Thursday, June 19
Fermentation Celebration
Imagine the joy of the first discovery that a long forgotten beverage actually can actually get better with age. Channel that thrill of discovery with hundreds of your closest friends (because who isn't a friend once you've had a couple?) at the Fermentation Celebration. Give thanks for the abundance that is Bend's craft brew scene as you peruse 30 different beer stations throughout the Old Mill District. Live music will contribute to that festive feeling. Pro tip: Your memory may be a little fuzzy by the end, so consider taking notes on your favorites so you know what to order next time you're out.
4-10 pm. Old Mill District. $20 for a FC glass and nine tastings.
Sunday, June 29
Bite of Bend Beer Run
Once you've mastered your tipsy walk, why not try a buzzed run? As you make your way through a 5K race loop—starting at Drake Park, passing by Alpine Physical Therapy and returning through Columbia Park—three brew stops provide the fuel for your trip. We'd say it's about the journey not the destination, but the finish comes with more beer and, if you're one of the first 800 to cross the finish line, a commemorative Bite of Bend Beer Run souvenir. Best keep on chugging. Bonus: Prizes await those who compete in costume. Noon. Drake Park. $40.
Thursday, August 14 - Saturday, August 16
11th Annual Bend Brewfest
This is the county fair of beer festivals—Three days and more than 60 brewers. Even the gluten-free can find something to drink here, and under-21ers are welcome to enjoy the food and festivities until 7 pm. Don't want to pay to drink? Volunteers get a free mug, tokens, T-shirt and admittance to a special after party.
Noon-11 pm. Les Schwab Amphitheater. Free admission, $15 for a mug and five tasting tokens.
Friday, August 29 – Saturday, August 30
6th Annual Little Woody Barrel Aged Brew and Whiskey Fest
Celebrate the ancient technique of brewing beer in wooden barrels, and the tasty results. If you're not a beer drinker, well, we aren't sure why you live in Bend, but there will also be whiskey to taste, bands to enjoy and a friendly game of tug of war. The fest also features the Little Woody Adventure Scramble, an adults-only race-meets-scavenger hunt. Following the beer and whiskey fest, stick around for the 2nd Annual Little Woody Invitational golf tournament to continue bonding with all your new friends, all while raising funds for the Deschutes Historical Society.
5-10 pm Friday, noon-10 pm Saturday. Next to the Des Chutes Historical Museum. $8-$16 for entry and up to 10 tasting tokens, $40 for VIP package, $32 for Adventure Scramble.
