Project Pabst’s Triumphant Return to Portland

The Project Pabst festival made a triumphant return to Portland’s Waterfront Park after a seven year hiatus, bringing with it a vibrant tapestry of music that captivated the city. The festival grounds at the Tom McCall Waterfront Park buzzed with excitement, adorned with an eclectic mix of Pabst Blue Ribbon memorabilia, from vintage signs to a towering unicorn sculpture, creating a nostalgic yet whimsical atmosphere. 

The Project Pabst festival was a showcase of local talent, featuring a lineup that included some of Portland’s finest. Gossip, the dance-punk band known for their electrifying live shows, made a long-awaited return to the stage, thrilling fans with their high-energy performance. The festival also saw Denzel Curry and Kenny Mason, two hip-hop artists who are quickly rising to prominence, deliver sets that were both powerful and poignant. Indie rock was well represented by Manchester Orchestra‘s emotionally charged anthems and STRFKR‘s synth-driven tunes, which had the crowd dancing. Soccer Mommy‘s sophisticated songwriting resonated with many, while Shannon & The Clams brought a unique blend of garage and psychedelic rock to the waterfront. These artists, along with the headliners, created a weekend of memorable music that celebrated the spirit of the Pacific Northwest.

Headliners Billy Idol and Big Thief delivered electrifying performances that were the talk of the town. Billy Idol’s set was a blast from the past, with the crowd singing along to his timeless anthems, while Big Thief’s performance was a journey through new musical landscapes, debuting some new songs that left the audience in awe. 

Attendees of all ages (over 21) could be seen enjoying the festival, with the music bringing together a diverse crowd united by their love for live performances. The joy was palpable, with every act, from the nostalgic tunes of Violent Femmes to the dynamic beats of T-Pain, contributing to an unforgettable weekend of celebration and song. 

Project Pabst’s successful resurgence is a beacon of Portland’s vibrant culture, and its eclectic mix of artists and immersive festival experience has undoubtedly set a high bar for future events in the city. With its unique blend of nostalgia and innovation, Project Pabst has once again proven to be a highlight of Portland’s summer calendar. I can speak for all of Portland when I say that we hope it is not another seven years before we see the festival in our city again.