Free Events in Portland: Oct 22-24
All weekend

Davis Graveyard: The haunting continues through early November. 8703 SE 43rd Ave in Milwaukie.
Saturday, October 23

West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta: Watch people paddle across the lake in giant, hollow-out pumpkins. Plus live music, costume contest, a bevy of other giant vegetables on display, and more. Lake of the Tualatin Commons, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Races start at 2:00 pm.

Live “Thriller” Performance: Watch a mass performance of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” at Pioneer Courthouse Square at 4:00 pm. There’s a $5 donation if you wish to dance; free for spectators. There will be a family-friendly bike ride that leads to this performance; read about the ride here.

Zombie Walk: Be a part of this ghoulish parade, or observe and hope they won’t notice you. The event begins after the “Thriller” performance at 4:00 pm.

Farmington Gardens Halloween Family Festival: Enjoy games, a maze, a scavenger hunt, and more. Costumes are encouraged, and pets are welcomed as well. 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

Community Action Energy Fair: Workshops on energy, safety, and health topics. Kids activities. Free hot dog lunch. Lincoln Street Elementary School, 9:30 am to 2:00 pm.

Lincoln Peirce, author and illustrator of the bestselling series “Big Nate,” will speak at Borders at Bridgeport Village, 2:00 pm. Best for ages 8-12.
Sunday, October 24

Wonder Woman Day: The event includes local and national artists signing comics and sketching, silent auction, costumed superheroes and science fiction characters, and more. Excalibur Comics, noon to 6:00 pm.

Day of the Dead Traditions and Crafts: Learn about the symbolism of a Day of the Dead altar, and decorate skeletons to adorn it. Troutdale Library, 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm.

Celebration of Paulann Petersen, Oregon’s newest poet laureate: Guest speakers, a Flash Choir performance, and a special reading by Paulann Petersen. Reception will follow. Central Library, 2:00 pm.

More free events

For more free and low-cost events, check PDX Pipeline, Dave Knows Portland, and Portland on the Cheap.

For kids events, check UrbanMamas and PDX Kids Calendar.

For free concerts, see Concert Co-op.

(Via Around the Sun)

Free Events in Portland: August 27–29

Admission is free for all events. Enjoy!

All Weekend

Moliere’s “School for Husbands”: Masque Alfresco presents a modern adaptation of this play every weekend through August. This weekend they will perform at Beaverton Library Lawn, 6:30 pm.

Friday, August 27

Festa Italiana: Italian entertainment, food, dancing, kids activities, and more. Pioneer Courthouse Square, noon to 11:00 pm.

Portland Art Museum Free Night: Visit the museum for free and enjoy live music in the museum’s outdoor sculpture court. 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Saturday, August 28

Festa Italiana: Italian entertainment, food, dancing, kids activities, and more. Pioneer Courthouse Square, 11:00 am to 11:00 pm.

Old Town Block Party: Live music, DJs, and more. NW 4th & 5th between Couch & Davis, noon to 10:00 pm.

Shakespeare in the Parks: The Portland Actors Ensemble will perform “The Comedy of Errors” at Concordia University at 3:00 pm.

Sunday, August 29

Opera in the Park: Portland Opera invites the public to a free, open chorus rehearsal in Director Park, 3:00 pm.

Butterfly Release and Celebration in Gresham: Arts and crafts activities, puppet show, cake, free books, and more. Children’s Community Garden in Vance Park, 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. The butterflies will be released at 3:45 pm.

Shakespeare in the Parks: The Portland Actors Ensemble will perform “The Comedy of Errors” at Concordia University at 3:00 pm.

(Via Around the Sun)

Free Portland Events this weekend
August 13-15

All weekend (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday)

Free Science Days at OMSI: Enjoy free general admission to OMSI all weekend. Hours will be extended from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. Regular admission prices apply to the OMNIMAX Theater, planetarium, and submarine.

Moliere’s “School for Husbands”: Masque Alfresco presents a modern adaptation of this play every weekend through August. This weekend they will perform at Bagley Park, Hillsboro, 6:30 pm.

Friday, August 13

Portland Twilight Criterium: Head to the North Park Blocks for professional bicycle racing, a cycling and fitness expo, handmade bike show, and more. Event begins at 4:00 pm; racing begins at 6:30 pm.

Tualatin Crawfish Festival: Admission is free on Friday. Enjoy live music (including a battle of the bands), boat rides, and crawfish, of course. Tualatin Commons starting at 5:00 pm.

Saturday, August 14

Central Library Block Party: Entertainment, craft projects, bug petting, and more. Noon to 3:00 pm.

Tour de Fat: This celebration of beer and bikes features a bike parade, slow bike ride, entertainment, and more. Waterfront Park, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

PDX Adult Soapbox Derby: Wacky cars and fierce competition. 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Mt. Tabor Park.

Music Millennium Customer Appreciation BBQ: A different band will perform each hour from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Rockin’ Round the Block Show & Shine Car Show: Hot rods, classic cars, kids activities, and more. Downtown Gresham, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Fire in the Park: Live music, kids activities, fire fighter competition, and more. Esther Short Park in Vancouver, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Arts Festival in the Forest: View the creative works of professional artists and watch a variety of entertaining performers, including the acrobatic AWOL tree dancers. Mary S. Young Park in West Linn, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Shakespeare in the Park: The Portland Actors Ensemble will perform “The Comedy of Errors” at Raleigh Park at 6:00 pm.

Sunday, August 15

Southeast Sunday Parkways: Enjoy entertainment and activities along a 6-mile, car-free route connecting Laurelhurst, Colonel Summers and Sunnyside Parks, plus the Hawthorne Street Fair. 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Hawthorne Street Fair: Enjoy entertainment, kids activities, freebies, and much more all along Hawthorne Street. 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

India Festival: Experience the tastes, sounds, and sights of India from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm at Pioneer Courthouse Square.

Arts Festival in the Forest: View the creative works of professional artists and watch a variety of entertaining performers, including the acrobatic AWOL tree dancers. Mary S. Young Park in West Linn, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Free haircut for those with long hair: If you have a ponytail measuring 8 inches or more, head to Bonnet for a free haircut and hat. Your hair will be made into a wig and donated to the American Cancer Society. Call or email Bonnet to let them know that you are planning to attend. 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Shakespeare in the Park: The Portland Actors Ensemble will perform “The Comedy of Errors” at Gabriel Park at 3:00 pm.

More free events

Check out our outdoor concert list and outdoor movie list. (Just added a movie listing for August 13!)

For more free and low-cost events, check PDX Pipeline and Dave Knows Portland.

For kids events, check UrbanMamas.

For free concerts, see Concert Co-op.

From Around the Sun

Free Events in Portland this weekend

All weekend

West Linn Old Time Fair: Musical entertainment, carnival rides, custom car show, games and activities for the whole family, parade, and more at Willamette Park.

Friday, July 16

Shakespeare in the Park: Last weekend! The Portland Actors Ensemble will perform “Pericles, Prince of Tyre” on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays through mid-July. Tonight, they will perform at 7:30 pm at Mt. Tabor Park summit.

Saturday, July 17

East Portland Exposition: This two-day community event features lots of entertainment and food, free health testing, multicultural fair, and free activities for children and families. Ed Benedict Community Park, starting at 11:00 am on Saturday and 10:00 am on Sunday.

Bastille Day Celebration Block Party: Live music, champagne sabering demo, dance off, grape stomping, and more. Pix Patisserie North Williams location, 11:00 am to midnight. Admission fee is 2 cans of food. For each can you bring, you’ll receive a raffle ticket for a chance to win one of 100 prizes.

Woodstock Festival and Parade: Enjoy a day of fun, frivolity and music from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm on Woodstock Boulevard from SE 41st eastward. Parade starts at 10:00 am.

Big Busk Music Festival: At more than a dozen outdoor locations in downtown Portland, bands will perform in this “experiment” aimed at saturating the city with the sound of music. 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Cafe au Play and Tabor Commons Grand Opening Party: This family-oriented event includes live music, bike parade, kids activities, and more. 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Lake Oswego Centennial Festival: Live entertainment, family-friendly events, and unique recreational fun at historic Luscher Farm and Hazelia Field. 11:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Gresham Art Walk: This family event includes art, live music, and free children’s arts and crafts. Historic downtown Gresham, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Let’s Scream for Ice Cream: Learn fun facts about ice cream, make cool crafts, and taste ice cream treats. Tigard Library, 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm.

Star Trek in the Park: See a live performance of the classic Star Trek episode “Space Seed.” Saturdays and Sundays through August 1 at Woodlawn Park, 5:00 pm.

Shakespeare in the Park: Last weekend! The Portland Actors Ensemble will perform “Pericles, Prince of Tyre” on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays through mid-July. Tonight, they will perform at 7:30 pm at Mt. Tabor Park summit.

“Much Adoe About Nothing”: The Ops Fest (Original Practice Shakespeare Festival) will perform this play using the same techniques as they did in Shakespeare’s own time, which means limited rehearsal; an onstage prompter; fast-paced, energetic acting; and lots of audience interaction. Laurelhurst Park, 2:00 pm.

Beaverton Civic Theatre Presents “King Midas”: Watch this live performance at Beaverton City Library, 11:00 am.

Pet-friendly gardening workshop and adoption event: The workshop covers landscape design tips, including plant selection, pet training, breed consideration, and materials to use. Animals from the Oregon Humane Society will be on-site, ready for adoption. Dennis’ 7 Dees Lake Oswego Garden Center, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm (workshop at 2:00 pm).

Sunday, July 18

East Portland Sunday Parkways: Explore East Portland by bike or on foot along a 4.5-mile loop, connecting Ed Benedict, Bloomington, and Lents Parks. Enjoy food, music, and activities in the parks and along the route.

East Portland Exposition: This two-day community event features lots of entertainment and food, free health testing, multicultural fair, and free activities for children and families. Ed Benedict Community Park, starting at 11:00 am on Saturday and 10:00 am on Sunday.

Ramona Street Fair: Live music, craft vendors, information booths, and more. Ramona Street, between 92nd Avenue and the I-205 Multi-Use Path/Lents Town Center MAX Station, 10:00 am and 6:00 pm.

Star Trek in the Park: See a live performance of the classic Star Trek episode “Space Seed.” Saturdays and Sundays through August 1 at Woodlawn Park, 5:00 pm.

Check out the outdoor concert list and outdoor movie list.

For more free and low-cost events, check PDX Pipeline.

For kids events, check UrbanMamas.

For free concerts, see Concert Co-op.

From Around the Sun

Free Summer Fun: Outdoor Movies 2010

Portland parks: Assorted evenings from July 2 to September 10.

“Flicks on the Bricks” at Pioneer Courthouse Square: Friday evenings from July 23 to August 20.

Multnomah Arts Center: July 2, August 6, September 10.

Beaverton City Park: Friday evenings in August.

Vancouver parks: Friday evenings in July.

Mary S. Young Park in West Linn: Saturday evenings in August.

Memorial Park in Wilsonville (under “City Seasonal Events,” click “Movies in the Park”): July 16 & 23; August 13 & 27.

Tualatin Commons: Saturday evenings from July 3 to August 21.

North Clackamas Parks and Recreation District: Friday and Saturday evenings from July 9 to August 14 (except July 30 & 31).

Main St. Park in Gresham: Friday evenings in August.

From Around the Sun

All weekend

Pedalpalooza: Last weekend! This two-week bike celebration includes 274 events, nearly all of which are free. Bikers of all persuasions are likely to find an event of interest.

North American Organic Brewers Festival: Enjoy organic beers and ciders from around the world, accompanied by live music, organic food, sustainability-oriented vendors, non-profits and a children’s area. Overlook Park, noon to 9:00 pm on Friday and Saturday, noon to 5:00 pm on Sunday.

Good in the Neighborhood Multicultural Music and Food Festival and Parade: Good Neighbor Night Mixer on Friday evening. Parade and activities all day on Saturday, including live music, kids activities, free bike tune-ups, and more. Activities continue on Sunday. King School Park.

Friday, June 25

Free admission to the Portland Art Museum from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Shakespeare in the Park: The Portland Actors Ensemble will perform “Pericles, Prince of Tyre” on Thursdays, Friday, and Saturdays through mid-July. Tonight, they will perform at 6:30 pm at Marylhurst University in Lake Oswego.

Saturday, June 26

Lost Bird Project Community Fair: Learn about endangered species and what you can do to help prevent future extinctions. Activities include talks by artist Todd McGrain (creator of the Lost Bird Project art exhibit), hands-on projects, storytelling, live bird presentations, and more. South Waterfront Park, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Shakespeare in the Park: The Portland Actors Ensemble will perform “Pericles, Prince of Tyre” on Thursdays, Friday, and Saturdays through mid-July. Tonight, they will perform at 6:00 pm at Somerset Meadows Park in Beaverton.

Sunday, June 27

Sunday Parkways in North Portland: Car-free streets and an amazing amount of activities planned along the route and at Kenton, Arbor Lodge, and Peninsula Parks. 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

From Around the Sun

For more free and low-cost events, check PDX Pipeline.

For kids events, check UrbanMamas.

For free concerts, see Concert Co-op.

Free Events in Portland: June 18–20

All week

Pedalpalooza: This two-week bike celebration includes 274 events, nearly all of which are free. Bikers of all persuasions are likely to find an event of interest.

Friday, June 18

“Edible Wild Plants”: John Kallas’s book is a genuinely useful tool for the modern-day forager, gardener, and food preparer. Powell’s City of Books on Burnside, 7:30 pm.

“The Handmade Marketplace”: Author Kari Chapin will talk about the business side of selling crafts. The Land gallery+shop, 6:00 pm.

Saturday, June 19

Your Money Bus: Get free advice from an independent financial advisor; no strings attached. You can ask about budgeting, saving, reducing debt, investing, and more. Pioneer Courthouse Square, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Women on Bikes: Learn and discuss how to choose the right bike, the best gear for you and your bike, recreational riding, commuting, riding techniques, and route planning. East Portland Community Center, 10:00 am.

Make a Splash - Read! Show: Join magical-ventriloquist Steve Taylor, Rudy O’Riley, and Alli The Croc (don’t worry, he’s a puppet!) for a fun summer show featuring an “aquatic” adventure for your imagination. Albina Library, 11:00 am.

Mz. Pearl: the Under Water Revue: A solo clown show filled with funny physical comedy, circus skills and clever - or at least odd - solutions to bizarre problems. Sellwood-Moreland Library, 11:00 am.

Sign up for free swimming lessons: Between June 21 and 25, Portland Parks & Recreation will offer five free beginner swim lessons to any Portland resident over the age of 3. On June 19 between 8:00 am and 11:30 am, register at the pool you will be taking the lesson at. You must register in person. Spots will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

How we can raise money-smart kids in a money-crazed world: Portland resident Lori Sweeney shares her strategies for raising a money-smart and giving child. Hear what she has to say and share your own experiences. Gregory Heights Library, 1:30 pm.

Wilsonville Summer Safety Fair and Bike Rodeo: Safety demonstrations, bike rodeo, and TVF&R Fire Safety House. City Hall Parking Lot, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

“Much Adoe About Nothing”: The Ops Fest (Original Practice Shakespeare Festival) will perform this play using the same techniques as they did in Shakespeare’s own time, which means limited rehearsal; an onstage prompter; fast-paced, energetic acting; and lots of audience interaction. Mount Tabor Park, 2:00 pm.

Sunday, June 20

Portland Pride Parade: The parade starts at 11:30 am in downtown Portland.

“Much Adoe About Nothing”: The Ops Fest (Original Practice Shakespeare Festival) will perform this play using the same techniques as they did in Shakespeare’s own time, which means limited rehearsal; an onstage prompter; fast-paced, energetic acting; and lots of audience interaction. Cathedral Park, 2:00 pm.

From Around the Sun

For more free and low-cost events, check Portland on the Cheap and PDX Pipeline.

For free concerts, see Concert Co-op.

Free Events in Portland this weekend

Next two weeks

Pedalpalooza: This two-week bike celebration includes 274 events, nearly all of which are free. Bikers of all persuasions are likely to find an event of interest.

Saturday, June 12

Grand Floral Parade: The highlight of the Rose Festival starts at 10:00 am at the Memorial Coliseum, travels down MLK Jr. Blvd, across the Burnside Bridge, and into downtown Portland, ending at Lincoln High School.

Dragon Boat Races: Almost 100 teams will compete in this exciting Rose Festival event. Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Waterfront Park.

National Get Outdoors Day: Join Smokey Bear and Ranger Rick for a day of outdoor activities, demos, a family fun walk, bike maintenance clinic, and more. Vancouver Water Resources Education Center, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Cirque du Cycling: Head to Mississippi Ave for a street festival, circus, bike race, bike parade, and more. 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.

TIP Cruise-In and Cookout: The Trauma Intervention Program (TIP) is hosting this fundraising event. Admission is free to the public. Live music, cars, and more. Portland Fire Bureau Training Center, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Free Family Day at the Washington County Museum: Learn about historic photography and quilting. Summer-themed arts and crafts activities including making your own butterfly art. 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Guided walk from The Grotto to Rocky Butte: Join author Laura Foster on a tour through one of Portland’s most serene forested settings and climb the nearby trail for a round trip to the historic Rocky Butte summit. Meet at The Grotto parking lot, 9:00 am.

“Much Adoe About Nothing”: The Ops Fest (Original Practice Shakespeare Festival) will perform this play using the same techniques as they did in Shakespeare’s own time, which means limited rehearsal; an onstage prompter; fast-paced, energetic acting; and lots of audience interaction. Gabriel Park, 2:00 pm.

Sunday, June 13

Milk Carton Boat Race: Children and adults will race and show off their handmade boats that float only by means of recycled milk cartons and jugs. Westmoreland Park Casting Pond, 11:00 am.

Dragon Boat Races: Almost 100 teams will compete in this exciting Rose Festival event. Saturday and Sunday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, Waterfront Park.

Pets on Parade: Everyone is welcome to dress up in their favorite Centennial attire (pets too). This is a great opportunity to show off your favorite pet or stuffed animal. Millennium Plaza Park. Registration at 1:00 pm, parade at 2:00 pm.

“Much Adoe About Nothing”: The Ops Fest (Original Practice Shakespeare Festival) will perform this play using the same techniques as they did in Shakespeare’s own time, which means limited rehearsal; an onstage prompter; fast-paced, energetic acting; and lots of audience interaction. Esther Short Park, 2:00 pm.

“Roman Holiday”: See this classic film at St. Johns Library at 2:00 pm.

From Around the Sun

More free events

For more free and low-cost events, check Portland on the Cheap and PDX Pipeline.

For free concerts, see Concert Co-op.

Free Events around Portland this weekend

Friday, May 21

Author Sebastian Junger will talk about his new book “War” at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside, 7:30 pm.

Poetry reading: Enjoy an evening of poetry with David Abel and Chris Daniels. The Waypost, 7:00 pm.

Saturday, May 22

Kenton Street Fair: Car and bike show, kids activities, live music, and more. N. Denver Avenue between N. Watts and N. Willis, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Bike Fix-It Fair: Mechanics will do basic work on your bike for free. Free classes, $5 helmets, and more. Harrison Park School, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Up-and-coming bands showcase: Mama Sunshine, Panda, Eggplant, Goldenbloom, and Wizard Attack will perform. Someday Lounge, 9:00 pm, 21+.

Sunday, May 23

McMenamins hosts “Lost” series finale: See the finale at the Bagdad Theater (hosted by Cort and Fatboy; doors open at 6:00 pm), Mission Theater (doors open at 5:00 pm), or St. Johns Theater (doors open at 6:30 pm).

Tualatin Pedaling in the Park: Kids’ bicycle safety “rodeo,” bike games, family fun ride, live music, and more. Free helmets to the first 75 kids (based on helmet sizes and availability). Tualatin Commons, 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Lake Oswego Millennium Concert Band will perform a variety of selections, such as music from the Harry Potter films, Spanish music, and Sousa marches. Lakeridge High School Auditorium, 7:30 pm.

Latino Home Fair: Exhibitors from the real estate industry, home buying and foreclosure prevention seminars, children’s fun area, door prizes, and free zoo tickets for all children under 11 years old. Oregon Zoo, Cascade Crest Banquet Center, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

William Ayers and Ryan Alexander-Tanner will talk about “To Teach: The Journey, In Comics,” the graphic novel that brings to life Ayers’s bestselling memoir “To Teach: The Journey of a Teacher.” Floating World Comics, 6:00 pm.

Writers Bryan Charles and Mike McGonigal will talk about their books focused on bands Pavement and My Bloody Valentine, respectively. Powell’s City of Books on Burnside, 7:30 pm.

From Around the Sun

For more free and low-cost events, check Portland on the Cheap and PDX Pipeline.

For free concerts, see Concert Co-op.

Free Events in Portland: May 14–16

All weekend

Open Engagement, PSU’s conference on art and social practice, features visual art, music, film, dance, writing, and more. Most events are open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. More on Bus Stop Opera here.

Pioneer Family Festival: Teddy Bear Parade, live music, skateboard and BMX competitions, kids activities, and more. Clackamette Park, Oregon City. May 14: 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm. May 15: 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. May 16: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Saturday, May 15

Alberta Street Art Hop: More than 15 blocks of NE Alberta Street will be closed to car traffic to accommodate 150+ artists, craftspeople, music, dance and theater performances, interactive art events, and more. 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Mt. Tabor Art Walk: Visit sites all over the Mt. Tabor neighborhood to see the work of local artists. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Lock Fest: Flotilla, giant aquarium, live music, tours of the Locks Museum, and more. Willamette Falls Locks Park, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

National Park Family Day at Fort Vancouver: Meet park rangers and learn about park wildlife and history.

SE Portland Tool Library grand opening celebration: Learn more about the tool library, which lends home-repair and gardening tools to SE Portland residents and community groups, free of charge. 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Guided bike ride in downtown Gresham: This ride is about 8 miles long and is a slow, family ride open to all levels of riders. Meet at 9:45 am in the parking lot at Main City Park.

Ernest Bloch concert: Portland State Piano Club will perform a free, public concert featuring an all-Bloch program. Room 183 of the Extended Studies Building, noon.

Sunday, May 16

Sunday Parkways: A 5.8-mile route in Northeast Portland will be closed to cars. Walk, bike, and enjoy activities along the route and at Woodlawn, Alberta, Fernhill, and Wilshire Parks. 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Mt. Tabor Art Walk: Visit sites all over the Mt. Tabor neighborhood to view the work of local artists. 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Daniel Clowes will present his new graphic novel, “Wilson,” at Powell’s City of Books on Burnside, 7:30 pm.

Shout Out Louds and Freelance Whales will perform at Music Millennium at 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm, respectively.

Joe Kurmaskie, bicyclist and author, will share tales and images from his most recent ride through Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa, Malawi, and Mozambique. Hillsboro Main Library, 2:00 pm.

From Around the Sun

For more free and low-cost events, check Portland on the Cheap and PDX Pipeline.

For free concerts, see Concert Co-op

Free and Cheap Events this weekend in Portland:

All weekend

Better Living Show: Entertainment, presentations, kids activities, exhibitors, and more, all focused on the topic of sustainable living. Portland Expo Center.

Next Adventure 7th Annual Spring Warehouse Clearance Sale this Saturday and Sunday, save 20%-80% off camping gear, kayaks, apparel, snow sports equipment, footwear and more.

Friday, March 26

Free admission to Portland Art Museum from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Norwegian crime writer Jo Nesbo will talk about his latest book at Murder by the Book, 7:00 pm.

Author Cherie Priest will talk about her novel “Boneshaker” at Powell’s Books at Cedar Hills Crossing, 7:00 pm.

Saturday, March 27

Pearl District Bunny Hop: A number of merchants in the Pearl will offer free treats, kids activities, and more. 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Musician, vegan, and social activist Moby will talk about his book “Gristle: From Factory Farms to Food Safety (Thinking Twice about the Meat We Eat),” a collection of essays from 10 contributors. Powell’s City of Books on Burnside, 4:00 pm.

Couponing 101: Learn how to use coupons to dramatically decrease the amount you spend on groceries and household items. Rockwood Library, 1:00 pm.

Dr. Seuss’ Horton: Emily Alexander of Tears of Joy Theatre will bring the words of Dr. Seuss to life. Gregory Heights Library, noon.

Costumes for Ramona: Children ages 4–10 and their families are invited to make costumes like Ramona Quimby would. North Portland Library, 11:00 am.

Guided nature walk: Join a park ranger for a free, guided nature hike at Tryon Creek State Natural Area, 10:00 am.

Sunday, March 28

Turbo goal setting: Speaker Phil Mandel will teach you how to use Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) to learn the goal-setting techniques of top achievers. Central Library, 12:30 pm.

Edible landscaping: This class will provide information on choosing plants for the home landscape that are edible and aesthetically pleasing. St. Johns Library, 2:00 pm.

From Around the Sun and Portland on the Cheap

Free and Cheap events around Portland this weekend:

Saturday, March 20

Pooches on the Green: Dogs and their friends are invited to celebrate St. Paw-trick’s day at Beaverton City Park from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. Live music, Irish dancing, contests, and more.

Jeff Garlin of “Curb Your Enthusiasm” will talk about his book “My Footprint,” which documents his year-long journey to reduce his physical footprint and his carbon footprint. Powell’s City of Books on Burnside, 2:00 pm.

Title Wave Used Bookstore 22nd anniversary sale this Saturday. All used material at 55% off, 10:00am – 4:00pm.

Haggen Food Show this Saturday from 11:00am – 4:00pm with free product samples at all area locations.

Oregon Historical Society Family Day, two children admitted free with one paid adult admission. View the Smithsonian exhibit, “Becoming American.” Explore immigration from the unique perspective of teenagers. Saturday 11:00am – 3:00pm.

McMinnville Third Saturday Art & Wine Walk, Saturday 2:00pm – 8:00pm.

It’s National Corndog Day this Saturday, celebrate by eating corndogs! See web site for public gatherings.

Portland 2010 biennial exhibition of contemporary artwork, continues with an opening reception this Saturday from 6:00pm – 10:00m at the Templeton Building and Leftbank Project.

Sunday, March 21

Kids Reading Fair: This event for pre-kindergarten to middle school kids includes crafts, games, an obstacle course, a puppeteer, and storytelling performances. Every student will receive a free, new book. University of Portland, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.

World Water Day 2010: Musicians, speakers, and nonprofit organizations come together to raise awareness for the worldwide need for safe drinking water. World Trade Center, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.

Portland Opera Preview: “Trouble in Tahiti”: This lecture/concert includes historical background, composer information, and musical selections. Central Library, 2:00 pm.

“The Man Who Ate His Boots,” book reading at Powell’s City of Books this Sunday at 7:30pm, free. Learn about the whole story of the search for the Northwest Passage.

Willamette Week’s new Cheap Skate Deal Box includes a by-donation Pilates mat class, $2.50 pints of house brews at Lompoc Brewing, a free screening of the classic flick “Roman Holiday” and more.

(from Around the Sun and Portland on the Cheap)

Free and Cheap events around Portland this weekend:

- Reed Arts Week 2010 (http://www.reed.edu/raw/2010/index.html): ALCHEMY runs through this Sunday with visiting artists, performances, lectures, installation, and student art projects. Every day 12:00pm – 6:00pm, see web site for schedule of activities.

- Children’s Mus…eum First Friday (http://www.portlandcm.org/how_to_visit.php): free admission for all from 5:00pm – 8:00pm thanks to Target!

- Central Eastside Arts District presents First Friday Art Openings (http://www.firstfridayart.com) this Friday; see web site for map locations.

- Portland Saturday Market (http://www.portlandsaturdaymarket.com) reopens this weekend with hours of 10:00am – 5:00pm Saturday and 11:00am – 4:30pm Sunday. Special activities for children include a make-your-own instrument for a 2:00pm parade and a roaming magician.

- 25th Annual Visitation School Rummage Sale (http://www.verboort.org) in Forest Grove this Thursday – Saturday. Early bird sale on Thursday, March 4, from 7:30am to 9:00am for an entrance fee of $5. Regular sale hours are 9:00am to 5:00pm. Everything will be half price on Saturday, March 6th, with a $3 bag sale from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. The sale will be held at the Visitation Parish Center, located at 4285 NW Visitation Road, Forest Grove, 97116.

- The 20th annual Cascade Festival of African Films (http://www.africanfilmfestival.org/calendar) wraps up its month-long celebration with film screenings this Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Free admission, please see web site for film descriptions.

- Bank of America Museums on Us (http://museums.bankofamerica.com) free admission for card holders to the Portland Art Museum & Pittock Mansion this Saturday and Sunday. Just bring your photo ID and any Bank of America card to get in for free!

- McMenamins Grand Lodge 88th Birthday Party (http://www.mcmenamins.com/events/75887-88th-Birthday-Party), featuring the Cracked Pots unGarden Art Show this Saturday. Art show runs 11:00am – 6:00pm and music starts at 4:00pm. Free admission, all ages welcome.

- The 7th annual SE Portland Art Walk (http://snackword.netfirms.com/seportlandartwalk.com/default.htm) takes place this Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am – 5:00pm. Featuring over 100 artists, please see the web site for locations and to download a map. Free!

- Portland International Women’s Day (http://www.piwd.org/2010.html) will be held this Sunday from 11:00am – 4:00pm on the 3rd floor of the Portland State University Smith Student Union. The festival includes entertainment, art, seminars and more. Free for all ages.

- OMSI (http://www.omsi.edu/events) offers admission for just $2 this first Sunday. See the newest exhibit “Space: A Journey to our Future.”

- Willamette Week’s new Cheap Skate Deal Box (http://wweek.com/columns/cheapskate) features half-price tickets for Portland Center Stage’s “The 39 Steps,” a free concert at Mississippi Studios first anniversary party, cheap bicycle stuff and more.

From Portland on the Cheap:(http://blogging.portlandonthecheap.com)

- Mississippi Studios for SWELLEBRATION (http://www.mississippistudios.com/calendar.php) celebrating their new & improved one year anniversary with musical performances by: Sallie Ford & The Sound Outside, Dirty Mittens, Yeltsin, Tahoe Jackson, Matt Sheehy & the Menders, Run On Sentence, Sean Flinn & the Royal We, Adam Shearer, Holcombe Waller, Laura Gibson, Justin Power, and many more special surprises and treats! Sat., Mar. 6. 7 pm doors, 8 pm show. FREE. 21+.