Portland Living on the Cheap

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

Free Events

2026 Mt. Hood Rock Club Rock and Gem Show

Are you ready for a weekend filled with sparkling treasures, fascinating rocks and fun activities for the entire family? The Mt. Hood Rock Club invites you to the annual Rock and Gem Show. Here's how you can participate in the 2026 event.  2026 Mt. Hood Rock Club Rock and Gem Show The Mt. … [Read more...] about 2026 Mt. Hood Rock Club Rock and Gem Show

Free Paper Shredding at Office Depot or OfficeMax

Safely dispose of your personal documents during the free paper shredding events at Office Depot and OfficeMax. Having your documents shredded helps protect you from identity theft or a data breach. Thankfully, there are free document shredding events happening throughout the Portland … [Read more...] about Free Paper Shredding at Office Depot or OfficeMax

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Shopping

Free Earth Day Celebration at The Oregon Garden

In celebration of Earth Day, The Oregon Garden hosts a day of fun filled with free activities and exhibits. If you haven't been, this is the ideal time to visit this Oregon attraction. The 80-acre botanical garden feature more than 20 specialty gardens showcasing the diverse botanical beauty of the … [Read more...] about Free Earth Day Celebration at The Oregon Garden

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

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events · Nature

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

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

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

2026 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 2026 Portland Night Market

Portland Bazaar’s Spring 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 year, the market hosts multiple events at locations throughout the city. You may also … [Read more...] about Portland Bazaar’s Spring Market

2026 Free and Cheap Easter Events

Looking for a fun way to celebrate Easter with the whole family? Find an Easter egg hunt or event near your Portland neighborhood or neighboring city. From religious ceremonies to secular festivities, Easter is a time when families and communities come together to mark the end of winter, embrace … [Read more...] about 2026 Free and Cheap Easter Events

Thompson Elk Fountain Homecoming Celebration

Portland welcomes back a beloved symbol of the city’s history, the Thompson Elk Fountain, and you’re invited to be part of the celebration. On Sunday, April 12, from 1-4 p.m., the City of Portland, Portland Parks Foundation, and the Regional Arts & Culture Council host the Thompson Elk Fountain … [Read more...] about Thompson Elk Fountain Homecoming Celebration

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

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

Holi Festival: Join Portland’s Festival of Colors

Dress in white and play with colors at Portland's Holi Festival. The family-friendly event is hosted by Mumbai native DJ Prashant, an ex-Intel engineer turned DJ, choreographer, singer, and community organizer in Portland. Attend this upcoming springtime celebration. Holi Festival in … [Read more...] about Holi Festival: Join Portland’s Festival of Colors

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

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

Free Carousel and Train Rides at Oaks Park

Oaks Amusement Park invites the community to enjoy two vintage pieces of Portland's history free of charge.  Portland's very own amusement park has been bringing joy to the young and young at heart since 1905. In fact, it is one of the oldest continually operating amusement parks in the … [Read more...] about Free Carousel and Train Rides at Oaks Park

Looking for Wildflower Hikes? Use This Bloom Map

Get out and enjoy our region's beautiful flora on a wildflower hike. You'll always know what's in bloom with this map. Spring has sprung in the Northwest. We've already seen many of the best springtime blooms filling our neighborhoods and parks with vibrant colors. If you enjoy hiking and want to … [Read more...] about Looking for Wildflower Hikes? Use This Bloom Map

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

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

National Crayon Day: Get Free Crayola Crayons at Staples

Bring some fun and color into your life on National Crayon Day. Staples is making the holiday a little brighter with free Crayola crayons. Did you know Crayola manufactures more than 3 billion crayons annually? I can distinctly remember learning how the paraffin wax and color pigment came … [Read more...] about National Crayon Day: Get Free Crayola Crayons at Staples

Posted by Victoria Filed Under: Free Events

Trillium Festival at Tryon Creek Natural Area

Tyron Creek Natural Area is celebrating one of Portland's must-see spring blooms. The Trillium Festival invites you to get outside and enjoy this special seasonal flower.  Located in Southwest Portland, Tryon Creek is one of Portland’s best urban parks. This beautiful natural area is a … [Read more...] about Trillium Festival at Tryon Creek Natural Area

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 spring break, head to the coast for whale watching. Nearly 20,000 gray whales are … [Read more...] about Whale Watching Week on the Oregon Coast

Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Portland

After another grey, cold winter in Portland, I think I speak for all of us when I say spring cannot come soon enough. Thankfully, Portland is filled with one of the best signs that spring has officially sprung—cherry blossoms. From mid-March to April, cherry blossoms burst into bloom throughout … [Read more...] about Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Portland

Yozakura Festival Illuminates Cherry Blossoms in Gresham

Yozakura Festival celebrates the beauty of cherry blossom trees at the Gresham Japanese Garden. The magic of springtime in Japan has long been synonymous with the enchanting spectacle of cherry blossoms in full bloom. Traditionally celebrated through hanami, or cherry blossom viewing parties, … [Read more...] about Yozakura Festival Illuminates Cherry Blossoms in Gresham

Get a Free Krispy Kreme Doughnut for St. Patrick’s Day

Krispy Kreme is going green for St. Patrick's Day with a special freebie available for two days. This deal is a real treasure for doughnut lovers.  For the holiday, Krispy Kreme is offering a collection of four themed doughnuts. The doughnut shop is also bringing back its O’riginal Glazed … [Read more...] about Get a Free Krispy Kreme Doughnut for St. Patrick’s Day

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

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at McMenamins Edgefield

Attend the St. Patrick's Day Celebration at McMenamins Edgefield during the holiday weekend.  Built in 1911 as the county poor farm, the historic Edgefield's original buildings have been carefully restored. The grounds are complete with gardens, restaurants, bars, a spa and a par 3 golf … [Read more...] about St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at McMenamins Edgefield

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at McMenamins Kennedy School

Enjoy a weekend of merriment, fun and food during the St. Patrick's Day Celebration at McMenamins Kennedy School. Since its 1915 opening, this historic elementary school has been a beloved fixture of Portland. It now boasts guest rooms, a restaurant, multiple small bars, a movie theater, gift … [Read more...] about St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at McMenamins Kennedy School

Portland St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Celebrate the luck of the Irish at the 37th annual St. Patrick's Day Parade in Portland. It's that time of the year again when the streets of the Irvington neighborhood in Portland transform into a sea of green, and the sound of bagpipes fills the air. The parade is just around the corner, and … [Read more...] about Portland St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Academy Awards Party With Poison Waters

The legendary personality, Poison Waters, hosts a special Academy Awards party at McMenamins Kennedy School. The event promises an unforgettable evening filled with glamour, laughter and the unmistakable wit that has made Poison Waters a household name. The 98th annual Academy Awards show airs at … [Read more...] about Academy Awards Party With Poison Waters

When is Daylight Saving Time? (Plus, Free Coffee and Doughuts)

Daylight saving time, also referred to as daylight savings time, is the twice a year occasion when we set clocks forward by one hour in the spring and revert back an hour in the fall. Many of us remember it as springing forward and falling back.  In recent years, daylight saving time has … [Read more...] about When is Daylight Saving Time? (Plus, Free Coffee and Doughuts)

2026 Lunar New Year Dragon Dance Parade and Celebration

The Portland Chinese Museum is hosting its annual Lunar New Year Dragon Dance Parade and Celebration in Downtown Portland. Opened in December 2018, the Portland Chinatown Museum is Oregon’s first museum about to Chinese American history, art and culture. The museum is dedicated to honoring … [Read more...] about 2026 Lunar New Year Dragon Dance Parade and Celebration

NAYA’s Native Made Spring Marketplace

View hand made creations at NAYA’s Native Made Spring Marketplace. Native American Youth and Family Center, NAYA, is a family of numerous tribes and voices who are dedicated to sustaining tradition and building cultural wealth. This weekend, you can see local culture come to life at this … [Read more...] about NAYA’s Native Made Spring Marketplace

2026 Abby’s Closet Prom Dress Giveaway

Need a prom dress, but can't afford to spend hundreds of dollars? Abby's Closet has you covered. Attend the nonprofit's upcoming prom dress giveaway. Abby’s Closet inspires confidence and respect in high schoolers by providing free formal dresses for prom or other memorable events. Since 2004, … [Read more...] about 2026 Abby’s Closet Prom Dress Giveaway

2026 Portland Jazz Festival: Free Performances and Events

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 performances, from new musicians … [Read more...] about 2026 Portland Jazz Festival: Free Performances and Events

2026 Agate and Mineral Show at OMSI

Explore the wonders of nature at the annual Agate and Mineral Show. The event is held at Portland's very own science center, OMSI. Enjoy exhibits, special displays and activities, demonstrations and more at this free, family-friendly event.  2026 Agate and Mineral Show at OMSI The Agate … [Read more...] about 2026 Agate and Mineral Show at OMSI

Lunar New Year Celebration at Washington Square

Lunar New Year Celebration at Washington Square is ringing in the Year of the Horse with a special event focusing on good fortune and happiness. The mall joins a list of Lunar New Year Celebrations in Portland. Here are the details about the 2026 event.  Lunar New Year Celebration at … [Read more...] about Lunar New Year Celebration at Washington Square

Portland Art Museum Free Admission Day

Get free admission to the Portland Art Museum during the Miller Family Community Free Day. 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 Day

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