Monday

08-04-2025 Vol 2042

Summer Events in Portland: Your Guide to Upcoming Festivities

This summer, the Pacific Northwest is busting with vibrant events perfect for anyone looking for entertainment, culture, and family-friendly activities.

Portland, known for its eclectic mix of art, music, and community-focused gatherings, has a packed lineup that promises to delight residents and visitors alike.

One of the highlights of this season is the annual Chinese Festival, happening on August 2 at Pioneer Courthouse Square located at 701 Southwest 6th Avenue.

This free event transforms downtown Portland into a colorful celebration of Chinese culture.

Expect to see lion and dragon dances, exciting martial arts performances, live music, and folk art displays.

Local food vendors will serve delicious, authentic Chinese cuisine, making it a delightful experience for all ages.

The festival is not just about food and performances; it offers a chance to shop and learn about Chinese traditions, making it a must-visit event this summer.

For more detailed information on this event, click here.

In Corvallis, the Benton County Fair & Rodeo is set to take place from July 30 to August 2 at the Benton County Fairgrounds, located at 110 Southwest 53rd Street.

This year promises to be bigger and better, featuring carnival rides, rodeo events, and live music, creating a fun-filled atmosphere for families.

You can catch thrilling rodeo events such as bull riding and barrel racing while indulging in fair classics like funnel cakes and cotton candy.

The fair opens daily at 11 a.m. and boasts a variety of entertainment options, handmade goods from local artisans, and a welcoming small-town charm.

For more details about the Benton County Fair & Rodeo, click here.

Fridays in Portland have turned into a fun-filled affair thanks to the KGW Combo at Oaks Amusement Park, running through the summer until August 29.

Located at 7805 Southeast Oaks Park Way, this event offers all-day ride access along with a tasty meal for an affordable price.

For just $45, guests 48 inches and taller can enjoy unlimited rides and a meal basket from local favorite George’s Grill or Trolley Park Pizza.

Smaller guests under 48 inches can partake for just $25, which includes rides and a kid’s meal.

Tickets are available only online and must be purchased in advance, making Fridays at Oaks Park a perfect weekend kickoff.

For more information regarding this event, click here.

Another exciting event in the lineup is Sneaker Week PDX on August 3 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at OMSI Auditorium, located at 1945 Southeast Water Avenue.

This family-friendly gathering includes a special screening of the biopic “Piece by Piece,” which celebrates the life of Pharrell Williams, a renowned figure in music and fashion.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a Q&A session featuring Adidas footwear designer Sarah Sabino, who will share insights into the fusion of design and culture.

Moreover, guests can enjoy fun activities like Lego giveaways, courtesy of Bricks & Minifigs Portland.

Registration for this free event is recommended due to limited capacity, so gather your friends and family for an inspiring day.

To read more about the event, click here.

For those who love comedy, Comedy In The Park is back and running every Friday from June 6 to September 5 at Laurelhurst Park, located at Southeast Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard & Stark Street.

Organized by the nonprofit Kickstand, these free stand-up shows promise laughs and surprises, featuring local comedians and occasionally surprise guests.

Bring your blankets and snacks, enjoy the fresh air, and support local talent in this beautiful park setting.

For further information, click here.

From July 31 to August 3, music lovers can look forward to the 25th anniversary of Pickathon, held at Pendarvis Farm Rock Creek, located at 16581 Southeast Hagen Road in Happy Valley.

This eco-conscious music festival showcases a diverse lineup, from well-known artists like Portugal. The Man to emerging talents such as Haley Heynderickx.

Acts perform on immersive stages set within the woods, creating a truly unique concert experience.

Festival-goers can partake in farm-to-table dinners, enjoy local food, and embrace zero-waste vibes while either glamping or camping under the stars for a weekend of discovery and connection.

For more details about the festival, click here.

LABUBUFEST returns on August 2-3 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Portland Pop Shop, located at 3337 Southeast Hawthorne Blvd.

This free, all-ages outdoor event celebrates creativity and collectibles, featuring vendors offering Labubu toys, custom tattoos, delicious cupcakes, and much more.

Expect an assortment of handcrafted items, face painting, and live pop-up experiences inspired by the whimsical Labubu universe.

With fans from around the region gathered for this vibrant event, it’s sure to be a highlight of the summer.

For further information, click here.

Additionally, every Sunday through August 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Lan Su Chinese Garden at 239 Northwest Everett will host a unique Sunday market.

This market emphasizes the creativity and talent of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander artists and small businesses.

Visitors can enjoy a rotating lineup of vendors selling everything from Vietnamese coffee and fresh flowers to handmade crafts.

The market provides a perfect opportunity to support local creatives while enjoying the beauty of the garden.

As the only Sunday market in the area, it’s an ideal spot for connecting with the community and exploring diverse cultural offerings.

For more details, click here.

There’s no shortage of activities this summer in Portland, making it the perfect time to get out and experience the vibrant local culture.

Whether you’re drawn by food, music, art, or laughter, the city’s summer events cater to all tastes and interests.

image source from:kgw

Charlotte Hayes