With the slow coming of spring also comes a new crop of cider festivals. Many of these events feature both local and international ciders for tasting and they are great for both novice and seasoned cider aficionados. Enjoy the slightly warmer weather with new and unique ciders from all over.
Le Mondial des Cidres | Montréal, Québec | March 2-4
This two-day cider festival in Montreal has a number of lively activities for the cider lover. For instance, on March 3, patrons can participate in a friendly speed tasting competition in which participants have 30 minutes to try three different products. Pre-sale passes are $7 and day- of tickets are $20 and both include one drink, tasting glass and tasting coupons. Find tickets here.
Cider Rite of Spring | Portland, OR | March 10
Celebrate the coming of spring with the Northwest Cider Association. This year the celebration will be held at The Left Bank Annex in North Portland, featuring unique ciders that are either made especially for the occasion or on a limited run. Participating brands include Stone Circle Cider, 2 Towns Ciderhouse and Woodbox. General admission tickets can be found online for $25 through Wednesday, and go up to $30 on March 1. Snag tickets here.
Pour the Core: Boston | Boston | April 7
The fourth annual Pour the Core: Boston is back! The tasting event will be held at the Cruiseport Boston, showcasing brands like Downeast Cider and Woodchuck Hard Cider. Tickets are sold exclusively online here, with general admission running $45 per ticket and VIP at $60. This event is 21 and over and designated driver tickets are discounted at $12. A sell-out of tickets is expected so pre-sale tickets are suggested.
Cider Summit | San Francisco | April 14
The fifth annual San Francisco Cider Summit will feature over 150 local and international ciders, held for another year at the beautiful Presidio in the Civil War Parade Ground. General admission tickets include 15 tasting tickets and a tasting glass. Tickets cost $35 through March 14, $40 through April 13 and $45 at the door. Minors are allowed in the event when accompanied by a parent. Get your tickets here.
Hood River Hard-Pressed Cider Fest | Hood River, OR | April 21
The burgeoning Hood River Valley cider scene is the perfect place to showcase up-and-coming craft cidermakers. Featured producers source apples and pears from nearly 500 local orchards. This year 25+ cideries will be participating in the event and live local music will also be on display. This is one cider celebration where kids are welcome, there will be a designated kids’ area complete with a bouncy house. Tickets are available here.
