The Fertile Ground Festival is Portland’s exciting celebration of new works, featuring performances that highlight the city’s vibrant arts community. This two-week festival, held in early to mid-April, showcases some of Portland’s most talented artists and playwrights. The lineup includes site-specific theatre, dance, solo shows, aerial performances, puppetry, and many brand-new scripts. It’s a unique event that gives you the chance to see cutting-edge art in various forms.
In the Pearl District, two venues stand out as the heart of the festival: CoHo Theatre and 21ten Theatre. These locations are perfect for experiencing the variety of performances on offer. CoHo Theatre is known for its intimate and engaging atmosphere, while 21ten Theatre provides a space for more innovative and experimental works. Both venues offer a chance to enjoy high-quality productions in the lively Pearl District
After enjoying a show, why not relax and refuel at one of the nearby coffee spots? Whether you're in the mood for a hot drink, a light snack, or something to eat, the Pearl District offers plenty of options to keep you refreshed and energized for the next performance.
Barista, in the heart of the Pearl District, is a great stop for Fertile Ground Festival visitors. Just a short trip from CoHo Theatre or 21ten Theatre, this sleek café is known for its high-quality coffee and friendly service. They serve single-origin brews and smooth espresso drinks like cappuccinos, cortados, and flat whites.
The Great North Coffee is a cozy, rustic café near CoHo Theatre and 21ten Theatre—perfect for a break during the Fertile Ground Festival. Known for its warm vibe and great drinks, this spot offers smooth espresso, lattes, and pour-overs. Favorites include the house-made vanilla latte, maple cortado, and cold brew with oat milk.
The Coffee Lab PDX is a cozy spot for Fertile Ground Festival-goers. With its clean, modern vibe and friendly service, it’s a great place to enjoy well-crafted coffee. Their bold espresso drinks include macchiatos, cortados, and lattes. For something special, try the Rose Cardamom Latte or their smooth nitro cold brew.
The Dragonfly Coffee House is a cozy, welcoming spot perfect for a coffee break before or after a Fertile Ground Festival show. With its rustic decor and comfy seating, it feels like a home away from home. They serve quality espresso drinks like creamy flat whites and bold Americanos. The Mexican Mocha, with a hint of cinnamon and spice, is a favorite.
Close to the Pearl District, Case Study Coffee Roasters is a great spot before or after a show at the Fertile Ground Festival. The café has a cozy vibe with warm lighting and comfy seating. Their espresso is smooth and flavorful, with classics like cappuccinos and Americanos, plus unique drinks like the Honey Cardamom Latte.
Sunny Day Coffee & Pastry is a cheerful spot perfect for a quick break during the Fertile Ground Festival. The café has a warm, welcoming vibe and serves rich espresso drinks, classic drip coffee, and tasty specialty lattes. Their Honey Cinnamon Latte is a local favorite. For something cool, try their fruit-infused iced teas or matcha latte.
Cadejo Coffee, in the heart of the Pearl District, is a cozy spot just a short walk from CoHo Theatre and 21ten Theatre—ideal for Fertile Ground Festival-goers. The café has a warm, welcoming feel and serves smooth espresso drinks like cappuccinos, flat whites, and cortados. Their Brown Sugar Latte is a favorite, offering a rich, sweet twist.
Cycle Town Coffee Roasters, near CoHo Theatre and 21ten Theatre, is a great spot for festival-goers in need of a tasty coffee break. The café has a relaxed vibe and a cool, industrial look. They roast their beans and serve rich espressos, smooth Americanos, and creamy lattes. The Vanilla Bean Latte is a favorite, and the cold brew with oat milk is perfect for a refreshing sip.