Saturday Market Season Kickoff and Lunar New Year Parade Lead Today's Portland Lineup

Portland Springs to Life with Grand Openings and Cultural Parades

Today, Saturday, March 7, 2026, marks a major milestone for local culture as Portland’s most iconic open-air tradition returns alongside vibrant community celebrations. Whether you are looking for handmade crafts, world-class cinema, or immersive cultural experiences, the city is packed with verified events for all ages.

The 52nd Season of the Portland Saturday Market

The Portland Saturday Market officially kicks off its 2026 season today at Tom McCall Waterfront Park. As the nation’s largest continuously operating open-air arts and crafts market, the opening day festivities are more than just a shopping trip. From 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, visitors can enjoy:

• Living Museum Tours: Longtime members lead 45-minute historical walks at 10:30 AM and 12:15 PM.
• Postcard Bar: Personalize handmade postcards starting at 10:00 AM.
• Live Entertainment: A DJ set from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by Portland-themed trivia at 2:00 PM.

Cultural Celebrations and Parades

The 10th Annual Lunar New Year Dragon Dance and Parade takes to the streets of Old Town Chinatown today. Starting at 10:00 AM, a 150-foot dragon will lead a procession through the China Gate, accompanied by lion dancers and drummers, concluding at the Oregon Historical Society. Afterward, head to Lan Su Chinese Garden for a full schedule of Year of the Horse activities, including family crafts (10:00 AM – 3:00 PM), a choir performance at noon, and a special Lantern Viewing evening starting at 5:30 PM.

Theater, Art, and Festivals

For fans of the performing arts, today offers a diverse selection of stage productions and screenings:

• Cascade Festival of African Films: Catch the final screenings of the 36th annual festival, showcasing storytelling from across the continent.
• Fellow Travelers: Experience this operatic drama at the Newmark Theatre, part of a limited run starting today.
• Portland Sandwich Week: Continue the culinary celebration with $10 specials at over 90 participating restaurants across the metro area.
• Art Gallery Openings: PDX Contemporary Art hosts an opening reception for Tad Savinar from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, featuring his new collection, "A Logbook Through Darkness."

From the bustling waterfront to the quiet galleries of the Pearl District, today is a perfect representation of Portland’s creative spirit.