WQLN's Erie Craft Beer Fest

Contributed

Head down to Union Station to sample the spectrum of local brews at Erie's Craft Beer Fest hosted by WQLN. Enjoy the offerings from over 20 local and regional breweries, all while supporting the important work of public broadcasting.

SATURDAY, APR. 12

Raise a glass, as one of the region's biggest craft beer festivals is returning to Union Station. The Erie Craft Beer Fest hosted by WQLN gives beer aficionados a chance to sample some of the best hops and barley in and around the Keystone State. There will be more than 20 breweries this year including local favorites like Lavery Brewing Company, Black Monk Brewery, Erie Ale Works, Five & 20, Nostrovia Brewing Company, and The Brewerie at Union Station. Some new breweries featured at this year's event are Rising River Brewing (Macungie, Pa.), Quinn Brewing Company (Irwin, Pa.), Thirsty Dog Brewing (Akron, Ohio), and Firewhistle Brewing (Elizabeth, Pa.)

As usual, the fest will be held in the Concourse side of Union Station, leaving the Brewerie open for visitors to order food and additional beverages before, during, or after the event. Along with the wonderful WQLN Staff, musician Jack Stevenson will be on hand, entertaining guests with his one-man band, covering classic, crowd friendly, singalong songs.

If you need to take a break from swigging suds, you can check out Buona Cucina Oils and More, a locally owned artisan shop that specializes in olive oils, vinegars, herbs and more. Tree and Ink Studio will also be vending. They are a husband-and-wife business that specializes in laser engraving, woodworking, printing, and personalized gifts. Food available on the Concourse side will be provided by GramE's Kitchen (from Meadville) and Jacked Jerky (from Erie).

Events like these are key to WQLN and its mission in our community. Fundraising Engagement Manager Jocelyn Taylor comments, "It's a vital fundraiser that supports our mission to stimulate, enrich, educate, and entertain the public. Proceeds from this event help provide free educational access to our broadcast and digital programming, while allowing us to maintain outreach to underserved children and minority communities. With 80 percent of our funding coming from membership and community support, events like the Erie Craft Beer Fest ensure we continue to make a meaningful impact in our region."

The event runs for three hours, but for a little extra cash, attendees can purchase a VIP ticket which allows for an extra hour at the front end. Help raise money to bolster an essential asset in our community, all while enjoying a few drinks with some friends.

4 to 7 p.m., or 3 p.m. entry for VIP ticket holders // Concourse of Union Station, 117 W. 14th St. // 21+ // For tickets and info: wqln.org