Every week I go through the hundreds of events on the PDX Events calendars and pick my favorites — a daytime and an evening pick for each day, plus a weekend shortlist. Some of these are popular, some are niche. I try to mix a bit of both. Also on Instagram.
Day · Community Market
A vibrant marketplace of Black and Indigenous makers, artists, and vendors at Open Signal on MLK. Shop local, discover new creators, and support the community — all under one roof.
Open Signal · 3 PM
Night · Storytelling
The Moth's open-mic storytelling night comes to the Old Church with the theme "Magic." Put your name in the hat to tell a true five-minute story, or just come to listen — either way it's unforgettable.
The Old Church · 8 PM
Day · Cheese Trade Show
A full day bringing the cheese industry together at Bauman's on Oak — education, guided tastings, and networking with makers like Rogue Creamery, Vermont Creamery, and Le Gruyère AOP. A trade event for cheesemakers, mongers, and buyers.
Bauman's on Oak · 10 AM
Night · Live Music
Canadian pop-punk firecracker LØLØ brings her "God Forbid a Girl Goes on Tour" show to Holocene — sharp, funny, cathartic hooks you'll be screaming by the second chorus.
Holocene · 7 PM
Day · Bike Ride
A free, social group bike ride rolling out from the Jupiter Hotel. Easy pace, good company, and a fun way to see the city on two wheels — all riders welcome. Free Biketown rentals included for the event as well!
Jupiter Hotel · 1 PM · Free
Night · Burlesque
A free, spooky-season edition of The Pharmacy's burlesque revue — costumes, camp, and killer performances. Get there early; the good seats go fast.
The Pharmacy · 9 PM · Free
Day · Community
The ReBuilding Center throws open its doors for a free open house — tour the salvaged-materials warehouse, meet the crew, and get inspired for your next reuse project.
ReBuilding Center · 4 PM · Free
Night · Comedy Theater
Funhouse Lounge turns Hawkins upside down with a loving musical parody of Stranger Things — Eleven, Demogorgons, and all. Campy, clever, and perfect for spooky season.
Funhouse Lounge · 7 PM
Day · Food Festival
Every October, Roux celebrates food, drink, and culture while elevating women-owned businesses — pop-up dinners, chef collabs, panels, and brunch across the city. Explore the full lineup at rouxportland.com.
Night · Comedy on Rails
Comedian Zak Toscani takes over the Portland Streetcar for a one-of-a-kind stand-up show rolling through the Central Eastside. An intimate, offbeat night — grab your seat before it departs. There are two shows, and they'll both sell out — get tickets soon!
Portland Streetcar · 7:30 PM · $30
Day · Oktoberfest
North Portland's German brewery throws a free, family-friendly Oktoberfest — house-brewed lagers, brats, pretzels, and live music in the beer garden. Prost!
Occidental Brewing · 12 PM · Free
Night · Masquerade Boat Party
A masquerade silent disco aboard the Portland Spirit — three DJ channels on your headphones, masks on, cruising the Willamette after dark. A one-of-a-kind spooky-season night. 21+.
Portland Spirit · 10 PM · $34 · 21+
Day · Free Garden Class
Learn how to plant and grow your own garlic at this free class at Capitol Hill Library — perfect timing, since fall is the season to get cloves in the ground. Beginner-friendly and totally free.
Capitol Hill Library · 3 PM · Free
Night · Halloween Film
The cult witchy classic Practical Magic on the big screen at PAM CUT's Tomorrow Theater, part of their Witch Month. Gather your coven for a cozy, spellbinding Sunday night.
Tomorrow Theater · 7 PM