Year's Day with these weekend activities. Welcome to 2026, everyone! January 1 is full for free and cheap activities to get you moving and exploring our wonderful city this year. Whether you like to be indoors or outdoors during the holiday, there is something for you to … [Read more...] about What to Do in Portland on New Year’s Day
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
Portland Living on the Cheap is a member of 