Change can be a awkwardly scary adventure. Whether it’s as stressful as moving into a new place or as small as trying a new beer, the chance you could dread the outcome is worse than watching one of the “Paranormal Activity” movies. But with a motto like, “Taste the greatest beer you’ve never heard of,” it’s best to dive head first into a realm of new beer, and leave any qualms you have with change in your fridge at home.
Ales, lagers and ciders will flow again at the Seattle International Beerfest returning July 5–7 with a world of more than 200 options and a similiar stint July 19-21 for the Portland International Beerfest. Traveling from as far as Ethiopia and throughout Europe to local favorites in Seattle and Portland, guests at this fest are encouraged to arrive with a thirst for adventure and an appetite for all styles of beer be it a crisp IPA or a dense Imperial Stout.
Beerfest buffs will notice the typical ticket for a taste doesn’t apply to all the beers at this event. Since some those arriving have traveled far and wide to be in the Northwest with bigger ABV to boot, some tastes require up to seven tickets. Thankfully, more than 50 great options will be available for one ticket.
This festival’s popularity grew so much last year that it had to move 100 yards from its old home to occupy the Fisher Pavilion, just west of Key Arena, and the lawn in front of it. The result is double the space for more seating and a lush lawn to enjoy a picnic on while you explore the brews. Portland’s rendition will go down in the Pearl District’s North Park Blocks.
But a Seattle beerfest adventure wouldn’t be complete without delicious food while traveling the terrain. Theme your international beer with the local fare from Pagliacci Pizza, Dante’s Inferno Dogs and the city’s traveling Pretzelwagen. And in Portland, KOi Fusion, East Burn, Potato Champion and Albina City Nuts will be holding down the food portion of the event.
Other attractions include a cigar bar, a Lambic blending and tasting class, live music and the Grande Beer Garden where taps will pour cold pints of Pilsner Urquell for $3 the entire weekend.
After the first day, if you’re still feeling adventurous, keep your wristband on and return with your tasting glass for free. More tickets will be available to purchase once inside, or hold onto your tickets for another day.
Don’t let your fear of change stop you any longer. This festival will be just the thing you’ll need to get you on your feet and tasting some of the best from around the world.
Friday, July 5–7 || Fri. 4–10pm, Sat. 12–10pm, Sun. 12–7pm || Seattle Center’s Fisher Pavilion || 305 Harrison St., Seattle || Tickets: adv. $25/$45, door $30 (cash only)
Friday, July 19–21 || Fri. 4–10pm, Sat. 12–10pm, Sun. 12–7pm || North Park Blocks || 200 NW Park Ave., Portland || Tickets: adv. $25/$45, door $30 (cash only)
