For Your Upcoming Stay: Events & Things to Do in Portland - August and September 2026

Portland is a vibrant city that never sleeps. From breathtaking art shows to lively festivals, there's something for everyone. If you're staying at Hotel Eastlund, you're in a prime location to explore all the amazing events this city has to offer. Let's dive into what you can experience during your visit in August and September 2026.

Music and Concerts

Portland's music scene is electric. Whether you love indie, rock, or jazz, you will find concerts that suit your taste. Some exciting events are lined up for August and September.

The Washington Park Summer Festival: in Portland takes place on August 8 and 9, 2026, starting at 6:00 PM each evening. Hosted by Portland Parks & Recreation as part of the Summer Free For All series, this free multicultural event is held at the International Rose Test Garden Amphitheater. 

• August 8: Features the Time Sound Big Band presented by the Albina Music Trust, showcasing jazz and local Black music history.
• Sunday, August 9: Features an evening of original soul music with Ural Thomas and the Pains.

Summer Concert Series: by PDX Live at Pioneer Courthouse Square running through August 20, 2026 features a multi-week lineup in downtown Portland with major touring acts and indie artists performing. 

The Montavilla Jazz Festival: is an annual three-day celebration of original jazz in Portland, Oregon. The upcoming event runs from September 4-6, 2026. It is Portland's only all-original jazz festival, featuring world premieres, bold new collaborations, and headliner Lo Steele performing across walkable neighborhood venues. 

Ticketed Events

These venues have events weekly, all year long every. We have highlighted a few of our favorites below but check out their official websites for all upcoming events.

• The Rose Quarter - Moda Center, Veterans Memorial Coliseum, and Theater of the Clouds: Highlights for August & September - WNBA Games with the Portland Fire, Tame Impala, Andrea Bocelli, Weezer, Journey, and Kehlani.
• Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall: See The Oregon Symphony perform August 17 - 20, 2026. 
• Keller Auditorium: Highlighted for August - 'Harry Potter and Cursed Child' shows August 6 - 15, 2026. Highlighted for September - ‘Water For Elephants' plays from September 29 - October 4, 2026. 
• Newmark Theatre: See comedians Max Amini August 26, 2026 and Josh Thomas September 18, 2026.
• Roseland Theater: Highlighted for August - Passion Pit, August 14, 2026. Highlighted for September - Brandon Flowers, September 7, 2026
• Portland Center Stage at The Armory: Highlighted for August - Candlelight Concert Series, August 15, 2026. Highlighted for September - Portland Center Stage Production of ‘Pride and Prejudice'.

Festivals and Community Events

Portland's community spirit shines through its festivals. Each event celebrates culture and brings people together.

Art in the Pearl: This art festival occurs over Labor Day weekend September 5 - 7. Art In The Pearl is Portland's largest outdoor art fair, drawing thousands of people every year to its beautiful location in the historic North Park Blocks of the Pearl District. This distinctly artist-run event has long been a favorite in Portland, and celebrates 30 years of bringing art to the community.

Portland Saturday Market: Every Saturday (10:00 AM - 5:00 PM) through August. The Portland Saturday Market features over 250 local artisans, handmade crafts, and local food vendors along the north end of the park.

Portland Flea: Starting August 30 at The Redd on Salmon St. Browse over 100 vendors offering fashion, accessories, vintage finds, handmade goods, home items, food, drinks, and other treasures. Free to attend, pet and family friendly, and happening every last Sunday of the month through October.

Bridge City Block Party: September 5-6, 2026. A massive two-day Bridge City Block Party electronic music festival by Red Cube Presents. It brings top-tier bass and EDM artists like Subtronics, Zeds Dead, Dr. Fresch, and Eprom.

Geek Week: The world's only citywide celebration of geek culture is back. SEPT 11 - 20, 2026. More cosplay, D&D, tabletop and video gaming, film festivals and adventures you haven't even imagined. Friday, September 11, 202612:00 PM & Sunday, September 20, 202611:00 PM

Portland Dragon Boat Festival: September 12, 2026. The annual Portland Dragon Boat Festival features fast-paced dragon boat races on the Willamette River, a pancake breakfast, food trucks, and local exhibitors

Panda Fest: September 13, 2026. A vibrant, family-friendly outdoor Panda Fest Asian food festival featuring cultural market fairs, interactive activities, and culinary tastings.

El Grito Portland 2026: is the Pacific Northwest's largest cultural celebration of Mexican Independence Day and Hispanic Heritage Month. It takes place on September 15 and 16, 2026, at the Moda Center Explanade (1 N Center Ct St, Portland, OR). This free, family-friendly event features live mariachi, traditional dancing horses, folkloric and Aztec dancers, food vendors, and the official commemorative ceremony.

Oaks Park Oktoberfest: Sept. 25-27, 2026 Step into a celebration of fall, fun, and German tradition at Portland's beloved hometown Oktoberfest. For three days, Oaks Amusement Park will be filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors of the season. Oaks Amusement Park at 7805 Southeast Oaks Park Way Portland, OR, 97202

Sports and Conventions

If you're into sports, Portland has an exciting lineup this fall.

Rockstar Energy Open: August 14-16, 2026. A free, family-friendly Rockstar Energy Open festival bringing world-class skateboarding competitions, art installations, culture, and live music to the park.

Portland Timbers Matches: The Timbers play games consistently throughout August and September. Experience an integral part of the city's identity by attending a soccer game at Providence Park. 

Portland Fire WNBA Season: Basketball fans can catch the Portland Fire's season home games through September. 

Oregon Convention Center: Attend the Rose City Comic Con September 11 - 13, 2026. This event is a fun, family-friendly 3-day celebration of comics, gaming, sci-fi, cosplay, anime, fantasy, and every fandom in between!

Hotel Eastlund is your ideal city-central base for exploring all these Portland activities. Located conveniently, we offer comfortable accommodations and a stylish boutique atmosphere. Enjoy a relaxing retreat after your adventures in the city. Be sure to check out the hotel's amenities, including an on-site restaurant and rooftop lounge, perfect for unwinding after a day full of fun.

Make the most of your upcoming visit to Portland! You'll discover a city full of life, art, and culture. Enjoy every moment and create lasting memories.