The Ultimate Guide To Zoo Brew Portland 2025: Dates, Tickets, And 7 Must-Know Tips
The Oregon Zoo's most anticipated 21+ summer event, Zoo Brew, is officially returning in 2025, promising two nights of premier Pacific Northwest craft beer and cider tasting in one of Portland's most unique venues. As of today, December 24, 2025, the confirmed dates for this festive gathering are set, allowing enthusiasts to mark their calendars for a night out that directly supports wildlife conservation efforts. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know, from the confirmed event schedule to essential ticket information and what makes this experience a must-attend for any beer lover.
The annual Zoo Brew event transforms the Oregon Zoo into an adult playground, featuring dozens of regional breweries and cideries, food carts, and live entertainment—all without the daytime crowds. It’s a crucial fundraiser, with every ticket purchased helping the zoo protect endangered species both locally and around the world, making your night of tasting a direct contribution to a vital cause.
Confirmed Zoo Brew Portland 2025 Dates and Essential Details
The highly anticipated Zoo Brew event is scheduled to take place over two nights, providing ample opportunity to explore the zoo grounds while sampling some of the region's best brews. This two-day format is a tradition, ensuring that the event remains manageable and enjoyable for all attendees.
- Event Dates: Friday, June 6, 2025, and Saturday, June 7, 2025.
- Venue: The Oregon Zoo, located in Washington Park, Portland, OR.
- Time: 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM (General Admission).
- Age Restriction: This is strictly a 21+ event. IDs are mandatory for entry.
- Cause: Proceeds from every ticket directly support the Oregon Zoo’s conservation efforts and programs to protect endangered and threatened species.
The atmosphere is a major draw, offering a unique opportunity to wander the zoo paths at dusk, enjoying the summer air and the sounds of live music, all while sipping on a diverse selection of beverages. Over 50 breweries and cideries typically participate, showcasing their flagship beers, seasonal specialties, and limited-edition ciders.
Decoding the Zoo Brew Ticket Tiers: General vs. Early Entry
Securing your ticket early is paramount, as this event frequently sells out well in advance. Past years’ trends indicate that tickets go on sale in the spring, so prospective attendees should monitor the official Oregon Zoo website and social media channels for the most current on-sale announcements.
Zoo Brew typically offers two main ticket tiers, each providing a slightly different experience:
General Admission (GA)
The standard ticket tier, offering entry at the main start time, usually 6:00 PM or 6:30 PM. The GA ticket is the most common option and includes the essential components of the festival:
- Entry to the 21+ event.
- 10 tasting tokens (each token is good for one 3-ounce pour).
- A commemorative souvenir cup.
- Access to all participating breweries, food carts, lawn games, and live entertainment.
Early Entry (EE)
The premium ticket for the serious enthusiast, Early Entry grants access to the event 30 to 60 minutes before General Admission. This is highly recommended for those who want to maximize their tasting experience and avoid the initial lines. Benefits include:
- All the benefits of a General Admission ticket.
- Exclusive, less-crowded access to the brewery stations before the main rush.
- A better chance to speak with brewery representatives and sample limited-release beers that might run out later in the evening.
Ticket prices for the 2025 event are subject to change, but historically, they fall within a competitive range for a festival of this size and caliber. Remember that a portion of the price is a charitable donation, making it a worthwhile investment.
The Brews, Bites, and Conservation Impact: What to Expect
Zoo Brew is more than just a beer festival; it’s a showcase of the Pacific Northwest’s vibrant craft beverage scene set against the backdrop of a world-class conservation institution. The sheer number of participants ensures a diverse selection for every palate, from hoppy IPAs to crisp ciders and dark stouts.
A Showcase of Pacific Northwest Craft
The event consistently draws top-tier talent from Oregon and beyond. Attendees in previous years have enjoyed selections from local favorites such as Portland Cider Company and other regional breweries like Backwoods Brewing Co., alongside a variety of cideries, including 2 Towns Ciderhouse. The lineup is typically announced closer to the event date, but you can confidently expect a curated list of high-quality craft producers.
- Beer Styles: Expect a wide range, including Pale Ales, Sours, Lagers, and unique experimental brews.
- Cider Options: A strong presence of cideries, offering refreshing alternatives like POG Cosmic Crisp and other fruit-forward varieties.
- Non-Alcoholic: Options are usually available for designated drivers and non-drinkers, often including specialty sodas or craft non-alcoholic beers.
Food Cart Pod and Entertainment
No Portland festival is complete without exceptional food. Zoo Brew features a selection of popular local food carts to pair perfectly with your tastings. Past participants have included Verde Cocina and Portland Pretzel & Popcorn Co., ensuring a variety of savory and sweet options are available for purchase. Live music, often featuring local bands like Beat Division, adds to the festive, high-energy atmosphere, making it a perfect night out with friends or a unique date night.
Your Impact on Endangered Species
The underlying mission of Zoo Brew is conservation. The funds raised are critical for the Oregon Zoo’s mission to protect endangered and threatened species. This includes local efforts in the Pacific Northwest and international programs. By attending, you are directly contributing to important projects like breeding programs and habitat protection, transforming a fun night of tasting into a meaningful act of support for wildlife.
7 Essential Tips for a Perfect Zoo Brew 2025 Experience
To ensure you make the most of your evening, follow these expert tips for navigating the Oregon Zoo’s premier beer festival:
- Buy Early Entry Tickets: If your budget allows, the Early Entry ticket is worth the extra cost. It gives you a head start on the 50+ breweries and cideries, minimizing wait times and ensuring you can sample the most sought-after brews.
- Plan Your Transit: Parking at Washington Park can be challenging. Utilize Portland's excellent public transportation. The MAX light rail (Blue or Red Line) stops directly at the Oregon Zoo, making transit easy and safe.
- Hydrate and Pace Yourself: With 10 tokens for 3-ounce pours, you'll be consuming 30 ounces of beer or cider. Take advantage of the free water stations located throughout the venue and remember to eat from the food carts.
- Dress for Comfort: You will be walking the zoo grounds, often on uneven terrain. Comfortable shoes are a must. Also, Portland evenings can be cool, so a light jacket or hoodie is advisable.
- Check the Brewery Map: Upon entry, grab a map or check the event app (if available). Prioritize the breweries you most want to try, especially those with limited releases, to ensure you don't miss out.
- Bring Cash/Card for Food: While your ticket covers the tastings, food from the carts is purchased separately. Have a card or cash ready for quick transactions.
- Don't Miss the Animals (From a Distance): While the focus is on the brews, take a moment to enjoy the unique setting. Some animal exhibits may be viewable, providing a rare glimpse of the zoo at night, though the primary focus remains on the adult-friendly festival activities.
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