1) Get summer entertaining products at a discount

BBQ season is just heating up in Portland. Take advantage of the summer sales at Pottery Barn and Sur la Table by stocking up on outdoor entertaining supplies like this wire picnic basket, a glass beverage dispenser or a s’mores grilling rack.

2) Quench your thirst at Brew Fest

The Oregon Brewers Festival kicks off on Thursday, July 26, and the party continues through Sunday, July 29. Throw on your cutest pair of cutoffs, grab your friends and sample some craft beers down on the waterfront.

3) Or host your own DIY beer tasting

Pick up a selection of locally brewed beers at Caps and Corks (NW 17th and Lovejoy) or Pearl Specialty (NW 9th and Lovejoy) and serve small pours alongside bowls of salty snacks. A great way to introduce novice beer drinkers to new styles of craft brews like dark or fruit beers.

4) Sample the best doughnuts in Portland

Voodoo Doughnut may get all the publicity, but the best doughnut in Portland can be found out in the ‘burbs at Donuts Plus (13500 NW Cornell Road). Bring cash, make sure you try the chocolate glazed, and don’t be surprised if you find a free doughnut hole or two in the bottom of your bag.

5) Visit Monet’s Water Lilies (for free!)

Take in the beauty of five of Claude Monet’s masterpieces in the 5 Monets / 100 Days exhibit at the Portland Art Museum (SW Park and Madison). Museum admission is free on the fourth Friday of every month from 5-8 pm.

image credits: Pottery Barn wire picnic basket, Brew Fest, beer flight, old-fashioned blueberry donut, Monet canvases (left and right)