Zootoberfest

The Oregon Zoo stages Zootoberfest on two September evenings, opening the grounds after hours for a Bavarian-styled beer festival set among the animal habitats. Dozens of Northwest breweries and cideries pour samples while live music plays, food carts serve, and keepers give talks at the exhibits; the train and carousel keep running through the night. It is a 21-and-over event, and guests are encouraged to turn up in lederhosen, a dirndl or an animal costume, with ticket proceeds supporting the zoo's conservation work.