Fall is bringing two weekends of food, drinks, local makers, and waterfront celebrations to Hood River, Oregon this October. The Hood River Orchard & Ale Festival and Hood River Valley Harvest Festival return on back-to-back weekends, giving visitors two different ways to experience harvest season in the Columbia River Gorge.
Both events will take place at the Hood River Event Site, combining views of the Columbia River with locally produced beer, cider, food, live entertainment, and products from regional farmers and makers.
The celebrations begin October 3 with the second annual Orchard & Ale Festival before the 44th annual Valley Harvest Festival takes over the waterfront from October 9 through 11.
Hood River Orchard & Ale Festival Returns October 3
Formerly known as Hood River Hops Fest, the Hood River Orchard & Ale Festival has expanded its focus to highlight two major parts of the region’s fall season: fresh hop beer and cider produced using the area’s orchard harvest.
Taking place Saturday, October 3 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the festival is expected to feature more than 80 beers and ciders from participating breweries and cideries.
Visitors can also expect live music, fall inspired food, and a craft market throughout the day.
A new tasting format is being introduced for 2026. Instead of purchasing individual tokens, guests can purchase a $35 tasting package, plus applicable ticketing fees, which includes 3-ounce samples from participating producers.
General entry into the festival itself is free, while commemorative festival glassware will be available separately for $10.
Valley Harvest Festival Celebrates Its 44th Year
One weekend later, the waterfront will transform again for the 44th annual Hood River Valley Harvest Festival. Running October 9 through October 11, the longstanding celebration will feature more than 80 artists and makers spread throughout three marketplace tents.
The weekend also includes a farmers market, food carts, children’s activities, live music, and a selection of locally produced beer, cider, wine, and spirits.
Festival hours run from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Advance admission is $10 plus ticketing fees and provides access for all three days. Tickets purchased at the gate are also $10 but are valid only for the day of purchase. Children under 12 receive free admission throughout the weekend, while military members and adults 65 and older can enter for $5 on Friday.
Experience Fall
The two festivals also give visitors an opportunity to explore more of Hood River during one of the region’s busiest harvest periods.
“Fall in Hood River is meant to be experienced with all your senses: fruit coming in from the orchards, the hills changing color, and the waterfront filled with music and community,” said Katie Kadlub, CEO of Visit Hood River.
For anyone turning either festival into a weekend trip, the event site sits only minutes from downtown. Visitors can pair the events with restaurants and businesses throughout the city or travel farther into the surrounding agricultural areas.
The Hood River Fruit Loop offers another way to experience harvest season, with farm stands, orchards, and U-pick opportunities located throughout the region.
Hood River was also recently named America’s Best Small Mountain Town for 2026 by Travel + Leisure, adding another reason for travelers to explore the area beyond the festival grounds.
The Hood River Orchard & Ale Festival takes place October 3, followed by the Hood River Valley Harvest Festival from October 9 through 11. Both events will be held at the Hood River Event Site in Hood River, Oregon.
Tickets, tasting packages, lodging information, and additional festival details are available through the official festival and tourism websites.
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