Image of the Hawthorne Bridge courtesy parksdh2 via Flickr
Just in case the Bite of Oregon turns into a massive clusterfuck situation, may we suggest an alternate open-air eating experience? The first-annual Portland Bridge Festival closes things up in style during this weekend's Brunch on the Bridge, during which the Hawthorne Bridge is turned into a 25,000-square-foot grassy knoll perfect for a citywide picnic. The brunch takes place this Saturday, August 7, from 10am to 1pm; participants who slather on their sunscreen and pay the $40 registration can bring their own picnics or nosh at one of 10 bridge-parked food carts, including Potato Champion, KOi Fusion, People's Pig, the Fried Onion, Weenies on the Water (tee-hee!). Perk up with beverages by Public Domain and Caffe Vita — but sorry, no booze allowed (we recommend mini orange-juice cartons and flasks).
Proceeds benefit the non-profit Bridge Festival organization, and the event also raises awareness — and donations (please bring a non-perishable food item) — for Fish Emergency Service, a local hunger organization.
· Brunch on the Bridge [Official site]