Craft beer lovers are in for a treat as Whole Foods Market Mason kicks off its first Craft Beer and Food Festival Saturday.
Dozens of craft beer breweries will on-hand offering 90 samplings at the outdoor event, set for 3-9 p.m. at 5805 Deerfield Blvd. The event also includes food pairings by 29 local restaurants and live entertainment.
Rising sales and local interest in craft beers prompted the festival, said Jessi Mirick, a backup buyer at Whole Foods Market Mason.
Beer is on tap at Whole Foods Market Mason. Pictured is Jessi Mirick, the store’s backup buyer. The Enquirer/Rachel Richardson
The store stocks more than 100 craft beers, many local, throughout the year, she said.
“The craft beer scene is really hip and we’re trying to get more attention to it north of Cincinnati,” she said. “A lot of grocery stores are hesitant to get into the market because it’s still such a small market, but it’s been growing exponentially up here.”
Proceeds from the event benefit Shared Harvest and the Mason Food Pantry. The nonprofit organizations have had a long partnership with Whole Foods Market Mason, said Mason Food Pantry Director Gina Brown.
“We go to Whole Foods Market Mason twice a week for donations, like organic fruits and vegetables. They’re very community-driven. It’s an incredible partnership,” she said.
Tickets are $20 in advance and include admission and 20 food and beverage tickets. Purchase tickets online at www.wepay.com/events/wfmbeerfestival or at the store. Tickets are $25 the day of the event.
The Mason Food Pantry is looking for volunteers to assist with clean-up and service. Volunteers must be 21 and older. For more information, call Brown at 513-535-0885 or email ginabrown@masonfoodpantry.org.
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