There are no shortage of delectable gatherings blipping across the foodie radar. I like to think of it as conditioning, just as a marathon runner trains their body -- I do the same. Except I'm preparing for the gluttony of the holiday season. Here are some of my favorite libation and foodie-fueled events coming up:
Saturday, Sept. 28, from noon to 5 p.m., get into the autumnal spirit with the Sixth Annual Cider Swig! Washington is known for their ripe and juicy apples equating to a plethora of locally sourced and handcrafted ciders being produced right here. Sip on ciders, enjoy live music, get in on apple launching, carnival games, face painting and enjoy the fun.
Northwest cidermakers will present over 100 ciders available to sample in the Cider Garden.
Ticket includes five drink tokens, a six-ounce festival glass, and access to all live music and entertainment, food, the Apple Carnivàle Zone, and all other festival activities.
This is an accessible family-fun and dog-friendly event (though the cider swigging only takes place in the cider garden). There is an "Applet Center" where the little ones can be dropped off to enjoy hands-on activities for kids ages 2 to 12.
Cider Swig proceeds support environmental education, restoration and conservation efforts across our greater peninsulas.
Shekel Homestead Park, 10123 78th Ave. NW, Gig Harbor, tickets at eventbrite.com/e/6th-annual-cider-swig-the-greater-peninsula-cider-festival-tickets-59749460244?aff=efbeventtix
The 58th Annual Tacoma Greek Festival is coming up Oct. 4-6, hosted by St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church. The parishioners of St. Nicholas work year-round to prepare authentic (and homemade!) Greek cuisine and pastries, practice traditional Greek dances, and source products that festival guests can purchase to bring a taste of Greece into their homes.
A portion of proceeds benefit local charities, and the event is a delectable opportunity to acquaint yourself with the heritage and culture of Greece. It's free to attend but bring some dollars to indulge on Ouzo Cake, Gyros and of course plenty of handmade Baklava.
1523 S. Yakima, Tacoma, stnicholastacoma.org/greekfestival
Tacoma Arts Live has executed the summer, hops-fueled Brew Five Three for years and is now introducing an autumn gathering for lovers of craft distilleries with the Tacoma Distillery Festival. On Saturday, Nov. 16, from 3-7 p.m., Pacific Northwest distilleries and local food vendors will fill the Tacoma Armory for an afternoon of sipping. Gin, Vodka, Whiskey and more will be featured among the 20-plus distilleries featured. It's a super rad opportunity to play as muse for your upcoming holiday gatherings. Tickets are $45 and include six taster tokens and a commemorative shot glass.
1001 S. Yakima Ave., tacomaartslive.org