"Keep Portland Weird" is not just a catchy slogan tossed around; it's deeply entrenched in every aspect of life in Portland. We are proud that our city is distinctive and unique and boasts a personality that stands apart, characterized by a thriving arts scene, a profound love for outdoor activities, and a robust sense of community spirit.
Portland is a city that celebrates its quirks at every turn. You can see this in the myriad of colorful murals that decorate the city's buildings, infusing life and character into so many of our urban landscapes. The bustling farmers' markets that bring the community together offer a rainbow of local produce, and handmade goods, showcasing the city's commitment to supporting “the little guyˮ and uplifting those who prioritize sustainable practices.
Food truck “podsˮ dot the cityscape, each offering a unique taste of Portland's thriving food scene on wheels. Food trucks are another testament to the city's culinary creativity, with options that cater to every palate and preference. Some of our favorites are Tidal Boar Foods where you can get fresh shucked oysters and other seafood delicacies, and Stretch the Noodle where you can watch the chef preparing your meal to order as she pulls, slaps and stretches the noodles for an array of Chinese dishes. You can experience Michelin star-level cuisine from these small but mighty providers.
Pop-up events showcase the cityʼs spirit of ephemeral joy. Secret Roller Disco happens weekly across Portland and varies venues each time. Here the public can roll, skate and dance to live DJ tunes. Bike-a-palooza features tons of themed pop-up rides across neighborhoods. Itʼs not uncommon to witness a sea of costumed riders taking over whole thoroughfares. Mt. Tabor park is home to pop- up dance parties with live DJʼs and folks enjoying the view of East Portland. Residents get their info for these pop-ups through social media posts or calling into a mystery phone lines that share info for the events.
Itʼs clear that the "Keep Portland Weird" slogan is more than just a reflection of the city's physical attributes. It's the spirit that embodies the city's ethos of embracing uniqueness, fostering a culture that values diversity, entrepreneurship, and creativity. It's a celebration of the unconventional, the innovative, and the eccentric.