Major Events & Festivals in Portland, Oregon, United States

Portland, United States, Portland, Culture & Entertainment, Major Events & Festivals

Major Events & Festivals in Portland, Oregon, United States

1. Rose Festival

Celebrating Portland's nickname 'City of Roses', this festival features parades, concerts, and a coronation of the Rose Queen.
  • Unique Parade: Starlight Parade is the country's largest nighttime flower parade.
  • Rose Festival Court: A popular event where the Rose Queen and her court are selected through a rigorous competition.
  • Sustainability Efforts: Eco-friendly initiatives, such as recycling stations and sustainable decorations, make this festival environmentally friendly.

2. Waterfront Blues Festival

Four-day blues music festival along the Willamette River featuring local and international artists.
  • Diverse Lineup: A mix of blues styles like electric, acoustic, and traditional showcased in this event.
  • Community Engagement: Proceeds benefit local charities and organizations.
  • Festival Marketplace: Vendors selling food, crafts, and merchandise from the Pacific Northwest region.

3. Portland Japanese Garden

A traditional Japanese garden located in Washington Park showcasing authentic plants, architecture, and cultural exhibits.
  • Authentic Design: The first Japanese garden built with cooperation from Japanese experts.
  • Seasonal Beauty: Evolving beauty throughout the year, with blooming cherry blossoms in spring and stunning autumn foliage.
  • Tranquil Setting: A peaceful escape from city life, featuring a teahouse, koi pond, and beautiful waterfalls.

4. PDX Pop Now!

Annual indie music festival featuring up-and-coming artists from the Pacific Northwest.
  • Discovery of New Talent: A platform for new musicians to showcase their talent and gain recognition.
  • Variety of Genres: Showcasing a diverse range of indie music styles, from punk to folk.
  • Community Spirit: A celebration of Portland's vibrant and creative independent music scene.

5. Vancouver USA Mud Run

Annual obstacle race through the mud-filled terrain of Clark County, Washington.
  • Fun Obstacles: Creative challenges such as fire pits, cargo nets, and mud pits.
  • Charity Support: Proceeds benefit local charities focused on health and wellness.
  • Competitive Races: Options for individual or team competition, as well as a non-timed option for fun runners.

6. Portland Pride Festival

Annual celebration of the LGBTQ+ community featuring parades, music, and speeches.
  • Community Unity: A platform for LGBTQ+ individuals to come together and celebrate their identities.
  • Inclusive Environment: Open and welcoming atmosphere for all, promoting acceptance and diversity.
  • Support for Causes: Funds raised during the festival benefit local LGBTQ+ organizations and initiatives.

7. Portland International Auto Show

Annual auto show featuring new car models, test drives, and industry exhibits.
  • Latest Car Models: First opportunity to see the latest models from various manufacturers.
  • Test Drive Opportunities: Chance to test drive a variety of new vehicles on-site.
  • Industry Insights: Opportunities to learn about the latest trends and technologies in the auto industry.

8. First Thursday Art Walk

Monthly art event where local galleries and businesses open their doors for art exhibitions.
  • Local Artists Showcase: A chance to discover and appreciate the work of Portland's talented artists.
  • Community Engagement: A platform for local businesses and artists to engage with the community.
  • Food and Drink Options: Participating venues often offer food, drinks, and live music during the art walk.

9. Portland Saturday Market

Weekend market featuring local crafts, foods, and live music in downtown Portland.
  • Local Products: Opportunity to purchase unique handmade items from Pacific Northwest artisans.
  • Cultural Exchange: A gathering place for people of various cultures to share and learn from each other.
  • Food Trucks and Live Music: Food trucks offering a variety of delicious options, along with live music performances throughout the market.

10. Blessing of the Fleet

Annual event at St. Johns River Fest where boats are blessed for a safe fishing season.
  • Maritime Tradition: A long-standing tradition honoring Portland's maritime heritage.
  • Community Gathering: A chance for the community to come together and celebrate Portland's maritime history.
  • Boat Parade: Colorful boat parade featuring decorated boats of all shapes and sizes.

11. Portland Adult Soapbox Derby

Annual soapbox car race down a steep hill in Kenton Park.
  • DIY Spirit: Contestants build their own cars for the competition.
  • Community Fun: A fun event for families and friends to enjoy together.
  • Speed and Skill: Races showcase both the speed and skill of each car's design.

12. Brewvana PDX Beer Week

Annual celebration of Portland's craft beer scene featuring tastings, tours, and events.
  • Local Breweries Showcase: A chance to discover new local breweries and taste their offerings.
  • Educational Events: Workshops, seminars, and discussions about the art of brewing beer.
  • Beer-themed Activities: Events such as beer pairings with food, homebrewing demonstrations, and pub crawls.

13. Portland Horror Film Festival

Annual horror film festival featuring short and feature-length films from around the world.
  • Horror Genre Showcase: A platform for up-and-coming horror filmmakers to showcase their work.
  • Industry Networking: Opportunities for filmmakers and industry professionals to connect and collaborate.
  • Halloween Spirit: A chance to celebrate Halloween and the horror genre in a fun and engaging way.

14. Portland Art Museum First Free Thursday

Monthly event where admission to the Portland Art Museum is free for all visitors.
  • Accessibility: Making art accessible to everyone, regardless of financial means.
  • Community Engagement: A chance for the community to connect with and appreciate art.
  • Special Programs: Additional programming on free Thursday evenings, such as lectures, performances, and activities.

15. Portland Saturday Market Winter Market

Winter version of the Portland Saturday Market featuring local crafts, foods, and live music.
  • Year-round Market Access: Continuous access to local goods and art during the winter months.
  • Holiday Spirit: A festive atmosphere filled with holiday decorations, music, and gifts.
  • Warm Indoor Venues: Indoor venues providing shelter from the cold and rain during winter months.