Arts & Drafts Turns 10

Contributed Photo

Thursday, Mar. 1

Beer and art do not always associate with one another, but the two are more alike than you might think. For example, both beer and art often require a closer, more in-depth examination of their finer points for the greatest possible appreciation. Beer and art may also be something of an acquired taste, something for which a liking — or loving — is not instantaneous, but rather a gradual warming up to, often associated with the individual's maturation. Finally, one might have to try all different kinds of both until they find one that catches their interest — and that's okay.

Luckily for the Erie community, the Brewerie at Union Station's Arts and Drafts festival comes around twice a year, giving established enthusiasts a double dose of what they love, and neophytes plenty of time to ready their tastes, with the knowledge that they won't have to wait a full 365 days until their next opportunity to take in all that the event has to offer.

And what Arts and Drafts has to offer to the public is substantial, with each weekend getting better and better. This first edition of the bi-annual celebration for 2018 is especially meaningful, as it marks a full decade since artist Drew Kauffman headed the inaugural Arts and Drafts. Ten years later, the Brewerie will be bursting at the seams for three days, with live performances by 14 local acts, including ethereal songbird Brooke Surgener, Rust Belt blues rock duo Bootjack, and Erie mainstay Matt "Broke" Boland. Complementing those luscious sounds will be over 70 local artists, whose work across multiple medias will provide a feast for the eyes (that can be purchased and taken home!). — Cara Suppa

Thursday 6:30 to 10:45 p.m., Friday 6:30 p.m. to midnight, Saturday 5:45 p.m. to midnight // 123 W. 14th Street // $3 after 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday // brewerie.com