The Gorge Speakeasy:
Storytelling that gives back to the Columbia River Gorge community
We're building a more open-minded community by swapping stories and supporting local nonprofits.
Come to share a story or sit back and listen. Inside at The Ruins, 13 Railroad St., Hood River. Doors open at 6pm. Stories start at 7pm.
Join us for a monthly storytelling night in Hood River that strengthens the community.
Story-centered events that support local nonprofits
Want to sponsor, collaborate, or bring this magic to your organization or venue? Contact Angie or see sponsor perks.
What happens at the Speakeasy
Once a month, October-May, we gather in the Columbia River Gorge to share stories that are raw, real, and unforgettable.
Instead of slideshows, lectures, or Instagram captions, enjoy the presence of your neighbors, a mic, and the courage to tell the truth.
The Speakeasy is a space for you to share what shaped you: the blood, sweat, fear, love, grief, identity shifts, and wild adventures that made you who you are.
With suggested themes ranging from "Adventure" to "Taboo," anonymous mini-stories submitted by the audience, and local wine and cider flowing all night, this event is a can't-miss.
AND our events support local nonprofits so we can amplify others' stories and experiences, too.
Admission is by donation of any size; we donate to a local organization each month to keep our community strong through the joy of sharing stories.
Since our first event in November 2021
$24,000+
donated by our audience to 40+ Gorge community nonprofits.
How it works:
- Where
- The Ruins, Hood River, Oregon (including the bar with local drinks)
- When
- First Wednesday of the month, October-June, stories start at 7pm
- Format
- 8ish storytellers, 5–10 minutes each, live audience, and secret "Scoops" written by the audience and read by the emcee in between stories
- Themes
- Change every event, from "Adventure" to "Gorge Gone Wrong" and from "Taboo" to "On the Road"
- Admission
- Donation of any size to support our nonprofit of the month
- Host
- Angie Lake (that's me 👋)
Why we tell stories, homegrown here in the Gorge:
- Because truth-telling is contagious.
- Because we're tired of small talk and surface-level connection.
- Because vulnerability builds stronger communities.
- Because we believe every person has a story that deserves to be heard.
Want to tell your story?
Whether you're a seasoned speaker or this would be your first time, the Speakeasy is a place for connection, not perfection.
Stay in the loop:
- Click to download info packet
- Click to listen to a 15 minute radio segment about the Speakeasy.
- Or read about us in the Columbia Gorge News, or in the Gorge Magazine!
- Follow the Speakeasy on Instagram and Facebook for monthly themes, prompts and more.
Get the monthly email newsletter:
Join our monthly email newsletter. Get next event reminders, theme announcements, story idea prompts, donation recipient info, probably a joke or three, and other community-focused events and opportunities.
The sign-up form sits right below this.
Love notes from the audience
"Nothing like it in the Gorge."
"I feel like contents shift during flight when I go to the Speakeasy. I leave with so many prompts to explore in my own life from the people who get up there and speak."
"The tone is a warm fuzzy gathering with friends. It creates and embellishes a supportive community."
"The Speakeasy brings people together to get to know them more than just the surface."
"It's a fun way to get to know my friends better. I enjoy sharing laughter with the local folks in my 'hood."
"Brings together a wide variety of people who enjoy a good story AND benefits both non-profits in the Gorge as well as The Ruins! Win-Wins all around!"
"I always look forward to the opportunities to share stories and learn from each other."
"The Speakeasy gives a space and voice to a diversity of experiences and perspectives."
"A wonderful event to relax and enjoy the community."
