DINNER ON THE BRIDGE
a fourth of july experience
presented by the waterfront blues festival
For one historic night only, the Hawthorne Bridge will be the setting for Portland’s most unforgettable Fourth of July cookout, with mouth-watering summer delights, live music, community and the best seat in town for the fireworks.
This invite-only gathering brings together business and civic leaders, cultural movers and shakers, and community champions for a once-in-a-lifetime Portland experience.
Guests will enjoy the bounty of Portland summer with a menu from beloved icons Vitaly Paley and Sarah Schafer and the rising culinary stars who make our city the most exciting place to eat in the country.
As the sun sets over the Willamette on the 250th anniversary of America, you’ll be atop one of our city’s most iconic bridges, enjoying live music, festive surprises, fireworks and the company of fellow community builders.
Dinner on the Bridge supports the future of the Waterfront Blues Festival, helping one of Portland’s most beloved traditions continue to thrive while sustaining the arts and cultural experiences that make this city feel distinctly Portland.
THE CHEFS
VITALY PALEY, JBF Award Recipient, Iron Chef America Winner and Cookbook Author
Critically acclaimed chef, accomplished restaurateur, and noted cookbook author, Vitaly Paley has cemented himself as both a leader and a trailblazer in the American culinary scene. Through his award-winning food, creativity, and deep-rooted passion, it’s no wonder he is referred to as “The Dean of Chefs,” by the Portland, Oregon food community.
SARAH SCHAFER, The Ground
Sarah Schafer’s career has spanned some of the country’s most celebrated kitchens, including Gramercy Tavern, Eleven Madison Park, Portland’s Irving Street Kitchen, and Cooperativa, and in 2024 she was named a James Beard Award Semi-Finalist. Her work is rooted in relationships with farmers, regenerative agriculture, and ingredient-driven cuisine shaped by years cooking in New York, San Francisco, and Oregon. Today, Sarah is part of the team at The Ground, helping lead its farm-first culinary vision in Oregon wine country.
Appetizers by Plant Based Papi • República • Sebastiano’s
Cocktails by Scotch Lodge
Dinner will be served family-style with omnivore, vegan and gluten free options
THE artists
larhonda & the steele family band
jujuba
THE DETAILS
Saturday, July 4
7:00 - 10:30 PM
Hawthorne Bridge
Attire
Elevated backyard BBQ • Smart summer style
Please wear flats or appropriate footwear for the bridge surface. For your safety, no heels.
reservations
Tables are limited and available by invitation only
$8,000 per table of 8, Individual tickets available for $1,000.
Reservations are all-inclusive and include VIP admission to the Waterfront Blues Festival on July 4.
As the inaugural year of Dinner on the Bridge, this special evening helps build a strong future for the festival. Your table purchase supports the long-term sustainability of the Waterfront Blues Festival and helps ensure it continues to thrive as a welcoming community celebration. There will be no fundraising appeal during the event; your reservation is your contribution.
To reserve your table, please contact bridgedinner@waterfrontbluesfest.com.
ADA access accommodations are available. Please inquire when confirming your reservation.
