Why You Need to Check Out the Bier on the Pier Oktoberfest Event in Anacortes, WA
Oktoberfest is a two-week festival held in Munich, Germany that typically ends on the first Sunday in October. It serves as an agricultural fair with an emphasis on beer drinking. People typically wear cultural costumes and drink, dance, listen to music and enjoy amusement rides.
The festival has become so popular, it is celebrated all over the world. One event you won’t want to miss out on is Bier on the Pier in Anacortes, WA. Here’s what you can expect when you’re in town.
When is Bier on the Pier?
Bier on the Pier is a two-day event that happens over the course of a Friday and Saturday in early October. This year it will be taking place on Friday, October 7 from 5 to 9 PM and Saturday October 8 from 12 to 6 PM.
What’s Involved
The multi-day event allows guests to purchase and sample a variety of beers from the Pacific Northwest. Over 40 breweries, cideries and food trucks will be on site offering food and beverages meant to please your palette. You can enjoy the tastes while listening to live music and taking in views of the Guemes Chanel and Mount Baker.
The event takes place at the Historic Port Warehouse which is located in downtown Anacortes at 1st and Commercial. The historic port building has a funky vibe that brings charm to the event.
Bier on the Pier is a great opportunity to learn more about the breweries you love and get introduced to some you may have never heard of. While some breweries at the festival already distribute throughout the area, others see it as a chance to get their names out making the event a terrific opportunity for guests to learn find out about vendors they’ve never heard of, while new businesses get to increase their reach.
The breweries featured tend to love their craft and their dedication shows in the products they offer.
Ticketing Info
It’s advisable to purchase tickets in advance as Bier on the Pier is likely to sell out. You can buy Friday and Saturday passes individually or you can purchase a two-day pass. You can also buy Designated Driver tickets.
The tickets include six taste tokens. Additional tastes can be bought at the event, 3 for $5. The ticket also includes a commemorative beer glass.
The event is 21+ and you must show valid ID at the door. No dogs, pets, babies, toddlers, or children will be allowed inside.
After the Event
After the event, you will have plenty of time to explore Anacortes. You can head out to the pier to sample delicious food, talk to fellow attendees, vote in the People’s Choice Competition, and enjoy the live music.
You can also visit the city’s many shops and restaurants that will still be open after the event ends.
Here are some other things to enjoy during your visit:
Brewer’s Brunch at H2O: This brunch is hosted in honor of Bier on the Pier and takes place on the Saturday of the event as well as the following Sunday. The brewpub offers a heated beer garden and a selection of fish n’ chips, pizza, and house ales.
Ship Harbor Interpretive Preserve (SHIP) Trail: This trail will take you across 2000 feet of sandy beaches.
Deception Bridge Pass: This highly photographed attraction is 1486 feet long with one section spanning from Fidalgo Island to Pass Island and another spanning from Pass Island to Whidbey Island.
Anacortes Farmers Market: The Farmer’s Market takes place on Saturdays from 9AM to 2PM so if you are planning on attending Bier on the Pier, you’ll have to head out early. It’s a great place to purchase fresh produce and listen to live music.
Hike Or Bike: Anacortes has plenty of nature trails. In addition to the SHIP trail and Deception Bridge Pass, you can also check out Mt. Erie, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Washington Park.
Look at Art: The city has plenty of murals located on various buildings. You can stroll through to find your favorites.
Whale Watching Cruises: You can book a whale watching cruise with Mystic Sea Charters or Island Adventures.
Take a Kayak Tour: Anacortes Kayak Tours are just one of the many companies in the city that offer kayak tour services that take you through the city’s waterways.
Go Fishing: The city offers several fishing charters many of which run into the winter months.
Visit Museums: The Anacortes Museum and Maritime Heritage Center are great places to go if you want to learn more about the city’s maritime and general history. Both offer free admission.
If you want an Oktoberfest experience without having to travel to Germany, Bier on the Pier is the place to be. You will enjoy terrific beer and food and get a chance to enjoy the city. Will you be booking tickets for this year’s event?
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