This coming weekend of June 13 and 14, the annual Taste of Fort Collins will be held at the Civic Center Park. This event has almost every type of entertainment one could imagine; art shows, music performances, craft displays, and of course a huge variety of great food from local Fort Collins restaurants.
On Saturday, the event begins at 8 am with a 5k run/walk that is dedicated to children who suffer during child abuse investigations. Throughout the rest of the day there will be several music performances as well as a pie eating contest. On Sunday the gates open at 11 am and go until 6 pm with a performance by Gin Blossoms.
In an article in the Coloradoan that explains a bit more about the Taste of Fort Collins, it lists some of the restaurants that are already confirmed to be attending the event, "Rasta Pasta, The Melting Pot, Carino's Italian Grill, Albert Pit BBX Taj Mahal, Uncle's Pizza, Eliot's Mess, the Little Italian Kitchen and Cheba Hut, to name a few."
So don't make any other plans for the weekend because this is an event that you won't want to miss. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance gate for $5 before 3 pm and $10 after 3 pm. There will also be a weekend pass available for $15 and a great VIP deal that includes special benefits.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Recreational Parks in Fort Collins
Follow the link below to take a tour of one of the many
scenic parks that Fort Collins has to offer:
http://www.box.net/shared/olosya7xyr
scenic parks that Fort Collins has to offer:
http://www.box.net/shared/olosya7xyr
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
BolderBOULDER Facts
In an interview with Matt Jenkins, the Marking and PR coordinator for the BolderBOULDER race, he goes in debth about the interworkings of who takes part in the race, the type of training that is involved, and what to expect for next year.
Q: Does number of people that participate in the race grow each year or does it seem like the race becomes more popular?
A: Overall, our numbers grow every year (about 2.5% growth). On anniversary years (e.g. our 30th in 2008) we see a spike in registrations, and then it falls back a little the following year (like it did in 2009). It’s interesting that 30-40% of our field each year has never done the race before, so we have a loyal following and a lot of new faces each year.
Q: Were there any people that came from another country to participate in the race?
A: We had 97 people from out of the country this year. A lot of families and friends converge from around the country each year to meet and do the race together.
Q: Is there anything that is going to change about the BolderBOULDER next year?
A: We have no plans to change the course or schedule in 2010. We moved the International Team Challenge up so it would finish before the Memorial Day Tribute this year. It was so successful that we will do the same thing again in 2010.
Q: How long do people usually train for the race? What does it take to be a coach?
A: On average people start training specifically for our race about 2-3 months ahead of time. Our BoldRUNNING training club has a wide range of coaches, from top level runners to middle-of-the-pack athletes. They all share the same ability to motivate and teach others to improve their running.
Q: Are there any other races that are similar to the BolderBoulder in Colorado?
A: Nothing really comes close to the size or scope of the BolderBOULDER. We try to give a world class experience through the whole registration process, from start to finish, and in the stadium after the race.
Q: How have the profits earned from the race helped non-profit groups?
A: This year 60 non-profit groups used the race as a fundraiser and earned money based on the number of volunteers they brought to the race. We also donate to the CU scholarship fund and donate supplies and merchandise to other local events.
Q: Does the BolderBOULDER team change each year? Are there other events that are held during the year when the BolderBOULDER is not taking place that are headed by the same team?
A: We have a core group of four people that work for the race year round, and dozens of seasonal staff that work anywhere from a couple months to a couple days surrounding the race. We also put on these three race series events:
Q: Does number of people that participate in the race grow each year or does it seem like the race becomes more popular?
A: Overall, our numbers grow every year (about 2.5% growth). On anniversary years (e.g. our 30th in 2008) we see a spike in registrations, and then it falls back a little the following year (like it did in 2009). It’s interesting that 30-40% of our field each year has never done the race before, so we have a loyal following and a lot of new faces each year.
Q: Were there any people that came from another country to participate in the race?
A: We had 97 people from out of the country this year. A lot of families and friends converge from around the country each year to meet and do the race together.
Q: Is there anything that is going to change about the BolderBOULDER next year?
A: We have no plans to change the course or schedule in 2010. We moved the International Team Challenge up so it would finish before the Memorial Day Tribute this year. It was so successful that we will do the same thing again in 2010.
Q: How long do people usually train for the race? What does it take to be a coach?
A: On average people start training specifically for our race about 2-3 months ahead of time. Our BoldRUNNING training club has a wide range of coaches, from top level runners to middle-of-the-pack athletes. They all share the same ability to motivate and teach others to improve their running.
Q: Are there any other races that are similar to the BolderBoulder in Colorado?
A: Nothing really comes close to the size or scope of the BolderBOULDER. We try to give a world class experience through the whole registration process, from start to finish, and in the stadium after the race.
Q: How have the profits earned from the race helped non-profit groups?
A: This year 60 non-profit groups used the race as a fundraiser and earned money based on the number of volunteers they brought to the race. We also donate to the CU scholarship fund and donate supplies and merchandise to other local events.
Q: Does the BolderBOULDER team change each year? Are there other events that are held during the year when the BolderBOULDER is not taking place that are headed by the same team?
A: We have a core group of four people that work for the race year round, and dozens of seasonal staff that work anywhere from a couple months to a couple days surrounding the race. We also put on these three race series events:
- Sombrero Trail Run in Estes Park on September 12
- ColderBOLDER Invitational 5K at CU on December 6
- DICK’S Sporting Goods Flat Out 5K at FlatIron Crossing in May
The BolderBOULDER is a race for all ages and from people all over the world. There are hundreds of volunteers, racers, organizations and supporters of the race that look forward it every single year. This event is for multiple great causes, and is a fun way to get exercise at the same time so why not give it a try in 2010.
Interview With Rafting Guides
There are endless outdoor adventures available to those living or just visiting Colorado. White water rafting is both an intense and exciting experience for people of all ages. Dan Fleishman is a guide for Rocky Mountain Adventures in Fort Collins, and absolutely loves his job as a raft guide.
"It's my seventh year here but now I train the new guys which is pretty neat because they’re just starting; actually two weeks ago they just started. See I raft all over the West, as much as possible. I just got off a 21 day Grand Canyon raft trip"
Like Dan, most of the river guides have loads of experience rafting. They know when the water level will be at its best, and also areas to avoid when the current is flowing faster than normal. Dan explains that the best time to raft is around May and June, although not many people know this. The busiest season for tourists is during July.
The Cache La Poudre River is most popular for white water rafting. Rocky Mountain Adventures, which Dan is a guide for, offers a variety of trips down this river; both half and full day. There are several other rafting companies located in Northern Colorado too. They each present different prices and trips. Some only take tours down the Poudre River while others will make the trek down the Colorado or the North Platte.
"There are five companies on this river. It’s a national wild and scenic river so there are only five companies allowed by law and each company has a quota. We can only take so many people down the river each day; 100 people on weekends and 120 on weekdays," is what Dan explained. He also advised that during the peak season which is July and August, reservations should be made in advance because once the quota is hit, they cannot take anymore rafters.
Owen McCain is another raft guide who has been assisting people down the Poudre River for four years now. He works for the Wanderlust White Water Rafting Adventures which specializes in the Poudre River only. Owen describes the various levels of rafting that his company offers to people wanting to raft, "We provide class two, three, and four. Class two and three is beginner stuff, more family oriented and class four is more advanced. Right now the class fours are definitely fun."
He tells us about the joys of his job, and how he looks forward to seeing his co-workers every day he comes to work. He also boasts about what an experience it is to be able to have a different kind of adventure every single day.
The rafting season goes on until late August. Therefore, while the river is running high and the sun is shining, river guides are urging residents and vistors in Colorado to take advantage of the opportunity, and jump into a raft and head down the white waters.
Follow this link to access an Audio of this story: http://www.box.net/shared/c4bzd763si
"It's my seventh year here but now I train the new guys which is pretty neat because they’re just starting; actually two weeks ago they just started. See I raft all over the West, as much as possible. I just got off a 21 day Grand Canyon raft trip"
Like Dan, most of the river guides have loads of experience rafting. They know when the water level will be at its best, and also areas to avoid when the current is flowing faster than normal. Dan explains that the best time to raft is around May and June, although not many people know this. The busiest season for tourists is during July.
The Cache La Poudre River is most popular for white water rafting. Rocky Mountain Adventures, which Dan is a guide for, offers a variety of trips down this river; both half and full day. There are several other rafting companies located in Northern Colorado too. They each present different prices and trips. Some only take tours down the Poudre River while others will make the trek down the Colorado or the North Platte.
"There are five companies on this river. It’s a national wild and scenic river so there are only five companies allowed by law and each company has a quota. We can only take so many people down the river each day; 100 people on weekends and 120 on weekdays," is what Dan explained. He also advised that during the peak season which is July and August, reservations should be made in advance because once the quota is hit, they cannot take anymore rafters.
Owen McCain is another raft guide who has been assisting people down the Poudre River for four years now. He works for the Wanderlust White Water Rafting Adventures which specializes in the Poudre River only. Owen describes the various levels of rafting that his company offers to people wanting to raft, "We provide class two, three, and four. Class two and three is beginner stuff, more family oriented and class four is more advanced. Right now the class fours are definitely fun."
He tells us about the joys of his job, and how he looks forward to seeing his co-workers every day he comes to work. He also boasts about what an experience it is to be able to have a different kind of adventure every single day.
The rafting season goes on until late August. Therefore, while the river is running high and the sun is shining, river guides are urging residents and vistors in Colorado to take advantage of the opportunity, and jump into a raft and head down the white waters.
Follow this link to access an Audio of this story: http://www.box.net/shared/c4bzd763si
Monday, June 8, 2009
Summer Jam 2009
KS 107.5 is hosting Summer Jam this coming weekend at Fiddler's Green Amplitheatre in Englewood Colorado. Some popular hip-hop and R&B artists that will be playing this year include:
- Jay-Z
- T-Pain
- Mary J. Blige
- Yong Jeezy
- Jadakiss
- Juelz Santana
- Jim Jones
- Elephant Man
- The Dream
- Mavado
- Serani
- Festival Village
- Pleasure P
- Backstage
- The Crowd
Along with this list of artists, there will be surprise guests performing as well. Summer Jam will begin at 5:30 pm on Friday, June 12. Ticket prices range from $5-$240, and if still available, can be purchased in numerous places including TicketsNow.
At last years' Summer Jam concert, Lil' Wayne tore it up. Many fans are looking forward to performances that are just as crazy if not more so than previous years. For those who are lacking funds or already have other plans this Friday, be sure to catch backstage footage of the concert beginning at 4 pm at KS 107.5 website.
White Water Rafting Podcast
Click the link below to listen to a podcast about rafting in Northern Colorado:
http://www.box.net/shared/c4bzd763si
http://www.box.net/shared/c4bzd763si
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Live Music Concerts at Mishawaka
The Mishawaka Amplitheatre is hosting the Sonic Bloom three day music camp-out festival June 26-28. Beyond the music, this concert series will also include dancers, painters, artists and performers. Like every year, there will be a complimentary breakfast on the morning of the last day (June 28).
Mishawaka, also known to many locals as "the mish" is a restaurant and bar that is popular for its cool atmosphere and all of the concerts that it holds every single summer. The Poudre River runs right by the restaurant, with picnic tables outside to eat at, and several campsites nearby to stay the night at.
There are already several concerts scheduled for the month of June:
12: Emmitt Nershi Band
14: Boulder Acoustic Society
19: Yamn, Holden Young Trio, The Switch
20: Lunar Fire
21: Finders & Youngberg
26, 27 & 28: Sonic Bloom
The mish website lists the locations where concert tickets can be purchased.
Mishawaka, also known to many locals as "the mish" is a restaurant and bar that is popular for its cool atmosphere and all of the concerts that it holds every single summer. The Poudre River runs right by the restaurant, with picnic tables outside to eat at, and several campsites nearby to stay the night at.
There are already several concerts scheduled for the month of June:
12: Emmitt Nershi Band
14: Boulder Acoustic Society
19: Yamn, Holden Young Trio, The Switch
20: Lunar Fire
21: Finders & Youngberg
26, 27 & 28: Sonic Bloom
The mish website lists the locations where concert tickets can be purchased.
Delicious Eating Contests
No matter what your favorite kind of food is, there is an eating contest this summer somewhere near you that fits your exact needs. This weekend in Boulder, there will be a cup cake eating contest hosted by Tee and Cake's bakery. There will be a first, second, and third place prize of $250, $125, and $50.
On June 20, at the Loveland Hooters location, there will be a wings eating contest from 11am-2pm. This contest will benefit the Wounded Warriors Project which is a foundation that supports men and women that have served our country and risked life and limb to do so.
On June 13, at Sam's Club in Denver there will be the Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest qualifier. For those who would rather enjoy just one hot dog and watch others take part in the contest, there will be a coke and single hot dog available for only $1.50.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Free Fishing in Colorado This Weekend
Thanks to the Colorado Vision of Wildlife, this weekend people can enjoy free fishing in the many lakes, ponds, and rivers across Colorado. State fishing regulations must still be followed though, such as people looking to fish in a State Wildlife Area must purchase a $10 Colorado Habitat Stamp or have one in posession if already purchased.
For others who are seeking an activity with a competitive edge, the 23rd Annual Estes Fishing Derby takes place tomorrow at Lake Estes. Last minute registration is at 6:30 am tomorrow morning before the event kicks off at 8 am. There is no cost, seeing as this weekend is also the weekend for free fishing throughout Colorado.
Just last Monday, the Colorado Division of Wildlife added almost 10,000 rainbow trout to the lake, so there will be plenty of fish to go around for the derby. There are also a large number of carp in the lake to catch, but no matter which fish you are looking for, be sure to arrive early. There is an estimated 300 people already signed up to take part in the derby, so the lake is going to be quite crowded.
For others who are seeking an activity with a competitive edge, the 23rd Annual Estes Fishing Derby takes place tomorrow at Lake Estes. Last minute registration is at 6:30 am tomorrow morning before the event kicks off at 8 am. There is no cost, seeing as this weekend is also the weekend for free fishing throughout Colorado.
Just last Monday, the Colorado Division of Wildlife added almost 10,000 rainbow trout to the lake, so there will be plenty of fish to go around for the derby. There are also a large number of carp in the lake to catch, but no matter which fish you are looking for, be sure to arrive early. There is an estimated 300 people already signed up to take part in the derby, so the lake is going to be quite crowded.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Drive-In Movies Are Still Here
No matter the night of the week, the Holiday Twin Drive-In Movie Theatre is open every night during the summer. It is a great place for birthday parties, a first date, or a family event; and there are event discounts available for parties of 30 or more.
There are two screens showing two different movies on each screen. The current movies that are playing are:
Screen 1:
UP
X-Men Origins: Wolverine
Screen 2:
Terminator Salvation
Star Trek
Admission prices are $6 for adults, $4 for seniors, $2 for children, and children 5 and under are free. There is a delicous snack bar with an assortment of candy, pretzels, nachos, burritos and hamburgers, and much more.
While drive-in theaters are struggling to survive with all of the new and advanced technology and stadium seating in normal theaters, many of them are disappearing. There are several websites that are dedicated to keeping people informed about these great pastimes, and hoping to keep the ones left, up and running.
There are two screens showing two different movies on each screen. The current movies that are playing are:
Screen 1:
UP
X-Men Origins: Wolverine
Screen 2:
Terminator Salvation
Star Trek
Admission prices are $6 for adults, $4 for seniors, $2 for children, and children 5 and under are free. There is a delicous snack bar with an assortment of candy, pretzels, nachos, burritos and hamburgers, and much more.
While drive-in theaters are struggling to survive with all of the new and advanced technology and stadium seating in normal theaters, many of them are disappearing. There are several websites that are dedicated to keeping people informed about these great pastimes, and hoping to keep the ones left, up and running.
The Denver Zoo
Located right in Denver's City Park, the Zoo is a wonderful place to take a day and walk around, enjoying the weather and exotic animals. Their summer hours are 9am-5pm, and take place March 1 through November 1.
Just today, there was an article posted about the birth of a rare primate called an Aye-Aye right in our Denver Zoo. The amazing thing about this birth is that it is the second birth of an Aye-Aye to ever be born in a North American Zoo.
Tickets for admission to the zoo can be purchased ahead of time online. Prices range depending upon age, and time of the year. During the summer, the ticket prices are:
Just today, there was an article posted about the birth of a rare primate called an Aye-Aye right in our Denver Zoo. The amazing thing about this birth is that it is the second birth of an Aye-Aye to ever be born in a North American Zoo.
Tickets for admission to the zoo can be purchased ahead of time online. Prices range depending upon age, and time of the year. During the summer, the ticket prices are:
- Age 12-64 $12 per day
- Age 65+ $9 per day
- Age 3-11 $7 per day
- Age 2 and under FREE
The Denver Zoo also offers group discounts, special services and accomodations for children, elderly and disabled, programs for children, teens, and schools, and much more. This amazing experience has it all, and so many different animals that it might take more than just one day at the zoo to see them all. The mammals, amphibians, fish, birds, invertibrates, and plants are all a special part of the Denver Zoo.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Denver Broncos Fan Fair
It is still a few months before football season begins, but for avid Broncos fans, this weekend they can spend a fun-filled day at Invesco Field at Mile High with the coaches and players.
Fan Fair, which is often described as the "ultimate fan experience", is taking place this Saturday, June 6 at 10am. Family five packs are available to purchase for a discounted price of $40, while individual passes are $20 for adults and $10 for children (ages 2-12). Tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or the Mile High Stadium box office.
You can expect all of the players to attend the event, as well as coaches, cheerleaders, alumni, and even the mascot Bronco, Miles. There will be a list of various events on and off the field, such as autograph signing, activites just for kids, and just time to talk with the team.
This event has been taking place for the last 7 years, and hopefully continues for many more as it is extremely popular among the local Coloradoans. The Denver Broncos currently have an online blog too, which is a great place for fans to go and find out all the latest news on draft picks, contributions from the team, and daily info about practices.
Great Deal at National Parks
In an article featured on the DailyCamera.com, the National Park announces that it will plan three free weekend entries during this summer. This includes all national parks across the country.
The free weekends should encourage more Americans to visit the parks, as well as help struggling families given the state of the economy, bring their families on vacations without spending absurd amounts of money.
Colorado has four national parks:
The free weekends should encourage more Americans to visit the parks, as well as help struggling families given the state of the economy, bring their families on vacations without spending absurd amounts of money.
Colorado has four national parks:
- The Great Sand Dunes National Park and Reserve
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- Mesa Verde National Park
The Rocky Mountain National Park is located in Estes Park, the closest of the others, for Northern Colorado residents. The cost of admission is $20 per vehicle, and $10 per person if not driving through with a vehicle.
National Parks are great attractions for families and friends alike. They offer multiple hiking and biking trails, as well as camping, fishing, snowshoeing, etc.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Colorado Brewers Flock To Fort Collins Festival To Promote Their Beer
The Colorado Brewers’ Festival is preparing for its 20th year of fun in Downtown Fort Collins, the weekend of June 28 and 29.
The gates open at 11:00 a.m. and don’t close until 6:00 p.m. each day. In past years, a line of eager locals and visitors forms down the block of Mountain and College Avenue.
At the tent to get into the festivities, there is an I.D. check and a cost for admission as well. A two day pass is available at a total of $10 and a single day for $6. The main attraction of Brewfest is, obviously, beer, and in order to have a taste you must first purchase tokens. Each token is $2 and allows you to get one cup of beer. All proceeds from the event will go to several good causes, including to help fund the Fort Collins 4th of July, Lucky Joe’s St. Patty’s Day Parade, and free summer concerts.
Beyond The Beer, Brewfest Also Has Great Music And Food
There are three different Colorado local bands playing each day of Brewfest. The bands are usually set up right in the middle of the square, on the stage near the small waterfall. Each music group is allotted about two hours to play, and for most of the time playing, they draw a constant crowd of people dancing and surrounding the area. The concert schedule is as follows:
Saturday, June 27th
11:45am-1:45pm Gripton
2:00-3:45pm To Be Announced
4:15-6:00pm Roe
Sunday, June 28th
11:45am-1:45pm The Corduroy
2:00-3:45pm Pineapple Crackers
4:15-6:00 Caleb Riley Funk Orchestra
The Corduroy is returning again after performing at last years’ Brewfest. Their music style is a mix of Americana, Funk and Blues, and their popularity has begun to expand from Colorado into the South and Mid West.
An assortment of food vendors from local Fort Collins restaurants will also be set up around the area for people to purchase from.
Breweries That Will Be Hosting The Event
All of the major Fort Collins breweries will be a part of the 2009 Colorado Brewer’s Festival; these include Anheuser-Busch, Big Horn Brewery/CB & Potts, Coopersmith’s Pub and Brewing, New Belgium Brewing Co., Fort Collins Brewery, and Odell’s Brewing.
View Colorado Brewfest Breweries in a larger map
Anheuser-Busch is the creator of many of the well-known beers such as Bud Light, Budweiser, Michelob, Busch, Natural Light, Beck’s, and the list goes on. They also brew Bacardi products, non-alcohol beers, energy drinks, and specialty and regional beers. Their company is constantly growing, and as stated on their very own Website, “through its corporate foundation and community outreach efforts, they gave more than $267,000 in the Fort Collins area last year.”
The Big Horn Brewery, also known to many as CB & Potts which is a popular restaurant in Fort Collins, has locally brewed beer that is recognized across the nation. A few of their award-winning brews from 2008 include Java the Hut which is coffee flavored, Old Jack’s Stout which is wood and barrel ages, and Westminster Export which is a Dortmunder Style Export.
Coppersmith’s Pub and Brewing is located right inside Old Town Square with an outside dining area that is a great place to sit down and listen to the music during Brewfest. They always offer an assortment of beers on tap, many of them ales such as Not Brown, Poudre Pale, and Punjabi Ale.
New Belgium Brewing Company is based upon originality and that explains why they became the first wind-powered brewery in the United States. They have many exceptionally popular beers, and a few of them are Fat Tire, Sunshine Wheat, Blue Paddle, and Skinny Dip.
The Fort Collins Brewery is a local favorite, and always offers tap room specials and exciting tours. Their beer can be purchased in over 21 states across the country. Some of their innovative creations include a tasty pomegranate wheat beer, Smoked Amber Lager, and a nutty flavored Timeless Red Ale.
Odell’s Brewery has been open for almost 20 years now, and they continue to come up with new inventive beers every single week in their tasting room. Easy Street Wheat, 90 Shilling, Red Ale, and Levity Ale are just a few examples of their classic and seasonal beers. This brewery is also part of numerous environmental programs that help keep our world green.
The Benefits For Breweries To Attend
The apparent benefit for breweries to be a part of this event is for exposure and to promote their beer and their brewery as a whole. For some breweries it is hard to calculate how helpful this event is for their company, but for others it is completely clear.
Although CB & Potts/The Big Horn Brewery has been open since 1971, they have only been involved in Brewfest for the past 12 years out of the 20 years it has been taking place. In an interview with Kirk Lombardi, he explained the importance of “being a player in the local craft beer culture.”
In questioning Coopersmith’s Pub and Brewery about Brewfest, it’s as if they feel the same way; becoming involved in the community and supporting many locals’ passions for great tasting beer is a top priority. Dwight Hall, the Head Brewer and Managing Partner for Coopersmith’s, voices his opinion about at least one advantage of Brewfest, “Colorado Brewer’s Festival is a great event to showcase the great diversity of Colorado craft beer.”
These breweries are very passionate about what they do, and about proving the excellence of Colorado brews.
What Kind Of Beer Selections To Expect This Year
Breweries usually select some of their new creations to serve at an event such as this, but they often times include the old favorites as well. “I try and choose beer that I think a lot of people will enjoy, and that reflects Coopersmith’s unique personality,” is what Dwight Hall from Coopersmith’s tells us about what he looks for and thinks about while selecting the beer to provide at an event such as CBF.
Some of Coopersmith’s most popular brews and ones that you might expect to see at CBF include:
- Punjabi Pale Ale, which Hall tells us is their most popular beer and it is served three ways: draft Pubside and Poolside, and hand drawn (Hanjabi on Poolside and cask conditioned on Pubside).
- Sigda's Green Chili Beer is popular year round
- Mountain Avenue Wheat is the best seller in the summer
- Razzmatazz Belgian Ale is one of the newer beers that they will be serving as well, and it is a blonde ale brewed with Belgian yeast and spiced with coriander.
The Big Horn Brewery on the other hand is not bringing out any new creations this year; they are just sticking to the all time favorites:
- Buttface Amber Ale and Colorado Blonde are two of their “top performers” for beer
- Big Horn Hefeweizen , Barefoot Wit, and Apricot Ale are a few other brews that will be available for tasting
The Costs For Breweries To Be A Part Of BrewfestEach brewery provides their beer for a different price, along with various transportation costs and sponsorship costs. They do however, make at least some money from providing for this event. Coopersmith’s “sells their kegs to the Downtown Business Association at a lower than normal price and a standard transportation cost.”
To give you an idea about just how much beer people consume over the two days at Brewfest, Coopersmith’s has had three different types of beer throughout the past few years, and they have “sold out all 27 kegs over the weekend.” Lombardi explains that his breweries performance very similar, with about 18 of their kegs being used up by the end of the weekend. Not to worry though, the event has never totally run out of beer, there is always enough to go around for everyone.
The Big Horn Brewery laid out their prices a bit differently, “Beer costs around $900, sponsorship is $300 or so, and we get $1,260 back from the Downtown Business Association so we wind up making around $60,” which is not a lot of money considering the success of their brewery nationwide. It pays off in the end though, because as Lombardi tells me, they get a great deal of exposure to new customers. Hall also has the same mindset, exclaiming that CBF “brings thousands of beer lovers to our doorstep which is a good thing.”
These breweries are not so much worried with the costs, because they can make up any losses through tours, merchandise sales, and taking advantage of the busy summers. Hall seems very upbeat about the upcoming months, telling me that “summer is our busiest time; big events in old town like the Colorado Brewer’s Festival and New West Fest make our busiest days.” This is also true because their restaurant and breweryis located in the exact area that Brewfest takes place, and even more people stop in for a bite to eat or a quick drink during the event.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It
Lombardi expresses his experiences at the festival, “the brewers aren’t really allowed to participate, so my experiences are much like those of any ‘fest-goer’, sun, beer, music, and ‘good times’.”
Colorado Brewer's Festival is an event that can be enjoyed by all demographics; families, students, couples, and friends of all ages. It's an experience that you will not want to miss, and should be taken advantage of at least once if not every year by anyone who is in town the last weekend of June.
Audio: http://www.box.net/shared/t78dnjsxzk
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