New Hockanum Brew Fest shaping up well for this Saturday

The stage is set for a terrific first-ever Hockanum Brew Fest this Saturday, April 21 from 1-4 pm at 200 West Main Street in Rockville. The cold weather pattern is finally going away, and the forecast for Saturday is partly sunny with temperatures in the mid-50's. Over 100 different craft beers, wines and boutique beverages such as spiked cider, lemonade and melonade, will be available for taste-testing in the quaint outdoor beer garden nestled between the Hockanum River and the Hockanum Mill, an 1800's textile factory that is being renovated, with plans to include the future New England Motorcycle Museum and a new motorcycle-themed brew-pub.

Tickets are $40 for drinkers (age 21-up) and $20 for non-drinkers and designated drivers. Tickets may be purchased online at www.hockanumbrewfest.com, at Lafayette Wine & Liquors in Vernon, or if the brew fest is not sold out in advance, at the door by cash or credit card. All ID's will be checked at the main gate.

Brew fest organizers are opening the ticket lines and food truck court at 12 noon, so people can check in early and eat lunch on-site. The official ribbon-cutting with dignitaries will begin at 12:45 pm, with the beer garden opening promptly at 1 pm. The brew fest will include live music by Grand Avenue, a local classic rock, southern rock and blues band; games and displays by area businesses and organizations.

The Hockanum Brew Fest website contains crisp directions, maps and event details (including general, handicapped and motorcycle parking areas and shuttle bus stops). The brew fest is just 1-1/2 miles from
I-84. Directional signs will be posted off exits 65, 66 and 67 to point the way for out of town attendees. Come out and celebrate spring and the birth of Connecticut's newest brew fest in historic Rockville this Saturday.