Keenan Donath
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If you’re looking for an excuse to drink beer in the afternoon, look no further. The California Festival of Beers — commonly known as Beer Fest — is right around the corner.
The festival, which will take place on May 23-24, will feature more than 60 breweries, all in the name of charity. One hundred percent of this year’s proceeds will go to Hospice of San Luis Obispo County, a volunteer organization that has offered community services free of charge since 1977.
Beer Fest attracts more than 4,000 people each year to its scenic Madonna Inn Meadows location. Not only will there be plenty of beer, but the event will also feature fine dining and musical entertainment from local band Louder Space, alt-soul band The Big Bang and vocalist Judy Philbin accompanied by guitarist Adam Levine.
During the past couple years, the event has seen an increase in local popularity.
“We see a lot of both alumni and current students,” event director Gracie Rey said. “It has become an event where students are reconnecting with alumni.”
The 28th installment of the festival brings with it a rich, hoppy tradition.
After hosting the first festivals in the back parking lot of a local pub, the event was moved to the Avila Beach Golf Resort before relocating to the Madonna location for the 2013 festival. Each occasion is highlighted by a variety of craft and local beer, as well as live music for entertainment.
Rey also said safety is an important concern, and there will be designated-driver tickets for people who choose to enjoy the event sober.
Bartenders will also keep a keen eye out for those who have had too much to drink. Rey said her team is working with SLO Safe Ride on a shuttle system for attendees.
Biological sciences senior Alexa Garrett attended the event this past year and reflected positively upon her experience, even though she doesn’t prefer the festival’s signature beverage.
“It’s a fun time, definitely,” she said. “There is music and a lot of people around, and everyone was having a really good time.”