To the community,

The second annual Tahoe Brewfest occurred last weekend in the Heavenly Cal Lodge parking lot. A celebration of all things craft beer and Tahoe, the Brewfest boasted 34 breweries, Parker Bros. Root Beer, kombucha, amazing live music from Ike and Martin, local food vendors and perfect weather.

Over 3,000 people attended the kid-friendly event and with many visitors traveling to Tahoe just for the Brewfest. Some guests came from as far away as Chicago and Whistler, Canada, but plenty of locals also turned out to sample new breweries like Modern Times, Auburn Ale House, Common Cider and Saint Archer.

“This truly is a community event,” said Nicole Marsel, the event organizer. “From the Breweries who are donating their beer, to our local vendors and sponsors.  There is something for everyone and we can’t wait to make the event even bigger and better in 2019.”

The Brewfest could not have happened without one very special lady and one great community supporter.  Deb Brown of Cold Water Brewery is the heart and soul of the Brewfest. It was her idea to bring a Brewfest to Tahoe and she continues to be a major sponsor and influencer of the event. The Heavenly Cal Lodge location was provided through a Vail Epic Promise Grant, which serves to support local not-for-profits and community organizations. 

The Vail Team have been incredible; from granting us the location, to helping with permitting, right through the providing volunteers on the day. We could not have expanded the event without them and are so grateful for the support they give the club and the community.

Profits from the Brewfest will go directly to supporting the Boys and Girls Club and although final figures aren’t in, the club estimates that it raised over $60,000.

However, the fun, and the fudraising, isn’t over yet.Another great community advocate, Luca Genasi at Lake Tahoe Aleworx is hosting a Tahoe Brewfest tap takeover on June 7. So if you missed out on Saturday and want to sample the best of the beers from the Brewfest, head to Aleworx between 3-11pm. Again, proceeds will benefit the Boys and Girls Club.

Jude Wood, executive director Lake Tahoe Boys and Girls Club