Portland Rose Festival CityFair

Portland Rose Festival CityFair turns Tom McCall Waterfront Park into a lively urban midway for three consecutive weekends, right on the Willamette River. You get the classic carnival feel with Portland’s skyline and bridges as the backdrop, plus a rotating lineup of local food vendors, craft makers, and hands-on exhibits. It’s an easy choice for families, couples, and friends who want a riverfront outing that feels like the start of summer.

Rides and games anchor the experience, with the Ferris wheel delivering some of the best panoramic views for photos across the water and downtown. Between attractions, you can catch live music and weekend-specific entertainment, so the pace and programming shift each time you visit. Expect familiar fair favorites alongside Portland-focused bites, artisanal treats, and craft beverages.

Plan around the marquee moments: opening night fireworks on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend are the first-weekend showstopper. Later weekends often coincide with Fleet Week, when naval vessels dock along the seawall, adding a waterfront walk-through that pairs well with an evening on the midway.

Entry is simple, with multiple gates along SW Naito Parkway; general admission is $5, with free entry for kids 6 and under and select service groups. For lighter crowds, aim for daytime on the first Friday or Sunday morning. We suggest buying ride vouchers online to save time and money, taking MAX Light Rail since downtown parking is limited, and packing high-SPF sunscreen plus a refillable water bottle. The fair runs rain or shine, so bring a light waterproof layer; leave pets at home due to noise and crowds. If you want a nearby reset, the International Rose Test Garden offers a quieter break, and for the easiest access you can stay in Downtown Portland or the Pearl District, with calmer residential options in surrounding neighborhoods.