The Central Eastside Is Just Getting Started: Big Things Coming to the District in the Second Half of 2025
Central Eastside Together is excited to announce the recipients of the Spring 2025 Better Together Grant, awarding $30,000 to support seven unique projects across the district. The Better Together Grant supports a vibrant, dynamic community by catalyzing events and projects to increase foot traffic and highlight the District’s unique identity. Through funding arts and cultural events, public installations, and District-driven projects that boost co-creation, the grant fosters an engaging and inclusive environment that supports economic growth, and a strong sense of place.
Now in its third cycle, the grant program continues to highlight the district’s diverse industries and cultures through events that activate public spaces and strengthen local connections. Grants ranging from $3,000 to $7,000 have been awarded to projects spanning immersive art festivals, cultural celebrations, large-scale music events, and riverfront gatherings—each one reflecting the creativity and entrepreneurial energy that define the Central Eastside.
“We’re thrilled to support such a dynamic mix of events this cycle” said Brianna Woods, Director of the Enhanced Services District. "We received fifteen applications requesting nearly $100,000 in funding. The growing number of applicants is a testament to the Central Eastside’s long-standing role as a hub for innovation. It’s a great challenge to choose from so many exciting ideas, and one that underscores the district’s dynamic identity.”
Applications for the Fall 2025 Better Together Grant cycle will be due in October 2025 to fund events taking place between January 1, 2026 - June 30, 2026. For updates, visit Central Eastside Together. For additional information regarding the Enhanced Services District contact Brianna Woods at brianna@ceic.cc.
Spring 2025 Better Together Grantees:
Audrey McCall Summer Beach Parties
A series of free, weekly riverfront events at Audrey McCall Beach. These Tuesday evening gatherings feature riverside fun, live DJs, and post-swim discounts at local businesses—aimed at increasing foot traffic and activating the riverfront as a welcoming public space.
Presented by: Human Access Project, Hey Love, Bunk Bar, Vibrant Table
Date: Every Tuesday, July 1 – August 26, 2025 | 6 pm – Sunset
Location: Audrey McCall Beach
Happylucky Presents: Queers from the Country
This high-energy celebration of LGBTQ+ culture features country music, line dancing, drag performers, and interactive art exhibits. It brings together local and national talent, creating space for queer identities within country and rural music scenes through live shows and community-building activities.
Presented by: Happylucky, Opinionated, Good & Gold, 1000 Friends of Oregon
Date: July 19, 2025 | 12 pm – 11 pm
Location: 330 SE 6th
Wonderwarp: A Night Market Festival of Light, Sound & Soul
Wonderwarp is an immersive, one-night cultural festival featuring local vendors, performers, light and sound installations, and interactive art. This event transforms a traditional market into a multidimensional celebration of creativity and community.
Presented by: Wonderlove, Beatrox, I Rugs You
Date: August 2, 2025 | 5 pm – 2 am
Location: 1300 SE Main St.
Dream Big Street Plaza Takeover: FamJam x Rockstar Open 2025
Dream Big City transforms its Street Plaza into a cultural takeover celebrating skateboarding, mural painting, and youth-led events. With Olympic-level skaters, this event integrates art, culture, and local business visibility.
Presented by: Dream Big City, Rogue Brewery, Benjamin Moore - Dick’s Color Center
Date: August 15–17, 2025
Friday: VIP Kickoff at JaJaPDX | 6 pm – 10 pm
Saturday: Community Art Show, Open Skate, Giveaways | 5 pm – 10 pm
Location: SE 9th Ave. & SE Taylor
Lose Yr Mind Fest 2025
Lose Yr Mind Fest returns for its 10th edition, showcasing local and national artists in a multi-venue music festival. This year’s event includes performances, a makers market, and additional daytime activities that celebrate independent music, community, and creativity.
Presented by: Lose Yr Mind, Lollipop Shoppe, Swan Dive, The Get Down Music Venue
Date: September 11–15, 2025
Thursday: Kickoff Party | TBA
Friday & Saturday: Main Festival | 4 pm – 2 am
Sunday: Festival Wrap Party | TBA
Location: Multi-Venue TBA
NestFest
Anchored around the release of Willamette Week’s annual Nester Magazine, NestFest brings together design professionals, small businesses, and the community to celebrate Portland’s home design scene. The event includes a marketplace, workshops, and food/drink offerings, promoting the Central Eastside’s identity as a creative hub for design and culture.
Presented by: Willamette Week, Cargo Inc., Classique Floors + Tile, Pratt & Larson, Nomadic Vintage Rugs
Date: September 20, 2025 | 12 pm – 5 pm
Location: TBA
5th Annual Central Eastside Muertos Celebration
This district-wide celebration honors Latino culture with altars, performances, workshops, and bike rides. It supports local businesses and artists while creating immersive experiences that celebrate Día de los Muertos and build community connection.
Presented by: El Centro Milagro, Cargo Inc., Literary Arts, New Deal Distillery, Bar Botellón, Classique Floors + Tile, Nossa Familia Coffee, River City Bicycles
Date: October 4 – November 9, 2025 | Various Times TBA
Location: 525 SE Stark St., Various Locations TBA
For more information about the Better Together Grant and upcoming events, visit Central Eastside Together.