Cheers! Pub hosts annual Thanksgiving feast ‘to make the day meaningful’

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Cheers! The North Portland pub is doing its part to give back to the community by hosting a free Thanksgiving feast.

Cheers! Owner Dan Hart said it’s an annual tradition that started small but morphed into something beautiful 16 years later.

“The first time we did this, when we were four weeks old, we didn’t know what to do with our Thanksgiving plans,” Hart said. “Over the years it has become quite a burden because of the size it has grown to, but we always enjoy doing it and it is one of the best days of the year at the pub.”

The namesake of the German pub “Prost” means “cheers”. For many community members, it lives up to its name, especially with its increasingly popular Thanksgiving event.

“I’m from the East Coast and looking for a community here in Portland. “So this was the perfect opportunity to come and see what the service is like on vacation when my family is on the other side of the coast,” said Katie Ruth, who is volunteering at the event.

While the food – including turkey and all sides – is free, drinks are also available for purchase at the pub. Attendees are also encouraged to bring side dishes, but this is not required. Donations are also being accepted to help families in need over the holidays.

“If you can find a way to make this day meaningful, do it, even if you have complicated feelings about it. And I’m glad, cheers! gave us the opportunity to do that,” said food recipient Michael Ball.

Hart said the event started by serving about 30 pounds of turkey in the first few days. He said that at this most recent Cheersgiving, volunteers distributed over £200.

The event takes place every year at Prost! Pub at 4237 N Mississippi Ave.