Port St. Lucie is a gem of a vacation destination located in the heart of Florida's Treasure Coast. It offers a spectrum of great activities from relaxing on the white sand beaches to participating in community festivals.
The Treasure Coast Beer Fest is entering its ninth year of showcasing delicious beers from Florida and all over the world. In fact, over 250 beers will be available at the 2016 event. The event was previously a private affair, but this year they are opening the doors to the public with organizers expecting over 1,000 attendees. While many beer festivals are not for the entire family, this one is. There will be games and activities for kids, in addition to the 21+ plus beer themed activities. Food trucks will be on hand serving up a variety of meals, and a local music act will be playing live music. The event also donates proceeds to local charities, including the Treasure Coast Food Bank. We got the opportunity to speak to Marc Boland, Director of Operations for Beerworks Charitable Foundation, Inc., about the event.
RAL: How long has the event been running?
MB: This is the 9th annual Treasure Coast Beer Fest and the 5th annual River of Beers. River of Beers is a food and beer pairing event held the day before the Beer Fest.
RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?
MB: For the festival, we average about 1,000 attendees, but can accommodate up to 1,500.
RAL: What is the typical demographic makeup of the event? Children? Families? Couples?
MB: In the past, this was a 21 and over event. This year, with our move to Tradition Square, it will be an open environment. We are now family friendly with games and other activities for kids and adults, while having a beer festival for those who are 21 and over
RAL: What makes this event unique?
MB: Our event promotes tasting and sampling of craft beer. We aim to educate patrons about the many styles of beer that the world has to offer.
RAL: Take me through the activities attendees will find at the event.
MB: Two options for beer tasting. You can buy a wristband and have access to sample over 250 beers in a small taster mug, or you can buy beer at one of our two beer trucks by the glass. We will also have a home brewing competition.
RAL: What dining options will there be?
MB: We will have 10 food trucks on hand during the whole event.
RAL: What is the environment like?
MB: Fun! We will have live music, games, face painting all located in the beautiful area of Tradition Square.
RAL: Are there any lodging specials that are set up specifically for the event?
MB: This is the link to the local lodging options. The Treasure Coast Beer Fest is in walking distance to multiple lodging options.
RAL: Does the event support a particular cause in the community? (School funds, etc.)
MB: We support various local charities. This year one of the recipients is the Treasure Coast Food Bank. We will be hosting a food drive and a Thanksgiving Turkey Drop.
RAL: Why should people come to your event?
MB: If you are curious about the numerous styles of craft beer, this is the festival for you. Also, craft beer isn't always just beer; we will feature ciders and meads to sample as well.
For more information about the Treasure Coast Beer Fest, please visit their website.