Hop to It at the 5th Annual Hoptoberfest

 

More than 22 microbrews will be on tap at the 5th Annual Hoptoberfest.
More than 22 microbrews will be on tap at the 5th Annual Hoptoberfest.

Autumn is a crafty, indoor season for many people. And, following our glorious summer, there will probably be a rise of basement brewers using up gorgeous crops of locally-grown hops.  aul Gatza, director of the Brewers Association, is proud that “the craft beer segment has grown steadily over the past ten years and in 2005 it showed its biggest increase since 1996. The strong growth in craft beer sales over the past several years shows American consumers’ continuing interest in flavorful American beers.”

Enjoy such gems as they’re on display at Hoptoberfest, a celebration of craft brews and good times hosted by the East Grays Harbor Rotary Club.

Taking place Saturday, October 11, from 2:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the Quinault Beach Resort & Casino in Ocean Shores, this is the fifth annual Hoptoberfest. Rotary Club member Donna Rosi explains that “The monies raised support our scholarship and charity funds, to date Hoptoberfest has raised over $40,000.  East Grays Harbor Rotary Club was formed 2005 with 22 members.  We tried selling roses, raffle tickets, and doing pancake breakfast fundraisers. With a small (but mighty) group, we decided it was better to concentrate our efforts. We do Hoptoberfest for the scholarship and charity funds and Pair of Hearts Ball in February, to support the Children’s Advocacy Center.”

Don't miss the fun at the 5th Annual Hoptoberfest happening Saturday, Oct. 11 at Quinault Beach Resort & Casino.
Don’t miss the fun at the 5th Annual Hoptoberfest happening Saturday, Oct. 11 at Quinault Beach Resort & Casino.

Attendance is expected to be between 800-1200 thirsty souls looking to partake in games, prizes, food, and more than 22 microbrews, as well as wine and spirits.  Music will be provided by Ken and Christine, Slightly Awry, and Six Pack Pretty amongst others, all hometown favorites.

There will also be a silent auction, games, and prizes, and even tickets to the upcoming Seahawks bout against the San Francisco 49ers.

Amy Thomason, East Grays Harbor Rotary Club treasurer, tried listing some of the many recipients of the Hoptoberfest proceeds. “Off the top of my head: Shop with a Cop, Salvation Army, Making a Difference for Grays Harbor Kids, The Rotary Foundation-Clean Water Project, RYLA, Catholic Community Services, NW Response-Oso landside relief fund, Beyond Survival, Anchor Bank-Big Little Program, Centralia Rotary Project Foundation-PNG Project, The Rotary Foundation-ShelterBox.” Agrees Rosi, “We know there are other beer festivals out there, so thanks for helping support local charities and scholarships by attending Hoptoberfest!”

Proceeds raised from Hoptoberfest will benefit local non-profits and charities.
Proceeds raised from Hoptoberfest will benefit local non-profits and charities.

Admission is only $10 to enjoy the entire day’s worth of fun. Tickets are available online or in person at Grays Harbor Radio in Aberdeen, Umpqua Bank in Montesano, Foothills Massage in Elma, and Quinault Beach Resort & Casino in Ocean Shores.

Quinault Beach is also offering a special room rate for Hoptoberfest guests, but the hotel is filling up fast.  For details, see the accommodation details online or call Quinault Beach and mention promo code Hoptoberfest.

For more information or with questions about the event, call: 360-533-1320.