What To Do in Portland This July
Here’s my big tip for the month: Get outside. You already knew that. So here are some fun things to do once you get out the front door. There are so many possibilities in Portland, Oregon, right now:

Here’s my big tip for the month: Get outside. You already knew that, though. So here are some fun things to do once you get out the front door. There are so many possibilities right now:
📽️ Go See a Movie in the Park or at the Drive-In
Hollywood Theatre is hosting summer movies at state parks. The city of Portland and Vancouver also have evening movies in the park. And of course, there’s the 99W Drive-In — if you want a throw-back adventure.
🎵🎭😆 Or How About a Outdoor Concert, Play, Comedy Set, or Festival?
If you’re looking for music, there’s the Waterfront Blue Festival, starting Thursday. There’s the Cathedral Park Jazz Festival later this month. But there’s no shortage of concerts in the park. Your options for musically accompanied picnics are almost endless.
But wait, there’s more: You could also check out a free comedy set or unrehearsed performance of a Shakespeare play.
And then there are some more niche opportunities: La Strada dei Pastelli Chalk Art Festival, Tea Fest PDX, and the Fuji to Hood: Japan/Oregon Beer, Cider & Culture festival.
🏳️🌈 It’s Also Portland Pride Month
The Rose Festival takes up downtown waterfront real estate in June, so look for July Pride celebrations in Portland, including the Pride parade.
🌲 And It’s Never the Wrong Season for a Hike
Now is a particularly good time to find a place to get out into the woods. But you don’t even have to go far.
Reminder: Forest Park and Mt.Tabor are gems; so is Tryon Creek.
More about Portland's Best
What To Do in Portland in September 2026
September brings migrating swifts, Comic Con, Geek Week, and the start of apple-picking season, with plenty of ways to enjoy Portland’s fall traditions.
What To Do in Portland in August 2026
We have some ideas for how to make this month in Portland more exciting, easier, and just an all-round good time.
What To Do in Portland in July 2026
A quarter millennium ago, the U.S. got its start. Since then, we've experienced all the promises and disappointments of our country's rhetoric about freedom.

