Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Free Events

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 Sellwood 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

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

Share the Love: Glass Hearts Hidden at Tualatin Parks

In February, the 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

Lunchtime Concerts at The Old Church Concert Hall

Portland's Sanctuary of Sound's free lunchtime concerts return in 2024. 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 celebrate the building’s historic … [Read more...] about Lunchtime Concerts at The Old Church Concert Hall

2025 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 20, 2025, 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 2025 MLK Day Events in Portland

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

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Nature

Free and Cheap Portland Comedy Nights

Our city is a great place for artistic expression. What you may not know about is the comedy scene, which offers lots of opportunities for amateurs and experienced comedians to test their sets in front of a live audience. If you're a lover of comedy and want to see the talent right here in your … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Portland Comedy Nights

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

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

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

Stream Apple TV+ for Free This Weekend

Interested in adding a new streaming service in 2025? Apple TV+ is giving you a chance to try its platform for free this weekend. It can be difficult to choose a new streaming service that will be worth the additional monthly cost. If you’re unfamiliar with Apple TV+ or are interested in some of … [Read more...] about Stream Apple TV+ for Free This Weekend

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

2025 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days

Get free entrance to Forest Service recreation areas on five holidays in 2025. 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 2025 Forest Service Recreation Area Free Days

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

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

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

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum

Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum are back in 2024.  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 attractions along with … [Read more...] about Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum

2025 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 2025 Portland Jazz Festival: Free Performances and Events

2025 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 2025 World Arts Foundation’s Martin Luther King Tribute

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

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

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

2025 Museums on Us Free Museum Admission

Bank of America's Museums On Us program lets customers visit Portland museums for free the first full weekend of the month. More than 225 museums and attractions participate in the Bank of America free museum days in cities across the United States. In Portland, we're lucky enough to have three … [Read more...] about 2025 Museums on Us Free Museum Admission

New Year’s Eve Celebration and Drone Show in Portland

  Ring in 2025 at the New Year’s Eve Celebration in Downtown Portland at Pioneer Courthouse Square. Are you ready to welcome 2025 in the most spectacular way? Attend the inaugural family-friendly celebration complete with live drones, dancing and fun.  Here are the … [Read more...] about New Year’s Eve Celebration and Drone Show in Portland

How to Watch the 2025 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 2025 New Year’s Eve Ball Drop in Times Square

What to Do in Portland on New Year’s Day

Stay busy on New Year's Day with these weekend activities. Welcome to 2025, 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

Whale Watching Week on the Oregon Coast

Oregon is truly a natural wonder. In Portland, we're lucky enough to live a short drive from the mountain and the ocean. If you're looking for an unforgettable day trip or want to get out of the city during winter break, head to the coast for whale watching. Nearly 20,000 gray whales are … [Read more...] about Whale Watching Week on the Oregon Coast

Free and Cheap New Year’s Eve Events in Portland

New Year's Eve events in Portland are the perfect way to ring in 2025. 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

Guided First Day Hike at Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Start your new year off on the right foot at Tryon Creek State Natural Area's first day hike. Located in Southwest Portland, Tryon Creek is a great example of our temperate rainforest climate: trees covered in moss with huge ferns lining the trails that leads to the waterway. More than 658 acres … [Read more...] about Guided First Day Hike at Tryon Creek State Natural Area

Free State Park Entrance on New Year’s Day

Start your year off on the right foot with free state park entrance. Oregon State Parks and Washington State Parks invite you to get outdoors on New Year’s Day. Day-use parking fees will be waived at participating parks on January 1, 2025. State parks have a range of activities to partake in, such … [Read more...] about Free State Park Entrance on New Year’s Day

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 both family-friendly and fantastically festive. Milwaukie holds a special place in the history of the Bing cherry. … [Read more...] about Bing in the New Year: A Milwaukie Celebration of the Bing Cherry Legacy

What to Do in Portland on Christmas Day

Christmas Day in Portland is one of my all-time favorite days of the year. The streets are quiet. There's no traffic. It is almost like the whole city is put on pause. Take advantage of this rare sleepy Wednesday in Portland and check out one of these Christmas Day activities. Whether you like to … [Read more...] about What to Do in Portland on Christmas Day

Menorah Lighting Celebrations in and around Portland

Celebrate the beginning of Hanukkah at menorah lighting celebrations in and around Portland.. Hanukkah begins on the evening of Wednesday, December 25, 2024, and ends on the evening of Thursday, January 2, 2025.  Events are held on various dates during the week of Hanukkah. These events … [Read more...] about Menorah Lighting Celebrations in and around Portland

Free Christmas Dinner in Portland

In the true spirit of the season, when community and generosity are the centerpiece, organizations throughout Portland are serving free Christmas dinner. If you're looking for a free hot meal, visit one of these local organizations to enjoy a meal onsite or take it to go. These meals are … [Read more...] about Free Christmas Dinner in Portland

2024 Peacock Lane: Portland’s Christmas Street

  Every December, a quiet street in southeast Portland transforms its charming homes into a holiday spectacular for all to enjoy. Nothing says it is Christmastime in Portland quite like a trip down Peacock Lane, one of Portland's must-see holiday light displays.  2024 Peacock Lane: … [Read more...] about 2024 Peacock Lane: Portland’s Christmas Street

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

Native American New Year’s Eve Sobriety Powwow

Looking for a sober NYE celebration full of tradition? Head to the convention center for the 37th 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

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 2025 in style. … [Read more...] about Live Broadcast of New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Space Needle

2025 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 2025 Free Days at U.S. National Parks

2025 Free Entrance Days at Washington State Parks

Enjoy Washington's best nature trails during free days at Washington parks. In 2025, 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 2025 Free Entrance Days at Washington State Parks

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Nature

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