August 2018 - Extras: Hopfest 2018

Over ten years ago, Albuquerque Hopfest began and ushered in a celebration of local beer and a tradition was born. “The first year it was 12 regional breweries”, Marne Gaston of Feel Good Festivals says about the event’s humble beginnings back in 2008, but in 2018, “now we expect around 70 breweries to participate.” Hopfest also sees quite a variety of beer too, including the addition of hard ciders, sodas, sparkling waters, and distilleries. "With over 3,000 people expected to be attending this year’s event, a lot of breweries like to take advantage of the turnout and debut new beer and other goodies for sampling." The local breweries take advantage of the opportunity to debut new beers at Hopfest. Regional breweries do not control the release of their beers in New Mexico. If possible, they also like to debut their new beers to get the word out. The best way to get people to purchase a product is to get them to sample it!” Given Albuquerque’s growing brewing industry, I’m sure the chance to advertise as well as serve potential buyers is a can’t-miss opportunity.

With big names in brewing like as Marble, Rouge, Sierra Nevada, and even Shock Top; Albuquerque Hopfest promises to be a beer lover’s paradise. However, if you’re looking to do more than just drink, the event has got you covered, “Hopfest has 3 stages, 7 bands, a cocktail challenge, games, crafts, vendors, homebrew demonstrations, food pairings, and educational seminars”, so you’ll never run out of things to do. Albuquerque Hopfest is coming September 8th to the Isleta Resort and Casino. For all information, visit their website at www.albuquerquehopfest.com.