For a sampling of some of the city’s best food, head to Cartopia food cart pod on Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard.

Credit: Stuart Mullenberg

Culture

People flock to Portland for a piece of its vibrant culture. Whether it's for the food and beer, arts, cultural communities, festivals or nightlife, Portland wants you to be a part of it.

For a sampling of some of the city’s best food, head to Cartopia food cart pod on Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard.

Credit: Stuart Mullenberg

Historically an affordable city for the arts, as it has grown so has the visibility of its deep culture. Whether you’re a fan of theater, live music, craft beer, funky foods or just being outside, Portland has something for you. Read on for our favorite cultural offerings in Portland, then check out our events calendar to help you plan your next trip to The Rose City.

Know Before You Go

To slow the spread of the highly transmissible Delta variant, effective Aug. 27, a statewide mask mandate is in place. Oregonians and visitors ages 5 and up are required to wear face coverings in all public indoor settings, as well as crowded outdoor public spaces where physical distancing is not possible, regardless of vaccination status. This rule does not apply to individuals actively eating or drinking.

Additionally, some event organizers and venues may require proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID test, for admission. Other events may be canceled, postponed or held virtually. Please check individual event websites for the most up-to-date information.

a bearded singer wearing sunglasses emotes into a microphone

Music Festivals in and Near Portland

Looking for a tuneful way to enjoy your time in Portland? Get your tickets now for these exciting annual celebrations.

Classical Music in Portland

Classical music in Portland isn't just the classics. Classical musicians offer new and innovative works, and an ongoing lineup of inspiring performances, from timeless works to modern interpretations.

The Portland Hip-Hop Scene

Take a deep dive into the past, present and future of Portland's hip-hop scene with our expert guide to the best performers, showcases, stores and more.

a man playing drums on stage in front of a red curtain

Portland Jazz

In Portland, it's pretty easy to find small venues hosting intimate combos of world-class talent, or bigger, more boffo live shows.

a cartoon depiction of a band playing in the ear canal

Niche Live Music Venues in Portland

These hidden gems are havens for jazz, punk, bluegrass, funk and more.

Arts in Portland

From art walks to experimental theater in innovative spaces; galleries, public art, festivals and avant-garde institutions fill vibrant arts scene.

More Arts

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Black Community in Portland

With a diverse range of organizations and businesses, Portland’s Black community provides visitors with resources and a friendly welcome. Explore the city's Black history and cultural events, as well as Black-owned businesses and restaurants.

a girl dressed in Native American dance regalia

Native American Community

Learn about Portland Native American culture and history through these collections, galleries, events and institutions.

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Hispanic & Latinx Community

Oregon’s growing Hispanic and Latinx population is concentrated in the Portland region and offers rich resources for visitors.

A gardener attends to a tree within Portland Japanese Garden

Japanese American Community

Japanese Americans have been a vital part of Portland's history for generations.

covered bridge crossing a narrow garden stream

Chinese American Community

Connect with the city's historic and vital Chinese American community.

a man wearing a shroud and yamaka, reading the Torah

Jewish Community

Portland is home to more than 40,000 Jewish people and has kosher dining options throughout the city.

Indian people wearing traditional headpieces gathered at a festival.

Indian American Community

The Indian American community in Portland and its neighboring suburbs consists of a thriving and growing population of almost 10,000 Indians.

people dancing at the Mahrajan Arab Festival

Arab American Community

Connect with the community of more than 40,000 Arab Americans living in Oregon through community centers, cultural festivals and other events.

LGBTQ+ Community

Visitors to Portland can experience huge LGBTQ+ Pride parades, drag performances, queer film festivals, dance parties and more.

More LGBTQ+

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Bicycle Maps & Where to Ride

With bike lanes and paths throughout the city, Portland has great places to ride for cyclists of all abilities.

A person standing over an orange bike next to bike stands

Biketown Bike-Share in Portland

Introduced in 2016, Portland’s bike-share program brings 1,000 smart bicycles to the central city.

people on bikes at night wearing very little clothing

Portland’s World Naked Bike Ride

Every June, thousands of cyclists cruise commando through Portland streets as part of the World Naked Bike Ride.

Favorite Hiking Spots in Portland

Put on some comfortable shoes and start walking — you’ll be surprised how easy Portland makes it.

families gathered at Willamette River beach

Make a Splash in the Willamette River

When summertime heats up in Portland, cooling off is as easy as heading to one of the city's many riverfront beaches or docks for a refreshing dip or getting the gear for water sports such as kayaking, or SUP.

Forest Park

Escape the city without leaving Portland; with 70 miles of trails within Portland city limits, 5,156-acre Forest Park is a popular escape for runners, equestrians and hikers alike and supporting more than 112 bird and 62 mammal species.

Portland's Food Scene

From James Beard Award-winning chefs to food cart pods and creative pop-ups, Portland's dining scene is as eccentric as the city itself.

Take a bite

a person trying a tasting flight of beer at a brewpub

Portland Breweries

Portland is home to breweries galore and some of the finest beer on Earth. Combine this robust brewery scene with the many bustling brewpubs and the abundance of beer-themed events, and you have a true must-visit beer destination.

people of all ages around a picnic table covered with draft beers and coloring books

Kid-Friendly Breweries in Portland

In a city with so many excellent breweries, parents don't have to choose between spending time with their kids and enjoying a great pint of beer.

Aerial shot of an urban riverside park with festival tents and umbrellas

Beer Festivals in Portland

Portland isn't shy about its love of beer — the city has nearly as many beer festivals as it does breweries.

7 pints of beer lined up from dark to light

Portland Beers by Style

In a city with more breweries than any other on earth, the simple act of ordering a beer is not always so simple. Our insider’s guide is here to help.

An overhead shot of a brewery taproom filled with people

Portland Beer Week

Portland Beer Week spotlights Portland’s breweries, high-quality brews and vibrant beer culture.

Beer Bars & Bottle Shops

Most Portland bars, even the most unassuming corner taverns, offer some local suds, but these favorites put the primary focus on local and regional beers.

Makers

Portland is a hub for artists, entrepreneurs and creators alike, with community studios, warehouses and makerspaces that let you DIY your way around town.

Make It

Alcohol-Free Fun in Portland

Just because you're older than 21, doesn't mean you have to act like it. Portland has a wide range of events that require no alcohol whatsoever to enjoy.

a comedian performs on stage at a comedy club

Comedy in Portland

There's always something funny happening in Portland. From stand-up comedy to improv comedy, comedy classes Portland has any kind of comedy you may be looking for. Portland boasts many stages to bring you fresh, up-and-coming, and touring comedians.

Dance Clubs

Portland may be best known for its indie music, but with a wide variety of dance clubs, the city has a rhythm that'll get just about anyone moving.

Portland Karaoke Bars and Nights

Choose from private suites, pop-up events, tiki drinks and Chinese food as you select your ideal Portland karaoke venue from among the city’s top spots.

a bartender making a flaming drink behind the bar at Local Lounge

LGBTQ+ Nightlife

Portland has no shortage of LGBTQ-owned and queer-friendly bars and clubs. Whether you're looking for a relaxing night with friends, a high-energy dance party or a drag show, Portland delivers.

Two Portland Timbers soccer players celebrate on the field after a goal

Portland Soccer: Timbers and Thorns

With a fervent following, every Portland Timbers and Thorns match has a festive atmosphere that's enjoyable whether you're a soccer fan or not.

Two opposing roller derby players collide

Rose City Rollers Roller Derby

The all-female, volunteer-run roller derby team battled its way to the top of Portland’s sports fandom, and a world championship, in recent years.

Streamers rain down over a basketball court and thousands of fans

Portland Trail Blazers

The Portland Trail Blazers joined the NBA in 1970 and have always called Portland home — and they have the lifelong fans to prove it

Wine

With wine country in its backyard, Portland overflows with wine bars and urban wineries, offering special varietals from around the world.

Raise a glass

Portland’s World Naked Bike Ride

Every June, thousands of cyclists cruise commando through Portland streets as part of the World Naked Bike Ride.

UFO Festival in McMinnville

Every May, thousands of visitors flock to the city’s famous UFO Festival, featuring four days of parades, costume contests and expert speakers.

an adult prepares to race a skull and crossbones-styled soapbox

Portland Adult Soapbox Derby

The PDX Adult Soapbox Derby at Mt. Tabor Park pits grown-up kids against each other every August in pursuit of speed and laughs.

Portland’s Weirdest Events

Portland comes by its eclectic reputation honestly. From quirky to downright bizarre, here are some of our favorite "Keep Portland Weird" events.

The Venderia: Portland’s Wacky, Whimsical Vending Machines

Tarot decks, coloring books and VHS tapes of classic ‘80s films? Buy them all from a “Venderia,” a quirky vending machine created by Portlander Taylor Valdes.

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