Kettleheads Host Seventh Annual Brew Fest For Charity
WINONA LAKE — Brew good, do good. The Kosciusko Kettleheads, founded in 2010 and the first and only brew club in the county, have raised $30,000 for local charities in seven years.
On Saturday, June 24, they invite you to the seventh annual HomebrewFest at the Cerulean Garden, 1101 E. Canal St., Winona Lake, to raise money for Combined Community Services. This fun annual event for those aged 21 and over will run 6-10 p.m.
“It is chance for all the local home brewers to show off their passion and craft and raise money for a great cause at the same time,” says Kettleheads President Jason Rich
There are currently 22 beers registered for the event, but organizers expect 30-40 varieties to be available. They guarantee there will be something for everyone. Currently on the list are lagers, ciders, IPAs and sours.
Rich is excited to show his Bacon Blonde, a smoked blonde ale based on a German style “that compliments meat.”
Daren Deffenbaugh is bringing back Skid Mark, a black IPA. A usual at the festival, this year Deffenbaugh is trying something a little different and dry hopped with mosaic. Deffenbaugh will also by bringing his first lager to the event, a Munich Helles lager.
A large array of ciders have been registered, including a chamomile tea cider. Homebrew club member Buckley Watson will be bringing turbo cider.
“I think a big thing for the event is being able to talk to brewers about the brewing process and the ideas behind their beer. A lot of people that like beer can taste special beer, but it’s a rare occasion when you can go and talk to the person that actually brews it,” says Aaron Winey.
All proceeds from the event will be going to benefit CCS’s utility assistance program. Last year, $20,000 was raised and assisted 37 families. The utility assistance program helps local residents whose utilities have been shut off. Last year 123 families used the assistance program; an additional 108 families were turned away for lack of funds.
The event will feature giveaways. St. Eve and the Vibe, South Bend, will be playing 8-10 p.m. at the Cerulean Garden. While this event is separate from the brew tent, admission is free. OrthoCity BBQ will have its food truck on site with food for purchase.
General admission tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the door for $25. Purchasing a VIP ticket, $45, gets you early admission at 5 p.m., a t-shirt and a commemorative tasting glass. The event is rain or shine.
If you would like to donate to CCS’s utility assistance but can’t attend the event, visit online.