A three-day weekend filled with craft beer, fresh mountain air and a cozy lodge in the winter — few things capture the essence of Central Oregon quite like that. Beer lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike can head to The Suttle Lodge for a weekend of brews, live music and community when the lodge’s fifth annual Winter Beer Fest returns Friday, Feb. 21 through Sunday, Feb. 23, from noon to 5pm. Originally created to bring beer lovers together and highlight the diversity of craft brewing, the festival has grown into a must-attend winter event, drawing breweries and beer connoisseurs from across the region.
“Every year, we’ve been inspired by the enthusiasm and creativity of the breweries,” says Anne Wilson, sales manager at The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse. “The event is about celebrating both the craft and the community — where passionate brewers and beer lovers alike can come together over great beer and cider, lively conversations and the spirit of collaboration.”
This year’s festival features almost 50 craft breweries, including local favorites such as Bend Brewing, Sunriver Brewing and Crux, plus Portland’s Wayfinder Beer, Newberg’s Wolves & People and pFriem from Hood River. There’ll be special food offerings, live music and a welcoming atmosphere surrounded by towering pines. Guests should also look out for new festival merchandise, including mugs, sweatshirts and warms socks.
“What started as an intimate gathering with just a few local breweries has grown into a premier winter event, with an impressive 49 breweries participating this year,” Wilson says. “It’s a true testament to the growing craft beer community.”
Attendees can expect an exciting lineup of limited-edition and seasonal brews, from bold stouts to hop-forward IPAs from local and regional favorites, ensuring something for every palate. Since Suttle Lodge is a dog-friendly property, four-legged companions are welcome to join the fun.
To top it all off, the event supports a great cause: A portion of the proceeds will be donated to CASA of Central Oregon, which advocates for children in need.
This article appears in The Source Weekly February 13, 2025.
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