Story & Photos Courtesy of Experience Anacortes

Don't miss the 14th annual Anacortes beer festival that everyone knows and loves. This year, Bier Near the Pier is happening October 3-4th, 2025 at the historic Depot Center near Cap Sante Marina. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and refreshing beer from local and far-away breweries. 

Bier Near the Pier brings together craft beer lovers from across the region to enjoy an impressive selection of local and regional brews, ciders, and wines. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Cap Sante Waterway, the festival offers a unique opportunity to sample over 40 different types of brews and cider while enjoying live music, local food vendors, and the vibrant atmosphere of the Pacific Northwest. With its picturesque location and diverse selection of craft drinks, Bier Near the Pier has become a must-attend event for beer enthusiasts.

But Bier Near the Pier is about more than just beer. The event also features live music, food vendors serving up delicious bites and a friendly, communal atmosphere that epitomizes the Pacific Northwest's spirit. You'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded individuals who appreciate the artistry and camaraderie of the craft beer world.

We had such a great turnout last year of the costume contents, we decided to bring it back! Come dressed in your most creative outfit for a chance to win tickets to next year's event! Halfway through each session costume contestants will line up for a round of applause. The winner will be selected based on the loudest cheers and awarded a free ticket for next year’s event.  No specific theme, no registration, just come dressed to impress in your most creative outfits!

The main attraction, of course, is the impressive lineup of craft breweries that participate. Local and regional breweries set up booths, showcasing their finest brews, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Attendees can sample a wide range of beers, with a backdrop of breathtaking waterfront views. It's an excellent chance to discover new favorites and engage with the passionate brewers behind the scenes.

Live Music by Dana Osborn (Friday, October 3: 5-8 pm)
Dana Osborn has been a staple of the Pacific Northwest music scene for over 30 years. A multi-instrumentalist with two CDs and 300+ original songs, he has worked with national talents like Michael Derosier (Heart), Marc Willett (The Kingsmen), and producer Ken Caillat (Fleetwood Mac). Whether with his full band or an acoustic set, Dana brings great energy and always gets the crowd singing along.

Cape Flattery (Saturday October 4, 12-3 pm)
Based in Bellingham, WA, this four-member band performs original Americana, blending bluegrass, folk and rock.

Ebb Slack & Flood (Saturday October 4, 3-7 pm)
Ebb Slack and Flood has been filling the room with chemistry that is obvious and addictive since 2013. Together, they create a fusion of sounds, easy to listen and hard not to dance to.

As the sun sets over the Anacortes waterfront and the final sips are savored, the Anacortes Bier Near the Pier Festival leaves its guests with fond memories, a taste for local brews and the anticipation of returning next year to celebrate all over again.