September is here, the kids are back to school, and everyone is soaking up these last summer days. This is such an amazing time of year in our beautiful city. As the season starts to change, business districts are alive with fantastic community events and small businesses offering Portlanders everything they could possibly need. When you shop local, your dollars stay in your community, making Portland a better place to live and work. Check out some of these activations and special events this month:

  • Citywide: With events held at over 120 small businesses across the city, Geek Week highlights the deep and vibrant Geek culture in Portland. Check out the full list of events happening September 5-14.
  • Beaumont: Tomorrow, September 4, is the last First Thursday of the summer, and Fremont Street will be bustling with activations.
  • Belmont: Get ready for one of Portland’s biggest block parties — the Belmont Street Fair is back!
    On September 13 from 10 AM to 5 PM, Belmont Street will be packed with food, fun, and festivities.
  • Central Eastside: Lose Yr Mind Fest returns for its 10th edition September 11-15, showcasing local and national artists in a multi-venue music festival. This year’s event includes performances, a makers market, and additional daytime activities that celebrate independent music, community, and creativity.
  • Division/Clinton: The Clinton Street Fair is sure to be a great time with local artists and vendors, a ‘Kid Fair’ at Piccolo, Fam Jam, food stalls, live music, and much more!
  • Foster: On September 27, Meet Your Maker Market returns to SE Foster! This free outdoor market caters to all kinds of makers, creators, and artists during the fair weather months.
  • Mississippi Ave: Wednesday, September 10, is the Mississippi Avenue Back to School Fundraiser! 10% of your purchase from participating businesses will go directly to supporting KairosPDX Learning Academy.
  • Multnomah Village: First Fridays in Multnomah Village celebrate and support the diversity of businesses and services located in the Multnomah Village Business District. Enjoy special savings, events, and promotions at participating businesses throughout the day.
  • Soul District: The 14th annual MLK Dream Run, on September 20-21, is a favorite event each year in Portland. Enjoy a run/walk with your friends through the Soul District or race for a chance to win a round-trip travel voucher courtesy of Alaska Airlines.
  • Stadium District: The final ‘Sound the Watch’ concert at Firefighters Park is on September 11! These free outdoor concerts feature local musicians with family-friendly energy, and are great opportunities for neighbors to connect.
  • St. Johns: Enjoy the changing of the season with the Fall Fling in the historic St. Johns neighborhood. Art, activities, and music from 1-4pm in the St. Johns plaza, district-wide celebration with specials from local businesses all day!

This list is non-exhaustive. Show us what you are up to this month by tagging us on Instagram and Facebook.