By Kelly Romo
The Mountain Times
Cooper’s Wine Bar & Shop has become more than just a cozy spot for local wine enthusiasts. Since Bri and Kevin embraced their adventurous journey as healthcare professionals and mountain wine bar owners, Cooper’s has blossomed into a community hub that celebrates the rich stories behind every bottle of wine and the vibrant local culture. This July, Cooper’s Wine Bar invites everyone to the Hoodland Block Party, a festival that embodies the spirit of Welches, bringing together live music, local art and the finest selections of wine and beer.
Event Details
Date: July 20th & September 7th
Time: 3:00—6:00PM
Location: Cooper’s Wine Bar & Shop, 24540 E Welches Rd, Welches, OR 97067
Imagine a bustling scene similar to a farmer’s market but with an added twist of local flair and flavor. The parking lot in front of Cooper’s Wine Bar & Shop transforms into a vibrant festival space. With over twenty local artists and vendors showcasing their unique crafts and creations, there’s a piece of art for everyone to appreciate and take home. Surrounding the lot, establishments like Mogul Mountain Pizza, Mount Hood Art Collective, Carson Bodyworks and Hoodland Bazaar add to the festive atmosphere, providing additional food and artistic options. Music fills the air as local bands take the stage, creating a joyful ambiance perfect for a summer afternoon. Guests are encouraged to bring lounge chairs, relax on the lawn, and enjoy the performances while savoring the day’s offerings.
Central to the event is, of course, the exceptional wine and beer tastings. Cooper’s has carefully curated a selection highlighting the rich variety of the Pacific Northwest’s beverage scene. Attendees can look forward to tasting exquisite wines, including selections from Terrapin, a family-owned winery in the Willamette Valley, with their Tempranillo being a favorite. Meanwhile, beer lovers can indulge in the robust flavors of local breweries, including Monkless Belgian Ales, with favorites like “Dubbel or Nothing.” Monkless, located in Bend, brings the taste of traditional Belgian brewing to the Pacific Northwest.
The Hoodland Block Party is more than just an event; it’s a testament to Bri and Kevin’s commitment to their community. After moving from St. Louis to Welches in 2019 and taking over Cooper’s Wine Bar in 2021, they envisioned a space where locals could gather, share their passions and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Cooper’s is their passion project, and they are so thankful to be able to be part of the mountain people. The Hoodland Block Party is not just a summer event; it’s a celebration of mountain pride and the resilient spirit of Welches.
Their background in healthcare — Kevin as an optometrist and Bri as a clinical social worker — has uniquely positioned them to understand and foster community connections. Bri’s work with trauma-based narrative therapy parallels her role at Cooper’s, where every bottle of wine and every community member’s story is valued. This deep-rooted appreciation for people and their journeys is the cornerstone of events like the Hoodland Block Party.
Each Block Party has built upon the success of previous years, growing in attendance and enthusiasm. Last year’s event saw the community come together in unprecedented numbers, dancing and singing along to the tunes of local bands. Moments like these inspire Bri and Kevin to keep hosting and expanding their events where the community can gather and celebrate together.
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, the Hoodland Block Party promises to be an unforgettable experience. Come for the wine and beer, stay for the music and art and leave with a sense of community and connection. Bring your family, friends and even your pets (who are welcome in the outdoor areas) and be part of this celebration of what makes Welches and Cooper’s Wine Bar unique.
Mark your calendar and prepare for a delightful afternoon at the Hoodland Block Party. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this mountain celebration, where the best of local music, art and craft beverages come together in perfect harmony at 24540 E Welches Rd, Welches, OR 97067
For more information and to stay updated on future events, visit Cooper’s Wine Bar’s website at https://cooperswinebarandshop.com or follow them on social media.