Annual Beer Festival, FOTDA: A Night of Stouts, Performers, and Music
Our February beer festival tradition in Astoria, OR came alive with the highly anticipated Festival of the Dark Arts at Fort George Brewery. Known for its unique and inviting atmosphere, this celebration of all things dark and delicious drew locals and visitors alike, creating a night of unforgettable experiences combining the best "dark" craft beer, performance art, and live music.
The event, which has become a beloved tradition at Fort George Brewery, is a celebration of stouts—those dark, rich, and complex beers that are perfect for a chilly evening. Fort George didn’t disappoint, offering a staggering array of their own stouts and many breweries locally and around the country, each with its own personality and flavor profile. From velvety smooth milk stouts to bold, intense imperial stouts with hints of chocolate and coffee, there was something for every stout lover. Some standout brews included the Fort George “Cavatica Stout”, known for its rich, smooth finish, and the North Jetty “Big as Your Head”, which had a delicious roasty-ness with a slight molasses feel. We also enjoyed the Von Ebert “Rendered Nightmare”, dry hopped imperial stout with notes of chocolate, cedar needles and anis.
Beyond the Beer
Throughout the festival, performances filled the air with energy and wonder. Fire dancers twirled and spun, their fiery movements lighting up the night with dramatic intensity. Costumed performers, from witches to creatures of the night, roamed through the crowd, adding an element of fantasy and playfulness. This combination of physical artistry and immersive performances created an almost surreal experience, one that felt both captivating and a bit otherworldly.
The musical lineup was also entertaining as local bands played throughout the event, filling the brewery with sounds that ranged from upbeat to toe-tapping rock. The mood was perfect for the occasion—dark, but with a lively spirit that encouraged guests to fully embrace the “stout” evening. The festival’s mix of live music and ambient noise made for an ideal soundtrack, blending seamlessly with the buzz of conversation and the clinking of pint glasses.
Mark Your Calendars
The annual Festival of the Dark Arts at Fort George Brewery isn’t just a celebration of stouts—it's an invitation to dive into a world of artistic expression, community, and great beer. Whether you're a die-hard stout fan, someone who loves immersive performances, or just looking for a fun night out, this event is the perfect blend of all things dark, creative, and captivating.
If you missed it this year, be sure to mark your calendars for next year's beer festival in February 2026. The Festival of the Dark Arts has quickly become a must-visit event, one that brings together the best of craft beer, artistic performances, and an unforgettable atmosphere. We can’t wait to see what they have in store for the next edition of this magical event!
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