Top Things to Do in Vancouver WA and Portland OR This Weekend (May 31–June 1)

Looking for fun and engaging things to do in Vancouver WA this weekend (May 31–June 1) with the whole family? From scenic train rides to outdoor markets and cultural parades, Southwest Washington and nearby Portland are packed with events that kids and adults alike will love. Whether you're planning a Saturday adventure or a Sunday stroll, here are some of the best family-friendly activities happening this weekend.

Cedar Creek Grist Mill Fry Bread Day

📍 Location: Cedar Creek Grist Mill
📫 Address: 43907 NE Grist Mill Road, Woodland, WA 98674
📅 Date: Saturday, May 31 (recurs annually on the last Saturday of May)
🕐 Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
💵 Cost: Free

About the Event:

Step back in time at the historic Cedar Creek Grist Mill and celebrate Fry Bread Day—a delicious and educational event where the star of the show is fresh fry bread made with flour milled right on-site. This cherished tradition combines food, history, and community in one scenic setting.

What to Expect:

You’ll be welcomed with the aroma of sizzling fry bread, prepared by volunteers using stone-ground flour produced at the mill. Visitors can take a tour of the 1876 grist mill, watch the milling process in action, and even take home a sample of freshly milled flour. This family-friendly event blends the flavors of the Pacific Northwest with its rich pioneer past.

Tips for Attending:

• Arrive early—parking is limited and fills up fast.

• Dress for the outdoors—gravel paths and forest shade mean cooler temps.

• Bring a camera—the working waterwheel and wooded backdrop are picture-perfect.

• Chat with the volunteers—they’re full of great stories and milling knowledge.

• Donations appreciated—support the mill’s maintenance and educational programs.

Here Comes Summer Weekend Train

📍 Location: Chelatchie Prairie Railroad
📫 Address: 207 N Railroad Ave, Yacolt, WA 98675
📅 Dates: Saturday & Sunday, May 31 – June 1, 2025
🕐 Time: 12:00 PM (departures also often available at 2:30 PM)
💵 Cost: $14 – $20

About the Event:

Celebrate the changing seasons aboard the Here Comes Summer Weekend Train, a classic ride hosted by Chelatchie Prairie Railroad. This scenic excursion winds its way through lush forest, over the East Fork of the Lewis River, and through a tunnel before stopping at Moulton Station to explore the picturesque Yacolt Falls. It’s the perfect way to welcome summer in true Pacific Northwest style.

What to Expect:

The journey includes a ride through a tunnel and over a picturesque bridge, making it a photographer’s dream. The train features both open-air and covered cars, perfect for all weather conditions. A brief stop at Moulton Station allows passengers to disembark and enjoy Yacolt Falls before returning to the station. Expect friendly volunteers, fun train facts, and plenty of smiles from train enthusiasts of all ages.

Tips for Attending:

• Reserve early—these summer kick-off rides often sell out.

• Arrive at least 20 minutes early to pick up your tickets and find your seat.

• Dress in layers—both open-air and indoor seating are available, and mountain weather can shift quickly.

• Bring your camera—the tunnel, river crossing, and falls make for unforgettable shots.

• Restrooms available on site but limited onboard, so plan accordingly.

Uptown Flea Market

📍 Location: Kindred
📫 Address: 2213 Main Street, Vancouver, WA 98660
📅 Dates: Saturdays – May 31, June 14, June 28, 2025
🕚 Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
💵 Cost: Free

About the Event:

Celebrate creativity and community at the Uptown Flea Market, a recurring outdoor event hosted by Kindred Vancouver and Calluna Alchemy. Held every other Saturday in the heart of Uptown Village, this lively market showcases local artisans, handmade goods, vintage finds, and small businesses in a colorful, walkable setting.

What to Expect:

Browse through rows of vendor booths featuring handcrafted jewelry, home décor, plants, artwork, crystals, vintage fashion, and more. Expect to meet passionate makers and discover one-of-a-kind items you won’t find in big box stores. With food trucks and local cafés nearby, it’s easy to make a day of it in Vancouver’s charming Uptown neighborhood.

Tips for Attending:

• Bring a tote or two—you’ll likely find more than you planned to buy!

• Wear sunscreen and dress in layers—this is an outdoor market.

• Come hungry—local food trucks and Uptown eateries are just steps away.

• Most vendors accept cards, but it’s smart to bring a little cash too.

• Leashed dogs are welcome, and pet-themed booths are often part of the fun!

Rose Festival CareOregon Starlight Parade

 📍 Location: Tom McCall Waterfront Park & Downtown Portland
📫 Address: 98 SW Naito Parkway, Portland, OR 97204
📅 Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025
🕗 Time: 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
💵 Cost: Free

About the Event:

Get ready for one of the brightest nights in the Pacific Northwest! The CareOregon Starlight Parade, a flagship of the Portland Rose Festival, lights up downtown with glowing floats, marching bands, illuminated dancers, and quirky, crowd-favorite entries like glow-in-the-dark umbrellas and creatively lit hand-built vehicles. With over 100 illuminated entries, this Portland tradition offers electrified, funky fun for all ages.

What to Expect:

This high-energy nighttime parade brings together diverse community groups from Portland and beyond to celebrate creativity and togetherness. You'll see traditional marching bands alongside wildly imaginative illuminated floats, LED-clad stilt walkers, and local organizations showing off their sparkle. Hundreds of thousands of spectators line the streets, so expect big crowds and high spirits!

Tips for Attending:

• Bring lawn chairs or blankets—you’ll want to grab a good viewing spot early.

• Arrive by 6:00 PM or earlier—prime spaces go fast, especially along the starting route.

• Use public transportation—MAX and buses are the easiest way to access downtown.

• View the route map ahead of time to pick your ideal location.

• Make it a full evening—stop by CityFair at Tom McCall Waterfront Park before the parade starts.

• Pack snacks and glow sticks—make it a party for the whole family!

Bike Summer Kickoff Ride

 📍 Location: Peninsula Park Rose Garden
📫 Address: 700 N Rosa Parks Way, Portland, OR 97217
📅 Date: Sunday, June 1, 2025
🕐 Time: 1:00 PM (ride begins at 3:00 PM)
💵 Cost: Free

About the Event:

The Bike Summer Kickoff Ride is the official start to Portland’s beloved summer-long celebration of bike culture. Hosted in beautiful Peninsula Park Rose Garden, this community ride is all about fun, flair, and two-wheeled freedom. Come early to grab limited-edition Bike Summer merch and get into the spirit of the season.

What to Expect:

This isn’t just a bike ride—it’s a party on pedals! Between 1:00 and 2:30 PM, you can snag exclusive Bike Summer stickers, pennants, and try on shirts before purchasing online. Ride leaders can pick up their official pennants, and volunteers will be on-site to help attach decorations to your bike. Expect a relaxed, welcoming vibe filled with decked-out bikes, colorful outfits, and lots of community spirit. The ride itself begins at 3:00 PM, with the full route announced shortly before the event.

Tips for Attending:

• Decorate your bike and dress up! Creativity is encouraged.

• Arrive early to shop for merch, attach pennants, and mingle.

• Promote your ride if you’re a ride leader—bring flyers to share!

• The ride is beginner-friendly—a great way to get involved if you're new to bike events.

• Be kind to pedestrians—Bike Summer is about joy and respect.

• Watch social media or Bike Summer updates for the final ride route announcement.

Wrapping Up: Top Things to Do in Vancouver WA and Portland OR This Weekend (May 31–June 1)

From scenic train rides in Yacolt to local eats and handmade finds at the Uptown Flea Market, this weekend is packed with family-friendly things to do in Vancouver WA and beyond. Whether you're exploring free events in Vancouver WA, catching a glowing spectacle like the Starlight Parade in downtown Portland, or visiting historic sites like the Cedar Creek Grist Mill, there's something for everyone.

If you're looking for even more Vancouver WA weekend events or want tips on things to do near Portland OR, I post a new list every Thursday—so be sure to check back weekly! Supporting local events in Southwest Washington is a great way to discover new favorite spots, meet neighbors, and make the most of your time here.

📍 Planning a move to Vancouver WA or just visiting and falling in love with the place? I’d love to show you around from a local’s perspective. Let’s connect!

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