First, let me introduce you to the players. Lone Pine Larder, which will host this summer’s pop-up beer garden, is a highly rated deli, lunch spot, and specialty market located in Eastsound, Washington, on Orcas Island. The focus is on fresh, seasonal meals and house-made provisions. It is operated by Spencer and Sabrina Bezaire. 

Spencer Bezaire, the chef at Lone Pine Larder, is close friends with Bob Kunz, the owner of Highland Park Brewery in Los Angeles. If that brewery’s name sounds familiar, maybe you’re remembering that Highland Park Brewery enjoyed enormous success at the Great American Beer Festival a couple of years ago. At the 2024 competition, the brewery won four gold medals, including awards in some hotly contested categories: American-style IPA, contemporary American-style lager, American-style pale ale, and juicy/hazy imperial IPA. That success netted Highland Park Brewery a coveted Brewery of the Year award.

Popping Up in the San Juan Islands

Bob Kunz and his partner, Tiff, are coming to Orcas Island this summer, and they’re bringing beer. They’ll operate a Highland Park Brewery beer garden at Lone Pine Larder starting on July 1st  and lasting through the summer (until the end of August). 

According to Bob, “Lone Pine does the food, we do the beer. They [Lone Pine] have a large outdoor lot surrounded by many trees, right in the middle of Eastsound. We’ll have the beer pouring at a beer bar outside all day. Spencer has a fresh summer menu with some seafood (fish sandwich!), some wood-grilled items, wings, etc. It’s gonna be awesome! His food is incredible.”

Beer Garden Details

• Kicks off on July 1st and lasts through the end of August.
• The beer garden will offer six beers on tap, along with others available in cans, including cans to go. 
• The lineup will rotate as fresh beers arrive from California.
• They’ll also launch two collaboration beers during the pop-up: one brewed with Single Hill Brewing and the other with pFriem Family Brewers.
• The beer garden will operate Wednesday through Saturday from noon until 7 p.m., and on Sundays from noon until 3 p.m.

“We’ll have six taps, but we’ll be sending cans too,” says Bob. “Essentially, whatever is fresh, we’ll be rotating and pouring. We plan to have Timbo (West Coast Pils) and Baseball (rice lager) pouring the whole time and then rotate through West Coast hoppy beer and hazy hoppy beer. We’ll probably rotate through a fair amount of hoppy beer over the two months.”

Washington Roots

Bob and Tiff are no strangers to Western Washington. They both grew up in the Seattle area. Bob attended Western Washington University in Bellingham, where he also got his first brewery job, an internship at Boundary Bay Brewery. In fact, back in his Bellingham days, one of Bob’s roommates was Josh pFriem: the two of them began homebrewing together. Look where that led?

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“We are absolutely honored to announce that The American Outlaws —the largest supporters group for the U.S. National Teams—are officially joining forces with Reuben’s Brews,” said the announcement from Seattle’s Reuben’s Brews. “Our Downtown Seattle Taproom is the official headquarters for their pre-game party, cultural gathering, and the biggest supporter march of the entire tournament.”

The American Outlaws are joining forces with Reuben’s Brews to cheer on the team to a victory over Australia in Friday’s FIFA World Cup match in Seattle. The Downtown Seattle Taproom is the official headquarters of the pre-game party, cultural gathering, and the largest supporter march of the entire tournament. You are invited to join the party, whether you march to the match or just hang out and cheer on the team from the taproom.

Match Day Schedule

• 7 a.m.  – The prefunction begins! Reuben’s Brews Downtown Seattle Taproom opens at 7 a.m. on match day (Friday, June 19). They’ll serve a special matchday breakfast menu (Chicken & Waffles, Smothered Tots, and Burritos) alongside Adam’s Chipper Cold Brew Coffee. Of course, they’ll serve beer. No one will judge you; this is the World Cup.
• 8 a.m. – The official American Outlaws Pre-Game Party and Supporter Rally kicks off. Bring your voices, your flags, and get ready to make some serious noise and ruckus. 
• 10:15 a.m. – The moment arrives. The biggest march of the tournament officially leaves the taproom, marching from the Harbor Steps straight to the stadium.
• Noon – Kickoff. Even if you are not headed to the stadium, enjoy the stadium-level energy at the Reuben’s Taproom. They’ll have the game on the TVs with the volume up at both of the brewery’s taprooms. Not just the USA vs Australia match, but all of the day’s matches. 

Visiting Seattle for the World Cup matches? See our Guide to Seattle Beer and Breweries for FIFA World Cup Fans.

“While we are saddened that this chapter is coming to an end, our hearts are full of gratitude for the people who made it all worthwhile.”

For the past nine years, Western Red Brewing has served the community of Poulsbo, Washington. More than that, the brewery and taproom built its own community within the larger community. The company recently announced via social media that June 30th will be its last day of operation. Everyone is welcome to stop by for a final pint or two.

Denver Smyth and his wife Marianna (above) graduated from home brewing and opened Western Red Brewing in 2017. Denver is the head brewer, assisted by his daughter Becky. From the brew deck to the bar top, it’s a family operation. The brewery’s name stems from the fact that the Smyth family has a generations-old relationship with the forest and the timber industry. 

“After much reflection and with heavy hearts, we want to share that Western Red Brewing will be closing our doors for the final time on June 30, 2026,” said the announcement. “When we opened our doors on August 31, 2017, we had a dream of creating more than just a brewery. We hoped to create a welcoming place where people could gather, connect, celebrate, and build community. Thanks to all of you, that dream became a reality.”

“Over the years, Western Red Brewing has been privileged to be part of countless celebrations, friendships, fundraisers, community events, and everyday moments that made this journey so meaningful. We are especially honored to have been a part of the Poulsbo community. Poulsbo welcomed us, supported us, and gave us opportunities to participate in so many activities and events that help make this such an incredible place to work, live, and play.”

“This decision has not been an easy one,” said the announcement. “Like many small businesses, we have faced challenges that ultimately brought us to this point. While we are saddened that this chapter is coming to an end, our hearts are full of gratitude for the people who made it all worthwhile.”

“To our loyal customers, Mug Club members, employees, musicians, food truck partners, vendors, fellow business owners, friends, and families: thank you. Thank you for every pint shared, every event attended, every recommendation made, every word of encouragement, and every memory created within our walls. Your support carried us through nearly nine unforgettable years.”

“As we prepare to say goodbye, we invite you to stop by during our final weeks to share a beer, a story, a laugh, and perhaps a few tears. We would love the opportunity to celebrate the memories we’ve made together and thank you in person.”

“While we will deeply miss being part of the day-to-day fabric of this community, we are proud of what we built together and grateful for the friendships and connections that will remain long after the last pint is poured.”

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As always, summer in Seattle is busy and folks fill their calendar to take advantage of the long days and dry weather. This year, all the usual summer hoopla is unfolding alongside the World Cup festivities. It’s almost like we’ve forgotten about Dear Old Day’s Day. Postdoc Brewing doesn’t want you to lose sight of what’s important: Father’s Day and beer.

On Sunday, June 21st, Postdoc Brewing will serve up at least 25 different beers festival-style. The Mini Beer Fest takes place at both of the company’s locations. And if dad is a World Cup fan, Postdoc will have the day’s matches on the televisions.

What’s “mini” about 25 beers? Nothing. Maybe the name references the fact that once upon a time there was a very large beer festival held on Father’s Day weekend at the park right next to Postdoc Brewing’s location in Redmond. 

Mini Beer Fest Info

• What: Postdoc Brewing’s 4th annual Mini Beer Fest
• When: Sunday, June 21st, from noon until 6 p.m.
• Details: 25 beers, served festival-style, at each of the brewery’s two  locations (Redmond and Kenmore). Your $10 entry fee gets  you a glass and four tasting tokens. More tokens available for purchase. 
• Redmond: Postdoc Brewing Redmond 17625 NE 65th St #100, Redmond, WA 98052
• Kenmore: Postdoc Brewing Kenmore 7204 NE 175th St, Kenmore, WA 98028 

Visit our events page and calendar to learn about all sorts of other upcoming beer events. To submit an event for inclusion on our events calendar, use our event submission form. Got more details to share, reach out to us.

Almost two months ago, Chuckanut Brewery invited Portland’s Von Ebert Brewing to travel north for a collaboration project. The breweries came together at Chuckanut Brewery’s facility in Burlington, Washington, to create something special. Something volatile.

After much discussion, they all decided it would be fun to work on a different rendition of Von Ebert’s well-known, well-loved Volatile Substance IPA. Instead of an ale, it would be a lager. Instead of an IPA, it would be a pilsner. The result is Volatility West Coast Pils. 

“Von Ebert brought their own hand-selected hops to make this whimsical West Coast Pils fun and interesting,” says Chuckanut Brewery. “Now that Volatility West Coast Pils is tapped at Chuckanut’s Tap Room, it will be tapped in Portland at the Mississippi Ave Von Ebert Brewing on June 25th at 5:30 pm.” Cans of the beer are available only at selected locations around the Northwest.

This collaborative West Coast pilsner is described as brilliantly crisp and bright gold. It was brewed using Rahr Malting Company’s To Thee! Pils malt and Weyermann’s Barke Vienna malt. Chuckanut says the malt profile allows the Mosaic, Mosaic Cryo, Strata, and Spalt hop character to shine. (FYI: Rahr To Thee! Pils is an ultra-pale, low-color base malt developed by Rahr Malting Co. in collaboration with pFriem Family Brewers.) 

“Volatility West Coast Pils has flavors of citrus, tart berries, and subtle pine notes,” said Chuckanut Brewery. “It’s great paired with citrus-marinated chicken or fish, which brings out the fruit hop profile in the beer. Find it at Chuckanut Brewery in Skagit County, Von Ebert Brewing in Portland and a few very selected accounts on draft and in cans. Don’t be disappointed, make sure to try it when you can find it!”

To learn about other recent beer releases, visit our New Beer Releases page. To let us know about your brewery’s new releases, here’s how to reach out to us.

Celebrate the Solstice at Copperworks Kenmore

Beginning at 3 PM, guests are invited to gather outdoors for an open-air seasonal celebration centered on live-fire cooking, local harvests, and shared tables under the longest light of the year. The kitchen will move fluidly between inside and out, showcasing a rotating menu inspired by peak-season ingredients sourced from nearby farms, including  Tuk Muk Farm.

Throughout the afternoon and into the evening, the grounds will come alive with music from DJ Cide, setting the tone with a vinyl-forward set that carries the celebration from relaxed summer gathering into full dance-floor energy.

Designed as an all-ages community gathering, De La Solstice blends food, music, and seasonal ritual into a single immersive experience. Guests can expect hands-on seasonal touches, including floral crafting and interactive elements that reflect the Scandinavian-inspired roots of the celebration in honor of De La Soil Co-Owner and Chef Cody Westerfield’s heritage.

EVENT DETAILS

• What: De La Solstice Celebration + Copperworks Dance Night. Food, music, dance, libations, and more.
• When: Saturday, June 20, 2026 | 3 PM – 10 PM
• Where: 7324 NE 175th St, Kenmore, WA 98028 | Directly on the Burke-Gilman Trail

Visit our events page and calendar to learn about all sorts of other upcoming beer events. To submit an event for inclusion on our events calendar, use our event submission form. Got more details to share, reach out to us.

Redd Dog Brewing Opens in Tacoma on June 17th

Tacoma’s Black Fleet Brewing quietly closed in 2024, leaving the brewery, kitchen, and taproom vacant. In January, we shared the happy news that another company would reopen the space. We are pleased to share that Redd Dog Brewing will open on Wednesday, June 17th, at 11:30 a.m. Months ago, the company predicted that it would open in the late spring or early summer, and it hit the mark. Just in time for the FIFA World Cup games, which the brewery will show on its TVs. 

If the name sounds familiar, that’s because Redd Dog began in Tacoma as a U-Pour pub. It later added locations in Puyallup and Bellevue, both of which are still open. The company closed the Tacoma pub last year to make room for Redd Dog Brewing. You can already find some of the company’s beers on tap at the Puyallup and Bellevue locations. Along with house-brewed beer, the Tacoma brewery and taproom will offer a menu of tacos and other Mexican fare created by chef Silver Moren, who’s worked with the company for years. 

This will be an all-ages taproom that will eventually include “a huge beer garden” (space pictured below) where the family pup is welcome. According to Nolan Scelzi, whose family owns the business, “We’re starting construction on our beer garden next week. I think it should only be a couple of weeks. Hoping to get that up and going by mid-July!”

Nolan is also the person driving the brewhouse. His experience includes stints working at Dru Bru in Cle Elum and Hellbent Brewing in Seattle. The opening-day beer menu includes pilsners, IPAs, a Mexican lager, a kolsch, a wheat beer, and a hoppy light lager. Along with that, a couple of ciders and, an agua fresca (horchata). More beers coming soon.

Redd Dog Brewing
Brewery, taproom, beer garden
2302 Fawcett Ave
Tacoma, WA 98402

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Hands across the water, this festival brings brewers from Oregon and Japan just a little bit closer together. 

In Japanese, the term Kakehashi denotes a bridge between two cultures. Kyōdō suggests a collaboration or a combined effort. Both terms describe the spirit behind Fuji to Hood, the cross-Pacific festival held in Portland, Oregon, every other year. This year’s event on July 18th, 2026, promises to be bigger and better than before.

Fuji to Hood brings together brewers and other artisans from Japan and Oregon for a celebration of collaboration, goodwill, good beverages, and good vibes. The event includes food, drink, arts, vendors, and performances from Japan and the Pacific Northwest. It is sponsored by SakeOne, YCH, Spirit of Sage, Travel Portland, Imperial Yeast, Consular Office of Japan in Portland, Yoshida Foods, Day One Distro, and Wacom.

• Essential Event Details
• Collaboration Beers and Ciders
• Wine, Spirits, and Sake
• Food
• Performances
• Vendors and Crafts

Essential Event Info

• Date and Time: Saturday, July 18, 2026. 1 – 8 p.m. (VIP entry  at 11 a.m.)
• Location: The Redd on Salmon (831 SE Salmon St, Portland, OR 97214)
• Ticket Info: Get tickets, see options, here. 
• Ages: The alcohol is for those of legal drainking age. Otherwise, all-ages.
• Event website: fujitohood.com.
• This year, 25 small craft breweries and cideries will travel from Japan to debut original beverages made in collaboration with Oregon producers.
• Japanese-American-made wine, saké, whiskey, and a cocktail bar enhance the craft beverage experience. 
• Fuji to Hood is much more than a drinks festival; it comprises music, performances, arts & crafts, local vendors and tradesmen, incredible food, and something for all ages and backgrounds to experience and enjoy. 
• Purpose: Fuji to Hood is a festival built around the belief that sharing beer, food, and drink can be catalysts for lifelong friendships and better understanding. Organizers believe that person-to-person social interactions are a way to break down barriers and share cultures.
• Organizers: ‘Beer Friends’, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit and organizers of Fuji to Hood and sister fest MXPDX Mexico/Oregon collaboration Fiesta de la Cerveza.

Collaboration Beers and Ciders

Every beer or cider at Fuji to Hood uses at least one special Japanese ingredient that can add an inspirational flourish, or a touch of mystery and ethereal magic to the final results. This year, the makers used ingredients such as Japanese cedar, Osmanthus flowers, kabosu citrus, haskap fruit, and Japanese-grown hop variety Sorachi Ace.

Oregon + Japan Collaboration Teams

• Away Days Brewing + Black Tide
• Baerlic Brewing + Groundtap Brewing
• Bauman’s Cider + Himitsu Beer
• Binary Brewing + Repubrew
• Block 15 Brewing + Y. Market Brewing
• Boneyard Beer + Ise Kadoya Brewery
• Breakside Brewing + Yoho Brewing
• Buoy Beer + Baeren Beer
• ColdFire Brewing + Spring Valley Brewing
• Deschutes Brewery + Minoh Beer
• Fort George Brewing + West Coast Brewing
• Gigantic Brewing + Uchu Brewing
• Heater Allen Brewing + Heiwa Craft Brewing
• Hopworks Brewery + Fukuoka Craft
• Level Beer + Fujizakuara Kogen
• Little Beast Brewing + Kyoto Brewing
• Little Hop Brewing + Yokohama Beer
• Migration Brewing + Shonan Beer
• Obelisk Beer + OK, Adam Hard Cider
• Portland Cider Co. + Son of the Smith Hard Cider
• Ruse Brewing + Namachan Brewing
• SteepleJack Beer + Harvest Moon
• Threshold Brewing + Teenage Brewing
• Von Ebert Brewing + Totopia Brewery
• Wolves & People Farmhouse Brewery + North Island Beer

Wine, Spirits, and Sake

• Wine: Shiba Wichern Cellars – a small-batch boutique winery that strives to make balanced and subtle wines with Oregon ingredients from co-owner/head winemaker Akiko Shiba.
• Spirits: Stone Barn Brandyworks – A small-scale SE Portland distillery specializing in fruit brandy and liqueurs inspired by the European tradition with a single-barrel whiskey program that treats grain and oak with that same attention to provenance and quality.
• Sake: SakéOne – Forest Grove, Oregon producer of some of the highest quality craft sakés in the United States by utilizing the unmatched water from the Willamette Valley and top-notch rice grown in the renowned Sacramento Valley. 
• Cocktails: Spirit of Sage – Khmer and Korean-owned, Spirit of Sage Mobile is a passion project blending creativity, expertise, and experience from the service industry. They are deeply passionate about the artistry and craftsmanship behind high-quality alcohol beverages, reveling in the myriad food pairing possibilities with meticulously crafted creations that blend chemistry with creativity. 

Food, Snacks, and Desserts

• Senyo by Ramen Ippo – Portland food truck dedicated to bringing you exquisite, authentic Japanese-style ramen noodles of both traditional and modern recipes.
• SHO Sushi – Authentic family-owned Japanese restaurant. Serving Hawaiian-style poke donburi with tuna or tofu,  and Hamachi sashimi with marinated Ikura with chef’s special sauce at Fuji to Hood.
• Oyatsupan Bakers – Traditional Japanese bakery in Beaverton serving breads, pastries, and curry doughnuts. 
• Soen – Cafe known for Japanese comfort food and sweets, specializing in shaved ice called Kakigori, also serving small plates of onigiri and inari.
• Aji Fish Butchery – Serving dry-aged fish bratwurst on a bun with miso kewpie mayo, dry-aged local albacore sashimi with citrus oil and flake salt, and a dry-aged tuna burger with kimchi jam and cheese.
• HeyDay – Expressive pastry chef and baker Lisa Nguyen creates experiences through food. Drawing from her Vietnamese heritage and upbringing. Lisa’s creations are rooted in memory, intention, and a desire to spark meaningful connections. HeyDay will have mini baked rice flour doughnuts, miso chocolate chip cookies, hojicha banana bread, yuzu olive cake, rice flour chocolate brownies, and pandan rice flour cakes for sale at Fuji to Hood.
• Sumomo – Homestyle Japanese food pop-up will be serving Japanese-style curry rice. 
• Obon Shokudo – Feel-good, plant-based Japanese comfort food restaurant will be serving vegan kakiage, croquettes, grilled tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables at Fuji to Hood.
• Behind The Museum Cafe – Japanese cafe near the Portland Art Museum will be serving matcha, onigiri, edamame, and brownies at Fuji to Hood. 
• Edible Art by Natsuko – Handcrafted Japanese confectionery known as Wagashi will be serving flavors such as strawberry mochi daifuku and crunchy crystal gummies.
• Ikoi No Kai – A volunteer-run lunch program that has been serving primarily senior Japanese Americans for more than 40 years, and will be making pork and tofu katsu sandwiches at Fuji to Hood.
• Jorinji Miso – Premium hand-crafted Miso pop-up in Portland, OR since 1995. Serving 3 varieties of chilled miso soup, aka Hiyajiru, and amazake for Fuji to Hood.
• Smith Teamaker – Loose-leaf blends and varietals handcrafted in Portland, OR. Presenting Matcha Specialty Beverage service and selling Japan-sourced teas/collections, including high-quality Matcha at Fuji to Hood.

Performances

• Obukan Kendo Club – The Obukan Kendo Club is an outgrowth of the Obukan Judo Dojo. Following the 1932 Olympics in Los Angeles, Dr. Jigoro Kano, judo’s founder, visited Oregon while touring the United States and insisted that the Portland club call itself “Obukan” (央武館). The “O” (央) refers to Oregon; Oregon was called “O-shu” or O-state by Japanese immigrants. The “Bu” (武) means martial training. And the “Kan” (館) means building or training hall. 
• Takohachi – Japanese Taiko drum group with a repertoire including songs in the modern Kumi Daiko style, popular amongst Taiko troupes in the US, as well as many songs in the traditional Dentou Geinou style of ancient Japan. 
• Portland Sumo – Portland Sumo is a group of sumo enthusiasts practicing the art of sumo in Portland, Oregon.
• Obukan Judo – Obukan Judo is a 100-year-old Judo Dojo established in 1926 in Portland, Oregon. They teach traditional Kodokan Judo and will be showcasing their skills at Fuji to Hood.

Crafts and Vendors

• JASO (Japanese-American Society of Oregon) – a private, nonprofit membership organization promoting business, education, and culture between Japan and Oregon.
• Erika Harada – Japanese-American textile artist with a focus on katazome, a traditional Japanese textile printing process which involves the dyeing of fabrics or paper by laying down rice paste as a resist, using handcut stencils.
• Wacom – For over 40 years, Wacom’s creative tools and pen technologies have been integral to a wide range of industries. From production studios to the classroom, Wacom’s tools have supported artists in bringing hand-drawn expression into digital workflows, helping bridge traditional techniques with evolving production methods. As technology continues to advance, Wacom remains committed to the development of artists and creatives, across all ages and skill levels.
• Innokenty Meshchakov Tattoos – Japanese tattoos by machines/Tebori.
• Seisuke Knife – Dedicated to sourcing authentic, handcrafted Japanese kitchen knives. More than just a tool to cut food, we believe a kitchen knife is a piece of art into which a craftsman forges their heart and soul.
• Kiiroya Pottery – Handcrafted pottery inspired by nature and my Japanese roots. Organic forms, earthy texture, and pieces meant to be felt as much as seen.
• Cataround Stamps – hand-carved stamps inspired by traditional Japanese New Year’s greeting postcards called Nengajo (年賀状) and featuring your favorite furry friends!
• East Winds Co. – Unique and well-designed quality handmade gifts, like earrings, bags, keychains, and crafts for everyday use.
• Stumptown Otaku – SW Portland shop has an ever-expanding collection of Geeky and Nerdy goods. For all your anime figurines and collectables needs.
• Korokoro Workshop – sustainable handmade gifts for parents and children.
• Astari Designs – Origami art and greeting cards handcrafted with intention.
• Thirty-Six Views of Mt Fuji vs Mt Hood – Wall art, calendars, magazine depicting Fuji and Hood side by side.
• SOMUCHLOVE – Japanese-American Streetwear.
• Mizu Head Spa – Japanese head spa info to educate the community. 
• Bethi Kat Art – Local manga artist presenting original posters, stickers, greeting cards.
• Reggie’s Cafe & Manga Shop – Portland All-ages cafe and manga shop with a kissaten-inspired menu will have 8 Gacha machines, stationery, and packages of Japanese Snacks at Fuji to Hood.
• Izakaya Impressions – Japanese t-shirts and apparel inspired by saké, Designed for Life.
• JP TOKYO-STYLE SHOP – Clothing and accessories.
• Kureipan – Japanese & Western-Inspired Bakery/Cafe food art.
• Liminal Music Record Shop – Curated imported Japanese vinyl and CDs, books, and toys fostering connection + community.

Visit our events page and calendar to learn about all sorts of other upcoming beer events. To submit an event for inclusion on our events calendar, use our event submission form. Got more details to share, reach out to us.

Boundary on State is the new version or Bellingham’s beloved brewery and bistro

When Boundary Bay Brewery and Bistro closed last year, it left a hole in the heart of the Bellingham community. (Read our story.) While it was sad to say goodbye, the closure did allow Ed and Janet to move towards a well-deserved retirement, or at least something resembling retirement. Now, we share news that a slightly different version of Boundary Bay Brewery opens today in Bellingham: Boundary on State. It is located at 954 N State St, Bellingham, WA 98225.

After the closure last year, the beers did not disappear. The core Boundary Bay beers are (and were) brewed under contract at Black Raven Brewing’s facility in Woodinville. The brew crew at Boundary Bay went to great lengths to make sure things tasted just right. That’s why and how you might still find Boundary Bay IPA, and other beers, in cans at the local grocery store or bottleshop.

Different, But The Same

The new Boundary Bay, known as Boundary on State, is described as a nano brewery, meaning it’s a very small brewing system. The space itself is smaller, too. They’re serving up house-brewed beers alongside cocktails, wine, and cider. Also, the restaurant menu will include some of the beloved fare from the old Boundary Bay Bistro. 

Ed Bennet and Janet Lightner are still the owners, but Janet’s daughter, Madison Pugmire, will operate Boundary on State alongside longtime Boundary Bay brewer Connor Cottrill. All of the staff members formerly worked at the original Boundary Bay location.

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The Washington Brewers Festival takes place at Seattle Center on Saturday, June 13th. It’s the largest annual beer fest in the state. Get all the essential details by visiting our WA Brewers Festival FAQ page. Or visit the official event website here. 

I just spent some time examining the list of over 200 beers that Washington breweries will pour at this year’s Washington Brewers Festival. The list includes nearly 220 beers. It is likely more beers will make an appearance. I’ve analyzed the list and share some observations below. Also, I provide a list of Kendall’s Picks: some of the beers that pique my interest and/or that I personally recommend. You can see the full list here (Google doc).

Some Observations About the List

Broadly speaking, lagers and pilsners are the belle of the ball. A few years ago, the Washington Brewers Festival was unmistakably IPA-heavy; the fact that lagers rival IPAs on this year’s list reflects a broader industry trend toward crisp, clean styles. Make no mistake, IPA is still very well represented, with various types of IPA making up over 20% of the list, but the lighter-bodied beers are having a moment, and I’m living for it! 

Kölsch is Crushing It — I suppose it’s part of the swelling popularity of lower ABV beers and lighter-bodied beers, but there are eight kölsches on the list from different breweries. Has this become craft beer’s favorite “accessible” style?

High Gravity to Extremes — At 17%, Talking Cedar Brewing’s stout is the strongest, but the other high ABV beers tend to be extreme. Not just in the 10-11% range; some are over 13%. I share a list of the biggies below.

A Broad Range of ABV

Not all of the beer descriptions included ABV information. About 200 of them did, so our ABV data is based on those. And, of course, it does not account for beers that might appear but are not on the list.

• Average ABV: 6.37%
• The high-end outliers (the handful of 10–17% high-octane beers) pull the average up a bit. 
• The lowest: 3.8% (Fair Isle Brewing’s Harlen Saison) 
• The highest: 17% (Talking Cedar Brewing’s Lewis County Brunch Brand Stout). 

Beers at or above 10% ABV

I’d like to believe we’ve evolved beyond the stereotypical beer fest question: “What’s your strongest beer?” But, realistically, some people still gravitate toward the gravity. 

• Talking Cedar, Lewis County Brunch Brand Stout. 17%
• Postdoc Brewing Company, Hogus Maximus Extremis 2026 Coffee. 15.8% 
• Lumberbeard Brewing, Anniversary Year 6. 15.2% BA Barleywine
• Fremont Brewing, Brew 9000 BA Barleywine. 14.7% 
• Boundary Bay Brewing, BBA Old Bounder Barleywine. 13.9%
• Ladd & Lass Brewing, Deprived Drippins, Russian Imperial Stout. 12% 
• Kulshan Brewing, Barrel Aged Belgian Golden Strong. 11% 
• Stoup Brewing, Sticks & Stones, BBA Stout. 11% 
• Halcyon Brewing, Keep it PC! Chocolate Pistachio Imperial Stout. 10.8% 
• Skookum Brewery, Self Destructor IIIPA. 10.0% 
• Garden Path Fermentation, The Strong Fruit Ale. 10% 

Beers under 5% ABV

I looked at the list and did the best I could to glean the low ABV beers. Likely, I missed some, but here’s a list. 

• 7 Seas Brewing Co, Heidelberg, Pilsner-style Lager. 4.00%
• 7 Seas Brewing Co, Red Raspberry Sour Ale, Gose-Style Sour. 4.70%
• Barley POP! Brewing, Plethora of Piñats Mexican Lager.4.50%
• Chuckanut Brewery, Kölsch. 4.50%
• Dick’s Brewing Co, El Ricardo Mexican Lager. 4.20%
• Elliott Bay Brewing, Golden Boot Golden Ale. 4.50%
• Fair Isle Brewing, Harlen Saison. 3.80%
• Flying Bike Cooperative, Too Many Puppies Hazy Pale. 4.60%
• Future Primitive Brewing, Raspberry Gose.  4.60%
• Garden Path Fermentation, The Fruitful Keg Fruit Ale. 4.20%
• Georgetown Brewing, Gusto Crema Coffee Ale. 4.60%
• Hellbent Brewing, Tobogán Mexican Lager. 4.70%
• Lucky Envelope Brewing, Karakuchi Japanese Lager. 4.70%
• Matchless Brewing, Cheap Beer Lager. 4.00% 
• Postdoc Brewing, Tropical Studying Abroad, Fruit Ale. 4.10%
• Ravenna Brewing Co, Voltova 10th Anniversary. Czech Pale Lager. 4.50%
• Skookum Brewery, Sasquatch Squeeze Shandy. 4.20%
• Steam Donkey Brewing, 360 Blonde Ale Cream Ale. 4.40%
• Stoup Brewing, Beerhall Helles. 4.80%
• U-Neek Brewing, That is Mahogany Oatmeal Milk Porter. 4.60%
• Varietal Beer Co, Moxee Light Cream Ale. 4.50%
• Vice Beer, Mr. Roboto Rice Lager. 4.50%
• Well 80 Brewing, Original Lager Year ’64. 4.20%

Kendall’s Picks

The list of 200+ beers is pretty amazing and diverse, but some of the beers and breweries caught my eye. For various reasons, these are the ones that piqued my interest or that I am already familiar with and personally recommend. You can view the complete list of beers here, but note that it is subject to change and additions. Whatever the case, you’ll find a crapton of great beer at the Washington Brewers Festival, whether it’s recommended by me or not.

7 Seas Brewing, Red Raspberry Sour. A gose-style tart beer packed with tons of ripe raspberries. It’s gonna be a hot day, and this one sounds refreshing.  

Cloudburst Brewing, Take A Dare IPA. Recent Changes at Cloudburst Brewing have me… Oh, I don’t know, feeling compelled. I’m just going to get Cloudburst Brewing’s beers whenever I can, though there is no indication they’re going away. Read this story about the big changes at Cloudburst Brewing.

Culture Shock Brew, Tepache Day Dream. It’s not exactly beer, more like kombucha, but Tepache is an interesting beverage. Mexican in origin, it is traditionally made by adding pineapple scraps (core, top, rind) to water and letting it ferment naturally. Looking forward to seeing what they did with the concept.  

Dick’s Brewing, Dick Danger Ale. It’s not new. It’s not exactly a summery beer. However, its sentimental value is priceless. This beer played an instrumental role in introducing me to my wife, Kim. Who knows where I’d be right now if Dick Danger had NOT been in the cooler on the day we met? If you see me at the festival, ask me. 

Elliott Bay Brewing, Golden Boot. Yeah, I know, folks don’t often get excited about a golden ale, but this one is not just a token effort. I’ve had it and find it to have more character than many beers described as golden ale. It’s a bit hoppy, it’s balanced, and it defies your expectations. At least it did mine.  

Fair Isle Brewing, West Coast Pilsner. I usually associate this saison, but am keenly aware they do more. I don’t doubt their foray into this style will impress.

Formula Brewing, Chasing Bubbles Helles. This is one of those breweries that has won a ton of awards, but I still come across a lot of people who’ve never even heard of it. Is that because it’s Issaquah? I don’t know, but Formula rocks. 

Garden Path Fermentation, The Celebratory Blend Saison. I missed the celebration, so now I’m gonna get the beer. I don’t drink enough beer from this exceptional brewery.

Georgetown Brewing, Juniorzafa IPA. It’s what it sounds like. A little version of Bodhizafa IPA. Plenty of hoppy character. I’ve had it at the brewery, seen it on shelves in cans, and I like it. 

Georgetown Brewing, Gusto Crema. If you haven’t yet, try this beer. Multi-time award winner. Maybe the best coffee beer I’ve ever had. Probably the best coffee beer I’ve ever had. 

Haas Innovations Brewing, anything they’re pouring. Haas is one of the world’s leading hop growers and suppliers. Their experimental/innovation brewery is like Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. They do amazing things behind those closed doors, and it’s not easy to find elsewhere. Don’t pass up this opportunity.

Ilk Beer, Dortmunder Lager. First, Olympia’s Ilk Brewing does great stuff. Second, it’s a Dortmunder, which is one of my favorite German-style lagers. And it’s a fun word to say.

Lucky Envelope Brewing, Karakuchi Japanese Lager. I am surprised there are not more beers of this style on the festival menu this year. Rice lager/Japanese lager is a popular style these days, and Lucky Envelope’s rendition is a great example. Extra dry for your enjoyment. 

Lumberbeard Brewing, anything. This is a great brewery from Spokane, brewing great beers that rarely make it west of the mountains. The festival provides an opportunity to try the beers without the five-hour drive east.

Matchless Brewing, FOMO IPA. They call it their first year-round IPA. How many IPAs has the brewery created over the years? Countless. So, I’m guessing they are particularly proud of this one. 

Propolis Brewing, Spa-Spruce Pale Ale. Long, long ago, in a Bellingham far away, Kendall learned to homebrew. One of the very first beers he brewed was a pale ale with spruce tips. The concept was solid. The execution? Not so much. I am guessing, with a degree of certainty, that Propolis’ beer is a much, much better rendition.

Single Hill Brewing, Greenway Pale Ale. Oh my! A preview of a forthcoming year-round addition to the brewery’s lineup. Riwaka and Mosaic hops? An interesting and intense combo. Color me intrigued. It’s got to be good.

Stoup Brewing, Pride Mach Day IPA. Brings together some of the biggest, most important things happening in Seattle right now: Pride, World Cup soccer, and beer.  

Vice Beer, Mr. Roboto Rice Lager. Domo arigato, Mr. Roboto! Like I said, rice lager is currently enjoying a moment, and I am living for it! I first learned to love this style many, many, many years ago, when Asahi introduced its Super Dry. Looking forward to trying Vice Beer’s version of one of my favorite lager styles.