Washington Brewers Festival June 13-15
Father’s Day weekend, because “Dad deserves a beer”
By Diane Rudholm
Photo at right: A brewer tests his might at the Washington Brewers Festival keg toss. Photo courtesy of the Washington Beer Commission
Calling all craft beer connoisseurs, hops enthusiasts, keg-toss champs and world’s-best dads! Washington Brewers Festival returns—rain or shine—to Marymoor Park in Redmond, Wash., on June 13–15.
While the family-friendly festival lands on Father’s Day weekend each year, the merriment is for anyone who loves craft beer (and anyone who loves someone who loves craft beer). The under-21 crowd is welcome to attend on Saturday and Sunday to enjoy non-alcoholic amusements.
A land of plenty… of brewers
Georgetown Brewing Co. serves up some Northwest favorites. Photo courtesy of the Washington Beer Commission
With more than 88 Washington breweries serving up a total of more than 300 beers at this year’s festival, you’re sure to find a new brew that you love, or rediscover a favorite.
The four most popular breweries from last year (based on highest beer token counts) include Black Raven Brewing Co. of Redmond, Elysian Brewing Co. of Seattle, Triplehorn Brewery Co. of Woodinville, and Skookum Brewery of Arlington.
If you’re feeling bold, explore some of the newer breweries. Eric Radovich, executive director of the Washington Beer Commission, recommends sampling a new beer or three from Bale Breaker Brewing Co. of Yakima, Geaux Brewing of Bellevue or Strong Arm Brewing of Renton.
“I love trying beer from new breweries,” says Radovich. “I’m grateful to live in a time where I can try hundreds of small batch, handcrafted, local brews. The variety of palate-pleasing beers is phenomenal, and the creativity is just amazing.”
If you don’t love craft beers (or just don’t know you love craft beers), you’ve got options: red or white Vessel Wine (which comes in a keg!), Seattle Cider (a company started by brewers), non-alcoholic root beer (made by brewers) or Sky River Mead (surprisingly, not made by brewers).
There will also be plenty of good eats like Duke’s Jerky and Tim’s Cascade Chips (chosen for optimal beer pairings – or perhaps saltiness).
Entertainment for all
Then there’s the keg toss—we did mention the keg toss, right?
Brewers are pitted against brewers in the athletic event of the weekend! These fierce competitors toss empty kegs into kiddie pools filled with water to accrue the most points. Not for the faint of heart.
The weekend also features delightful musical acts, including the all-female ACDC tribute band Hell’s Belles on Friday night and a variety of upbeat folksy and reggae acts throughout the rest of the weekend.
Add some WABL to your walk
For those among us looking for a little extra VIP treatment at this and other Washington Beer Commission events, look no further than the Washington Beer Lovers (WABL) community. WABL (pronounced “wobble”) provides its members with extra tasting tokens, special member-only invites to tasting events, premium swag and a direct connection to brewery news.
For more information about Washington Beer Lovers, go to www.washingtonbeer.com/wabl
Event Details
Event: Washington Brewers Festival
Dates:
Fri., June 13, 4–9:30 p.m. (21+ Only)
Sat., June 14, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. (Families Welcome)
Sun., June 15, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (Families Welcome)
Location:
Marymoor Park, 6046 West Lake Sammamish Parkway Northeast, Redmond, WA 98052
Tickets:
One-day pass: $20 online until May 31; $25 online after May 31 and at the door
Admission includes a tasting cup and six tasting tokens; pours are 5 ounces each
Designated driver pass: $5 (at the door only)
Weekend pass: $40 online; not available at the door
21 and under: Free with parent on June 14–15 (not admitted June 13)
Parking: $5 fee, paid onsite
Website: www.washingtonbeer.com/wa-brewers-fest
Bonus: Download the free Washington Beer Mobile App for Android or iOS in your App store; search Washington Beer. The App includes a regional brewery locator, festival info, and more.
