Smell and Taste The Value of Tourism in Oregon!

Culinary tourism is alive and well in Oregon, from the Willamette Valley winery tasting rooms, to the Hood River Fruit Loop, and the seafood offerings at the Oregon Coast. And don’t forget the many events, festivals, farmers markets, and more that engage visitors in an experiential celebration of place and taste. The agricultural bounty here lends itself to the production of world-class food and drink which can be enjoyed in each of Oregon’s seven tourism regions. 

Whether you work in foodservice already, or engage in hospitality and tourism in other ways, you probably know many food lovers at heart, actively seeking that next mouthwatering bite. When it comes to dairy foods, there are no shortage of delicious experiences to enjoy throughout the year. Here in Oregon, we are proud to be home to over 140 Grade A dairies, 4 sustainability award winners and a number and creameries, cheesemakers and processors who are recognized nationally and internationally for their award-winning products.

Where to start? Start right here in Portland and start NOW!

September is Oregon Cheese Month!
Oregon Cheese Month is a celebration of our state’s artisan cheesemakers and their wares at retailers, cheese shops, restaurants, and farmers markets around the state during the month of September. Look for the Oregon Cheese logo to find delicious local handcrafted cheeses. 

The month is capped this year by The Wedge, a Portland area farmers market-style festival celebrating cheese and everything that goes with it, where event goers can sample and purchase local artisan cheese, specialty foods, wine, spirits, and cider. This year’s event is open to cheese lovers 21 and older.

• Where: Alder Block, home of the Portland Night Market, 100 SE Alder St., Portland 97214. This is an indoor and outdoor event and will be held rain or shine!
• When: Saturday, September 28th, 2024, 12pm – 5pm (VIP early entry at 10:30am).  
• Tickets: https://thewedgeportland.com/​

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Explore the World of Oregon Cheese
Did you know that you can find almost every type of artisan cheese being made right here, in this state? Take an epic road trip through our lush green valleys and coastal fields and taste for yourself on the Oregon Cheese Trail. Our 15-plus artisan cheesemakers use science and artistry to turn fresh local milk into some of the finest cheeses made anywhere.

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​Celebrate Cheese in Springtime
Held annually in Central Point, OR in the spring, the Oregon Cheese Festival, put on by the Oregon Cheese Guild is a 2-day all-encompassing celebration of cheese. Of the more than 100 vendors, about 20 of them are cheese, and then you can also taste everything else you might find on a cheese board or in the specialty section of the grocery store: Adult beverages, sauces, jams, jellies, nuts, mushrooms, and more. Save the dates for 2025 – April 26 & 27.

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Last But Not Least: Ice Cream Lovers, Unite!
Rain or shine, we love ice cream!  With so many tasty flavors to choose from, it’s no wonder that Oregonians love this sweet and creamy treat. Ready for a new taste adventure? Join the Oregon Ice Cream Trail! Since its creation in July 2018, the Oregon Ice Cream Trail has grown from 10 landmark ice cream shops to more than 100! It includes all varieties of scoop and soft serve ice cream, as well as frozen yogurt, custard, gelato, and novelties – all made in Oregon. | Oregon Dairy Council

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This guest blog was submitted by the Oregon Dairy Council (ODC). For more information on guest blog opportunities, contact Marla McColly, Business Development Director, Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association.