My favorite street festival in Portland! Yes, it is super crowded. Like side by side people filling…read morethe entire street! So go with expectations!
The bars, restaurants and shops along this stretch of Mississippi extend their business into the sidewalks and the street itself is lined with tents occupied by vendors of every imaginable kind. Jewelry, clothing, food products, pottery, art, leather, macrame, handbags, belts, wood carvings, plants, massage oils, baked goods, Tarot Card readers and more! Many are handmade from local artisans, some are mass produced, and some resale. It's a mixed bag.
There are three stages with music from local bands playing throughout the day and night, schedule provided online so you can plan accordingly. If you choose to sit within the gated area, you must be 21 or older since they serve alcohol in this area. Especially love the Norman Sylvester Band - they always get the crowd up and dancing and we plan our time to coincide with their performance!
The bars and restaurants get super crowded, obviously. Bar hopping is the thing at this street fair! The restaurants and bars require people to be 21 or older, so families be prepared and choose appropriate.
To satisfy your hunger, stop at one or more of the many amazing Food Trucks, so popular in Portland and now part of Portland's appeal. The trucks are located in dedicated sections at some of the cross streets, like N. Failing, and also throughout Mississippi. Ribs are always in high demand, as is the fried chicken! There are Thai, African, Mediterranean, Southern, Mexican, Chinese, American food trucks with some trucks offering healthy bowls (Fuego) and crepes (NE Creperie). An endless variety to satisfy everyone's cravings and budget. The Bourbon Beignets cart is a must, their New Orleons style beignets are to die for!
On a sunny day, it gets even hotter because of the crowds - escape into the shops for Air Conditioning.
Parking is exactly as expected at a crowded street festival in an old neighborhood with on-street parking. Take Uber or a Lyft or park a few blocks away. Fortunately because of my tiny car, I can always squeeze into a spot!
This fair is dog friendly. And of course people friendly, attracting so much diversity that you will wonder, is this Portland? Just remember it's challenging to walk down the street as a single so pushing strollers or holding hands of toddlers may be difficult. Same with a leashed dogs. If your dog does not enjoy crowds, I'd leave them home.
The Mississippi Street Fair is a great way to spend a few hours, day or night, for the best people watching, great music, delicious food and a feeling of community. I already have it in my calendar for next year!
