[Full disclosure: John Fleury is one of the principal organizers for this event and works with DC Homebrewer’s Club]
With the success of D.C. Beer Week behind us, the season for beer festivals is quickly coming up. And while many of the festivals in the area focus on the beer and camaraderie that a social drink provides, this Saturday DC Homebrewers is hosting a beer festival that focuses just as much on giving back to the community and beer education as it does on simply sipping on some local suds.
Partnered with Sam Adams and a number of local and national brewers, all proceeds from the BBQ will benefit the Common Good City Farm, an urban farm and education center located on a half-acre lot in LeDroit Park. Their mission is to grow food, provide educational opportunities for all, and help low-income D.C. community members meet their food needs.
While many look to beer as a vehicle for relaxation after a long day at work or an excuse to see your friends, homebrewing in D.C. and neighboring areas is a increasingly community-centric hobby that supports small businesses through ingredients, equipment, and involvement with local breweries, bars, and brewpubs. And homebrewing is no longer a boy’s club as the Homebrew Outreach and Participation Sisterhood (HOPS) – the newly organized female brewing organization – will be on hand for a demonstration and have an information booth on how women can get involved in homebrewing.
“It’s a testament to the DC Homebrewers’ focus on beer education that we’re including nationally recognized speakers all day,” says Peter Jones, DCHB member and collaborator on DC Brau’s Heurich Lager. In this spirit, the Homebrewer’s Club wanted to create an event that would not only be fun and educational, but also foster a sense of community and give to a good cause here in the city.
The event will take place Saturday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Kastles Stadium (800 Water Street SW) and costs $15 per person, with kids under 10 entering for free.
Ticket price includes admission, a plate of barbecue (a vegetarian option will be available), two sides, a hand-crafted soda, Sam Adams beer and an additional beer ticket for one of several craft beers that will be on tap during the event. Additional beer tickets will be available for $5. During the afternoon, members of the DCHB will be offering demonstrations and educational presentations. There will also be activities for the entire family, including cornhole, pin the tail on the donkey, and entertainment from the Washington Nationals. Tickets for a charity raffle can also be purchased, and prizes include Nationals and DC United merchandise, gift certificates to many bars and restaurants around the city, and Odyssey cruises.
Drink beer, eat food, play games, and take in a presentation or two all while supporting your community. What better way to enjoy the summer in DC?
