The first Hops on the Ohio beer festival was such a success last year, promoters and producers for the event knew they’d throw the local festival again this year. August 3 will mark the second annual Hops on the Ohio event, featuring regional breweries and wineries and live music, according to those who run the event.
Tickets for the event went on sale Friday morning, and RiverPark Center Director of Development and Marketing Faith Holley said those interested in attending should purchase their tickets as soon as possible.
“I encourage folks to get tickets early because we may sell out–we were really, really close last year,” Holley said.
The beer festival will take place both inside and outside of RPC. Live music will be played outside on the BB&T Plaza, while breweries and wineries will set up shop on the patio, inside the main lobby, in the Jody Berry Cabaret Theatre, and even may spill onto the Cannon Hall Stage this year, Holley said.
Holley said last year’s event saw over 500 people enjoy a four-hour concert and beer and wine tasting.
“It was right on par with what we expected–we were thrilled it was so successful,” Holley said. “The feedback was great. Everyone said they couldn’t wait to come back next year.”
Last year’s Hops on the Ohio saw more than 30 breweries and 75 different beers provide samples from different states and regions near and within Kentucky, said promoter for the event, Cody Anderson.
Holley said RPC’s location on the Ohio River makes the festival even more compelling for those who enjoy a scenic atmosphere.
Both Holley and Anderson believe the beer culture in Owensboro has grown over the last few years, and they think even more growth is to come.
“I think we’re already seeing signs of beer festivals growing [in the local area],” Holley said. “We’ve had Cheers on the Pier for a few years now, and now we’ve got Hops on the Ohio. It’s been great.”
Anderson said he expects beer festivals to gain in popularity across Owensboro as growth continues in the city.
“I think it’s something we can grow. With the growth of downtown Owensboro, I think Owensboro is a good market for events like this,” Anderson said.
Anderson said that while Hops on the Ohio is still in its planning stages, those interested can expect announcements about live music and event-exclusive beers that can only be found at Hops on the Ohio. The band Fat Box is expected to play, but other bands should be announced along the way.
Holley said Hops on the Ohio is a fundraiser for RPC’s educational programming activities, and ticket sales for the event allow RPC to continue allowing children who want to experience the theatre, but can’t afford to, at little to no cost.
“It’s good times for a great cause,” Holley said. “I encourage folks to get tickets early because we may sell out–we were really, really close last year.”
Tickets for Hops on the Ohio can be purchased by clicking here, or by calling the RPC at 270-687-2787.
