Looking for something fun to do this weekend in Vancouver, WA, or Portland, OR? Whether you're a foodie, a sports enthusiast, or a classic car lover, this weekend is packed with exciting events that will keep you entertained. From chocolate and coffee tastings to thrilling roller derby matches and massive car swap meets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the Pacific Northwest.

Vancouver Farmers Market

One of Vancouver’s most beloved weekend traditions, the Vancouver Farmers Market features over 250 local vendors offering fresh produce, unique crafts, and mouthwatering international food options. It's the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely day out with family, grab a bite to eat, and support local farmers and artists.

What to Expect

As you stroll through the market, you’ll encounter a fantastic mix of seasonal fruits and vegetables, local meats, freshly-baked bread, and a variety of jams, sauces, and sweets made right here in the Pacific Northwest. Local artisans display handcrafted goods such as pottery, jewelry, clothing, and artwork, giving you the chance to take home one-of-a-kind treasures.

For food lovers, there are plenty of international food stalls where you can grab a delicious bite—from Mexican tacos and Indian curries to Asian street food and fresh seafood. The market also has great options for anyone looking for a light snack or a hearty meal, with many vendors offering fresh-to-order sandwiches, baked goods, and even locally roasted coffee.

Tips for Visiting

• Get there early to snag the freshest produce and goods before they sell out. The early morning hours are typically the best time to find popular items, especially local fruits and vegetables.

• Make sure to bring cash or a debit card, as some vendors may not accept credit cards. Many vendors at the market offer a cash-only policy for small purchases.

• Take a reusable shopping bag—with so many local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade items, you’ll want to have something to carry all your finds.

• Parking can be limited, especially on weekends, so consider walking or biking if you're nearby. Alternatively, public transportation is a convenient option with stops close to the market.

Dates: April 5, 2025 - October 26, 2025 (Saturdays and Sundays)

Location: Downtown Vancouver, 8th & Esther Street, Vancouver, WA 98660

Time: 

• Saturday - 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• Sunday - 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Price: Free

Pro Tip

If you're looking for a special gift or something unique to take home, check out the craft vendors that sell everything from handmade soaps and candles to locally crafted furniture and decorative pieces. You might even find a new favorite piece of art or a memorable souvenir from your trip to Vancouver.

4th Annual Vancouver Chocolate, Coffee, & Tea Fair

Indulge in an afternoon of rich flavors at the 4th Annual Vancouver Chocolate, Coffee, & Tea Fair. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur, a tea enthusiast, or a chocolate lover, this event offers a cozy atmosphere where you can sample handcrafted goods and explore the local artisans behind them. With raffles and exciting prizes to win, it's a great way to treat your taste buds and support local businesses.

What to Expect

Enjoy sampling handcrafted chocolates—from decadent truffles to artisanal bark—and discover the unique coffee blends and tea varieties produced by local vendors. Whether you're a seasoned coffee connoisseur or someone who simply loves a good cup of tea, this fair offers something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to meet the local artisans who craft these delicious treats and learn about the care and passion that goes into each product.

In addition to satisfying your sweet tooth, there are raffles and prizes to win throughout the event, making it a great way to spend the day with friends or family while supporting local businesses.

Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025

Location: The Gathering Place, 2500 NE 78th Street, Vancouver, WA 98665

Time: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Price: Free

Pro Tip

Make sure to visit the booths featuring locally roasted coffee and handmade truffles—they’re a must-try! Bring a friend along to double the fun, as this event is perfect for a relaxing and delightful outing.

Whether you're a die-hard chocolate fan or a devoted tea enthusiast, the Vancouver Chocolate, Coffee, & Tea Fair offers a flavorful experience that’s sure to leave you with a smile and perhaps a few treats to take home.

Roller Derby Weekend with Rose City Rollers

Get ready for some fast-paced action at the Roller Derby Weekend with the world-famous Rose City Rollers. On Friday, enjoy the Zodiac Night theme as the undefeated Heartless Heathers face off against the High Rollers, and on Saturday, cheer on the Break Neck Betties as they battle the Guns N Rollers. It’s an evening full of fierce competition, live music, and local food and drinks—perfect for a high-energy night out.

What to Expect

Expect an electrifying atmosphere packed with intense roller derby action. The bouts are fast and full of energy, and you’ll be on the edge of your seat as you watch these talented teams battle it out. The event also features live music to keep the energy high, local food vendors for a tasty snack, and opportunities to shop for Rose City Rollers merchandise. If you haven’t been to a roller derby match, you need to go at least once in your life—it's an experience you won’t forget!

Dates: April 4-5, 2025

Location: The Hangar at Oaks Park, Portland, OR

Times:

• Friday, April 4: Doors open at 7 PM, bout starts at 8 PM
• Saturday, April 5: Doors open at 6 PM, bout starts at 7 PM

Price: $21 (Kids under 6 Free)

Pro Tip

Get there early to grab the best seats in the house and soak in the lively, electric atmosphere. With live music and local food and drinks, the event offers much more than just roller derby—it’s a full night of entertainment. And don’t forget to swing by the Rose City Rollers' merch tables for some unique and fun swag to remember the event.

PIR Auto Swap Meet

Calling all auto enthusiasts! The PIR Auto Swap Meet is a car lover’s paradise, featuring over 5 miles of booths packed with everything from car parts and accessories to vintage memorabilia. Whether you’re restoring a classic ride, customizing your car, or hunting for rare parts, this massive event is the perfect place to find exactly what you need to make your vehicle stand out.

What to Expect

The PIR Auto Swap Meet, which runs in conjunction with the annual Portland Swap Meet at the Expo Center, offers an unbeatable opportunity to explore a variety of items for all car lovers. With rows upon rows of vendors, you’ll find everything from engine parts and custom wheels to classic car restorations and rare memorabilia. It's not just about buying parts—it's an experience for any automotive aficionado. Explore aisles of treasures, speak with passionate sellers, and discover hidden gems that can make your project car come to life. If you’re a collector, expect to find hard-to-find vintage pieces and unique car accessories.

Location: Portland International Raceway

Dates: April 3-5, 2025

Time: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily

Price: Admission $13, children under 12 are free

Pro Tip

Prepare for a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and bring a cooler or snacks to stay energized. Also, bring cash just in case some vendors prefer it over card payments. This is an event that’s easy to get lost in, so plan to spend several hours browsing all the booths!

Portland Auto Swap Meet

Since 1964, the Portland Auto Swap Meet has been a cornerstone event for car enthusiasts on the West Coast. As the largest indoor/outdoor swap meet, it’s a must-visit destination for those in search of classic car parts, restored vehicles, and unique memorabilia. Whether you're a collector, a weekend mechanic, or just a lover of classic cars, there’s something for everyone at this renowned event.

What to Expect

Browse rows of booths filled with everything from new, recycled, and restored auto parts to vintage clothing, automotive memorabilia, and car accessories. Explore and discover items to upgrade your car or add to your personal collection. Be sure to check out the classic car displays, where you’ll see some truly beautiful restorations and vintage models.

The event offers something for everyone: whether you’re looking to find a rare part for a restoration project, hunting for old-school car memorabilia, or simply enjoying the nostalgic displays of vintage cars—this event is not to be missed.

Dates: April 4-6, 2025

Location: Portland Expo Center

Times:

• Friday, April 4: 7 AM to 6 PM
• Saturday, April 5: 7 AM to 5 PM
• Sunday, April 6: 8 AM to 1 PM

Price: Friday & Saturday $13, Sunday $5 (Children under 12 Free)

Pro Tip

Arrive early to snag the best deals and find those rare car parts before they’re gone! Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes for all the walking and bring cash, as some vendors may not accept cards.

Whether you’re looking to update your project car or simply appreciate the beauty of vintage vehicles, the Portland Auto Swap Meet is an unforgettable experience for every auto enthusiast.

These activities offer a mix of local culture, thrilling sports, and automotive excitement, making for a memorable weekend in Vancouver and Portland.

Making the Most of Your Weekend

Whether you're a local or just visiting, these events offer a fantastic way to experience the culture and community of Vancouver and Portland. From indulging in local delicacies to catching an action-packed roller derby match or browsing through automotive treasures, there’s something for everyone this weekend.

Quick Tip: The weather can be unpredictable in early April, so make sure to dress in layers and bring an umbrella just in case! Comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you plan to visit the swap meets or the farmers market.

These events not only showcase the best of what the area has to offer but also provide a unique look into the vibrant and diverse culture of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re spending the day with friends or making memories with family, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy your weekend.

And, if you’re ever thinking of making Vancouver or Portland your home, I’d be happy to help you navigate the local real estate market. From finding the perfect neighborhood to understanding the best spots to live, work, and play, I’ve got the expertise to guide you every step of the way.

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