We Oregonians are fun-loving, food-crazy outdoor enthusiasts. We’re also a bunch of big-hearted do-gooders. That’s why we love Sagebrush — a five-day event in Bend featuring fine cuisine, hand-crafted beer and outdoor fun all to benefit regional nonprofits.

Founded in 1988 by Gary Fish, owner of Deschutes Brewery, Sagebrush has raised $2.3 million for more than 40 organizations ranging from animal charities to disability services and environmental efforts. This year you can join the fun in five different ways:

Scramble: Things kick off on July 9 with the new Sagebrush Community Challenge/Scramble — a 90-minute race around set checkpoints in downtown Bend. ($15)

Nosh: Also new, the Sagebrush Street Fare (get it?) on July 13 brings together the area’s best local food and microbrews with great live music. ($10 for entry and first pairing)

Dine: Private dinners on July 14 will feature culinary creations of local and celebrity chefs. This year’s lineup includes John Finger and Terry Sawyer of Hog Island Oysters in Napa, Calif.; Mark Kiffin from The Compound in Santa Fe, N.M., and Nigel Viet from Mövenpick Hotel Saigon in Vietnam.

Local talent comes from Bill Ballard, Broken Top Resort, Bend; Matt Lightner, Castagna, Portland; Gavin McMichael, Blacksmith, Bend; Matt Neltner, Deschutes Brewery, Bend; Scott Neuman, ¡Oba! Restaurante, Portland; and Scott Shampine, Graffiti Street Food, Portland. ($500 per plate)

Tee off: As many as 52 teams will play in the Sagebrush Golf Classic on July 15 at Broken Top Golf Club. ($3,000 per team)

Feast: The Sagebrush Feast on July 16 at Broken Top Resort will include award-winning Deschutes Brewery beer paired with signature dishes from local and Sagebrush chefs. ($200)

And organizers are hinting about something special. “This will not look like any Feast that has happened before,” said Aimee Baillargeon, executive director. “We’ve got some surprises for the community.”

For complete information, visit the Sagebrush website.

Photo Courtesy of Studio404photography.com