Get Excited For Cider

The Cider Summit Seattle is back for its 11th year. After a pandemic hiatus, the festival returns to the waterfront of Lake Union Park adjacent to MOHAI on September 9 and 10.

More than 50 cideries will set up at the festival to share their artisanal sips ranging from ciders to meads, cocktails, apple spirits, and more. Patrons can expect Pacific Northwest faves and international classics, with cider makers on site to share tasting notes and the more-than-occasional cider anecdote.

“We are thrilled to welcome back our community after the two-year hiatus,” said Ian Shapiro, Cider Summit co-founder and producer.

“Cider Summit is the perfect way to greet the beginning of fall for cider lovers and the cider curious. This year’s festival holds extra meaning and it feels great to be back together.”

In addition to the tastings, festival-goers can enjoy bites from Seattle Monster Dogs and Frelard Tamales, and more.

Plus, don’t miss:

• Oregon Fruit Products Fruit Cider Challenge, with text voting to determine winner.
• Seeds Cider Cocktail Lounge featuring an array of fruit spirits, pommeau, and more.
• Heritage Cider Pavilion featuring farm-based regional artisanal cider producers.
• Dog Lounge hosted by Just Food for Dogs and benefiting Seattle Humane Society will offer shade, water, and treats. Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome.
• Event store featuring bottles and cans to go, festival merch, and extra tasting tickets.

VIP tickets ($69.19) are available online only until September 8. The experience includes a festival tasting glass, early entry on September 9, and 18 tasting tickets. General admission tickets ($55.98 through Sept. 8 and $60 at the gate) includes a festival tasting glass and 14 tasting tickets.

More cider after hours

Used up all of your tasting tickets, but want more sips? Explore the SLU neighborhood after the Cider Summit for more delicious ciders. Tapster Seattle features a nice selection of ciders among its more than two-dozen self-serve taps. Teku Tavern is mostly beer focused, but you can find Washington-based ciders from Yonder, Tieton, and Seattle Cider on tap, plus a number of choices in its bottle section. Mix in some mini golf with cider offerings at FlatStick Pub — their tap list currently has selections from One Tree, Greenwood Cider, and Channel Marker.

Be sure to explore the South Lake Union Business Directory for more great dining and drinking options in the neighborhood.