Cider Summit Celebrates 15 Years in SLU

Fall is just around the corner, and one of Seattle’s biggest celebrations of cider is returning to South Lake Union.

Cider Summit Seattle celebrates its 15th anniversary September 11–12, bringing more than 40 producers and 125 ciders, meads, cider cocktails, and fruit spirits to the Lawn at Discovery Center. The annual festival features producers from across the Pacific Northwest and beyond, with many cidermakers onsite to talk tasting, pairings, and all things cider.

The festival runs from 3–8 pm on Friday, September 11, with VIP entry beginning at 2pm, and noon–5pm on Saturday, September 12. General admission includes 12 tasting tickets and a festival tasting glass, while VIP admission includes 16 tasting tickets, a glass, and early Friday entry.

There’s plenty happening beyond the main tasting, too. The Heritage Cider Pavilion will showcase farm-based regional artisanal producers, while the Oregon Fruit Co. Fruit Cider Challenge lets festivalgoers taste and vote for their favorite. Guests can also grab food from Miss Café and Kathmandu MoMoCha, plus snacks from several local vendors.

New this year, Saturday kicks off with a Cider & Cupcake paired tasting from 11am–noon. The separately ticketed, four-course experience pairs selections from Slightly Furry Cider with cupcakes from noted Seattle bakeries and is limited to 60 participants.

Even four-legged cider fans can get in on the festivities. Well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome, and the Seattle Humane Society will host a Dog Lounge with shade, water, and treats.

General admission tickets are $40+ in advance through September 11 and $55 at the gate. VIP tickets are $50+, and the Cider & Cupcake tasting can be added to any festival ticket for $30+. The festival is 21+; designated driver tickets will be available at the gate.