PORTLAND, Ore. -- The 25th Anniversary of Bite of Oregon will raise funds to benefit the Special Olympics of Oregon all weekend.

The annual event kicks off Friday at Waterfront Park and will feature about 25 local restaurants and breweries, which will be showcasing their culinary specialties all weekend.

But those who can't make it downtown this weekend could still help the cause Thursday.

Several restaurants that weren't going to be a part of the Bite teamed up for an event Thursday called Dine Out For Greatness.

Several restaurants joined forces for the event including Macadam's Bar and Grill in Portland.

The idea was that each participant would donate a percentage of their proceeds from Thursday night's sales to the Special Olympics.

It's usually around 10 to 20 percent and this is the second year Portland restaurants are holding the Dine Out For Greatness fundraiser.

Since not every local eatery has the chance to be at the Bite, the owners of Macadam's Grill said Dine Out For Greatness was the perfect chance for them to pitch in for the Special Olympics to make a difference.

"We've done a number of fundraisers. We did one, one weekend that benefited the Boys and Girls Aid Society and we raised $1,300. In my mind, I wanted to raise more, but the charities are all very appreciative of whatever help they can get," restaurant owner Tallie Steele said.

For a full list of participating restaurants, visit the Web site for Dine Out For Greatness.

Bite Of Oregon Serves Up Funds For Special Olympics