When it comes to music, Portland's cup overfloweth. Our annual festivals attract huge crowds, whether it's the ever-popular Waterfront Blues Festival or Music Fest Northwest.
1. River City Music Festival
When: Jan 6 – 8, 2012
Where: Jantzen Beach Red Lion
What: The 2012 event is the 6th annual River City Music Festival. This festival features a range of music but focuses on bluegrass, acoustic and Americana.
2. Portland Jazz Festival
When: February 2012 (dates TBD)
Where: Various venues
What: With more than 100 events over 10 days, the Portland Jazz Festival features both local and national acts.
3. Sasquatch Music Festival
When: May 27 – 30, 2011 (The festival takes place each Memorial Day weekend)
Where: The Gorge Amphitheater in George, Washington
What: The Sasquatch Festival isn't a Portland event but it's a huge draw for Portlanders every year. This year's lineup includes: Wilco, Death Cab for Cutie, The Flaming Lips, the Decemberists, Foo Fighters and Bright Eyes.
4. Waterfront Blues Festival
When: July 1 – 4, 2011
Where: Tom McCall Waterfront Park
Naito Pkwy between SW Harrison St & NW Glisan St
What: One of Portland's most beloved events, the Waterftont Blues Festival is a five-day fundraiser for the Oregon Food Bank. The schedule is packed and always includes many local acts in addition to national headliners each day. The 4th of July Fireworks are also a huge draw.
5. PDX Pop Now!
When: July 22 - 24
Where: Refuge
116 SE Yamhill St.
What: A multi-day festival showcasing Portland-based artists and musicians. PDX Pop Now! is an all-ages event, and the organization has become a strong advocate for making music available to the under-21 set.
6. Portland Folk Festival
When: August, 2012 (stay tuned!)
Where: Various venues
What: The 2010 Portland Folk Festival was a four-day event that encompassed more than just music. Film, art, storytelling and of course, and more than 60 bands made up this extravaganza. The festival is taking 2011 off, but plans to bring the event back in 2012, so don't despair!