Enjoy free summertime fun at these Portland street fairs.
One of my favorite summertime activities in Portland is attending the totally free, family-friendly and fun neighborhood street fairs. If you’re new to Portland or haven’t explored the city in a while, this is a great way to get out there and see what other neighborhoods have to offer. Each Portland street fair has a unique vibe, special events and many local vendors selling one-of-a-kind items.
You’ll seriously be blown away by the talent of the local vendors. These are people who may live on your block that have amazing hidden talents showcased at these fairs. Whether you’re a woodwork fiend or love a hand crafted dress, there is something for everyone to admire.
These fairs are very busy and in the heat of the summer, so I recommend bringing a water bottle, a reusable bag and some breathable clothing. There’s nothing like being hot, sweat and thirsty while stuck in a sea of sweaty humanity.
Don’t let that deter you. Portland street fairs are a sweet treat. You need to explore at least one this summer. Plus, all of these events are free to attend! Feels like a pretty great price for summertime fun.
2023 Portland Street Fairs
St. Johns Bizarre
May 13
Focused on crafts, art and music, the St. Johns Bizarre attracts a special crowd of dilettantes. The event also features the annual St. Johns Parade at noon. Also a noteworthy feature is the beer garden and great selection of food carts.
The St. Johns Bizarre is Saturday, May 13, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Alberta Street Fair
June 11
If you’re looking for a fair that really plays up the performance side of the Portland art scene, this is the one for you. The annual event returns after a three-year hiatus as the Alberta Street Fair for Diversity and Inclusion.
Alberta Street Fair is Sunday, June 11, 2023, from noon to 6 p.m.
Mississippi Street Fair
July 15
Set right in the heart of Mississippi’s shop scene, this street fair brings in big crowds. It is one of the biggest street fairs in Portland and boasts many incredible booths and activities. I recommend getting there early, late or taking transit.
The Mississippi Street Fair is Saturday, July 15, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Montavilla Street Fair
July 30
This street fair is held along a trendy stretch of Stark Street just east of Mt Tabor. A lot of the restaurants and stores offer special deals for the day. This street fair has a great community vibe. If you want a fair with more space and a great variety of booths, mark your calendar for Montavilla.
The Montavilla Street Fair is Sunday, July 30, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Multnomah Days
August 19
The Multnomah Village street fair has 100+ vendor booths, live music, street entertainers, art, food and beverage carts plus outdoor street dining. There will be a Kids Zone at Multnomah Arts Center and other entertainment.
Multnomah Days is Saturday, August 19, 2023, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Lents Fair
August 20
In 2019, they had a chicken beauty contest. Need I say more? After a three year hiatus, the event is returning in 2023.
In the past, the event was held in a field along SE Harold St. and SE 92nd Ave. This street fair offers a little more space and a lot more friendly community vibes. Activities include a 90′ obstacle course, 26′ slide, live music, free workshops, local food, 100+ local vendors, free kids activities, face paining, balloon animals, and creators game. It was my favorite street fair in 2019.
Lents Fair is Sunday, August 20, 2023. Times are TBA.
Hawthorne Street Fair
August 27
Priding itself on being Portland’s original “shop local” district, the Hawthorne Street Fair will have more than two hundred businesses dedicated to community involvement. Along with the booths, live music and kids activities will be two great beer gardens for adults to enjoy.
Hawthorne Street Fair is Sunday, August 27, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Kenton Street Fair
August 27
What I love about this street fair is the incredible main street Kenton has to offer. There’s a blurred line between businesses and vendors, which transforms the small stretch of Denver Ave. It has everything you’d expect from a festival: booths, food, music and many kids’ activities.
The Kenton Street Fair is Sunday, August 27, 2023. Hours are TBA.
Belmont Street Fair
September 9
The Belmont Street Fair is back! The Belmont Street Fair is the final Portland street fair of the season. This fair boasts lots of exciting entertainment and delicious food in this retail and residential district of Portland.
The Belmont Street Fair is Saturday, September 9, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Division Clinton Street Fair and Parade
TBA
Just like the neighborhood, this street fair has an old school feel with an out-of-this-world parade. Seriously, you need to see Clinton Street Theatre’s Rocky Horror Picture Show float.
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