It’s a good problem to have. There are so many choices for fans of local craft beer, it’s hard to know where to start.
One good place is Saturday’s Triangle Beer Fest, where more than 30 independent craft brewers will have samples to taste.
The event will be 2-6 p.m. May 12, at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary. VIP ticket holders get in early at noon. Admission to the 21-and-older event includes a souvenir beer glass, music and a ticket to the N.C. Courage game at 7 p.m. Organizers expect more than 1,000 people.
“We are expecting to have a beer fest that features breweries in and around the Triangle exclusively, unique vendors and live music,” said Amy Hanson, founder of the Triangle Craft Alliance, which is putting on the event.
Two local bands, Cosmic Superheroes and Heads up Penny, will perform and local food trucks will provide the food.
Outside food isn’t allowed, but organizers make an exception for the elaborate pretzel necklaces that have become a beer festival requirement. Attendees can nibble on their neckwear while waiting in line for the next sample.
“Pretzel necklaces are definitely a beer fest trend,” Hanson said. “What better way to cleanse your palate? I’ve even seen some that include gummies and cookies!”
Tickets to the festival are $40-50 general admission and $60-70 for VIP entry. For more details and ticket information, visit trianglecraftbeeralliance.com.
The alliance was founded last September to promote Triangle breweries and to help local brewers connect with and support each other. The local group serves a different role than statewide advocacy group NC Craft Brewers Guild, which focuses on legislation and other measures that benefit all 250-plus breweries in the state.
“The Triangle Craft Beer Alliance is actually the fifth area-focused Beer Alliance in the state and our focus is education for current brewers, future brewers and consumers,” said Hanson. “We host numerous activities to make sure our Triangle breweries have access to the newest and best information available and create platforms for them to communicate effectively with each other.”
The Triangle is home to more than 50 independent craft breweries and more than 50 bottle shops.
