Friday night was Part One of the 2019 Fest of Ale at the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre, and it was just what you think it might be. Not quite a wild party, but not that far from it.
And that's what you get when you mix 75 craft breweries and cideries from across the province with two or three thousand enthusiastic "tasters."
The action was hot and heavy inside, where the majority of breweries/cideries were situated. They shared the venue with numerous food booths, a stage and DJ, and singer/guitarists at either end. It almost goes without saying that dancing increased as the evening wore on.
Outside, near the rear doors to the South Okanagan Events Centre, were several food trucks, at least a couple dozen more tasting booths, and another DJ.
If one had walked in the door at the 5 p.m. start time and stayed 'til the 9 p.m. closing time, there's a good chance they still wouldn't have had enough time to see and experience everything.
The event includes all the Penticton faves, including one that isn't open yet (Slackwater Brewing) and one that has yet to be built (Neighbourhood Brewing).
Net proceeds from Fest of Ale go to charity. Last year, they raised $60,000, which brought the grand total to nearly $700,000.
And of course, there will be awards. A panel of industry experts will vote for the "Judge's Choice Award," while Festival goers get a chance to vote too, for the "People's Choice Award."
The second and final day of Fest of Ale goes today, ending at 6 p.m. Admission is $29, and four-ounce samples are $2 each.
