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August Events

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Can you believe we are almost to the end of summer? Well to celebrate we have an insane number of events for you! There are also so many street fairs and one day cultural events that they have their very own list at the end. You can also watch the world famous Hood to Coast relay!

First Thursday

Stroll through the art galleries in the pearl for an evening of art, music, and wine! Parking is difficult so public transit is recommended

The Pearl District

Free

August 1st, 5pm – 10pm

Dahlia Festival

Celebrate the season of dahlias. Stroll through almost 40 acres and a beautiful display garden of stunning dahlias featuring over 370 varieties. The beautiful fields are open from August to September each year.

Swan Island Dahlias

Free

Wednesdays-Sundays, 9am-5:30pm

Pickathon

The three-day festival on 80 acres just outside Portland attracts a range of indie, rock and rap artists as well as the bluegrass troupes that gave the event its name. The lineup is geared toward new music discovery; don’t worry if you haven’t heard of most of the artists that’s half of the fun!

Pendarvis Farm

From $205 – TICKETS

August 1st-4th

Concerts in the Park

For over a century, local musicians of all genres and traditions have been entertaining crowds in Portland parks every summer. Listen to diverse beats like improvisational African jazz or Celtic folk-rock and enjoy a bite from local food vendors like Pips Original Doughnuts as you jam out with other community members.

Citywide

Free

Thursday, Friday, Saturday 6:30pm

Vanport Jazz Festival

The Vanport Jazz Festival, presented by Moda Health and the Portland Trail Blazers, honors the city of Vanport and the voices that formed Portland’s jazz community. Near the historic 1948 flood site, the event transforms Colwood Golf Course into a cultural revival, welcoming nationally renowned artists and breathing new life into Portland jazz.

Colwood Golf Center

Starting at $65 – TICKETS

August 2nd-3rd, times vary

Portland Hot Sauce Expo

Enjoy the taste of a huge variety of hot sauces at this annual exhibition. The expo includes free hot sauce tastings, a selection of craft beers and specialty cocktails, snacks ranging from barbecue to vegan bites, and the “Stage of Doom”.

OMSI

Starting at $10 – TICKETS

August 10th – 11th,

Bridge Pedal

Portland’s annual Bridge Pedal is a community celebration of the city’s iconic bridges and biking culture. Join your friends and neighbors for the one opportunity each year to bike or walk on Portland’s car-free streets and bridges

Multiple Locations

Starting at $40 – TICKETS

August 11th

Adult Soap Box Derby

Put down your video game controllers and step away from your Mario Kart. The best way to race isn’t on a screen; it’s down an extinct cinder cone volcano in Southeast Portland. The annual PDX Adult Soapbox Derby, pits grown-up kids against each other, with each team designing and assembling their own downhill racers in pursuit of maximum speed or big laughs.

Mt Tabor Park

Free

August 17th, 10am – 4pm

Hood To Coast

If you aren’t running this relay (timberline to seaside) you can still cheer runners on as they make their way towards the coast. OR avoid the areas if you don’t want the interruption to traffic.

Various Locations – MAPS

Free to watch

August 23th-24th

Culture Festivals and Street Fairs

We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!

Looking for something else to do? Check out our best of lists!

Phaya Thai Express

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Hey Portland friends! We just discovered a great new spot on Hawthorne Blvd that we’re excited to share with you—Phaya Thai Express. This fast-casual Thai spot has quickly become one of our go-to places for delicious, authentic Thai food, and we think you’ll love it too. Whether you need a quick lunch, or a low key dinner. Phaya is sure to meet your needs and be delicious while it is happening.

Walking into Phaya Thai Express, you’re immediately greeted by the inviting aromas of freshly prepared dishes. The setup is simple and fun—you get to build your meal from a base of either white rice or brown rice and grains, and then choose from an array of mouthwatering dishes displayed cafeteria-style.

On our visit, we decided to try a bowl with two selections. First up was the NY Steak Curry, featuring juicy NY steak, galangal, and a southern Thai curry that packed just the right amount of spice. It was hands down our favorite of the night.

2 entree meal from phaya thai

We also tried the Prik King Catfish, which included fried catfish in a house curry with rhizome root and basil. The combination of flavors was fantastic, with the basil adding a fresh twist to the lightly spicy curry. And of course, we couldn’t resist ordering some crab rangoon. These crispy treats, stuffed with real crab and served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce, were the perfect starter.

We also tried a couple cocktails so that we could test out the full experience. I had a gin cocktail, which came with jasmine, giffard pampelmouse, and lemon. It was tart and well rounded. We also tried the hibiscus mezcalita which was very smoky and tart. It was made with mezcal, hibiscus syrup, aperol, lime and a chamoy rim.

Something for Everyone

One of the things we love about Phaya Thai Express is how inclusive their menu is. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or need gluten-free options, there’s something here for you. The variety ensures everyone can find their new favorite dish. If you arent into cocktails they had multiple non-alcoholic mocktails and sodas. There is also a large outdoor patio for you to enjoy during these lovely sunny months.

Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, having a casual dinner, or planning a get-together with friends, Phaya Thai Express is a great choice. The food is flavorful, the atmosphere is welcoming, and it’s conveniently located on Hawthorne Blvd.

So next time you’re in the neighborhood, swing by Phaya Thai Express and treat yourself to some incredible Thai cuisine. We promise you won’t be disappointed!

Have you been to Phaya Thai Express yet? Share your favorite dishes and tips in the comments—we’d love to hear from you! Looking for something else? You can see our other favorite places to eat around the city HERE

Best Food Cart Pods

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Good weather makes all Portlanders want to be outside. We also love food, and with Portland’s diverse culinary scene, what better way to celebrate all that the city has to offer than with a visit to some food cart pods? Whether you’re a long-time local or a visitor eager to taste the city’s flavors, Portland’s food cart pods are a must-visit. Here are some of our favorite pods that you need to check out!

Lil’ America

1015 SE Stark St

This fairly new food cart pod was introduced in 2023 and has become one of our favorites. The carts are a community of queer and BIPOC chefs and it is located next to fracture brewing in case you get thirsty! Be sure to try the Korean fried chicken from Frybaby.

Hinterland

2216 SE 50th ave

This small food cart pod features 2 huge patios and a full bar. Though there are only a few carts here, the ones they feature are all fantastic! We often go for Matt’s BBQ Tacos which are insanely delicious.

The Original at John’s Marketplace

3560 SE Powell Blvd

John’s Marketplace is the go to bottle shop in Portland. Lucky for us, they also have a fantastic food cart pod with plenty of covered seating. Be sure to check out JoJo for the best chicken sandwich of your life.

Prost! Marketplace

4233 N Mississippi Ave

This longstanding food cart pod has been beloved by locals and food critics for many years. You can find many standout favorites here like Matt’s BBQ and Koi Fusion. This pod has something for everyone! If you aren’t in the mood for a beer from Prost! there is also a cocktail cart.

Heist

4727 SE Woodstock Blvd

Located in the heart of Woodstock this cart pod has extensive covered seating, lots of carts to choose from and live music! They are adding a full bar and will soon be hosting movie nights! Be sure to check out Sammich for some seriously good sandwiches

Barley Pod at Baerlic

6035 NE Halsey St

Attached to Baerlic Brewing in NE Portland you can find multiple food carts while you enjoy beer, wine, or cider from Baerlic. La Arepa has some very good venezualen food!

Portland’s food cart pods are a testament to the city’s culinary diversity and community spirit. Each pod offers a unique experience, and exploring them is a fantastic way to enjoy the best of what Portland has to offer. Make sure to visit these favorite spots and let us know which food carts you love the most!

Looking for more best of lists? You can see those HERE

5 Reasons to Move to Portland, OR

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Portland, Oregon, is a city that offers a unique blend of vibrant city life, stunning natural beauty, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, a thriving food scene, or a commitment to sustainability, Portland has something for everyone. Here are five compelling reasons to move to Portland and make it your new home.

1. Outdoor Adventures

Portland is a paradise for nature lovers, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities.

  • Hiking in the Columbia River Gorge: Just a short drive from the city, the Columbia River Gorge offers stunning hikes with waterfalls, panoramic views, and lush forests. It’s a hiker’s dream destination.
  • Exploring Forest Park: Within the city, Forest Park provides over 80 miles of trails, making it one of the largest urban forests in the country. Perfect for a weekend walk or an early morning run.
  • Cycling on the Springwater Corridor: Portland is also known for its biking culture. The Springwater Corridor, a multi-use trail, is a favorite among cyclists and offers a scenic route through the city and beyond.
  • Water Activities on the Willamette River: The Willamette River is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and even dragon boat racing. There’s no shortage of adventure in Portland.

2. The Food Scene

Portland’s culinary landscape is diverse and innovative, catering to every palate.

  • Food Truck Culture: Portland’s food truck culture is legendary. From Korean BBQ to vegan comfort food, the city’s food trucks offer a world of flavors. These pods are a favorite lunchtime destination for locals.
  • Farm-to-Table Restaurants: For a more upscale experience, Portland’s farm-to-table restaurants emphasize fresh, local ingredients. Chefs here are passionate about creating seasonal dishes that highlight the best of the Pacific Northwest.
  • Portland Farmers Market: Don’t miss the Portland Farmers Market, where you can find everything from organic produce to artisanal cheeses. It’s a great way to support local farmers and discover new ingredients.
  • Salt & Straw Ice Cream: For a sweet treat, head to Salt & Straw, where you’ll find unique ice cream flavors crafted with local ingredients. It’s a must-visit for any foodie.

3. Arts and Culture

Portland’s creative spirit is evident in its thriving arts scene.

  • Art Galleries: Art lovers will appreciate the city’s numerous galleries showcasing works from local and international artists. First Thursday in the Pearl District is a popular monthly event where galleries open their doors for evening receptions.
  • Live Music: Live music is a big part of Portland’s culture. From intimate venues like Mississippi Studios to larger stages like the Crystal Ballroom, there’s always a show to catch. The city’s music scene is diverse, featuring everything from indie bands to jazz ensembles.
  • Street Art: Portland’s streets are adorned with vibrant murals and street art. These pieces reflect the city’s creative energy and provide colorful backdrops throughout the neighborhoods.

4. Sustainable Living

Portland is at the forefront of sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

  • Public Transportation: The city boasts an extensive public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and streetcars, making it easy to get around without a car. This commitment to public transit helps reduce the city’s carbon footprint.
  • Green Spaces: Green spaces are abundant in Portland. The city is home to over 275 parks, including community gardens where residents can grow their own produce. These spaces promote a healthy, active lifestyle and a strong sense of community.
  • Eco-Friendly Initiatives: Eco-friendly initiatives are everywhere. From zero-waste stores to city-wide composting programs, Portland residents are dedicated to sustainable living. It’s a city where being environmentally conscious is a way of life.

5. Community and Lifestyle

Portland is known for its welcoming and inclusive community.

  • Diverse Neighborhoods: Portland’s neighborhoods each have their own unique charm. From the historic homes of Irvington to the trendy boutiques of the Pearl District, there’s a neighborhood for everyone.
  • Community Events: Community events are a big part of life here. Street fairs, farmers’ markets, and neighborhood festivals bring people together and create a strong sense of belonging.
  • Friendly Locals: The friendly and inclusive nature of Portland’s residents makes it easy to connect with others. Whether you’re chatting with a barista at your favorite coffee shop or joining a local club, you’ll find a warm and welcoming community.

Bonus: Affordability

Portland is the most affordable major city on the West Coast.

  • Cost of Living: Compared to other West Coast cities like San Francisco, Seattle, and Los Angeles, Portland offers a more affordable cost of living. Housing, groceries, and utilities are all more budget-friendly, making it easier to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.
  • Value for Money: Despite its affordability, Portland doesn’t skimp on amenities. You’ll still enjoy top-notch dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences without the hefty price tag found in other major cities.

There you have it – five amazing reasons, plus a bonus, to move to Portland, Oregon. Ready to make the move? Let us help you find your dream home in this incredible city. Contact us today to start your journey to Portland. We can’t wait to welcome you to your new home.

June Events

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June is the start of festival season in Portland and we have some good ones to kick things off! Portland’s biggest party is also this month with the kickoff of the City fair and Rose parade! We have all the events happening at the rose festival listed at the bottom of the page!

First Thursday

Stroll through the art galleries in the pearl for an evening of art, music, and wine! Parking is difficult so public transit is recommended

The Pearl District

Free

June 6th, 5pm – 10pm

Portland Beer Week

Every June, PDX Beer Week features limited-edition brews, a lineup of events, and beer specials at bars and brewpubs citywide, overflowing with so much hop fever that the “week” spills into ten full days of thirst-quenching fun.

Various Locations

Prices vary – more info coming soon

June 1st

Juneteenth

Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas, a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and planning for the future.

Albina Park

MORE INFO

June 15th

Festival of Balloons

The Festival of Balloons in Tigard (a suburb 30 minutes southwest of downtown Portland by car) brings more than a dozen brightly colored, colossal hot-air balloons to the sky every June.

Cook Park, Tigard

$15 – TICKETS

MORE INFO

June 21st – 23rd

Festival of the Arts

For more than 50 years, the Lake Oswego Festival of the Arts has proudly presented unique art exhibits including more than 600 local, national, and international artists. Visitors can also experience live music on two stages, performances, kids’ activities, artist demos, and a variety of food. It’s free to the public (donations encouraged) and attracts thousands of festival-goers each year.

Lakewood Center for the Arts, Lake Oswego

FREE

June 21st – 23rd

Rose Festival Events

  • Celebration of Oregon Brewers Festival – May 24-27, May 31-June 2, June 7-9
  • City Fair, carnival and entertainment – May 24-27, May 31-June 2, June 7-9
  • Opening Night and Fireworks – May 24th
  • Rose Fest Wine Walk – May 30th
  • Starlight Run – June 1st
  • Starlight Parade – June 1st
  • Fleet Week – June 5th – June 9th
  • Junior Parade – June 6th
  • Grand Floral Showcase – June 8th- June 9th
  • Dragon Boat Race – June 8th
  • Rose Garden Contest – June 18th
  • Milk Carton Boat Race – June 23rd

We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!

Looking for something else to do? Check out our best of lists!

Portland Real Estate Market May 2024

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Navigating Portland’s Dynamic Market in 2024

It’s May which means it is time to look back on the previous month and analyze the real estate trends and market conditions. As we venture deeper into 2024, the Portland real estate market is showing signs of holding steady. While rates had started coming down, beacause of the positive jobs report and increased inflation, they went back up into the 7s again. This has again led to some uncertainty in the market. There are still buyers in the market, but the buyer pool is smaller than it typically is this time of year. We are still seeing appreciation month over month, up 2.3% from the previous month. Inventory still continues to be the main driving factor driving home prices upwards. If we do see rates stay down continuously, expect to see appreciation jump into the 5-6% range.

The Most and Least Expensive Homes Sold Last Month

The Portland real estate market is diverse, ranging from luxury to affordability. Last month’s sales highlight this range vividly.

An exemplar of luxury, the most expensive home sold last month in Portland was located in King Heights. This beautiful property has 6 bedrooms, 7 full bathrooms and 1 half bathroom. With over 8900 square feet this home sits on just under 1 acre. This home sold for a remarkable $4,558,000. There were 4 other homes that sold in Portland last month for over 2 million showcasing the strength of Portland’s high-end market.

Contrasting this luxury, the least expensive home sold offers a glimpse into the market’s affordability. Situated in SE Portland, this cottage has 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. The home also has just over 1100 sqft and sold for just $249,000. The home definitely needs a little bit of work, but if you are willing to do some sweat equity, this home was a great deal! There were multiple other homes that sold for under $250,000 but they were either condemned or tear-downs. There were however multiple cute homes in the $250-$300K range.

For Sellers: Seizing the Moment

While this spring market has not been as hot as markets in the past couple years we are still seeing multiple offers on homes that are priced well and showing well. This often means that the homes are fully or partially staged. The buyers that we are seeing in the market are very well qualified which leads to fewer sales falling apart. This is good news as sellers so if you are considering a sale. Now could be the perfect time.

For Buyers: Know your Strength

Inventory and interest rates have led to a less than ideal market for buyers this spring. Top economists were expecting rates to come down to ease affordability concerns but unfortunately they have held steady in the high 6% to low 7% range. With low inventory some homes are still seeing multiple offers so if you are looking in the 500-800 range and in the highly coveted neighborhoods, expect to be writing against other buyers. The good news is if you are open to doing some finishing work or painting, you can likely get a good deal and have the seller buy down your interest rate.

Tailored Advice and Guidance

Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply explore your options in Portland’s real estate market, personalized advice is key. For strategies, market timing, affordability, or property valuation, feel free to reach out. Together, we can navigate the evolving landscape of Portland’s real estate market in 2024.

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May Events

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Get ready for the fantastic weather to start! May brings back the farmers markets, the rose festival, and it’s wine month! With so many exciting events it was hard to pick but here are some of our favorites.

Oregon Wine Month

  • There are so many events going on at different wineries so be sure to check out as many as you can!
  • Willamette Valley

Prices Vary

MORE INFO HERE

Peony Festival

  • Visiting the gardens will include walking 25 acres of production fields, strolling through 2 acres of display garden, and enjoying many different colors of gorgeous peonies!
  • Adelman Peony Farm, Salem

*Free*

MORE INFO

May 1st – June 15th 9am – 6pm

First Thursday in The Pearl

  • Stroll through the art galleries in the pearl for an evening of art, music, and wine! Parking is difficult so public transit is recommended
  • The Pearl District
  • Free Event
  • May 2nd 5pm – 10pm

Cinco de May Fiesta

  1. The fiesta boasts three full days packed with festivities and culturally immersive programming. During the event, festival-goers can experience the spirit of Mexico through music, arts, dance and sport.
  2. Tom McCall Waterfront Park
  3. $10 – $25 TICKETS
  4. More Info Here
  5. May 3rd – 5th, 11am – 11pm

Portland Derby

  • Celebrating the greatest two minutes in sports, the “Run for the Rose City” is the social event of the spring. A day for fashion, mint juleps, roses, ponies and dancing.
  • The Redd on Salmon St.
  • $35 TICKETS
  • MORE INFO
  • May 4th, 11am – 6pm

Unique Markets

  • Discover the best of Portland’s independent designers, artists and emerging brands in a festive indoor setting. Enjoy complimentary refreshments, lounges, photo booths, creative DIY activities, arcade games, music and more
  • Veteran’s Memorial Coliseum
  • $12- $40 TICKETS
  • MORE INFO
  • May 11th – 12th, 10am – 4pm

Coffee, Beer, and Doughnut Festival

  • The 8th Annual Baker’s Dozen melds three things Portland does best: coffee, beer, and doughnuts. Each brewer uses beans from a different roaster. 
  • Culmination Brewing
  • $40+ TICKETS
  • MORE INFO
  • May 11th, 11am – 2pm

UFO Festival

  • Second in popularity only to the UFO festival in Roswell, New Mexico, Oregons annual celebration features days full of parades, costume contests, expert speakers and family fun.
  • McMinnville

Prices vary based on event

MORE INFO

May 17th and 18th

Rose Festival

  • Portland Rose Festival features multiple parades, waterfront carnival rides, concerts, races, fireworks and plenty of roses. Opening night even features a fireworks show!
  • Tom McCall Waterfront Park
  • MORE INFO
  • May 24th 5pm – June 9th

Farmers Markets Starting Back up This Month

  • Shemanski Park
  • Portland State University
  • Hollywood
  • St John’s
  • Portland Waterfront

We hope to see you at some of these awesome events!

Spring Blooms

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With spring coming in full swing there are so many places to see beautiful flowers throughout the city. Here are my favorites to visit!

Portland Japanese Garden

Located within Washington Park in SW Portland, you can find some stunning blooms and cherry blossoms in this serene and beautiful park.

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

It’s got over 2,500 rhododendrons, all bursting with vibrant colors that’ll leave you in awe. You can stroll around the lake and take in the views, or even bring a picnic and make a day of it.

Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival

Within a short drive, you have the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm. With over 40 acres of tulips in bloom. You’ll feel like you’re walking through a rainbow of colors, These are best viewed in mid to late April.

Hoyt Arboretum

Hoyt Arboretum is another must-see. There are over 6,000 trees and shrubs, many of which bloom in the spring. You can take a hike through the trails and sit back for a picnic in numerous places.

Tom McCall Cherry Blossoms

These cherry blossoms are not to be missed. They peak in late March and early April and with the river and city skyline, this is one of the most photographed places in all of Portland. This is also the perfect spot to sit back for a picnic.

International Test Garden

Last but not least, we’ve got the International Rose Test Garden. With over 7,000 roses on display, the aroma alone will make you feel like you’re in a fairytale. Plus, the views of the city are incredible. These roses peak in late April and early May.

Adelman Peonies

This farm is another short drive from Portland, but the stunning peonies are well worth the drive. With 30 acres of peonies you will love exploring these fields. They welcome picnics and animals. These blooms are best viewed in May and early June.

So there you have it, my top picks for catching the spring blooms in Portland. Get out there and explore, and let the beauty of spring bring a smile to your face!