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Recreation/Events
Portland Saturday Market
When I first moved to Portland, one of the first attractions I visited was the famous Portland Saturday Market. This free, outdoor market filled with local artisans, handmade crafts, street performers and food booths is located in historic Old Town at SW Ankeny Street and Naito Parkway. Open from the first weekend in March through December 24th, the expanded market is open Saturdays from 10:00 am-5:00 pm and Sundays from 11:00 am-4:30 pm.
As the largest continually operating outdoor arts and crafts market in the nation, it gives visitors a unique chance to meet local artists, as well as see one-of-a-kind art pieces and purchase handcrafted goods. With over 250 small businesses and individual artists, you’ll find something new every time.
If you go by MAX, get off at the Skidmore Fountain stop. If you drive, you can get two hours of free parking at any Smart Park with a minimum $25.00 purchase. The closest lot is at NW 1st and Davis Streets.
Pageturners
If you have ever gotten so wrapped up in a book that you just couldn’t put it down, you will be in good company at Pageturners. Sponsored by Friends of the [Multnomah County] Library, these reading groups meet once a month at a library near you. Click here for the 2010-2011 calendar.
The Pageturners groups will be reading through books from this reading list, although each group will be choosing just twelve books and discuss them based on the calendar above. Pick the books you like best and visit multiple groups, or hang with the group near you.
This is a great way to get to know your neighbors, make new friends (both real and imaginary), engage in stimulating conversation about books, and exchange perspectives about characters and plot.
Where’s the Free Fun?
There are plenty of ways to kick up your heels when you want to have some fun in Portland. Many events and activities are free or low cost, and many popular attractions offer a special admission day/time each month.
Check out my other Recreation pages for a wide variety of activities and attractions to help you have more fun for less money. I hope you will discover something new and exciting!
Sack Lunch Concerts
The Old Church (1422 SW 11th Ave) hosts free Sack Lunch Concerts every Wednesday from noon-1:00 pm. This beautiful, historic building is also open Monday through Friday 11:00 am to 3:00 pm for self-guided tours, so visit before or after the concert.
For more info about the artists who will be performing in this series at The Old Church, click here.