There may be no better way to spend St. Patrick’s Day in the Pacific Northwest than heading to Seaside, Oregon for the 9th Annual Pouring at the Coast brew fest. Held at the Seaside Civic and Convention Center, it’s the only place where you can sample beer and wine from over 30 breweries.
It’s no secret that Oregon and Washington are becoming known for our excellent local beers and this festival will have something for everyone – whether your taste is for traditional beers or craft beers created by microbreweries – with over 70 beers to choose from, there is sure to be one you like.
The Start of Something Special
Pouring at the Coast began in 2009, when past Seaside Chamber of Commerce Director Al Smiley shared his love of beer with local Seaside brewery owner Jimmy Griffin. Through a series of discussions, the idea to create an event was discussed and the breweries dinner was born.
These dinners attracted more than 60 guests each night and centered on pairing the beers with specific dishes. But soon more ideas surfaced and the Pouring at the Coast was on the horizon. With the growing popularity of craft beers, it seemed like a winning idea that paired perfectly with Seaside’s beautiful setting, just like Guinness and oysters.
Organized jointly by the Seaside Chamber and Jimmy Griffin, the Pouring at the Coast has grown into a major yearly event hosting between 700-900 people each year. “It is a perfect fit for Seaside at this time of year,” says Chamber employee Sandi McDowall.
Schedule of Events for the Pouring at the Coast
The Pouring at the Coast begins on Saturday, March 17 at 3:00 p.m. and runs to 8:00 p.m. While you partake in the beer tasting and wine tasting, the Pouring is the perfect atmosphere to hang out with friends. Live music from two bands will complete the party feel and definitely add to the ambience as you sip your stout or admire the glow of a pale ale.
One of the highlights of the day is the Craft Beer Festival and People’s Choice Competition. This is where you get to sample some beer and vote on your festival favorites!
Admission is just $20 and includes a souvenir tasting glass and five tasting tickets. A special pre-order admission for $25 that includes a souvenir pilsner glass and seven tasting tickets is only available in a limited number and only if you purchase your admission online.
Seaside is a great place to get away, enjoy the beautiful beaches, great shopping and experience this year’s Pouring at the Coast. With so much to do, it’s a great place to spend a night or two for the perfect weekend getaway. There are many wonderful places to stay in Seaside, including Starry Night Inn, a newly renovated 1919 Victorian home that has been transformed into a magical bed & breakfast, and the iconic The Tides by the Sea, where the first thing you will see when you wake up each morning is the breaking waves in one for their oceanfront rooms. For something fun, be sure to check out suite 157, known as the “Titanic Room” or suite 147, the romantic “Emerald Suite.”
To purchase tickets, visit the Pouring at the Coast website.
