I’ve included a very limited sampling below of what I consider “visit-worthy” events. As I can make no claims to psychic abilities, I can’t include all of the nifty happenings that haven’t yet been announced.

February

Portland International Film Festival. This well-regarded fest brings films from all over the world to theaters around the city. For a schedule, go to www.nwfilm.org.

Oregon Seafood and Wine Festival. The Oregon Convention Center becomes one huge bistro during this event, which happily coincides with the Dungeness crab season. Learn more at www.pdxseafoodandwinefestival.com.

April

The Spring Beer & Wine Fest. Again at the convention center, this large festival is devoted to craft microbrews, regional wines, spirits, food, crafts, and music. Details at www.springbeerfest.com.

May

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. Celebrates Portland’s sister-city status with Guadalajara, Mexico with food, entertainment, and music in Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park. May 5. More at www.cincodemayo.org.

June
Portland Rose Festival. Stretching out over 3 weeks, the city’s oldest (started in 1888) and biggest celebration includes a Grand Floral Parade, a Starlight Parade, the election of the Rose Queen, a waterfront carnival, and dragon boat races on the river. See www.rosefestival.org.
The Portland Pride Festival and Parade. This one happens over a weekend in mid-June, with a parade on Sunday, live entertainment, a drag race (heels, not wheels), and a pet parade. For exact dates, go to www.pridenw.org.

July

Waterfront Blues Festival. Over the extended Fourth of July weekend, this fills Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park with 4 days of national headliners. To learn who will be playing when, go to www.waterfrontbluesfest.com.

Oregon Brewers Festival. The last full weekend in July brings more beer to Tom McCall Waterfront Park, this time in the form of a 4-day sudsapalooza, one of the largest and oldest craft-beer festivals in the country. More at www.oregonbrewfest.com.

PDX Pop Now! In late July, indie music fans flock to this free, all-ages festival of local music featuring upwards of 50 artists selected by public vote. Info is at www.pdxpopnow.com.


August
 
Bite of Oregon. This mid-August event is a fundraiser for Special Olympics Oregon, and features food and wine samples from local chefs and regional wineries, along with live music, cooking demos, and other entertainment. Details: www.biteoforegon.com.

September 
Musicfest NW. In early September, the 4-day fest fills Waterfront Park and the clubs of Portland with local musicians and national acts. More at www.musicfestnw.com.

The Time-Based Art Festival. Consists of 10 days of modern visual and performance arts sponsored by the Portland Institute for Contemporary Art IPICA. Details: www.pica.org/tba.


November 

Northwest Film & Video Festival. In mid-November, this regional festival brings a host of short films, documentaries, and features by independent filmmakers from the Pacific.

December 

The ZooLights Festival. At the Oregon Zoo, it includes music, kids’ activities, and a special holiday train. Details: www.oregonzoo.org.
 
 

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.