Categories > Guides and Tips
Experience the Thrill of the 12 Best Summer Events in Portland
It’s summer festival time in Portland—let’s kick off the celebrations! Many of the city’s summer festivities showcase vibrant cultural events and art exhibitions.
Beyond enjoying delicious food and refreshing drinks, this season offers a range of reasons to celebrate, from outdoor concerts to food trucks and everything in between!
We’ve rounded up the best summer events in Portland here just for you! Many of them are free, so you won’t have to break the bank just to make unforgettable memories!
1. Portland Rose Festival
Media credits: pdxrosefestival
Website: https://www.rosefestival.org/
Location: Rose Building 1020 SW Naito Parkway
Contact: (503) 227-2681
Dates: May & June (Annual event)
The Portland Rose Festival is the ultimate summer bash, bursting with all things floral and filled with Portland’s signature flair. This beloved event has been a city tradition for over a century, painting the Rose City with colors and excitement like no other.
Right at the center of the action is the Grand Floral Parade. It features all-floral floats, energetic marching bands, and toe-tapping performances that bring the streets to life.
Then there’s the Starlight Parade that lights up the evening with glowing floats and a lively vibe that’s perfect for an unforgettable family night out. Grab a prime spot along the route and get ready to be wowed.
And don’t miss CityFair at Waterfront Park, where carnival rides, drool-worthy food vendors, and live music keep the fun rolling.
Pro tip: Make sure not to miss the Dragon Boat Races on the Willamette River since this is also one of the main highlights of the festival.
2. Waterfront Blues Festival
Media credits: waterfrontblues
Website: https://waterfrontbluesfest.com/
Location: Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Contact: [email protected]
Dates: First Week of July (Annual event)
The Waterfront Blues Festival is one of Portland’s summer favorite events. Set along the beautiful Willamette River, this 4-day live music event is one of the biggest blues festivals around.
The lineup features legends like Buddy Guy, Mavis Staples, Robert Plant, and fresh talent to discover. Beyond the music, enjoy local food vendors and family-friendly activities.
The festival also supports local food banks, so you’re also giving back to the community while you’re soaking in the good vibes.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the official late-night shows after the festival closes, as you can usually score $5 off day-of tickets if you show your wristband.
3. Oregon Brewers Festival
Media credits: oregonbrewfest
Website: https://oregonbrewfest.com/
Location: Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Contact: [email protected]
Dates: Late July
The Oregon Brewers Festival is a craft beer lover’s paradise! Every summer, thousands flock to Portland’s beautiful Waterfront Park to dive into a lively celebration of all things hoppy.
With over 80 breweries pouring a huge variety of beers—from IPAs to rich stouts—there’s a flavor for every taste. The vibe is upbeat, with live music filling the air and plenty of outdoor seating for chilling out with friends or meeting fellow beer fans.
And don’t miss the food carts! You’ll find everything from gourmet tacos to mouth-watering BBQ, perfect for pairing with your favorite beer. Throw in some fun events like homebrew demos and contests, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a fantastic summer day.
Pro tip: For unique brews, visit the Buzz and Sour Tents for limited-edition beers and specialties. Be sure to come early, as these are popular and often run out quickly.
4. Movies in the Park
Media credits: quadsnest
Website: https://www.portland.gov/parks/arts-culture/summer-free-all/cultural-events#toc-types-of-events
Location: Various parks across Portland
Contact: (503) 823-4000
Dates: July – August
Movies in the Park is one of Portland’s favorite summer hangouts, bringing everyone together for chill nights under the stars. You can grab a blanket, pack some snacks (or go all out with a picnic dinner), and head to spots like Overlook Park or Colonel Summers Park.
Every week from mid-July through August, different parks light up with a mix of crowd-pleasing movies. You can expect some family classics like Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and feel-good hits like Turning Red.
You can see families set up camp on the grass, kids run around playing, and friends catch up until the sun goes down and the movie rolls. You can also expect pre-show activities, and live performances while munching on popcorn with a summer breeze under the night sky.
Pro tip: Arrive at least an hour before the movie starts to secure a good viewing spot and enjoy pre-show activities.
5. Sunday Parkways
Media credits: swiftracingpdx
Website: https://www.portland.gov/sunday-parkways
Location: Various Portland neighborhoods
Contact: (503) 823-4000
Dates: Monthly from May – September
Get ready to experience Portland in a whole new way at Sunday Parkways. This family-friendly event takes back the streets from cars and gives you the freedom to bike, walk, and roll through the city’s buzzy neighborhoods.
The 3.3-mile route is packed with activity hubs at Gateway Discovery Park, Ventura Park, and Lincoln Park. Each of them buzzes with live entertainment, local musicians, and performers that’ll keep you grooving.
Plus, you’ll find a tasty mix of food vendors offering from tacos to ice cream to recharging after all that biking and walking. Don’t forget to stop by the community booths for some cool local info and wellness activities!
Pro tip: Bring your own bike or rent one. Make sure to also stop at each activity hub for fun games and treats.
6. Portland Craft Beer Festival
Media credits: pdxcraftbeerfest
Website: https://portlandcraftbeerfestival.com/
Location: The Fields Park
Contact: [email protected]
Dates: Early July
The Portland Craft Beer Festival is the ultimate way to dive into the city’s local brewing scene. Set in the scenic Fields Park, this event celebrates Portland’s best beer, cider, and wine—all crafted within the city limits.
The event features over 70 local breweries, cideries, and wineries showcasing their best drinks. You can also jump into interactive games, catch a beer education session, or just relax in the sun while grooving to live tunes from local bands.
Plus, food trucks will be on-site with delicious eats, so you won’t go hungry while sipping your favorites. Usually happening over the 4th of July weekend, this festival is the perfect way to kick back, sip, and hang out with friends and family.
Pro tip: Purchase tickets online ahead of time to secure lower rates and avoid long lines at the gate.
7. PDX Pop Now!
Media credits: pdxpopnow
Website: https://pdxpopnow.com/
Location: Eastbank Esplanade
Contact: [email protected]
Dates: Mid-July
If you’re a music fan in Portland, you’ve got to check out PDX Pop Now! This awesome free festival is the perfect way to dive into Portland’s local music scene.
Every year, you’ll hear everything from indie and punk to rap and rock, with a mix of up-and-coming bands and established local artists.
The vibe is electric, and it’s not just about the music—there are art displays, workshops, and other cool experiences to keep the creativity flowing. Whether you’re with friends or family, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a sunny day filled with great tunes and good vibes.
Pro tip: Many local artists sell unique merch at the festival. Arriving early gives you the best selection of limited items from vendors.
8. Flicks on the Bricks
Media credits: thesquarepdx
Website: https://www.thesquarepdx.org/event/flicks-on-the-bricks-presented-by-smartpark/
Location: Pioneer Courthouse Square
Contact: (503) 223-1613
Dates: July – August
Flicks on the Bricks is a total Portland summer must-do. It turns Pioneer Courthouse Square into a cozy, open-air movie theater where you can catch classic films under the stars—completely free.
Whether you’re hanging with family or on a date, it’s the perfect way to spend a summer evening. The movie lineup has something for everyone, from family favorites to hilarious comedies.
Past screenings have included gems like The Great McGinty and Dr. Strangelove, sparking laughs and lively debates. And don’t miss the fun pre-show activities like trivia and themed contests to kick off the night.
Pro tip: Arriving early is a smart move—you’ll want to snag a good spot and soak in the atmosphere as the sun sets.
9. The Big Float
Media credits: missdeminna
Website: https://www.thebigfloat.com/
Location: Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Contact: (503)
Dates: Late July
The Big Float is one of those classic Portland summer events you absolutely can’t miss. During the event, colorful inner tubes and rafts fill the Willamette River as people soak up the sun and good vibes.
It’s not just about cruising the river, though—this event is all about celebrating the Willamette as a prime spot for recreation, and what better way to enjoy it than with a massive river party?
Every year, the fun kicks off at Tom McCall Waterfront Park, where people gather to inflate their tubes before hitting the water. As you float along, you’ll pass two floating stages blasting live music, keeping the energy high and the sing-alongs rolling.
Pro tip: Keep an eye out for fun contests like the best costume or most outrageous watercraft, where participants show off their creativity and have a chance to win prizes.
10. Cathedral Park Jazz Festival
Media credits: cathedralparkjazzfestival
Website: https://jazzoregon.org/2024-festival-line-up
Location: Cathedral Park
Contact: [email protected].
Dates: Mid-July
Looking for a fun and free way to vibe out this summer in Portland? Cathedral Park Jazz Festival would be the spot to be. Set right under the iconic St. Johns Bridge, this three-day festival gives you an epic backdrop while you enjoy amazing live jazz, blues, and soul.
With killer performances from local and regional talent—think Curtis Salgado, Mary Flower, and The Gold Experience—you’ll be grooving all weekend long.
The festival also has a lively beer and wine garden for the grown-ups and tons of food carts. It’s a perfect spot for the whole family to relax, so pack your picnic blanket or low-back chair and settle in for some serious music magic.
Pro tip: Since the festival is volunteer-run and free to attend, consider making a small donation at the event. Donations help sustain future festivals and support local artists.
11. Art in the Pearl
Media credits: artinthepearl
Website: https://artinthepearl.com/
Location: North Park Blocks
Contact: (503) 722-9071
Dates: Late August
Art in the Pearl is Portland’s go-to festival for all things creative. This annual event features over 130 talented artists showing off everything from paintings and sculptures to ceramics and jewelry. It’s the perfect event for discovering and supporting local talent!
There’s live music, interactive demos, and fun activities for everyone.
Aspiring artists can join workshops and learn from the pros, while kids can get their hands dirty in the kids’ area, full of creative activities. It’s a day of art, fun, and community you won’t want to miss.
Pro tip: Look out for artist talks or panel discussions scheduled throughout the festival. These often provide deeper insights into the art scene and trends.
12. Delta Park Powwow
Media credits: prepaidfriends
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064731936859
Location: Delta Park
Contact: (503) 823-4000
Dates: Mid-June
Looking for a vibrant celebration of Native American culture? Don’t miss the Delta Park Powwow!
This family-friendly event brings together tribes from across the Pacific Northwest for a weekend of colorful dances, cultural exhibits, and delicious food.
Get ready to see stunning regalia and athletic artistry during intertribal dances like fancy shawls, grass, and traditional styles. There’s also storytelling, arts and crafts vendors with unique handmade goods, and even the coronation of “Miss Indian Northwest.”
It’s a fantastic way to dive into the rich history, traditions, and stories of Native American communities, all while enjoying a fun, welcoming atmosphere perfect for the whole family.
Pro tip: Familiarize yourself with basic powwow etiquette, including not interrupting dancers while they are performing and understanding that photography may be restricted in certain areas.
