Why This Weekend in Vancouver and Portland Is One You Won't Want to Miss

Weekends in the Pacific Northwest are a celebration of vibrant experiences, and this one promises to deliver on all fronts! Whether you're a local or just visiting Vancouver and Portland, April 19-20 is filled with unforgettable events that showcase the very best of our region. From mouthwatering pizza slices and relaxing Easter brunch cruises to vintage treasure hunts and bustling artisan markets, this weekend is a perfect mix of flavor, fun, and springtime excitement.

As a real estate expert who loves diving into the local happenings (and who’s always up for an adventure), I’ve curated a list of five events you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing, a romantic date, or a solo exploration, this weekend has something special for everyone!

Portland Saturday Market

When: Saturday, April 19, 2025
Where: Waterfront Park, 2 SW Naito Parkway, Portland, OR
Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Cost: Free entry; prices vary by vendor

About the Event

The Portland Saturday Market isn’t just a market—it’s a weekly celebration of creativity, community, and culture nestled right along the Willamette River in the heart of Old Town. Since 1974, this beloved open-air marketplace has been drawing locals and visitors alike with its colorful mix of handcrafted goods, global street food, and live entertainment.

Every Saturday (and Sundays too, from March through December), over 250 local artists and makers transform the waterfront into a treasure trove of unique finds. From hand-poured candles and locally designed clothing to quirky ceramics, fine art, leather goods, and statement jewelry—everything sold here is made by the person selling it. No imports, no mass production—just authentic, handcrafted charm.

And let’s talk about the food! The Portland Saturday Market is a food lover’s dream, with diverse vendors dishing up everything from Thai noodles and empanadas to fresh lemonade and made-to-order mini donuts. There’s even live music, street performers, and a few surprises around every corner—making it one of the best things to do in Portland on a weekend.

Whether you're on the hunt for a one-of-a-kind souvenir, supporting local makers, or just looking for a lively way to spend the afternoon—the Portland Saturday Market delivers.

Pro tip: Bring cash for smaller vendors (some accept card, but not all), and wear comfy shoes—you’ll want to wander!

Important Visitor Tips

• Perfect for Souvenirs: Pick up unique gifts from local artisans.

• Live Entertainment: Enjoy performances from local musicians and street artists.

• Foodie Heaven: Don’t miss the food trucks offering everything from tacos to fresh donuts.

• Weather Planning: As an outdoor market, it’s important to dress for the weather.

Lilac Days at Hulda Klager Gardens

When: April 20 – May 11, 2025
Where: Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens, 115 S Pekin Rd, Woodland, WA
Time: Open daily from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Cost: $5 per person (children under 12 free); cash only at the gate

About the Event

Lilac Days at Hulda Klager Gardens is one of Southwest Washington’s most beloved springtime traditions. Tucked away in Woodland, WA—just a short drive from Vancouver—this annual celebration brings to life the legacy of Hulda Klager, a 20th-century horticulturist whose passion for hybridizing lilacs bloomed into a living masterpiece.

Each spring from mid-April through Mother’s Day, the Victorian home and 4-acre gardens burst into color with over 90 varieties of lilacs, from deep purple classics to soft blush and even rare whites and blues. The air is fragrant, the pathways are peaceful, and the scenery feels like stepping into a garden fairytale. If you’ve never experienced the sight and scent of hundreds of lilacs in full bloom, this is your sign to go.

During the festival, visitors are welcome to explore the gardens at their own pace. You’ll find lilacs for sale (perfect for your own garden!), charming photo ops, and garden lovers from all around the region. The on-site museum and gift shop offer a peek into Hulda’s life and horticultural contributions, along with plenty of lilac-themed goodies and gardening inspiration.

This is a fantastic spot for a spring day trip, especially leading up to Mother’s Day. Pack a picnic, grab your camera, and wear comfy shoes—Lilac Days is peaceful, picturesque, and bursting with local charm.

Important Visitor Tips

• Parking: Free parking is available on site, but weekends can get busy—consider visiting on a weekday for fewer crowds.

• Accessibility: The gardens are mostly flat and walkable, though some areas are grassy or gravel.

• Pets: Sorry, no pets allowed (except service animals).

• Photo Ops: Bring your camera or phone—this is one of the most Instagrammable places in the region during spring.

• Cash Only: Admission is $5 and must be paid in cash at the entrance gate.

 Easter Brunch Cruises on the Portland Spirit

When: Sunday, April 19, 2025
Where: Portland Spirit, 1100 SW Naito Parkway, Portland, OR
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Cost: $69 per adult, $35 per child (under 12)

About the Event

Celebrate Easter in true Pacific Northwest fashion—with mimosas, river views, and a brunch buffet that’ll make you forget you ever considered cooking at home. The Easter Brunch Cruise on the Portland Spirit is a two-hour floating escape that blends festive flavor with scenic beauty. You’ll sail along the Willamette River, taking in picture-perfect views of downtown Portland, the city’s iconic bridges, and blooming springtime trees lining the waterfront.

The menu is thoughtfully curated to please every brunch lover—from traditional eggs Benedict and thick-cut prime rib to fresh fruit, pastries, and a variety of vegetarian-friendly options. Coffee and juice are included, and adult guests can sip a mimosa or Bloody Mary as they soak in the skyline.

With its relaxed pace and cozy vibe, this cruise is ideal for families looking for something memorable, couples planning a spring date, or anyone hoping to enjoy Easter brunch in a unique setting. No stuffy dress code, no dishes to wash—just good food, warm company, and an unbeatable riverfront backdrop. Bring your camera or smartphone to capture those dreamy spring views from the deck—you’ll definitely want to remember this one!

Important Visitor Tips

• Dress Code: Casual to semi-formal attire recommended, though it’s family-friendly.

• Accessibility: The Portland Spirit is wheelchair accessible.

• Weather Considerations: The boat offers both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can enjoy the cruise no matter the weather.

• Perfect for Photos: The picturesque views of the bridges and river make for great photo opportunities.

NW’s Largest Garage Sale & Vintage Mega Sale

When: Saturday, April 19, 2025
Where: Clark County Event Center, 17402 NE Delfel Rd, Ridgefield, WA
Time: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Cost:

• Early Birds: $20 (7:00 AM entry)

• General Admission: $8 (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM)

• Kids under 12: Free

About the Event

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the ultimate indoor treasure hunt—because the NW’s Largest Garage Ssle is back, and it’s bigger than ever. With over 600 indoor booths packed into the Clark County Event Center, this massive one-day-only event brings together sellers from all over the region, offering a goldmine of goods at garage sale prices.

Whether you’re on the hunt for vintage furniture, classic records, retro kitchenware, power tools, antique treasures, or gently used home décor, this event has it all—and then some. You’ll find handmade crafts, books, toys, electronics, and even some quirky surprises you didn’t know you needed (but definitely do). The best part? It’s all indoors, so you can shop rain or shine.

Perfect for collectors, bargain hunters, DIYers, or families just looking for a fun weekend outing, this sale isn’t just about the deals—it’s about the thrill of the find. Bring a tote bag, comfy shoes, and a little patience—you never know what gem is hiding at the next booth!

Pro tip from a local: Come early for the best selection, or swing by later in the day for those sweet end-of-sale discounts.

Important Visitor Tips

• Cash Only: Be prepared to pay in cash, as many vendors prefer it.

• Accessibility: The event center is wheelchair accessible.

• Bring Bags: It’s a good idea to bring reusable shopping bags for your finds.

• Vendor Discounts: Stick around for potential end-of-day deals.

Portland Pizza Week

When: April 14–20, 2025
Where: Various locations in Portland, OR
Cost: $4 per slice, $25 per whole pie (prices may vary by venue)

About the Event

Pizza lovers, this is your moment! The Portland Mercury’s Pizza Week is back and bigger (and cheesier) than ever, serving up creative, crave-worthy pies across the city at budget-friendly prices. From April 21–27, participating restaurants will be slinging exclusive pizza creations for just $4 a slice, with some even offering whole pies for $25—a deal that’s as hot as a brick oven.

This isn’t your average pepperoni affair. We’re talking one-of-a-kind pizzas made just for this week—like “Cheeked Up Pie” from Whit’s Pizza Pies or “The Hot Hoyt” from The Star. Expect everything from wild flavor combos and unique toppings to gluten-free and vegan-friendly options. It’s a true celebration of Portland’s creativity, food scene, and of course…our collective obsession with pizza.

Planning tip: With dozens of spots participating citywide, you can turn this into a full-blown pizza crawl. Grab your friends, split slices, and compare your favorites. And don’t forget to snap some pics—these slices were made for your feed (and your stomach).

Pizza Week only comes once a year, so make it count. Your pizza party adventure starts now!

Important Visitor Tips

• Vegan & Gluten-Free Options: Many pizzerias offer special vegan and gluten-free pies.

• Support Local: This is a great opportunity to support Portland’s independent pizza spots.

• Pizza Passport: Some years, there’s a “Pizza Passport” challenge to help you track the pizzas you’ve tried.

• Drink Pairings: Many spots offer drink specials to pair with your pizza slices.

Wrap-Up: Your Weekend, Fully Planned

No matter your weekend style—shopping for vintage treasures, grabbing a $4 slice of creative pizza, or sipping mimosas on the river—there's no shortage of ways to make the most of your time in Vancouver and Portland. These events are more than just fun—they’re a reminder of why we love living here: the community, the creativity, and the incredible experiences right in our backyard.

Thinking about making the Pacific Northwest your home base? I know the neighborhoods, the hidden gems, and all the reasons this region is an amazing place to live, work, and play. Let’s find your perfect spot—just like we find the perfect weekend plans.

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