Summer is wrapping up, and as we move into the fall months, there are a number of exciting food and drink events going on in Portland. Some of these specifically celebrate the unofficial end of summer and Labor Day, which we have detailed here. But September is more than just Labor Day Weekend. Here are a few events, including some Oktoberfest celebrations, to attend while the leaves turn and we settle in for fall rains.
 

The big one, Feast 2015 promises to be Portland’s most impressive food and drink festival of the year. Dozens of top chefs from around the country and around the world are flying in to join the countless chefs of Portland and other Oregon cities, including BJ Smith of Smokehouse Tavern, Katy Millard of Coquine, Gregory Gourdet of Departure, Elias Cairo of Olympia Provisions, and Daniel Oseas of Broder, to name a few. Wineries and distilleries abound. Chocolatiers bring their wares. The event lasts for five days, with five major events and multiple smaller ones. Tickets can be bought individually, and there’s a package deal for $530 for all major events, which includes limitless food and drink. Our favorites of the smaller events are, of course, the boozy ones. Many of them are selling out, so get your tickets for some margaritas or beer tasting quickly! The Oregon Bounty event also promises plenty of Oregon wine and spirits.

Where: Various events and locations throughout Portland
 

September 19, 11 AM–10 PM

September 20, 12–6 PM

The 22nd annual Polish Festival is being held this year at the Polish Library in North Portland. The event promises to be one for the whole family, with entertainment all weekend including dance groups, bands, and a polka contest. Of course, it wouldn’t be a celebration without imported Polish food and Polish beer! Admission is free, and 15,000 attendees are expected.

Where: Polish Library, 3832 N Interstate Ave.
 

September 26, 1–7 PM

Portland has embraced pork belly and lardon in the past few years, but we’re still an eminently vegan-friendly city. It makes sense, then, that the Vegan Beer & Food festival of LA is making its way up to Portland this September. The event features 50+ vegan restaurants, bars, and food carts, and also plenty of beer, cider, and kombucha. Vegan clothing and goods will also be purchasable. But don’t fret meat lovers, this event is sure to please even the most committed carnivore! Tickets are $65 in advance, or $25 for those who do not wish to drink. Tickets increase by $10 when bought at the gate.

September 12, 3 PM–12 AM

September brings Oktoberfest, of course. Various establishments are hosting this festival throughout the month, with the first being Widmer. The North Portland branch of Widmer features an evening of German beer and food and live music. Tickets are $25 and include three beer tokens. Additional beers can be purchased for $5, and food will be sold separately for $1–$7. The first 1,000 patrons receive a commemorative mug. A portion of the proceeds goes to the Portland Rugby Club, a North Portland-based nonprofit promoting community, a healthy and active lifestyle, and giving back.

Where: Widmer Brothers Brewery 929 N Russell St. 

McMenamins is celebrating Oktoberfest at multiple locations this year, in multiple cities. Portlanders can celebrate at Kennedy School or Edgefield. Both locations offer free admission with the usual beer, burgers, and brats. The Edgefield location is also hosting an Oktoberfest golf tournament. Check-in for this is at 10 AM at Edgefield, and the tourney kicks off at 11 AM. Tickets for the tournament are $25, and prizes are awarded at the distillery.

Where: Edgefield 2126 SW Halsey St., Troutdale; Kennedy School 5736 NE 33rd Ave.
 

September 25, 3 PM–12 AM

September 26, 11 AM–12 AM

September 27, 11 AM–7 PM

Portland’s own amusement park and river spot is also throwing an Oktoberfest celebration, with similar events: Sausage, beer, and the like. However, Oaks Park has the clear advantage with their particular celebration of German cuisine: a testament to sausage in the form of a dachshund, aka wiener dog, race. It is sure to be adorable and makes this the perfect Oktoberfest location for families. Tickets are $5, with discounts for children and seniors.

Where: 7805 SE Oaks Park Way

Photos via Feast Portland and McMenamins Kennedy School