Tag: Threshold Brewing & Blending

Event, Food and Drink February 19, 2026

Zwickelmania Brewery Shuttle Service Loops Through Montavilla on Feb 21st

On February 21st, Zwickelmania returns to Oregon, with two of Montavilla’s breweries joining more than 55 other craft beer makers from across the state. Host businesses offer attendees Zwickel tasting pours from the fermentation tanks and guided brewery tours. Montavilla Brew Works at 7805 SE Stark Street and Threshold Brewing & Blending at 403 SE 79th Avenue will again participate in this annual celebration of local beer makers. Event organizers will offer free sober transportation between sites via a network of shuttle buses, which should broaden participants’ exposure to Portland’s selection of independent brewers.

Zwickelmania is an annual celebration of Oregon craft beer during Oregon Craft Beer Month, organized by the Oregon Brewers Guild. Member breweries open their production facility to the public for a behind-the-scenes view of their operation and to offer unique sampling opportunities. The event’s name stems from the industry term Zwickel, describing the valve or sample port mounted outside a cask or tank. Brewers use those ports to test the product during fermentation, and this annual event allows people 21 years or older to taste beer from a producer’s perspective.

The 2026 beer-centric program offers a safe way for event attendees to visit more breweries through a free shuttle service that transports them to 16 participating Portland establishments. Attendees can catch one of six vehicles driving on two routes throughout the Eastside. This service allows drinkers to experience the event in several neighborhoods without getting behind the wheel or losing time taking indirect public transit. The participating businesses want people to enjoy the experience without overindulging while learning about the region’s craft beer producers. “We have bags of pretzels we’ll probably put on the tables to keep people eating and keep them hydrated,” said Michael Kora of Montavilla Brew Works. “Because if you get on the bus and even hit half of one of these routes, that’s a party.” During the event hours of 11 a.m. through 5 p.m., buses will depart from each location approximately every 30 minutes. The two shuttle routes overlap at Migration Brewing on NE Glisan Street for riders to transfer. However, there are too many participating locations to reach them all via the bus service during the event timeline, so people must plan to visit their favorite locations first or decide to explore some new beer makers.

Interior view of a brewing facility, featuring stainless steel fermentation tanks, a staircase, and various brewing equipment. — *_{Montavilla Brew Works at 7805 SE Stark Street}*

Kora explained that Montavilla Brew Works has always made beer production front and center in its tap room, with the fermentation tanks only protected by a table-height wall and a roped-off entrance. “I think you can go to a lot of breweries and there’s a pub out front and there’s some stainless [tanks in the back]. I guess there’s a brewery back there, but we’ve always liked to have it showcased,” Kora said. “So on a day like[Zwickelmania], it’s even more fun because people can cross the line and go into our workspace and hang out with us.” The brewery will be open from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Saturday, with the last tour starting around 4:30 p.m. People on the tour can have free samples at the brewer’s discretion, but patrons must pay for anything ordered at the bar or from the Oi! The Sausage food vender working the event. Kora said he will release a new Scottish Porter at the event, adding to a line of brews he has created that honors his heritage. “My mom came here when she was eight years old with her family. Cruised into Ellis Island, signed papers, and moved to Michigan. My grandparents started a family and started a new life. So I get to be a first-generation American,” recalled Kora. “Scottish beers often are thought of as very heavy, big alcohol, dark, which is true in some of them. But the Scots drink a lot of lager, they drink IPAs, they drink porters. So we’re starting to look into more historical styles and bring them out. It’s a cool story to tell, and they’re really good beers.”

Threshold will open for brewery tours every hour starting at 11 a.m. People can also find special beer tappings, unique food menu items, a prize raffle, and a live DJ. The Threshold team also created an “Ultimate Zwickelmania Survival Kit” consisting of wearable snacks, hydration, energy boosts, Underberg digestif bitter, a shuttle map, and a glossary of brewhouse terms. These are offered on a first-come, first-served basis to Threshold visitors while supplies last.

Interior view of a brewery with a wooden bar displaying merchandise and drinks, two staff members behind the counter, and a chalkboard menu listing various beverages and events. — *_{Threshold Brewing & Blending at 403 SE 79th Avenue}*

Zwickelmania’s organizers gear the event toward craft beer enthusiasts who can sample directly from the Zwickel port, find unique beer releases, take tours, and meet brewers who provide educational talks. Kora also stressed how important it is to reach a wider audience that may not know about the breweries in Montavilla. “Zwickelmania sometimes brings out people that are not as familiar with us, or the brand, or the neighborhood. And so that’s where I get really excited.” Some host locations will offer food and beer pairings or specials. This non-ticketed event will only cost the price of beer and food at each location. Designated drivers can also find non-alcoholic drinks at the event. Oi! The Sausage will start selling grilled single sausages on a bun at Montavilla Brew Works in the afternoon. People interested in attending should visit the Zwickelmania website for more information and an up-to-date list of participating brewers.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Event flyer for Zwickelmania, an Oregon brewery tour, scheduled for Saturday, February 21 from 11 am to 5 pm, featuring a free shuttle service with buses departing approximately every 30 minutes. The map displays two routes with various breweries highlighted.

Brewery	What They Offer
1188 Brewing Company	Food and beer pairings, specials, vote for your favorite beer
Allgood Brewing Company	Tours, meet the brewer, $5 pint specials all day
Arch Rock Brewing	Brewery tours, zwickel and/or other free samples
Away Days Brewing	Pin of cask ale for free samples and education about cask conditioned beers
Baerlic Brewing Company	Brewery tours, meet the brewer, zwickel samples, pizza from Ranch Pizza
Barsideous Brewing	Ghost stories, guided theater and brewery tours, special beer releases, zwickel samples
Bevel Craft Brewing	Brewery tours, zwickel samples, meet the brewer, special beer release
Binary Brewing Co.	Brewery tours, special beer release, brewing education, zwickel samples
Boneyard Beer	New beer release, self-guided tours, zwickel samples, free pickles, food truck
Breakside Brewery – Slabtown	Special beer release, brewery tours, meet the brewer, zwickel samples
Buoy Beer Co	State of Excitement beer for 25 cents from 5:00-5:15pm (1 per customer)
Claim 52 Brewing	Final Zwickelmania at original location, zwickel samples with brewers
Conversion Brewing	Brewing and ingredient education, guided tasting, brewery tours
Cooper Mountain Ale Works	Food and beer pairing flights, brewery tours, meet the brewer, special release
Crooked Creek Brewery	Brewery tours, meet the brewer, zwickel samples, food specials, free coozies
Crux Fermentation Project	Samples off barrels, special beer release, beer pairings
Deschutes Brewery – Bend	Self-guided tours, samples of beers, NA brews, flavored malt beverages
Deschutes Brewery – Portland	Brewery tours (first come, first served), meet brewers, special releases, food specials
Double Mountain Brewing	Short tours all day with small bites and zwickel samples, complimentary glass
Falling Sky Brewing	Brewery tours and zwickel samples all day
Ferment Brewing Company	Brewing process tours, zwickel samples, special beer release
Fort George Brewery	Full production facility tour, meet the brewer, multiple zwickel samples
Gigantic Brewing Company	Brewery tours, zwickel tastings, live music in Barrel Room, Flying Fish oysters and seafood
Grand Fir Brewing	Brewery tours, meet the brewer, zwickel samples, food specials
Ground Breaker Brewing	Gluten-free brewery tour with educational points, zwickel samples, food specials with Salvi PDX
Golden Valley Brewery	Guided educational tours and samples at 12pm and 2pm
Heater Allen/Gold Dot Beer	Brewery tours, meet the brewer, zwickel samples, beer & pretzel pairings
Hopworks Urban Brewery	Brewery tours, pizza and beer pairings
Krauski’s Brewski’s	Nano brewery tours, samples from the source, meet the brewer, live music 6-9pm
Lazy Days Brewing	Brewer tours, special beer release, pizza & food specials, zwickel samples
Leikam Brewing	Records with Tasha from Second Chance records, brewery tours, zwickel samples
Level Beer	Brewer led tours, tank samples, free hop water for designated drivers
Living Haus Beer Co	Brewery tours, meet the brewer, zwickel samples
Lucky Lab Brewing	Brewery tours and guided tastings
Migration Brewing Co.	16th Anniversary celebration, collaborations with Upright and Threshold, tours, zwickel samples
***Montavilla Brew Works***	Oi! The Sausage food cart, meet the brewer, zwickel samples, raffles, cask beer release, live music
Ninkasi Brewing	Special beer release
Oakshire Brewing	Food & beer specials, special flight, Hellshire XV barrel-aged blend release
Old Town Brewing	Brewery tours, zwickel samples, guided tastings, pizza and beer pairings with Baby Doll Pizza
pFriem Family Brewers – Hood River	Exclusive brewery tours, complimentary beer tastings, small bites
pFriem Family Brewers – Milwaukie	Complimentary beer tastings, small bites
Public Coast	Brewery tours, guided tasting, zwickel samples
Root and Rye Hop Farm & Brewery	First pint for $5, meet the brewery, tours and zwickel samples
Side A Brewing	Brewery tours and samplings, Dead of Winter party
Sisu Brewing Co.	Brewery tours and samples at 12pm and 1pm on historic theater stage
Spider City Brewing	Time slots with head brewer Melanie Betti, brewery tour/history, guided tasting, food specials
Steeplejack Brewing Co.	Brewery tours, special pin tapping, food and beer pairings
StormBreaker Brewing	Brewery tours, guided tastings, zwickel samples, barrel-aged bottle ring toss, prize wheel, 12th anniversary
Sunriver Brewing	Burlington Hazy IPA release, maple sugar primed cask, Vermont-themed food, ice cream float shots
Terranaut Beer	Brewery tours, special beer release, meet the brewer, zwickel samples
***Threshold Brewery and Blending***	Hourly tours, free shuttle every 30 min, Ultimate Zwickelmania Survival Pack™, food specials
Thunder Island Brewing Co	Brewery tours, meet the brewer, guided tastings with small bites, zwickel samples
UPP Liquids	Meet the brewers, beer samples with Bavarian pretzel pairings, tours
Von Ebert Brewing	Brewer led tours, zwickel samples, guided tastings, free bottle openers
Wayfinder Beer	Brewery tours, guided tastings, meet the brewer, zwickel samples, food specials
Wild Ride Brewing	Guided tours, meet the brewers, zwickel samples, complimentary beer & cookie pairings
Worthy Brewing	Meet the brewer, brewer-led tours, zwickel samples, swag raffle, $5 pints, $3 fries, $6 pizza bites
Zoiglhaus Brewing	Brewer lead tours, meet the brewer, zwickel samples

Promotion: Check out East Portland News as it continues to advocate for and report on outer East Portland. You will find frequently updated articles and an archive of more than 5,000 stories written over the past 20+ years alongside a robust Community Calendar of events.

Community, Event, Food and Drink October 17, 2025

Montavilla’s 2025 Fall Crawl and Trick or Treat Events

Starting October 17th, visitors to select Montavilla businesses can pick up a “Fall Crawl Passport” card from participating locations and collect stickers with purchases to earn a raffle entry. Completed passports are due back at Arbor Hall on SE Stark Street or Replicant/Mudd Works Cafe by the close of the event on October 31st. During the sticker collecting and business visiting event, the Montavilla East Tabor Business Association (METBA) will also host a Trick or Treat event on Sunday, October 26th. A printed map shows key participants, and the METBA site displays individual business hours for the candy giveaway.

METBA organized both events as part of its annual tradition to create a safe and fun celebration of Autumn. The idea of a Montavilla pub crawl grew in popularity in 2019 when Threshold opened the neighborhood’s second brewery in the historic SE Stark Street downtown area. The concept grew into a more formalized event as part of METBA’s Harvest Festival and now includes a variety of activities, including a week-long shopping event for a chance to win a prize. Additionally, bars, restaurants, and other participating businesses may offer special entertainment and discounts.

A decorated house at night with colorful green and red lights, featuring Halloween decorations, including skeletons, pumpkin lanterns, and a ghost figure. — *_{Montavilla home decorated for Halloween}*

Burgerville at 8218 NE Glisan Street will offer a free coupon for a food item with purchase for passport holders. Kim’s Tae Kwon-Do at 9003 SE Stark Street will provide free classes for passport holders on Tuesday and Thursday during the event from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Montavilla Brew Works at 7805 SE Stark Street will host a special beer release on Halloween, celebrating its three new fall/winter seasonal brews. NightOwl Custom Apparel will offer free stickers and treats for those visiting the shop at 7114 NE Glisan Street in costume. The Glisan Fred Meyers branch of OnPoint Community Credit Union, located at 6615 NE Glisan Street, will feature a prize wheel on October 31st and offer candy on all other passport dates.

For October 26th specific activities, Beanstalk Children’s Resale at 8021 SE Stark Street will have “trick-or-treat goodies for the kiddos” from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. DolFUN Dynamics will host a free Halloween party from 2 to 3 p.m. for children twelve years old and younger at 9260 SE Stark Street, along with a discount of $50 off the first month of classes for new enrollments. Personal Beast at 8119 SE Stark Street is offering a 25% discount on select dog and cat bulk treats from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Although not included on the map, Threshold Brewing & Blending, Academy Theater, and Flying Pie Pizza will participate in the Trick or Treat event.

A spooky Halloween-themed display featuring a creepy clown figure with glowing yellow eyes, holding a large lollipop, surrounded by colorful banners and festive decorations. — *_{2023 Nightmare on Taylor Street haunted walkthrough animated creature}*

Many more locations will participate. An extensive list is available on the METBA Fall Events website page at metba.org. People trying to win the raffle can receive two stickers per purchase of $5 or more from participating locations, and every five stickers counts towards a raffle entry to increase the chances of winning. For a scarier, yet family-friendly event, consider “Nightmare on Taylor St,” featuring The Madhouse of MonstaVilla at 7926 SE Taylor Street. That October 31st event is a haunted walkthrough hosted by a resident who creates an elaborate experience for the neighborhood. As with most years, Montavilla plans to have an active fall celebration throughout the last half of October. Look for these events and more through the neighborhood.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Community, Review - Opinion October 13, 2025October 12, 2025

Portland Taproom in Tokyo Japan

In the bustling Shibuya section of Tokyo, Japan, PDX Taproom offers a slice of Portland craft beer culture to travelers and locals alongside a healthy serving of the City’s charm. During my two-week stint working abroad, I had the opportunity to visit the ten-year-old pub started by Miyuki Hiramatsu. I found a Portland-themed establishment that accurately represents our City’s brewing stature and embodies some of the Rose City’s more endearing features.

A glass of craft beer from PDX Taproom resting on a wooden bar counter, beside a coaster that reads 'Montavilla News'. — *_{Gigantic Brewing Company – Gravity Drop IPA served at the PDX Taproom Tokyo, Japan}*

Hiramatsu studied in the Portland area for several years in the early 90s, attending Wilson High School (now named Ida B. Wells-Barnett High School) and Linfield College (known as Linfield University as of 2020). She returned to her home in Tokyo, where she worked for Columbia Sportswear Japan before opening PDX Taproom. In a posted note to visitors, Hiramatsu explained how her business embodies two passions that she now shares with the people of her native City. “I LOVE Portland and craft beer so much that I decided to open a bar of my own so I can deliver Portland culture, community, lifestyle, and trend to people.”

A letter from Miyuki Hiramatsu, owner of PDX Taproom, thanking customers and sharing her background, handwritten in a notebook on a wooden table. — *_{PDX Taproom guest book with message from owner Miyuki Hiramatsu}*

The small space in a second-floor storefront is packed with Portland stickers and memorabilia. Corners of the bar feature Blazers, Pickles, Timbers, and Thorns supporter-wear. The bathroom pays tribute to The Portland Loo and TriMet. Behind the bar, the tap list features nine craft beers and one cider, mostly from Oregon. On the day of my visit, several regional breweries, including Thunder Island Brewing, Ex Novo Brewing Company, Deschutes Brewery, Baerlic Brewing, Rogue Ales, Migration Brewing, Gigantic Brewing Company, Breakside Brewery, and Bauman’s Cider Company, had tap handles available for a pint or a half-pint pour. Montavilla’s own Threshold Brewing & Blending is represented on the keg cooler door in the collection of stickers.

An interior view of PDX Taproom in Tokyo, showcasing Portland Timbers memorabilia including scarves, shirts, and a map of Portland on the wall. — Portland team sports are well represented at PDX Taproom

A wooden shelf displaying a map and photos of public transportation, alongside bottles of sanitizer and paper towels. — Portland team sports are well represented at PDX Taproom

PDX Taproom’s bartender explained he had visited Portland once in 2018 and greatly enjoyed his visit. Despite having only stayed in the City once, he feels well-connected to Rip City thanks to the consistent stream of Portlanders walking through the door. Since starting there, he estimates that at least three PDX residents walk into the taproom each day. That steady traffic of Rose City residents has recently increased to five daily visitors after a video by Wesleigh Ogle with KATU highlighted the bar’s unique theming. Some days, up to ten people from Oregon order a brew and talk about their home with the people behind the counter, adding to the staff’s knowledge of the City nearly 4,900 miles away.

A round sticker with text in both English and Japanese that reads, 'I made it to PDX TAPROOM! Shibuya, Tokyo', featuring an outline of the state of Oregon and a glass.

After exchanging stickers with the bartender, we spoke about his next trip to Portland. I extended an invitation to come to Montavilla to sample our local brews and introduce him to the diverse culinary creations offered by our food carts, which pair perfectly with the City’s brewing culture. People traveling to Tokyo can visit PDX Taproom at 〒150-0001 Tokyo, Shibuya, Jingumae, 5 Chome−30−2 2F. Let them know you are from Portland, and they will offer you a special sticker to document your trip to Portland’s Japanese taproom outpost.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Entertainment, Event, Food and Drink August 26, 2025

Montavilla Jazz Village Partner Events

The Montavilla Jazz Festival kicks off its 2025 performances on August 29th with ticketed events throughout the neighborhood and in various locations around Portland’s Eastside. However, the music celebration is not limited to indoor and outdoor music venues. The group worked with Montavilla businesses to create “Village Partner Events” in Montavilla’s Historic Downtown and along NE Glisan Street. People can visit those establishments all three weekend nights to take in Jazz without a festival ticket.

A storefront in Montavilla featuring a blue exterior with yellow trim, displaying signs for 'Red X' and 'Opening Soon'.

Exterior view of Montavilla Brew Works featuring a bright yellow wall with the words 'Fresh Beer' painted on it, white tents set up outside, and a nearby street sign for 76th Avenue.

On Friday, August 29th, the Academy Theater will play Spike Lee’s 1990 movie “Mo’ Better Blues” at 4 p.m. Then Replicant Beer & Wine PDX will feature performances by Edad del Pavo at 6 p.m. and DJ Joe Ball at 7 p.m. Saturday, August 30th, Replicant Beer & Wine PDX will feature a Clackamas CC Duo at noon, with the Spy Mohr Trio on stage at 5:30 p.m. and DJ Papa Warrior at 7:30 p.m. Threshold Brewing & Blending will start hosting performances at 3 p.m. with Shiloh Rush. Then they feature Swingin’ Sounds Jam at 5 p.m. People can continue the fun by visiting Montavilla Brew Works at 6 p.m. to hear MHCC Hogan Street Combo, and then hop over to Vino Veritas Wine Bar and Bottle Shop for a 7 p.m. show from a PSU Student Combo.

Exterior view of the Academy Theater with illuminated marquee displaying current movies, including 'Gladiator 2', 'Wicked', and 'Moana 2'.

The Academy Theater will offer repeat showings of “Mo’ Better Blues” at 1 p.m. on the weekend and then on Sunday, August 31st, Replicant Beer & Wine PDX will host another Clackamas CC Duo at noon. Starting up again at 4 p.m. that evening, they will feature Thilo Kluth Trio, followed by DJ Sanjo at 6 p.m. Threshold Brewing & Blending has Eli Amundson performing at 1 and 3 p.m., followed by Swingin’ Sounds Jam at 5 p.m. Montavilla Brew Works will host the MHCC Kane Street Combo at 6 p.m. and at 7 p.m., a second PSU Student Combo will play at Vino Veritas Wine Bar and Bottle Shop.

Event organizers hope that anyone interested in enjoying the Montavilla Jazz Festival will have the opportunity to find a performance that suits their schedule and preferred venue. People should visit montavillajazz.org to view detailed information or to purchase tickets.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Community, Entertainment, Event, Food and Drink July 18, 2025July 21, 2025

2025 Montavilla Street Fair July 27

On Sunday, July 27th, the Montavilla East Tabor Business Association (METBA) will host the 12th annual Street Fair on SE Stark Street. Early that morning, crews will close the road from SE 82nd to 76th Avenues along with segments of side streets to allow the 150 booth operators to set up ahead of the 10 a.m. opening. Vendors will sell a variety of items, including food and drinks, unique artwork, handcrafted goods, and clothing. Mixed in with people selling items, organizations will provide information, and performers will entertain the crowds until 6 p.m. Vehicle traffic will resume on the street later that evening after organizers clear the area. Still, people can stay in the neighborhood to visit the bars and restaurants along SE Stark and NE Glisan Streets. Last year, an estimated 25,000 people visited Montavilla’s historic downtown from around the region, participating in the annual 1,400-foot-long community party.

Graphic promoting the Montavilla Street Fair featuring a live music stage and an audience of diverse people, with a dog and food vendor tents in the scene. The event date is displayed as Sunday, July 27, 2025.

On Wednesday, July 16th, sign installers placed the banner over SE Stark Street at 80th Avenue, announcing the Street Fair dates to everyone passing by. Although many people in the area have already marked the date on their calendars, raising the banner represents Montavilla’s invitation to the city of Portland. Thousands of visitors attend this annual neighborhood event, driving record sales to local businesses and introducing people to the historic Montavilla downtown area.

Banner announcing the Montavilla Street Fair hanging over SE Stark Street, with shops and trees visible in the background.

Event organizers will feature the big brass sounds of a mini HONK! Fest PDX on SE 80th Avenue. People can also enjoy performances at the SE 79th Avenue Plaza Stage next to the Threshold Brewing beer garden. The main stage will feature a diverse mix of local Portland music and national touring artists. Montavilla Brew Works will sponsor a special stage located across from their brewery at SE Stark Street and 78th Avenue, where they will host one of the four beer gardens, with Tinker Tavern and The Observatory rounding out the beer-centered street fair destinations. Many past fair booth operators are returning, alongside a new crop of makers, food vendors, and organizations. As a bonus, the Montavilla Farmers Market will be open during its regular hours on the 27th, providing attendees with access to more booths and food options at SE 76th Avenue and Stark.

A colorful promotional poster for the Montavilla Street Fair and HONK! Portland event, featuring playful watermelon graphics, dates, and event details.

Sponsorship from Adventist Health Portland, OnPoint Community Credit Union, Mr. Plywood, and the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) helps fund what has become one of the largest street fairs in Portland. People can find day-of-event updates and the full music lineup, including performance times, at the METBA website (metba.org).

Update July 21, 2025: This article was updated with more detailed information about the side street music offerings and beer gardens.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Promotion: Montavilla News will have a booth at the fair this year. We will giving away stickers and sell year subscriptions that will come with a logoed hat or pin, while supplies last.

Bar, Entertainment, Event, Food and Drink June 19, 2025

Friday Beer Event and Hot Dog Cookoff in Montavilla Plaza

On Friday, June 20th, the second annual “Hop Dogs” event will greet hungry and thirsty guests from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Montavilla Plaza on SE 79th Avenue at SE Stark Street. Last year’s winner, Ruse Brewing, will compete against Grand Fir Brewing, Gold Dot Beer, Foreland Beer, and Threshold Brewing. The brewers will offer the crowd a custom hot dog with creative toppings designed by the team, which people can pair with one of their hoppiest West Coast IPA beers.

Interior view of a brewery taproom featuring a chalkboard menu with various beer options and prices, two staff members serving customers, and a rustic wooden bar with merchandise.

The all-ages venue allows families to participate in this event, presented as part of Portland Beer Week, a City-Wide yearly celebration running from June 13th to the 22nd in 2025. The Montavilla-hosted cookoff features five West Coast IPA brewers bringing their best hot dog recipes to the public in a friendly competition of flavors and brew craft. Drinking-age adults can select beers and hot dogs in several paired combos ranging from full pints, full dogs, half pints, and shorty dogs. A $7 ticket purchased at the event will allow attendees to pick up either one full-size hot dog or one full-size beer, so people can mix and match as they desire. Curious culinary adventures can also choose to purchase a flight of five shorty dogs to sample the range of flavors for three tickets. The cookoff is an open event, with no need to reserve a spot. However, hotdogs will be available while supplies last, starting at 5 p.m.

A colorful graphic featuring four superhero characters, each holding a beer, alongside a golden retriever wearing a cape, amidst a backdrop of hop plants. The words 'HOP DOGS' and 'West Coast IPA & Hot Dogs' are prominently displayed. — *_{Graphic courtesy Portland Beer Week}*

This returning hot dog and brew event is building momentum as more people enjoy the artful pairing. “Hop Dogs is based on a concept I have been kicking around for a few years. The brewers have a ton of fun and enthusiasm for the hot dogs as well as the beers; they can get really into it, even hand-making the toppings themselves. We worked out the kinks last year, where we had a handful of people making all of the different dogs. Last year, we used a large hot dog roller, but this year, Threshold founder and brewmaster Jarek Szymanski will be grilling them himself,” explained Ezra Johnson-Greenough with Portland Beer Week. “Also, this year, there will be individual brewery reps making each dog; this way, they can really get into the groove of that custom hot dog and put it together to perfection.”

Event organizers will conduct a “people’s choice” vote for Best Dog and also Best West Coast IPA, presenting two awards. People should look over the available hot dog options and come hungry this Friday night.

Threshold Brewing – Tropic Thunder: Good Dog Guava Teriyaki Mustard, Kewpy, Mango, Jalapeño and Pickled Onion Chutney, Fried Wonton Crumble
Gold Dot Brewing – Dan Dan Dog: Cream Cheese, Dan Dan Sauce, Yacai, Roasted Peanuts, Green Onions, Sichuan Peppercorn
Grand Fir Brewing – Farmers Market Dog: Heirloom Tomatoes, Pickled Peppers, Whipped Cheese with Poppy Seeds, Green Garlic Ranch Sauce
Ruse Brewing – Michigan-Style Coney Dog: Zesty Meat Sauce, Minced Onions and Yellow Mustard
ForeLand Beer – Der Snack: Obatzda Bavarian Cheese, Beer Mustard, Onions and Chives

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Bar, Entertainment, Event, Food and Drink February 14, 2025July 7, 2025

Zwickelmania Returns with Shuttle Service

On February 22nd, Zwickelmania returns to Oregon with two of Montavilla’s breweries joining more than 50 other craft beer makers from all areas across the state. Host businesses offer attendees Zwickel tasting pours from the fermentation tanks and leading brewery tours. Montavilla Brew Works at 7805 SE Stark Street and Threshold Brewing & Blending at 403 SE 79th Avenue will again participate in this annual celebration of local beer makers. Event organizers will offer sober transportation between sites through a network of shuttle buses that should widen participants’ exposure to Portland’s selection of independent brewers.

The 2025 beer-centric program features a safe way for event attendees to enjoy more brewery locations through free shuttle buses that transport people to participating establishments. This service allows drinkers to experience the event in several neighborhoods without getting behind the wheel or losing time taking indirect public transit. “On a day where people are tasting a lot of beers, this is a great way for people to see more breweries and do it safely,” explained Michael Kora of Montavilla Brew Works. During the event hours of 11 a.m. through 4 p.m., buses will depart each location at close to 30-minute intervals. The two shuttle routes overlap at Migration Brewing on NE Glisan Street for riders to transfer. However, there are too many participating locations to reach them all via the bus service during the event timeline, so people must plan to visit their favorite locations first or decide to explore some new beer makers.

*_{Threshold Brewing & Blending’s zapiekanka (Jacob Loeb)}*

Zwickelmania’s organizers gear the event towards craft beer enthusiasts who can experience samples directly from the Zwickel port, find unique beer releases, take tours, and meet brewers as they provide educational talks. Some host locations will offer food and beer pairings or specials. This non-ticketed event will only cost the price of beer and food at each location. Designated drivers can also find non-alcoholic drinks at the event. People interested in attending should visit the Zwickelmania website for more information and a complete list of participating brewers.

Jacob Loeb

Promotion: Montavilla News is supported by contributions from businesses like Otter Wax, a neighborhood producer of small-batch specialty goods handcrafted in Portland. Using only natural ingredients, they make modern care products that are steeped in tradition. We thank them for their support.

Community, Event, Food and Drink October 21, 2024

Montavilla’s Fall Celebration

Montavilla businesses will celebrate the Fall season with two district-wide events this month. On October 26th, the Montavilla East Tabor Business Association (METBA) invites everyone to the district for the annual Fall Crawl, and on October 27th, families can enjoy Trick or Treat Montavilla.

The idea of a Montavilla pub crawl grew in popularity in 2019 when Threshold opened the neighborhood’s second brewery in the historic SE Stark Street downtown. The concept grew into a more formalized event as part of METBA’s Harvest Festival and now includes a variety of activities, including a week-long shopping event for a chance to win a prize. People can pick up a passport and shop at 22 participating businesses from October 20th through October 26th. Customers turn in their passports on the 26th to enter a raffle. Additionally, bars and restaurants may offer participants special menu items and discounts.

On Sunday, October 27th, participating Montavilla businesses will open their doors for neighborhood trick-or-treating. The kid-friendly activity spans NE Glisan Street and SE Stark Street, allowing families to participate close to home. The METBA website offers a complete list of participating businesses and hours. Event times vary by location.

There is a chance of rain this weekend, but that rarely stops the people of Montavilla from heading out to enjoy the height of the Fall season. Consider looking for a break in the clouds or grab the raincoat and head out for Autumn fun in the neighborhood.

Jacob Loeb

Community, Event September 4, 2024

Geek Week PDX Starts Friday

On September 4th, the City of Portland proclaimed September 6th through 15th as the City’s first Geek Week. The Portland-wide celebration follows Rose City Comic Con with over 300 events hosted by nerd and nerd-adjacent small businesses, including locations in Montavilla. Attendees will find game tournaments, cosplay parties, trivia nights, and film screenings. This new promotional initiative intends to expand the City’s reputation as a favorable community for traditionally geeky passions like board games, comic books, science fiction, and fantasy.

*_{Portland City Council Item 762 Proclaiming the Geek Week 2024}*

The Portland event enables visitors and residents to explore their interests beyond the convention center and venture out to places often offering year-round themed events. A newer Montavilla business, Board Bard Games, at 7960 SE Stark Street, has a full day of gaming fun planned for Thursday, September 12th, from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. All attendees receive a free Warhammer model, paints, and a brush. Store staff will accommodate drop-in attendees while supplies last, but they recommend that people reserve space ahead of time. Organizers say this event is not just for enthusiasts. Members of the “Kill Team Cascadia” game club will teach attendees how to paint and play with miniatures, tailoring instruction to players’ skill levels.

People looking to take a break from Warhammer can swing by the Covert Cafe at 803 SE 82nd Avenue on the 12th for Star Trek Trivia from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. Other Montavilla events include a classic trivia night on Tuesday, September 10th at 6:30 p.m. hosted by East Glisan Pizza Lounge at 8001 NE Glisan Street. On Wednesday, September 11th, Threshold Brewing at 403 SE 79th Avenue will hold its regular “Trivia on Wednesdays” starting at 6 p.m.

Geek Week PDX seeks to celebrate the region’s dreamers, artists, creators, and innovators by expanding on a widely attended convention. Starting Friday, people can find more events to satisfy their science fiction, fantasy, and gaming interests. Event organizers invite people to visit geekweekpdx.com to learn about activities happening across Portland and to help support this first in what they hope will become an annual event.

Jacob Loeb

Community, Entertainment, Event, Food and Drink August 14, 2024August 14, 2024

Montavilla Jazz Festival Starts Aug 30

The 11th annual Montavilla Jazz Festival (MJF) will begin at the end of August with a weekend full of music events in the neighborhood and locations across Portland’s Eastside. The three-day celebration of local artistry starts on Friday, August 30th, and runs through Sunday, September 1st, with free and ticketed events. Each year, MJF brings music fans of all ages to the neighborhood and expands the general appreciation for jazz.

The yearly late summer music programming spans outdoor locations such as Mt. Tabor Park and Montavilla’s SE 79th Avenue Street Plaza. Neighborhood businesses will also become venues during the festival, including BoneJax, Montavilla Brew Works, Vino Veritas, Beer Brats & Beats, Portland Metro Arts, Threshold Brewing & Blending, and Beer Bunker’s patio. The MJF website has a detailed list of event locations, times, and links to secure tickets or reservations when necessary. Area businesses Yaowarat, Vino Veritas, Threshold Brewing, and The Observatory will offer nightly food and drink specials and entertainment during the three-day event. The Academy Movie Theater will participate in the celebration through special showings of the 1958 film noir classic “Elevator to the Gallows,” featuring a jazz-rich score by Miles Davis. Beyond the Montavilla area, Strum, The 1905, and Alberta Rose Theatre will host additional MJF performances.

Thanks to Prosper Portland’s Scale Up Grant for summer 2024, MJF can offer more than twice the number of performances than the previous year. It is the only Portland festival focused on original music from the city’s jazz artists. Preferences will feature the rising stars and creative artists connected to Portland. The 29 events include free concerts, three student stages, and a return to Mt. Tabor Park’s Caldera Amphitheater for two free concerts on Friday, August 30th.

*_{Lynn Darroch, photo by Brenda Moseley and provided courtesy MJF}*

For the second year, MJF honors the late Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish’s contribution to the city’s jazz community by presenting an award in his name. On August 31st, presenters will deliver this year’s Nick Fish Jazz Community Award to writer, broadcaster, and performer Lynn Darroch. The jazz radio host on KMH is also an author and recording artist with an in-depth perspective on the local musicians who shape the regional jazz sound.

With added free events and more Montavilla locations, this is an excellent year to explore Montavilla Jazz’s contribution to the music community and discover a new appreciation for a foundational style of American music. People interested in attending should look at the event schedule now to find out if they need reservations or tickets to particular shows. Everyone should plan for a busier weekend around event locations starting on August 30th and consider visiting local businesses with MJF specials for unique menu options.

Jacob Loeb

Main article image by Norm Eder provided courtesy MJF, featuring Todd Marston and the Integer Quintet

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