written by Kerry Newberry

One of the bright spots of a Northwest winter is the Oregon Truffle Festival. Where else can you romp through misty forests on a guided truffle foray, partake in lectures with renowned mycologists and indulge in exceptional wine and truffle dinners?

For almost twenty years, fungi and foraging enthusiasts have flocked to this winter fête to celebrate the state’s native black and white truffles. The luxurious ingredient grows wild in Oregon and is prized around the world for the umami flavor it adds to dishes.

Most often found flourishing beneath the roots of Douglas fir trees, the fragrant fungi play an exceptional game of hide and seek. One of the best ways to root out the heady mushrooms is with a truffle dog and the festival includes a popular two-day training for dog owners along with The Joriad North American Truffle Dog Competition, the only event of its kind in North America.

In 2023, extended programming offers many ways to up your truffle knowledge from cooking classes and a truffle marketplace to a truffle growers forum and a truffle-inspired film festival—serving truffle popcorn, of course. For a complete list of events visit www.oregontrufflefestival.org.

CRAVINGS: APRÈS-SKI SNACKS

RAM’S HEAD BAR AND RESTAURANT

After a day of schussing down the slopes of Mount Hood, the tallest mountain in the state, head to this casual spot located on the second-floor balcony of Timberline Lodge. From the windows of this woodsy tavern, you can watch snowflakes flurry while sipping a local pinot noir paired with hearty plates like elk bratwurst with huckleberries or baked brie and potatoes.

27500 E. TIMBERLINE RD.
GOVERNMENT CAMP
www.timberlinelodge.com

THE COMMONS CAFÉ & TAPROOM

Get your groove on at the Après Ski Bash Concert Series in downtown Bend. During peak winter, you can catch local performers at The Commons rocking the night away once a month. Bundle up around the outdoor fire pits with a local brew and some tacos for a starlit serenade overlooking Drake Park.

875 NW BROOKS ST.
BEND
www.thecommonsbend.com

THE BARN IN SISTERS

Whether you are nordic or night skiing or attending the Winter Carnival at Hoodoo, the nearby town of Sisters is a great spot to get snowed in. Find the post-ski crowd in pom pom beanies lining up at The Barn, pairing local wines and creative cocktails with bites from the partner food trucks ranging from wood-fired pizza and classic barbecue to vegan eats.

171 E. MAIN ST.
SISTERS
www.thebarninsisters.com