Patrons enjoying the Craft Beer Sampling Tent at last year’s Madison County Hop Fest.
(Oneida, NY – Aug. 2015) Madison County Hop Fest is celebrating its 20th anniversary this September. In celebration of this momentous occasion there are many activities planned for the Hop Fest from Sept. 18 to 20.
Participation from breweries, restaurants, exhibitors, and guest speakers will be partaking in the Hop Fest weekend. The Madison County Hop Fest celebrates the past, present and prosperous future of the hop industry.
Hop Fest weekend begins Friday, Sept. 18 with a paired beer dinner at Ye Olde Landmark Tavern in Bouckville. The four course meal will be paired with a variety of craft beers and will debut the special 20th Anniversary Madison County Hop Fest beer created by Empire Brewing Company.
The event continues on Saturday, Sept. 19 on the grounds of the Madison County Historical Society at 11 a.m. featuring: guest speakers presenting programs on hop culture along with hop experts sharing their knowledge on brewing and growing hops. Stay for the Taste of Hops: a food and beer pairing from noon to 2 p.m. to taste some of the finest appetizers prepared by Cakes and Other Goodies, Colgate Inn, Micieli’s Comfort Dining and Catering, No. 10 Tavern, Ray Brothers Barbeque, Poolville Country Store and Ye Olde Landmark Tavern.
Tickets sold separately for Taste of Hops.
After the Taste of Hops will be craft beer sampling from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. featuring more than 30 breweries. There will be an opportunity to taste the special 20th Anniversary Madison County Hop Fest beer created by Empire Brewing Company under the craft beer sampling tent at Hop Fest.
Tickets sold in advance at Kraig’s Kegs in Oneida, Canastota’s Hometown Specialty, Empire Brewing in Syracuse and Good Nature Farm Brewery in Hamilton.
The weekend event concludes with a guided Hop Kiln Tour on Sunday, Sept. 20.
There is no admission to attend the Hop Fest. There is an admission fee for the craft beer sampling, Taste of Hops, Paired Beer Dinner, and Hop Kiln Tour.
For more information and to purchase tickets online, madisonhopfest.org.
For volunteering opportunities, call the society at 315-363-4136.