By Halcyon Orvendal
As the academic year ends and many students head out of town, those staying in Portland for the summer will still find plenty to do. The city shifts with the season, trading its rainy skies for the sun alongside a calendar packed full of events. For Lewis & Clark students spending the summer here, Portland offers a wide range of activities — from festivals and food to outdoor adventures and local culture.
One of the highlights of summer in Portland is its legendary festival season. The Portland Rose Festival, a tradition that dates back over a century, kicks off in early June and turns the city into a floral celebration. Beyond the blooms, the festival includes parades, concerts and the much-anticipated Dragon Boat Races on the Willamette River which will take place shortly after the beginning of fall semester — a visual spectacle that draws in crowds from all over.
For those who enjoy craft beer, the Oregon Brewers Festival in late May and the Portland International Beerfest in June both showcase Portland’s status as a beer capital. These events combine world-class brews with local food vendors and live music, creating the perfect social summer atmosphere.
For those craving a slower pace, Portland’s access to the outdoors offers countless opportunities to unplug and reconnect with nature. Just a short drive or bike ride from campus lies Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the country, with winding trails that cater to hikers, runners and wanderers alike. Meanwhile, Washington Park, closer to the city center, is home to the International Rose Test Garden, a Portland landmark which stands out among Rose City’s many beautiful gardens with free entry for all. With over ten thousand roses in bloom at the height of the summer, it is a serene spot perfect for reading, journaling or simply soaking in the views of Mount Hood on a clear day.
No summer in Portland is complete without indulging in its celebrated food culture. While the city boasts some top-tier restaurants, often the humble food carts steal the show. Food cart pods like Prost Marketplace in North Portland or Portland Mercado in the southeast, offer a collection of carts with international flavors — from steaming Venezuelan arepas to spicy Burmese noodles.
In addition to eating well, shopping local is a beloved Portland pastime. The Portland Farmers Market, with its flagship location at Portland State University, is open year-round, but truly comes alive in the summer. Vendors offer farm-fresh produce, handcrafted cheeses, baked goods and more, often accompanied by live folk or jazz performances. Another must-visit is the Portland Saturday Market, held every weekend along the riverfront, where artists and craftspeople sell handmade jewelry, prints, ceramics and a dizzying array of global street foods.
If you are looking for something beyond the typical night out, Portland delivers with eclectic entertainment. The Living Room Theaters in downtown Portland offer a unique movie-going experience where you can dine on locally sourced meals while watching indie and foreign films in an intimate setting. For music fans, the Moda Center located on the east side hosts a multitude of upcoming concerts — such as Hozier’s Unreal Earth Tour, The Marias’ Submarine Tour and Barry Manilow’s farewell tour.
Summer in Portland is also a great time to engage with the community. Students can find volunteer opportunities through local organizations focusing on food justice, environmental sustainability or youth mentorship. Alternatively, joining a community garden can be a relaxing way to meet people while getting your hands dirty and enjoying the fruits of your labor.
For LC students spending the summer in Portland, the city offers more than just a beautiful backdrop — it is a dynamic, ever-evolving playground of art, nature and flavor. Whether you are looking for adventure or a moment of peace, you can find it here, just beyond campus.
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