ELLINWOOD —For beer connoisseurs and for people who just like sampling ale to stout regional beer, the Ellinwood American Legion will hold its second annual Craft Beer Fair from 3-8 p.m. on Sept. 28.
There will be light to dark beer with different, seasonal flavors such as pumpkin and chocolate as well as traditional wheat and hops beer. The cost is $25 for unlimited sampling. Plus, the first 75 customers will receive a commemorative T-shirt.
“We have a pretty good range for people who like to come out and try it and see what the buzz is about,” said Rob Fisher, American Legion commander. “We’re pretty excited and expanding more (offerings).”
We’ll “let people experience what’s out there,” said Fisher. He said that Kansas breweries are entering the micro brewery market, but that Kansas’s entry is solid and expanding.
Beer meisters from a couple of breweries will be present to explain the process of what goes into their beer, including from Wamego Iron Clad and LB Brewery out of Hays, which has developed a strong national reputation, said Fisher.
The Legion expanded its offerings from last year and will have a taste guide available. They will be about 12 craft beers from six different breweries in the region, including brands such as Boulevard, Fat Tire, Tallgrass, New Belgium and the Humboldt brewery.
“Richard Kimple started this last year. We found out there are no craft beer fairs in central Kansas,” said Fisher. “We thought we’d try to do this as a fundraiser.”
He added that it’s also an opportunity for everyone to get out and socialize and have a good time socializing.
Also, beer fans can enjoy brats, sauerkraut, homemade pretzel and a regional favorite bierocks, which will also be for sale. Artisan bread will be sold as well.
Courtney Sue Irwin, a country-western singer from Salina, will perform from 5-7 p.m.
Proceeds will benefit the Wounded Warriors project and local American Legions vets.
Following the festival, the fun goes indoors with DJ Money B inside the American Legion building, beginning at 9 p.m. Admission is $3.