One of my favorite views of Portland is at night when the city lights reflect off of the glassy surface of the Willamette River. This sight becomes even more enchanting every holiday season during the annual Christmas Ships Parade. The annual tradition of Christmas Ships gathering in fleets to … [Read more...] about 2023 Portland Christmas Ships Parade Schedule
Holiday
Must-See Holiday Light Displays in Portland
The holiday season is officially here! Portland is transforming into a winter wonderland. The Rose City has many magical holiday light displays. Whether you want to walk through stunning displays or see the rivers come to life with decorative ships, Portland has holiday lights for everyone. Don't … [Read more...] about Must-See Holiday Light Displays in Portland
Free Pet Photos with Santa at PetSmart
Does your pet have a special spot on your holiday card? I'm sure you have hundreds—if not thousands—of photos of your pet being their adorable self. Why not make your holiday card extra special this year with a photo with Saint Nick? Free pet photos with Santa at PetSmart are happening on select … [Read more...] about Free Pet Photos with Santa at PetSmart
Christmas Tree Farms and Lots in and around Portland
Soak in that sweet pine smell at Christmas tree farms and lots around Portland. Nothing rings in the holiday season quite like the smell of a fresh cut Christmas tree. We're fortunate to live in an area where trees are plentiful and grow by the foot. It also means there are plenty of options for … [Read more...] about Christmas Tree Farms and Lots in and around Portland
Holiday Markets in and around Portland
Ready to start crossing off your holiday shopping list? Shop local at these Portland holiday markets. This list is your day-to-day guide to markets happening in the Portland area. Some of these markets have a special niche, like food or crafts. All of them are great places to support local makers … [Read more...] about Holiday Markets in and around Portland
2023 Holiday Express Train Ride in Portland
Have you ever dreamed of riding the Polar Express? Here's a magical train ride in Portland this holiday season. Join Santa Claus and his elves on the Holiday Express rain ride in Portland. This memorable ride behind Portland’s famous steam locomotives lets you travel inside a vintage rail car as … [Read more...] about 2023 Holiday Express Train Ride in Portland
The Benson Hotel’s Gingerbread Masterpiece
The Benson Hotel is continuing its long-standing tradition of creating a gingerbread masterpiece for the holiday season. For the 52nd year, the historic Portland hotel is making a special gingerbread creation the centerpiece of its lobby. Here are details about the 2023 gingerbread … [Read more...] about The Benson Hotel’s Gingerbread Masterpiece
MESO Makers Market: Shop Local Small Businesses
Visit the holiday MESO Makers Market and shop a wide variety of goods made by local BIPOC small businesses. Micro Enterprise Services of Oregon empowers historically excluded and under resourced entrepreneurs with business assistance and flexible capital to build family wealth through small … [Read more...] about MESO Makers Market: Shop Local Small Businesses
2023 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 are some more must-see light displays in and around Portland: Portland … [Read more...] about 2023 Lightopia: Hillsboro’s Free Drive-Through Light Display
Weihnachtsmarkt: A German Christmas Market
Step into the enchanting world of Weihnachtsmarkt: A German Christmas Market hosted by the German American Society of Portland. Since 1871, the German American Society of Portland has connected people to German and American heritage through relationships and cultural understanding. Here are … [Read more...] about Weihnachtsmarkt: A German Christmas Market
The North Pole at Eagle Crest
Visit a truly magical Christmas display during The North Pole at Eagle Crest. This free holiday light display is open on select nights in December. Every holiday season, a local family transforms their home into the North Pole. Here are the details about the 2023 display, including the new … [Read more...] about The North Pole at Eagle Crest
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
2023 Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway
Every holiday season, Portland International Raceway transforms its track into the largest light show West of the Mississippi. Starting the day after Thanksgiving, you can visit Winter Wonderland any day of the week. Since 1993, Winter Wonderland has been one of the must-see holiday light … [Read more...] about 2023 Winter Wonderland at Portland International Raceway
Thanksgiving Weekend Events in Portland
You’re finally done grocery shopping. The house is clean. You have a schedule of what's cooking for the next 24 hours. It is officially the calm before the holiday storm. But there is still one thing you might have overlooked: what do to with your guests over Thanksgiving weekend. Make new … [Read more...] about Thanksgiving Weekend Events in Portland
2023 Portland Tree Lighting Ceremony
There is something magical about a tree covered in mesmerizing lights and charming decorations. It is even more impressive when the tree stands at 75 feet tall. Ring in the season at the Portland Tree Lighting Ceremony. On the day after Thanksgiving, Portlanders are invited to kick off the … [Read more...] about 2023 Portland Tree Lighting Ceremony
2023 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. 2023 Peacock Lane: … [Read more...] about 2023 Peacock Lane: Portland’s Christmas Street
2023 Clackamas County Winter Fair
The Clackamas County Fairgrounds is transforming into a winter wonderland. Clackamas County Winter Fair features a walk-through holiday light display, a holiday market and visits with Santa surrounded by the sights and sounds of Christmas. Get all the details on this event below. Now … [Read more...] about 2023 Clackamas County Winter Fair
Ho, Ho, Hurry! Book Your Santa Photos at Portland Area Malls
Sponsored post A visit with Santa Claus is a magical and cherished experience, especially for children during the holiday season. Here's how you can easily book your Santa photos at Portland area malls, and get a free print on a select package. Getting photos with Santa at the mall is a … [Read more...] about Ho, Ho, Hurry! Book Your Santa Photos at Portland Area Malls
Portland Holiday Market at the Expo Center
Portland's Holiday Market is coming to town! Shop outside the big box at the Portland Expo Center. Does this event sound familiar? Instead of the annual America's Largest Christmas Bazaar, the Portland Expo Center is hosting the Portland Holiday Market. This new holiday shopping experience … [Read more...] about Portland Holiday Market at the Expo Center
Sign Up for Free Photos with Portland’s Black Santa
Black Santa is coming to town! Participate in this Portland tradition at these free events this holiday season. Leroy Barber, Portland's Black Santa, took on the role in 2016. These volunteer-led Black Santa events offer a diverse representation of Jolly Old Saint Nicholas. In 2023, there … [Read more...] about Sign Up for Free Photos with Portland’s Black Santa
2023 Christmas Tree Permits: Get a $5 Tree from Mt. Hood National Forest
Want to decorate with a beautiful, real Christmas tree without going over budget? Locals can get inexpensive Christmas tree permits and choose their own trees from Mt. Hood National Forest. Picking the perfect Christmas tree is a quintessential tradition. For many of us, it is one of the first … [Read more...] about 2023 Christmas Tree Permits: Get a $5 Tree from Mt. Hood National Forest
2023 Christmas Festival of Lights at The Grotto
In Northeast Portland, there's a sanctuary nestled among a tranquil forest: The Grotto. During the holidays, The Grotto transforms into a Festival of Lights. From sky high trees to small bushes, everything is adorned in twinkling lights. Take in all the sights, sounds and … [Read more...] about 2023 Christmas Festival of Lights at The Grotto
Portland Holiday Food and Gift Festival
Want to get a jump start on your holiday shopping? The Portland Holiday Food and Gift Festival, one of the largest holiday celebrations in the Northwest, is back this November. The 34th annual festival features hundreds of local creators showcasing one-of-a-kind gifts. Some more markets you … [Read more...] about Portland Holiday Food and Gift Festival
2023 Halloween Events in Portland
Are you ready to make the most out of Halloween this year? Here's a whole list of events in Portland to get you in the spooky spirit. From haunted houses and mazes to trick-or-treating and pumpkin patches to food deals, this list has an event for everyone of all ages. The Halloween event … [Read more...] about 2023 Halloween Events in Portland
Halloween Treat Map: Plan Your Neighborhood Trick-or-Treating Route
Want to know exactly where your ghouls and goblins can trick-or-treat in your Portland neighborhood? The Nextdoor Treat Map just made your haunting around the block a lot easier. No more second guessing where to go or who is giving out treats. You can see exactly which neighbors are ready to greet … [Read more...] about Halloween Treat Map: Plan Your Neighborhood Trick-or-Treating Route
2023 Oaks Park ScareGrounds
Visit Oaks Park ScareGrounds for a scary good time this October. During the Halloween season, Oaks Park hosts its very own local haunted attraction, ScareGrounds. As night falls, monsters of all shapes and sizes transform the beloved amusement park into an attraction of horrors. Here are all … [Read more...] about 2023 Oaks Park ScareGrounds
Portland Labor Day Weekend Events
Celebrate the beginning of the fall season with one of these Labor Day weekend activities. I know, I know. It is not the official first day of fall, but for me Labor Day has always marked a changing of the seasons as we make the transition from summer activities to our fall favorites. If … [Read more...] about Portland Labor Day Weekend Events
Free and Cheap Father’s Day Weekend Activities in Portland
This year, start a new Father's Day tradition. Portland has numerous free and cheap Father's Day activities that let you spend quality time with your dad. Make new memories that will last a lifetime with these free and cheap Father's Day weekend events. Free and Cheap Father's Day Weekend … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Father’s Day Weekend Activities in Portland
Get a Free U.S. Flag at Ace Hardware
This Memorial Day weekend, Ace Hardware is honoring American veterans by hosting a One Million Flag Giveaway. On Saturday, May 27, get a free 8″ x 12″ American flag at participating locations. There is no purchase necessary to get a free flag. The giveaway is available while supplies last, … [Read more...] about Get a Free U.S. Flag at Ace Hardware
2023 Free (and Cheap) Easter Events
In case you already went all out on your kid's Easter basket, here are free and cheap Easter events. Find an Easter egg hunt or event near your Portland neighborhood or neighboring city. These events are free unless listed in the description. Make sure you bring your own basket or bag for egg … [Read more...] about 2023 Free (and Cheap) Easter Events
Easter Bunny Express Train Ride
Celebrate the return of spring at the first Easter Bunny Express train ride with the Oregon Rail Heritage Center. The Oregon Pacific Railroad is a family owned and operated freight railroad company. The company operates a special passenger train along the East Portland Division railroad line in … [Read more...] about Easter Bunny Express Train Ride
Easter Egg Hunt at Bella Organic Farm
Celebrate Easter on the farm! Kids and adults of all ages are welcome during the Easter Egg Hunt at Bella Organic Farm. Bella Organic is a 100-acre certified organic farm and winery on Sauvie Island that is open year round. They grow more than 70 varieties of berries, fruits, vegetables, … [Read more...] about Easter Egg Hunt at Bella Organic Farm
Free and Cheap Valentine’s Day Activities in Portland
Try something new this Valentine's Day! Instead of overspending on February 14, try one of these free and cheap Valentine's Day activities in Portland. Enjoying each other's company and celebrating your love does not have to come with a hefty price tag. The events below range from free to cheap, … [Read more...] about Free and Cheap Valentine’s Day Activities in Portland
Get Two Dozen Roses for $24.99 at Whole Foods Market
Have you placed your flower order for your Valentine yet? Skip the $50 bouquet and surprise your loved one with not one, but two dozen roses. From February 8 through 14, Whole Foods Market is selling two dozen roses for $24.99, while supplies last. That means you'll pay $12.50 for each … [Read more...] about Get Two Dozen Roses for $24.99 at Whole Foods Market
What to Do in Portland on New Year’s Day
Stay busy on New Year's Day with these weekend activities. Welcome to 2023, 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
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 Sunday in Portland and check out one of these Christmas Day activities. Whether you like to be … [Read more...] about What to Do in Portland on Christmas Day
Portland Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve and Day
Where to dine out on Christmas Eve and Day in Portland. Leave the stress of preparing a holiday feast behind by dining at one of these Portland restaurants. Here's a list of local and chain restaurants open on Christmas Eve, Saturday, December 24, and Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25, … [Read more...] about Portland Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve and 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. Christmas Day … [Read more...] about Christmas Day at McMenamins Kennedy School
2022 Holiday Light Display at the Victorian Belle
Update: This event is not taking place in 2023. What could be more beautiful than a 1885 Victorian home dressed top to bottom in twinkly lights and tasteful holiday decor? The Victorian Belle is a spectacular holiday wonderland during the holiday light display. On the outside, take … [Read more...] about 2022 Holiday Light Display at the Victorian Belle
Small Shops Big Hearts Holiday Shopping Event
Want to support Portland small businesses on some of the biggest shopping days of the year? Small Shops Big Hearts holiday shopping event gives you the chance to win prizes while you shop. Instead of fighting the lines at overcrowded big box stores or spending a mind-numbing amount of time … [Read more...] about Small Shops Big Hearts Holiday Shopping Event
Artisan Night Market at Salty Teacup
Get up close and personal with local artists at one of Portland's best gift shops. Salty Teacup in St Johns is hosting a special event this holiday season: Artisan Night Market. You never know what treasure is awaiting you at Salty Teacup. This little shop located on the main drag of St Johns is … [Read more...] about Artisan Night Market at Salty Teacup
Hallmark’s BOGO Free Holiday Sale
A beautiful handwritten card and fun ornament may be the best sentimental gift you can give your loved ones in 2021. The Hallmark holiday sale is here to help you start your gift planning early and save money. The annual holiday sale from Hallmark offers discounts on essential holiday items … [Read more...] about Hallmark’s BOGO Free Holiday Sale
OMSI Membership: Get 15% Off and Flexible Start Date for Gift Memberships
Support local this holiday season and save with an OMSI gift membership. The Oregon Museum of Science is one of Portland's best attractions featuring a large-screen theatre, planetarium, and exhibition halls with exhibits focused on natural sciences, industry, and technology. From traveling through … [Read more...] about OMSI Membership: Get 15% Off and Flexible Start Date for Gift Memberships
102 Cheap and Easy DIY Halloween Costumes
Fun and cheap costume ideas for all ages Halloween is just around the corner. Going to the store and buying a brand new costume is convenient, but can be expensive. There are many ways you can have an awesome easy Halloween costume without the price tag. In Portland, even our Goodwill stores can … [Read more...] about 102 Cheap and Easy DIY Halloween Costumes
Reverend Nat’s Will Deliver Flowers and Cider to Your Mom
To help you make this Mother's Day special, Reverend Nat's is pairing its cider with flower bouquets from local florists. Before we get into the details, I recognize that this deal does not fall under the category of cheap, but I am making an exception to showcase a local small business … [Read more...] about Reverend Nat’s Will Deliver Flowers and Cider to Your Mom
It’s Leap Year! Portland Leap Day Deals
Let's celebrate our extra day of 2020! We all love getting a little something extra. For the Leap Year, companies are making sure we all take advantage of an extra day of the year. Check out these Portland area Leap Day deals, most happening on Saturday, Feb. 29. 2020 Leap Year … [Read more...] about It’s Leap Year! Portland Leap Day Deals
Get $5 Off Tickets to The Beneath Haunted House
Goodbye, Fright Town. Hello, The Beneath at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Who knew it would pay off to plan a frightening night out of the town? Check out this discount haunted house and the steps below carefully so you don't miss out. Looking for more haunted attractions in the Portland metro? … [Read more...] about Get $5 Off Tickets to The Beneath Haunted House
DIY Holiday Ornament Wreath for $8 or Less
Create a cool craft for cheap Last year I was at a holiday party socializing with the dog in the house (yes, I am THAT person) when I spotted a wonderful DIY holiday ornament wreath. The charming design stuck with me, and as I searched for one to buy, I saw price points for this this sparkly … [Read more...] about DIY Holiday Ornament Wreath for $8 or Less
Thrifty Ways to Give Back to Local Charities
Gift Giving and Giving Back Go Hand in Hand The holiday season is expensive. Whether you are buying gifts, traveling to see loved ones, preparing a festive feast, or all of the above, it is hard to carve out some extra cash for donations. Thanks in part to the digital age we live in and the … [Read more...] about Thrifty Ways to Give Back to Local Charities
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