PORTLAND, OR, March 26 – This year, the Ponderosa Lounge & Grill, Portland’s Original Country Bar, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with drink specials, opportunities for customers to share their memories of the past 50 years and a big anniversary bash this summer.
The Ponderosa Lounge & Grill opened in 1969 at Jubitz Truck Stop and Travel Center. Even in those early days it featured live country music, like local group J.J. Jones and the Linemasters. In the 1990s it became a destination for touring country acts, and has hosted huge names like Brad Paisley, Travis Tritt, Keith Urban, Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, Luke Bryan, Kacey Musgraves and Dan and Shay.
In December 2017, the Ponderosa reopened after a 7-month renovation with a new elevated VIP Lounge, huge dance floor, two bars and reclaimed wood décor throughout. Since the renovation, big stars like Jordan Davis and Morgan Wallen, as well as popular local artists like Nate Botsford and Britnee Kellogg have taken the Ponderosa stage.
The Ponderosa is celebrating its 50th anniversary all year long by:
- Featuring drink specials throughout the year. Currently on special is the 1969 Sea Breeze, a cocktail that was all the rage during the year it opened, available for only $5.50.
- Displaying people’s photos and favorite Ponderosa memories on a bulletin board outside the DJ booth.
- Hosting a huge “50 Years of Keepin’ It Country” party featuring live music with Ponderosa favorite, costumes and more on Friday, June 7.
About Ponderosa Lounge & Grill:
The Ponderosa Lounge & Grill is Portland’s biggest and best country western bar, where we have been doing Portland nightlife “Pondo Style” since 1969. Live music hits the stage every weekend featuring local, regional and national talent.
About Jubitz Travel Center and Truck Stop:
Jubitz Truck Stop and Travel Center, called the “World’s Classiest Truck Stop” by the FOX Travel Channel and named a “Top Rest Stop in America” by CarRentals.com, an Expedia Group, offers 27 acres of travel services including the 24-hour Cascade Grill, the 100-room Portlander Inn, a movie theater, two delis, two convenience stores, diesel and gas fueling facilities, the Jubitz Truck Service Center and more. Founded in 1952 by Monroe A. “Moe” Jubitz, Jubitz Truck Stop and Travel Center remains a single-location, family-owned business.