It’s the first Friday of November which means tonight is the First Friday Art Walk taking place in downtown Bend, taking place from 5 to 9pm: dozens of businesses will be open the later hours, featuring special art exhibits, and many will have refreshments and live music. (Refreshments often include wine and beer to everyone’s delight.) It’s always a lot of fun with many people out to enjoy the evening, and you never know—you might see a piece of artwork that you can’t live without!

(At the very least you’ll probably see people you know and enjoy the free wine!)

And, a First Friday plug for my new book, Bend Beer:

Tonight is the official launch party for the book, taking place at the Des Chutes Historical Museum on the edge of downtown, starting at 6:30! I’ll be there signing books and giving an informal talk likely along with a Q&A session so if you wanted to find out more about the book, Bend’s beer history, or get a signed copy, come on down!

Even better, Deschutes Brewery will be on hand celebrating with us and pouring a keg of their pub specialty, Botanical Ale! I like the juxaposition of Bend’s first brewery paired with Bend’s history (the Museum). And Chef Rudy of Smokin’ Dan Brew & Q will be on hand providing food.

Afterwards (kicking off at 8 or 8:30) we’ll embark on a “historic” pub crawl through downtown Bend to visit several of the pubs where Bend’s beer got its start—tentatively I’m planning on McMenamins, JC’s Bar & Grill, Bend Brewing, and Deschutes Brewery.

Feel free to come on down and join us!