Portland Rose Festival

Schedule of Events

8:00 AM - 5:00 PM: Dragon Boat Race at Tom McCall Waterfront Park

The Rose Festival is proud to host the Portland Rose Festival Dragon Boat Races, an event that has been bringing an exciting Chinese tradition to Portland for more than two decades, beginning in 1989.

Held on the Willamette River near the Hawthorne Bridge, the races feature exciting four-team heats held every nine minutes. More than 60 different teams – local, national and international – compete in boats graciously provided through the Portland-Kaohsiung Sister City Association.

This event is Free to the public.

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Grand Floral Parade

A cherished highlight of the Portland Rose Festival, this popular procession is more than just a spectacular floral-filled parade — it’s a beloved annual tradition. For more than 115 years, Portland families, visitors and community groups have been making memories at the Grand Floral Parade. A colorful reflection of local, regional and international communities, the parade draws hundreds of thousands of cheering viewers of every age, along a route makes it two-mile march along Portland's east side city streets.

Each year the parade features the traditional large all-floral floats we all love, as well as the popular mini-floats that help make the Grand Floral Parade so unique! With bands, equestrian units, marching groups, drill teams, vintage vehicles, dancers, llamas, flags and so much more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Click here for Parade Route Map

12pm-9pm: CityFair at Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Enjoy Entertainment, Food and Rides on the Waterfront!

Rose Festival's waterfront activities all take place at beautiful Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park, in downtown Portland.

At Rose Festival CityFair, you'll find your favorite fair features - carnival rides, fair foods, interactive exhibits, and constant entertainment - all nestled between the urban energy of the city and the natural beauty of the Willamette River.

Focus on Floats & Boats for Final Weekend
Rose Festival Fleet Week
Grand Floral Float Showcase (adjacent on SW Naito Pkwy)
Quantum Quest Pinball Fest

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