Get ready to raise a pint to toast all things craft beer for the 15th annual Bend Brewfest, scheduled for Aug. 10-12 at the Les Schwab Amphitheater in Bend, Ore.’s Old Mill District. Traditionally held on the third weekend in August, this year’s event was moved up to accommodate the highly anticipated solar eclipse which will pass over Central Oregon.
Once again, breweries from around the region will apply to share their creations with nearly 40,000 patrons. Brewery applications are available on the Bend Brewfest website and are due by February 28.
“There is a huge amount of interest each year from breweries all around the region,” said Marney Smith, director of the festival. “With only 75 spots available, we always have a wait list. We will be announcing the final brewery lineup in late March.”
RELATED: Five key concepts craft brewers should embrace at beer events
Last year’s event served up 190 craft beverages to 38,000+ visitors, raising more than $18,000 for charity. The money was divided equally among three local nonprofit organizations to help them achieve their respective missions:
- Deschutes River Conservancy — to restore streamflow and improve water quality in the Deschutes Basin.
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon — to provide mentoring programs for area youth.
- Neighbor Impact — to help families access skills for success, family services, financial assistance, food, housing, heat and energy assistance.
Smith continued, “For us, one of the most important parts of this event is giving back. Each year, we are able to support our beneficiaries in a significant way, and we want to thank everyone who came out, bought beer and helped raise money for our community. Let’s do it again in 2017!”
Each year festival visitors can taste both incredibly rare and popular beers from nano-breweries to some of the most highly recognized craft breweries in the region, in addition to hand-crafted ciders and wine. The X-Taps showcase low-production, specialty beers not available in stores or restaurants.
