As over 100,000 blues fans from throughout the world pour into the 25th anniversary of Oregon Food Bank's renowned fundraiser, the Safeway Waterfront Blues Festival, a number of shiny red apples may catch their eyes. These apples signify vendors who participated in our first-ever Healthy Vending Challege.

In collaboration with Oregon Food Bank, Oregon Public Health Institute, and Multnomah County's "It Starts Here" campaign, we are working to ensure that more healthy options are available at our signature downtown festivals.

At this year's Blues Festival, visitors will be directed to vendors who participated in the Healthy Vending Challenge by looking for the red apple "Healthy Options Here" logo (left) displayed next to vendor menus. Participants in this year's Healthy Vending Challenge adjusted their menu to offer at least two healthy options, such as half-portions or an unsweetened beverage. We encourage you to visit this year's vendors: Big City Burritos, Horn of Africa, and Rafati's.

Nancy Becker, registered Dietician with the Oregon Public Health Institute, thanks Commissioner Fish for "making it easier for festival goers to make a healthy choice!" She appreciates that "this year, Blues Festival fans can enjoy the food at the festival, without having to abandon their best intentions for health."

So, come out this weekend and boogie to five jam-packed days of the best blues in the world, or relax by the beautiful Willamette River under the peaks of Mt. Hood. Rejoice in the fact that you are helping to fight hunger and have the option of treating yourself to a healthy meal. The festival will offer tons of fun activities for kids and adults alike, a dazzling display of fireworks, Blues Cruises on the Portland Spirit, and more.

Healthy Parks. Healthy Portland. We continue to work by this motto with strong support from our partners.

Oregon Food Bank

Paint Portland Blues

Safeway Waterfront Blues Festival in the News

"It Starts Here"

Multnomah County Healthy Department