Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Free Events

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

Free Military Admission to Oregon Zoo on Veterans Day

There are many free meals, activities, freebies and discounts for military on Veterans Day. The Oregon Zoo is celebrating by sharing a day of wild fun at no cost to military personnel and their families.  Oregon Zoo Veterans Day Deal On Tuesday, November 11, military veterans and active … [Read more...] about Free Military Admission to Oregon Zoo on Veterans Day

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

Frybread Fest: Culture, Community and Celebration

Join a celebration of Native American Heritage Month at Frybread Fest. This special event invites everyone to come together in a day of education, healing and celebration at Director Park in downtown Portland. Experience a rich lineup of activities that honor Native American culture and … [Read more...] about Frybread Fest: Culture, Community and Celebration

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

Nordic Vintage and Treasure Sale

Shop a market of vintage treasures at the upcoming Nordic Vintage and Treasure Sale. The event is hosted by Nordic Northwest, an organization that hosts celebrations throughout the year focused on the cultures of Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Norway and Sweden. Nordic Northwest is an inclusive … [Read more...] about Nordic Vintage and Treasure Sale

Portland Restaurants Offer Free Food for SNAP Recipients

Do you or someone you know receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits? These Portland restaurants offer free food and meals to help SNAP recipients during the government shutdown.  Some of these locations require you to show your SNAP card to receive free meals or food … [Read more...] about Portland Restaurants Offer Free Food for SNAP Recipients

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

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

PDX Sidewalk Joy Map: Visit Neighborhood Galleries, Exchanges and Displays

Take a self-guided tour of local creations using the PDX Sidewalk Joy Map. This map showcases fun, interactive neighborhood galleries, exchanges and displays. While exploring the joy map, you may also come across Portland's beloved monkey puzzle trees.  Here's how you can make the most … [Read more...] about PDX Sidewalk Joy Map: Visit Neighborhood Galleries, Exchanges and Displays

Veterans Day Deal at Portland Japanese Garden

Portland Japanese Garden invites military members to enjoy peace and tranquility in celebration of Veterans Day. Nestled among Washington Park, the Portland Japanese Garden deems itself the most authentic Japanese garden outside of Japan. It features five traditional styles of Japanese gardens … [Read more...] about Veterans Day Deal at Portland Japanese Garden

Gobble Up Portland Specialty Food Show

Get a taste of Portland's best local food and beverages at Gobble Up Portland. Gobble Up Portland, Urban Craft Uprising’s specialty food show, features more than 85 local and independent food, beverage and kitchenware makers along with food trucks. The event has plenty for the everyday snacker … [Read more...] about Gobble Up Portland Specialty Food Show

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

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

Crafts and Cocktails: A Holiday Market at the Crystal Ballroom

Portland’s holiday season is kicking off in style with Crafts and Cocktails at the Crystal Ballroom. This new market event is hosted by Urban Art Network, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering independent artists. Get ready for the perfect fusion of creativity, community and celebration. Here … [Read more...] about Crafts and Cocktails: A Holiday Market at the Crystal Ballroom

2025 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.  2025 Peacock Lane: … [Read more...] about 2025 Peacock Lane: Portland’s Christmas Street

Portland Veterans Day Parade

The Portland Veterans Day Parade is canceled in 2025. Check out the Veterans Day Parade at Fort Vancouver. Honor the men and women who have served and currently serve in the armed forces at the Portland Veterans Day Parade. Since 1974, this event has been Portland’s only Veterans Day parade. It … [Read more...] about Portland Veterans Day Parade

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

Salt & Straw: Trick-or-Treaters Get Free Kids’ Scoop on Halloween

The saying "I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream," takes on a whole new meaning during the spooky season. Portland's popular ice cream shop Salt & Straw has a (screaming) deal for trick-or-treaters on Halloween. Since 2011, Salt & Straw has been churning small batch, handmade … [Read more...] about Salt & Straw: Trick-or-Treaters Get Free Kids’ Scoop on Halloween

Free Admission for Kids in Costume at World Forestry Center

World Forestry Center is joining the spooky fun this Halloween by offering free admission for kids. Find out how you can get this deal. 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 … [Read more...] about Free Admission for Kids in Costume at World Forestry Center

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

Trick-or-Treat Events in and around Portland

Happy Halloween! Trick-or-treat events are popping up all over the Portland area, inviting your family to get out, show off your costumes and collect some delicious treats.  Whether you're in Portland or one of the surrounding cities, chances are you have one of these trick-or-treat events … [Read more...] about Trick-or-Treat Events in and around Portland

Halloween Goblin Market with Trackers Portland

Step into a world of whimsy and wonder this Halloween. Trackers Portland invites families to the Halloween Goblin Market, a one-of-a-kind event that transforms a night of trick-or-treating into a playful world of imagination, trade and adventure. Arrive in costume and follow the “Track-or-Treat” … [Read more...] about Halloween Goblin Market with Trackers Portland

2025 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. 2025 Portland Book Festival The Portland Book Festival is on Saturday, November 8, from 10 a.m. to 6 … [Read more...] about 2025 Portland Book Festival

Free Kids Meal at Hawaiian Style Grill

Looking for an affordable way to fill up before you go out trick-or-treating? Stop by Hawaiian Style Grill for a special free kids meal.  This local restaurant is joining the list of Halloween food deals in and around Portland.  Here's what is in store: Free Kids Meal at Hawaiian … [Read more...] about Free Kids Meal at Hawaiian Style Grill

Schilling Lights on Lark: Request a Song at the Interactive Light Display

Get ready for a Halloween experience that’s bright, musical and full of interactive fun. Schilling Lights on Lark display in Milwaukie dazzles visitors each year with an animated light show featuring more than 55,000 lights. The show is synchronized to music you can actually listen to and even help … [Read more...] about Schilling Lights on Lark: Request a Song at the Interactive Light Display

National Park Service’s Free Crochet Patterns

Calling all fiber artists! Did you know the National Park Service offers completely free crochet patterns inspired by our country's iconic wildlife and landscapes? Here’s a peek into this crafty corner of the NPS, where ranger-made creations meet creative hands everywhere. These aren’t just … [Read more...] about National Park Service’s Free Crochet Patterns

Build a Free LEGO Witch at this Make-and-Take Event

Looking for a fun and creative way to celebrate Sunday? Build your very own LEGO witch.  While you're at it, get LEGO magazine for free.  Here are the details:  Build a Free LEGO Witch This special make-and-take event is the perfect way for kids and families to enjoy some … [Read more...] about Build a Free LEGO Witch at this Make-and-Take Event

Free Halloween Events and Attractions in and around Portland

Looking to celebrate Halloween without spending a dime? The Portland area offers a rich array of free events for all ages. From community trick-or-treat events to imaginative public displays to family-friendly activities, you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly ways to get into the spooky … [Read more...] about Free Halloween Events and Attractions in and around Portland

MOD Pizza Halloween Deal: A Fang-tastic Family Celebration!

Halloween is creeping up, and MOD Pizza has a special Halloween deal brewing this year.  Families are invited to join a spooktacular celebration at MOD Pizza locations. Here’s what is in store. You may also enjoy Mike's Drive-In Halloween Freebie for Kids and Krispy Kreme's … [Read more...] about MOD Pizza Halloween Deal: A Fang-tastic Family Celebration!

Mike’s Drive-In Halloween Freebie for Kids

    Looking for a fun activity for you and your kids on Halloween? Mike's Drive-In is hosting a special event for trick or treaters.    Mike's Drive-In has been keeping traditions alive as one of Portland's old school eateries serving all your favorite drive-in comfort food. … [Read more...] about Mike’s Drive-In Halloween Freebie for Kids

Join a Thriller Flash Mob at Irving Park

The zombies rise again at this special dance celebration of the classic song and choreography. Here's how you can join a Thriller flash mob at Irving Park. The 19th annual Thrill the World Portland returns this October for another epic performance of Michael Jackson’s Thriller. This is a global … [Read more...] about Join a Thriller Flash Mob at Irving Park

Celebrate Autumn at the Fall Cider Fest

Enjoy a cozy, family-friendly celebration at Leaven Community Center during the Fall Cider Fest. Join Portland Fruit Tree Project and more than 30 local nonprofits for an afternoon celebrating the fall apple harvest. The event is packed with activities for all ages. The Portland Fruit Tree … [Read more...] about Celebrate Autumn at the Fall Cider Fest

Watch Movies in a Pumpkin Patch at Yesteryear Farms

Enjoy family-friendly, free movie nights on the farm! Yesteryear Farms welcomes visitors to the pumpkin patch for special fall-themed events. The farm is known for its adorable farm market, fall activities and a pumpkin patch as well as Christmas trees. From September-October, the farm invites … [Read more...] about Watch Movies in a Pumpkin Patch at Yesteryear Farms

2025 Vancouver Flea Market: Discover Hidden Treasures at a Mid-Century Grange

Do you enjoy discovering vintage, retro and unique treasures? Then you won't want to miss the Vancouver Flea Market. This seasonal event gathers local vintage sellers to offer a curated selection of new-to-you items. Whether your style is mid-century, antique or classic vintage, you'll spot … [Read more...] about 2025 Vancouver Flea Market: Discover Hidden Treasures at a Mid-Century Grange

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Shopping

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

Food Events at Cedar Creek Grist Mill

Nestled along the banks of Cedar Creek in Woodland, Washington, the Cedar Creek Grist Mill opens its doors every Saturday for visitors who want a trip back in time. Make the drive to the historic landmark during an upcoming food event.  Visitors who step inside are transported back in time to … [Read more...] about Food Events at Cedar Creek Grist Mill

2025 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 2025 West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta. Since 2004, the West Coast … [Read more...] about 2025 West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta

Mushroom Mania at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Celebrate fall and fungi 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 moss with huge ferns lining the trails that lead … [Read more...] about Mushroom Mania at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Molalla Train Park: Go for a Free Miniature Railway Ride

Since 1954, families have been making memories at Willamette Valley's original family destination experience: Molalla Train Park. Nestled on a picturesque four-acre property in Molalla, Oregon, this charming park promises a delightful day for all ages. As you step onto the grounds, you're greeted … [Read more...] about Molalla Train Park: Go for a Free Miniature Railway Ride

Salmon Homecoming at Oxbow Park

Enjoy two days of fun, food and cultural connection at the Salmon Homecoming at Oxbow Park.  Indigenous educators, artists and culture keepers join Metro to celebrate one of the Pacific Northwest's keystone species as it returns to the Sandy River. Oxbow Park is known as one of the best … [Read more...] about Salmon Homecoming at Oxbow Park

Halloween Display Map: Plan Your Self-Guided Tour

Find the best decorated homes in Portland with the Halloween 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 … [Read more...] about Halloween Display Map: Plan Your Self-Guided Tour

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