What are the Best Major Events in Portland?

Portland, Oregon, is home to some of the most exciting and interesting annual events in the United States. The Pacific Northwest city hosts a wide range of events all year round, from theater performances to outdoor festivals, that draw in both locals and visitors from across the country. Portland is known as a “free-spirited, independent, and progressive” city, so don’t be surprised to see unique and unusual gatherings taking place throughout the year.

The best part is that regardless of when you visit Portland, you’ll discover enjoyable activities everywhere you turn. Each month hosts a variety of music festivals, art exhibitions, and more, giving you plenty of opportunities to explore the city and its culture.

Here are some of the top events taking place annually in Portland:

January

• Oregon Brewers Festival – Held at Portland’s Tom McCall Waterfront Park in mid-January, the Oregon Brewers Festival brings together over 80 breweries from across the US. Taste the best craft beers and explore all the beer-focused activities throughout the four day event.
• Port of Portland Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Fest – Sample Portland’s top wine, cheeses, and chocolates as you explore and learn about the latest trends in wine, cheese, and chocolate. Held at the Portland International Raceway, this day-long event will have you indulging in all your passions without breaking the bank!

February

• Portland Chinese New Year Celebration – The Jade International Night Market is held every Chinese New Year to celebrate the culture and heritage of Portland’s Asian population. Enjoy various live performances, delicious dishes, and interactive activities at one of Portland’s biggest annual celebrations!
• Mardi Gras Grand Parade – The Mardi Gras Grand Parade is one of Portland’s largest annual events. Featuring colorful floats, bands, body painting competitions, and more, it’s one of the best parties to be seen at during February.

March

• Portland Trail Blazers Season Home Games – Head to the Moda Center in March to see some of the best basketball teams in the US compete against the Portland Trail Blazers. The games are always packed with energy and excitement so don’t miss out!
• Stumptown Comics Fest – Held at the Oregon Convention Center in late March, Stumptown Comics Fest is a huge gathering for anyone interested in comics. See new artwork from up-and-coming artists and authors, attend panel discussions and presentations, and shop from the wide selection of comic books and merchandise offered!

April

• Tulip Festival – Held annually at Washington Park’s International Rose Test Garden in April, the Tulip Festival celebrates spring with a stunning display of over seven thousand varieties roses in addition to tulips, irises, and daisies.
• Beaverton Arts Mix – During Beaverton Arts Mix, the streets of Beaverton become an outdoor gallery featuring art installations and live music performances. Get immersed in the city’s culture as you stroll through the collection of displays scattered around Downtown Beaverton.

May

• Portland Rose Festival – Every May, Portland celebrates the beauty of roses with its annual Rose Festival. Featuring parades, midway rides, boat races, concerts, activities for kids and more various goings-on, there’s something for everybody at this grand event.
• Saturday Fix. Celebrate bike culture with Saturday Fix in Portland every month! This all-day event brings together cycling enthusiasts from all over to participate in rides around town and participate in interactive celebration activities throughout the day.

June – December

Throughout June through December, Portland also offers a range of musical performances and celebrations such as MusicfestNW (an all-ages music festival), Montavilla Street Fair (a celebration of Montavilla neighborhood culture), Waterfront Blues Festival (celebrating soul and blues music), Feast Portland (a celebration of local foods and drinks), Christmas Ships Parade (an illuminated holiday parade), and many more.

No matter when you visit Portland – or even if you’re a local – you’re sure to find an entertaining event each month. Make sure to keep an eye out for local flyers or check online to find out whatever is going on around town.

An Insider’s Guide to Portland: Beyond the Touristy Hotspots

Portland, the Pacific Northwest’s cultural hub, offers a lovely blend of urban soul, artistic flair, and natural beauty. The city boasts of a fantastic food scene, eclectic neighborhoods, and surreal landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for every traveler. But beyond the popular hotspots that most tourists visit, Portland has several hidden gems waiting to be explored. If you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience in this beautiful city, here are some lesser-known local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to consider:

Local Attractions: Discovering Portland’s Hidden Gems

While the popular attractions like Powell’s City of Books and Tom McCall Waterfront Park are a must-visit, exploring some of Portland’s hidden spots can offer a more authentic and unique experience. One such place is the Pittock Mansion, a historic 5,200 square foot chateau-style home with breathtaking views of the city. The Japanese Garden is another overlooked spot. This serene garden nestled in the hills of Washington Park offers stunning scenery and a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. And for a quirky and fun experience, visit the 24-Hour Church of Elvis, a tiny museum dedicated to a fictitious religion revolving around the king of pop music.

Dining Spots: Savoring the Local Cuisine

Portland’s dining scene is renowned for its farm-to-table food culture and locally sourced ingredients. While dining at iconic establishments like The Original Dinerant, Pok Pok, and Salt & Straw should be on your to-do list, don’t forget to visit some of the city’s hidden eateries like Nong’s Khao Man Gai, a food cart specializing in Thai chicken and rice, or Yataimura Maru, a Japanese izakaya with a secret back room bar. For a fascinating history lesson and a hearty meal, dine at Huber’s Cafe, the oldest restaurant in town and famous for its turkey dinners and Spanish coffee.

Cultural Experiences: Embracing Portland’s Artistic Soul

Portland’s vibrant cultural scene is full of traditions, festivals, and art exhibitions that offer unique and immersive experiences. Art lovers should visit the Portland Art Museum, the oldest museum in the Pacific Northwest, and the Alberta Arts District, home to several galleries showcasing local artists. For a taste of Portland’s famous music scene, head to the Crystal Ballroom, a historic concert venue that has hosted famous musicians for over a century. Foodies shouldn’t miss the Feast Portland, a four-day culinary festival held annually in September. And for a truly offbeat experience, attend the annual Naked Bike Ride, where thousands of bikers ride through the streets of Portland in the buff to protest oil dependency and promote cycling.

Local History: Uncovering Portland’s Fascinating Past

Portland has a rich and fascinating past that’s intertwined with the city’s diverse communities, industries, and cultural heritage. To better understand the city’s history, visit the Oregon Historical Society Museum, which offers an in-depth glimpse into the state’s past and present. The Pittock Mansion mentioned above is also a great spot for learning about Portland’s history. For a more contemplative experience, visit the Lone Fir Cemetery, a 30-acre cemetery that tells the story of the city’s early settlers and their contributions to Portland’s growth and development.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Going Beyond the Conventional

Finally, for a truly unique and exceptional experience in Portland, try some of these off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Take a stroll through the Lan Su Chinese Garden, a tranquil garden that represents Chinese culture, art, and architecture in the heart of Portland downtown. Visit the Kennedy School Theater and soak in a movie while sipping on a craft beer, a truly funky experience. And for the ultimate adrenaline rush, try indoor skydiving at iFLY Portland, an exhilarating experience that will stay with you for a long time.

In conclusion, Portland’s magic lies in its diversity and authenticity, and exploring the hidden gems of the city is part of that adventure. From unique eateries to quirky experiences and fascinating history, the city has something for everyone. We hope this insider’s guide encourages you to dive deeper into Portland’s soul and fall in love with all that this beautiful city has to offer.