The sun is starting to win out over the winter weather in Bellingham, and another sure sign of spring are the reminders of the annual April Brew’s Day celebration that have appeared in breweries throughout the area.
Every year for the last fifteen, the 1100 Railroad Street block from the Depot Market Square to Boundary Bay Brewery is roped off for beer aficionados and supporters of the Max Higbee Center. Last year, over 3000 attendees sampled beers from breweries representing the Pacific Northwest. This year the event is on Saturday, April 30th.
Much of the success of April Brew’s Day can be attributed to the broad support the Max Higbee Center receives from the local community. Profits from the event go towards the Center’s recreational events and their programs for developmentally challenged children and adults.
The event has been growing strong since its inception. Last year over fifty brewers stood shoulder-to-shoulder to showcase their best brews for a huge gathering of Bellingham locals. This year the favorites are returning, and newcomers are joining them to win over fans from the burgeoning craft brew scene in Washington. Both of Bellingham’s newest breweries, Stone’s Throw and Structures, will be represented.
Other notable brews you might want to try include the Hell or High Watermelon Wheat Beer from 21st Amendment brewery, Laurelwood Brewery’s Workhorse IPA, or the Stouticus Maximus from North Sound Brewing Co.
Also, Ground Breaker Brewing has good news for those avoiding gluten, and will feature their completely gluten free brews. Samples of other beverages such as mead, cider, and kombucha will also available from regional vendors.
The event includes live music, and seven food establishments will be on hand suppling some of the tastiest mobile food Bellingham has to offer, including El Capitan’s Sausages, Goat Mountain Pizza, StrEAT Food, Kurly Fries, and JT’s Smokin’ BBQ.
VIP passes are already sold out, so purchase general admission today. Buy your pass at MaxHigbee.org, either of the Community Food Co-Op locations, or at any of the local breweries. Admission will cost $25 in advanced and $30 at the door. Each attendee receives 5 drink tickets, a collectible mug, and pretzels. Additional drink tickets are available for purchase after entry.
The gate opens at 5:30 for VIP-pass holders, and general admission holders are let through the gates at 6:30. This event is always packed, so get there early, and bring your ID! Guests will leave with their thirsts quenched by the event’s end at 10:00 P.M. We’ll see you on April 30th!
Click here for a complete list of breweries!
