Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Free Events

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 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

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

2026 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 2026 Portland Winter Light Festival

Get Free Carl’s Jr. Hangover Burger on Monday

Super Sunday has fans celebrating with lots of food and drinks. Carl's Jr. is here to help you recuperate from the big game with a special freebie.  Carl’s Jr. is helping fans get through the day with a free Hangover Burger. You can also start off your morning with a special post-game free … [Read more...] about Get Free Carl’s Jr. Hangover Burger on Monday

2026 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 2026 Free Fishing Weekends in Oregon

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

Self-Guided Tour of Portland’s Monkey Puzzle Trees

Looking for a fun, outdoor activity like no other? Let me tell you why a self-guided tour of Portland's monkey puzzle trees should be your next adventure. Monkey puzzle trees, Araucaria araucana, are one of the most unique looking species in our city. I remember the first time I noticed one I … [Read more...] about Self-Guided Tour of Portland’s Monkey Puzzle Trees

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

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

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

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

The Oregon Film Trail: Discover Oregon Through Its Film Legacy

Did you know Oregon has served as the production backdrop for more than 500 films and television shows? See the state's iconic movie moments come to life with the Oregon Film Trail. Taking a trip to the sights of some of your favorite films has never been easier. The Oregon Film Trail is a … [Read more...] about The Oregon Film Trail: Discover Oregon Through Its Film Legacy

Oregon Potters Association Emerging Artist Fair

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

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Shopping

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Travel

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

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

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

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Nature

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

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

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

Christmas Day at McMenamins Kennedy School

Once your stocking is emptied, presents are opened and you've eaten your tasty morning treats, what's on the agenda for the rest of your day? Many of us are asking ourselves what we are going to do in Portland on Christmas Day. The McMenamins Kennedy School has us covered.  Here are the … [Read more...] about Christmas Day at McMenamins Kennedy School

How to Enter the Portland Snowplow Naming Contest

Here's your chance to put your creativity to work and earn bragging rights for the whole year. Submit your ideas to the Portland Snowplow Naming Contest. Portland Bureau of Transportation invites the public to participate in the second annual snowplow naming contest. Last year’s inaugural … [Read more...] about How to Enter the Portland Snowplow Naming Contest

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

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lotc_logo_100_gray_bgPortland Living on the Cheap is a member of Living on the Cheap, a network of websites published by frugalistas, journalists and consumer advocates. Find practical advice on saving money on groceries, travel and shopping, plus tips from our experts on how to live the good life for less at Living on the Cheap.
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