The Virginia Department of Alcohol Beverage Control has given the final approval for Shore Craft Beer Fest: Chincoteague, clearing the way for the Saturday, April 29 inaugural event.
Organizers said the event permit was issued after the state was satisfied that it was possible to hold a festival with open access for the public as well as unlimited tastings for beer drinkers, which is a model Shore Craft Beer Fest has used successfully in other places.
“Having open attendance beer festivals whenever possible is critical for showing how important craft beer is for tourism,” said Ann McGinnis Hillyer, president of Shore Craft Beer. “People increasingly are making these events family outings and by admitting non-drinkers for free, we can help make that more affordable.”
More than 14 local breweries will be in attendance at the event to showcase over 30 of their craft beers, all of which are included in the all-you-can-taste ticket price. There will also be a demonstration by the B.I.E.R homebrewers group based out of Wallops.
Beer tastings will be available to all attendees over the age of 21. This festival will also feature local and regional food vendors who will highlight local seafood, homemade ice cream, tacos and other foods that pair with the beers.
Organizers said the event will also incorporate a carnival-style atmosphere with kids’ games, vendors and artisans.
“By making the event open and accessible to all people we make this more of a community arts fair than just a beer festival,” McGinnis Hillyer said. “Extra touches like that are why people come from all over the region to attend these events.”
The April 29 event will be held from 12:30-4:30 p.m. at the Fairgrounds in Chincoteague. For more information and to buy tickets, click here.
