Overview and Experience:
The Oregon Brewers Festival (OBF) is one of the longest-running and most celebrated beer festivals in the United States. Held every July in Portland’s scenic Tom McCall Waterfront Park, the festival attracts tens of thousands of beer lovers who come to sample the best that Oregon’s renowned craft beer scene has to offer. Portland, often referred to as “Beervana,” is known for its rich brewing culture, and OBF is the crown jewel of the city’s beer calendar.
With over 80 participating breweries and more than 100 beers on tap, the festival offers a diverse range of styles and flavors, from hop-forward IPAs to complex barrel-aged stouts. The festival’s location on the banks of the Willamette River provides a stunning backdrop to the festivities, with views of the city’s skyline and iconic bridges.
The atmosphere at OBF is relaxed and family-friendly, with plenty of shaded areas for lounging, live music to enjoy, and a wide range of food trucks offering delicious eats. The festival is a celebration of community, beer, and the Pacific Northwest’s love of craft brewing.
The Beer Experience:
Oregon is home to some of the best craft breweries in the world, and the Oregon Brewers Festival is a showcase of the state’s brewing talent. The festival offers a wide variety of beer styles, with something to suit every palate. Some of the most popular styles at OBF include:
IPAs: Portland is famous for its IPAs, and OBF is the perfect place to sample some of the best examples of the style. Look out for juicy, hazy New England-style IPAs as well as more traditional West Coast IPAs with piney, resinous hop flavors.
Sours: Sour ales have become increasingly popular in recent years, and OBF features a variety of tart, fruity beers. From kettle sours to barrel-aged wild ales, there’s a sour beer for every taste.
Barrel-aged beers: Many of the participating breweries bring their barrel-aged creations to the festival. These beers are often aged in whiskey, bourbon, or wine barrels, imparting deep, complex flavors of oak, vanilla, and dark fruit.
Stouts and Porters: For those who prefer dark beers, OBF offers a range of rich, roasty stouts and porters. Whether you’re into coffee-infused stouts or chocolatey porters, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
Pale Ales: Crisp, refreshing pale ales are a festival favorite, and OBF features some of the best in the Pacific Northwest. These beers are hop-forward but balanced, with a light malt backbone that makes them easy to drink on a sunny day.In addition to Oregon breweries, the festival also features a selection of beers from across the United States and even a few international breweries, giving attendees the chance to taste beers from all over the world.
The Food Experience:
The Oregon Brewers Festival offers a fantastic selection of food to pair with your beer. Portland is known for its vibrant food truck scene, and many of the city’s best food trucks set up shop at the festival, offering everything from gourmet burgers to fresh seafood. Some of the must-try food options include:
Gourmet Burgers: Juicy, perfectly cooked burgers topped with everything from bacon and blue cheese to avocado and spicy aioli. These pair beautifully with a hoppy IPA or a malty amber ale.
Fish Tacos: Fresh, flavorful fish tacos served with salsa and guacamole. These light, refreshing bites are a perfect match for a crisp pilsner or pale ale.
BBQ Ribs and Brisket: Tender, smoky BBQ is always a crowd-pleaser, and the festival offers plenty of options. Pair your BBQ with a rich porter or a barrel-aged stout for the ultimate flavor combination.
Wood-fired Pizza: Many food vendors offer freshly made wood-fired pizzas, with toppings ranging from classic Margherita to more adventurous combinations like prosciutto and arugula. Pizza pairs well with just about any beer style, but a pale ale or IPA is always a safe bet.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options: Portland is a haven for plant-based eaters, and the festival caters to vegans and vegetarians with a variety of options, from falafel wraps to veggie burgers.Why Oregon Brewers Festival is Unique:
What sets the Oregon Brewers Festival apart is its focus on showcasing Oregon’s craft beer scene. The state is home to some of the most innovative and respected breweries in the world, and OBF is a celebration of that talent. The festival’s emphasis on community and sustainability also makes it stand out—many of the participating breweries are committed to using local ingredients and environmentally friendly practices.
The festival’s location is another highlight. Tom McCall Waterfront Park offers stunning views of the Willamette River and Portland’s iconic bridges, creating a picturesque setting for a day of beer tasting. The relaxed, laid-back atmosphere of the festival makes it a great event for both serious beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers.
Pro Tips for First-Time Attendees:
Arrive early: The festival can get crowded, especially on weekends, so it’s a good idea to arrive early if you want to avoid long lines at the beer stands and food trucks.
Bring a water bottle: OBF is held outdoors in the summer, and it can get hot. Be sure to stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle—there are plenty of water stations throughout the festival.
Pace yourself: With over 100 beers to try, it’s easy to overindulge. Be sure to pace yourself, drink plenty of water, and take breaks between tastings to enjoy the live music and food.
Explore Portland: While you’re in town for OBF, take some time to explore Portland’s many breweries, beer bars, and restaurants. The city is a beer lover’s paradise, and there’s always something new to discover.The Oregon Brewers Festival is a must-visit event for anyone who loves craft beer. With its stunning location, diverse beer selection, and laid-back atmosphere, it’s a perfect way to experience the best of Oregon’s brewing culture. Whether you’re sipping on a hazy IPA by the river or enjoying a barrel-aged stout with a plate of BBQ ribs, OBF offers an unforgettable beer experience in the heart of one of the country’s most vibrant beer cities.
