Annual Holiday Ale Festival Returns To Portland

The 17th Annual Holiday Ale Festival returns to Portland, Ore.'s Pioneer Courthouse Square to start off the holiday season with five days of beer tasting. From November 28 to December 2, vistors are given the opportunity to taste more than 40 varieties of beers.

Those who want even more ales can try exclusive brews at the Beer Brunch on Sunday, Dec. 2, which includes a European style brunch, complete with cheeses, artisan salamis, fresh croissants and mini chocolate croissants, boiled eggs, fruit platters, granola, and fresh orange juice and coffee.

Advance tickets for the event are $30 for general admision, which includes a festival mug, 12 beer tickets, and expedited entry all five days (visitors must show their wristbands and current year's mug). VIP tickets, which are $45, include a festival mug, 28 beer tickets, express entry for all five days, bottled water, and access to VIP beer lines. Four-ounce "taster" sized beers cost one ticket, while a 14-ounce full-size mugs of beer cost four tickets. Additional tickets can be purchased for $1 each. For designated drivers in the group, complimentary Crater Lake Rootbeer is provided with a $5 entry fee. 

Proceeds from the festival's coat and bag checks and raffle supports the Childrens Cancer Association,

Nikki Maniscalco is a Junior Writer at The Daily Meal. Follow her on Twtiter @NikkiMarie2116