It seems only fitting that the proper way to conclude beer week is with a huge beer bash and that’s exactly what Joe Waizmann, organizer of the 13th annual AleFest is planning. Over 4000 beer fans are expected to take over Carillon Historical Park this Sat, Aug 27th from 2-6pm. According
to Waizmann, the event will be “bigger and better than ever with more than 350 beers from about 140 breweries – an all time high,” listed here if you want to look.
One of the highlights of the fest will be the Cask Ales being tapped. These beers are brewed from traditional ingredients and matured in the cask from which it is served. As Chappy’s co-owner Lori Yanko explains, “these beers have a different mouth feel because they are self carbonated as opposed to poured with co2. Breweries will often release variations on their specialty brews, for instance the Great Lakes we’re pouring this Friday night is a special cask of dry-hopped Commodore Perry, as opposed to their regular IPA.”
Look for the following Cask Ales- and expect them to disappear quickly:
- Heavy Seas Loose Canon IPA Dry Hopped in Cask
- Left Hand Milk Stout
- Thirsty Dog Belgian Tripel with Cherries
- Thirsty Dog Druid Farmhouse Ale
- Two Brothers Resistance Oaked IP
Tips from Making the most of AleFest from Fest Veterans
“A designated driver would be a good idea,” suggests Peter W, Dayton’s Premier Event Photographer (AleFest does offer a $10 designated driver ticket- if you have a friend that is really patient, better yet- arrange to have a sober driver await your call for a ride home).
“Get there early – the lines fill up fast, so if you wait until later to arrive you’ll be waiting in long lines and wasting precious beer drinking time,” shares Elise H, who biked 10 miles for the beer of it on Tues and highly recommends the event for next year!
“Wear something cool and comfortable. Plan out what you really want to try first. You never know what could be on a very limited supply, so you don’t want to miss out. Try the stuff you have never had before first,” advises Brain A, a local homebrewer.
“Take notes of the beers you like and those that, God forbid, you don’t. If you don’t like something it will save youfrom buying a whole 6-pack down the road. Have a great time seeing friends! Check out the beer gear too,”says Marty B, Beer Week Committee Member
“Don’t worry about running out of tickets. As the afternoon wears on, some of the vendors get more generous with their pours,” offers Steve S, a veteran of early AleFests.
Budget conscious beer drinkers will want to get their AleFest ticket in advance for $35, you can pick it up at over 60 area bars and fine beer merchants, or purchase online or you can buy it at the park for $40. Your ticket includes a cute little sampling glass, but don’t beg the volunteers pouring to fill it up. Their is a sample line printed right on it Bring extra money for snacks which will be available from 5th Street Deli, Chappys Tap Room & Grille, & Dorothy Lane Market and to pick up a cool beer collectible, if that’s your thing. Phat Like Dad will be playing tunes in the gazebo and you may want to bring a portable chair and set up a home base for when you need a break.
Leave a Reply