By Vanessa Salvia

Did you see the lines around the block for the Sip, Savor, Stroll event? Many people did. While waiting in line, our group had three people stop and ask, “What’s going on?” The crowds definitely created a buzz and the sold-out ticket sales also created a logjam of lines to wait in. For those who braved it, the rain mostly held off and there were some samples of tasty beverages and food to be had. (The slice of cheese pizza from Silver Falls Brewery was a much-appreciated hot and gooey unexpected treat). This was the first time the event was held here, so if you missed it you might get another chance in the future (hopefully with some kinks worked out).

Once you got through the check-in line and got your cups, you were free to wander throughout the 5th Street Public Market and neighboring businesses. The people who were first in line got a commemorative cup from Knob Creek, while others got a plastic cup along with their 5 tickets. The main idea was that the pop-up booths were located in stores or other established locations, and you couldn’t leave the store with your alcohol, so the idea was that people getting samples would wander around the store they were in, so they could see the merchandise and make a purchase if they were so inclined. Our first stop was Elephant’s Trunk, where we got samples of 2015 marachel foch wine from Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards, located in Terrebonne, outside of Sisters.

Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards at 2024 Sip, Savor, Stroll in Eugene
Faith Hope & Charity Vineyards at the 2024 Sip Savor Stroll in Eugene

We tried Finnigan Hill Vineyards, located in Hillsboro, inside Books With Pictures. We skipped over Plank Town, only because we have had their beer so many times (so, so many times!) and we wanted to try some places we wouldn’t normally get a chance to try. We headed out to Will Leather Goods to try Westward Whiskey and be entered into a drawing to win a beautiful leather bottle carrying case.

The line snaked past Silver Falls Brewing, where the aforementioned pizza made a miraculous appearance, and visited Cornucopia to get a taste of Tres Generaciones Tequila at one booth, and Basil Hayden Bourbon, and Knob Creek Bourbon, which were being poured from the same booth.

Silver Falls Brewing during Sip, Savor, Stroll in Eugene 2024
Silver Falls Brewing during the 2024 Sip, Savor, Stroll in Eugene.

 

Tres Generaciones Tequila pouring samples at Sip, Savor, Stroll 2024 in Eugene.
Tres Generaciones Tequila pouring samples at Sip, Savor, Stroll 2024 in Eugene.

 

The Knob Creek and Basil Hayden booth at 2024 Sip, Savor, Stroll in Eugene.
The Knob Creek Bourbon and Basil Hayden Bourbon booth at the 2024 Sip, Savor, Stroll event in Eugene.

Since we were close to the Pedego electric bike shop, we headed over there to get a sample of Deluxe Brewing & Sinister Distilling, two sister businesses owned by the same people. Sinister & Deluxe Distilling is Albany’s first brewstillery — a production brewery and distillery located along the Willamette River, in the Borden Building.

Sinister Distillery and Deluxe Brewing pouring samples at the 2024 Sip, Savor, Stroll event in Eugene.
Sinister Distillery and Deluxe Brewing pouring samples at the 2024 Sip, Savor, Stroll event in Eugene.

Here’s the post we made when this event was first announced:

We’re excited about the Sip, Savor, Stroll event that is coming up at the 5th Street Public Market in Eugene on April 20! This is the first time this event is held but we hope it won’t be the last. This tasting tour promises a delightful experience for people who live here who may already be familiar with our great artisans, as well as anyone who is visiting who wants to sample the many delicious tastes we get to enjoy here year-round. This event takes place from 2-7pm on day only over four blocks of the 5th Street Public Market. While this is a 21 and over event to experience, kids and all ages are welcome in the market. The market’s historic setting in the heart of downtown Eugene adds to the fun.

For those who love to sip, Sip, Savor, Stroll boasts a fantastic selection of local wineries, breweries, and coffee roasters. You can sample exquisite Oregon wines, indulge in crafty brews, or savor a perfectly roasted cup of coffee while strolling through the public market. This is a great chance to savor delectable treats from local artisans you may not have had a chance to try before, as well as out-of-town artisans you may not have heard of. The event is brimming with an array of artisan food and beverage vendors offering ice cream, handcrafted chocolates, liqueurs, ciders, and much more.

After (or before!) you have indulged in the culinary delights of the evening, take the opportunity to stroll through the market. Buy a special gift for someone, pick up some decor for your garden, or check out the latest fashions. You’ll find an eclectic mix of local artists, craftspeople, and retailers showcasing many items that you can only get here, from handmade jewelry and pottery to clothing and shoes.

Whether you’re a foodie, a wine connoisseur, or simply someone seeking a delightful weekend outing, Sip, Savor, Stroll at the 5th Street Public Market promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the best of the local talent and flavors from Eugene and beyond.

About Sip, Savor, Stroll
Get tickets at www.EatDrinkOregon.com/events/66828
Your general admission ticket gets you access to the tasting event, a commemorative cup, ID check event wristband, your first 5 sample tokens, and access to vendors to purchase bottles at their best prices! Additional tasting tokens $1.50/each in packs of 10. The typical guest will use 10 to 15 tasting tokens.

Check-In: 5th Street Eateries from 2-7pm (Corner of 5th Ave and High Street)

38+ Participating Tasting Businesses!

  • Knob Creek & Basil Hayden Bourbon
  • Cornucopia Bar & Burgers
  • D’Anu Wines
  • Jazzy Ladies Cafe
  • Divine Distillers
  • Provisions Market Hall
  • Calapooia Brewing
  • Antiquum Farm
  • Blended
  • Bend Cider Co.
  • J. Scott Cellars
  • Two-Shy Brewing
  • Made In Oregon
  • Rogue Ales
  • Fireside Distillers
  • Gratitude Brewing
  • Elizabeth’s Wine Lounge
  • Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
  • Tres Generaciones Tequila
  • Cafe Yumm!
  • 2 Towns Ciderhouse
  • Domaine Divio
  • Euphoria Chocolate Company
  • On The Rocks Premium Cocktails
  • Runcible Cider Co.
  • Vivacity Spirits
  • Magpie Coffee Shop
  • WildCraft Cider Works
  • Deluxe Brewing
  • Sinister Distilling
  • Thai Spice
  • Westward Whiskey
  • Planktown Brewing
  • Girardet Vineyards
  • Finnigan Hill Vineyards
  • Faith Hope and Charity Vineyards
  • Cherry Hill Vineyards
  • Carlita’s Rooftop
  • MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED, STAY TUNED!