Portland’s iconic Horse Brass Pub, a cornerstone of Oregon’s craft beer heritage, is throwing a week-long party from July 10-16, 2026, to commemorate its 50th anniversary. Founded in 1976 by the influential Don Younger, the pub has been instrumental in shaping the region’s beer culture, renowned for its pioneering selection of imports, cask ales, and early microbrews that championed local breweries.
Key Highlights:
- 50th Anniversary Celebration: A week of events from July 10-16, 2026.
- Founding Legacy: Honors Don Younger, a pivotal figure in Oregon beer.
- Collaborative Brews: Special anniversary beers and ciders with regional partners.
- Expanded Space: Features access to the new companion space, The Pony Room.
- Pioneer Status: Celebrates 50 years of promoting craft beer in Portland.
A Half-Century of Hoppiness: The Horse Brass Pub’s Golden Jubilee
The Horse Brass Pub, a Portland institution since 1976, is raising a glass to fifty years of serving exceptional beer and fostering a vibrant community. This milestone celebration, running from July 10th to July 16th, 2026, is a testament to the vision of its founder, Don Younger, a true pioneer whose passion for quality beer left an indelible mark on the Pacific Northwest. Younger’s dedication to introducing Portland to a diverse range of beers, from authentic British imports and traditional cask ales to the nascent craft microbrews emerging from local breweries, established the Horse Brass as more than just a bar; it became a vital hub for beer enthusiasts and a launchpad for regional brewing innovation.
A Legacy Forged in Cask and Collaboration
The anniversary events are designed to pay homage to Don Younger’s enduring legacy and the pub’s significant role in the evolution of craft beer. Central to the festivities are a series of special collaboration brews and ciders. These limited-edition beverages have been meticulously crafted in partnership with esteemed regional breweries and cideries, including renowned names like Russian River Brewing Company, Double Mountain Brewery, and Breakside Brewery. These collaborations not only celebrate the pub’s past but also underscore its continued commitment to supporting and innovating within the craft beer industry. The week will feature industry nights, live music performances, and special tributes, all aimed at celebrating the rich history and vibrant present of The Horse Brass Pub.
The Pony Room: A New Chapter Unfolds
Adding to the excitement of the golden anniversary is the spotlight on The Pony Room, the pub’s newly established companion space. This new venue will be fully accessible during the week-long celebration, offering attendees an expanded experience and a glimpse into the future of the Horse Brass. The Pony Room is envisioned as an extension of the original pub’s ethos, providing a welcoming atmosphere for patrons to enjoy a curated selection of beverages. The integration of The Pony Room into the anniversary festivities signifies the pub’s forward-thinking approach while remaining deeply rooted in its fifty-year legacy.
Echoes of Portland’s Beer Revolution
The Horse Brass Pub’s fifty-year journey mirrors the dramatic growth and sophistication of Portland’s craft beer scene. In the 1970s, when Don Younger opened the doors, the beer landscape was vastly different. His decision to stock and promote imports and early craft beers was a bold move that educated palates and fostered a demand for higher quality brews. This foresight positioned the Horse Brass at the forefront of a brewing revolution that would eventually see Oregon, and Portland in particular, become a world-renowned destination for craft beer. The pub’s enduring success is a narrative of passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to the art and culture of brewing. The week-long celebration serves as a moment to reflect on this history, to acknowledge the patrons and brewers who have been part of this journey, and to look forward to many more years of excellent beer and camaraderie.
FAQ: People Also Ask
What is the Horse Brass Pub celebrating?
The Horse Brass Pub is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a week-long party.
When is the anniversary celebration taking place?
The celebration is scheduled to run from July 10th to July 16th, 2026.
Who founded the Horse Brass Pub?
The pub was founded in 1976 by Don Younger.
What role did Don Younger play in Portland’s beer scene?
Don Younger was a pioneer who played a crucial role in promoting Oregon’s craft beer culture by serving imports, cask ales, and early microbrews, providing a platform for local breweries.
Are there special beers for the anniversary?
Yes, the celebration features special anniversary collaboration beers and ciders brewed with regional partners like Russian River, Double Mountain, and Breakside.
Is the new space, The Pony Room, involved in the celebration?
Yes, The Pony Room, the pub’s new companion space, will be accessible during the festivities.
