Summer is right around the corner! From live music, to local art events, there are plenty of ways to embrace the sunshine this summer. Here are a few great events to check out near PDX this summer!
Waterfront Blues Festival
The Waterfront Blues Festival is a Portland tradition. The 4 day event takes place over 4th of July weekend and features a diverse lineup of local and international blues musicians. The event supports the Oregon Food Bank, so grab your tickets, enjoy some blues music, a cold drink and support a great cause.
Dates: July 4-7, 2024
More Information: Waterfront Blues Festival Website
First Thursday & First Friday
First Thursday is a monthly event in the Pearl District, where local artists and small businesses open their doors for evening art shows and delicious food and drink. First Thursday is free and open to the public.
Dates: The first Thursday of each month from April through October
More Information: More information on First Thursday here
First Friday, on the other hand, is an event held in the vibrant East Side Arts District that features more than 23 independent art galleries, shops and studios in the form of a street exhibition. First Friday is free and open to the public.
Dates: The first Friday of each month from April through October
More Information: More information on First Friday here
Pickathon Music Festival
The Pickathon Music Festival is Portland’s experiential music festival, featuring indie, rock, folk and bluegrass artists. The 3-day event takes place at the beautiful Pendarvis farm and focuses on sustainability and environmental impact. This unique experience is family friendly and draws in music lovers from all throughout Oregon.
Dates: August 1-4, 2024
More Information: Pickathon Music Festival website
Local Rodeos
Tip your hat to Oregon’s cowboy heritage and visit one of Oregon’s famous local rodeos. From St.Paul, to Molalla, Pendelton and Canby, there are no shortage of amazing rodeos to attend this summer. Soak up the sun, enjoy some bull riding, beer and fair food at one of Oregon’s iconic rodeos.
Dates: Varying dates depending on each rodeo
More Information:
Molalla Buckeroo Rodeo
St.Paul Rodeo
8 Seconds Juneteenth Rodeo
Pendelton Roundup
Canby Rodeo
Free Outdoor Summer Concerts
Portland hosts an array of summer concerts in various parks and public places throughout the summer months. From Ventura Park to the Mt.Tabor amphitheater, there are plenty of outdoor concerts to enjoy near Portland this summer.
Dates: Varying dates throughout the summer
More Information: Summer Free For All Events
Zoo Nights
Featured on 10 Fridays from June to August, the Oregon Zoo hosts Zoo Nights, where the Portland Zoo comes alive with entertainment, food from local food carts, as well as local beer and wine. Zoo Nights is a family-friendly event, so pack up the whole family and enjoy a summer night at the Portland Zoo.
Dates: Fridays starting on June 21
More Information: Zoo Nights Website
Hood River Fruit Loop
The Hood River Fruit Loop is a scenic 35-mile route in the Hood River Valley that features over 30 farms, orchards, wineries and more. On this self-guided tour of the Hood River Valley, visitors can enjoy seasonal fruits, local wines and cider, baked goods and beautiful views of Mt.Hood. Bring home some freshly-picked fruit and local beverages after a day exploring the beauty of Hood River.
Dates: Varying dates in the summer
More Information: Hood River Fruit Loop website