Brew and cider fans can savor the craft on Saturday, September 22 during the 3rd Annual Long Island Fresh Hop Festival LI Hops.
Taking place at Jamesport Farm Brewery from 12:30 to 4 p.m., the largest fresh hop fest on the east coast will boast an impressive array of special locally brewed beers created with locally grown and harvested hops, many of which were brewed in small batches specifically for this occasion. As we move into autumn and the pumpkin everything craze takes over, there will also be a spotlight on several locally crafted pumpkin beers, as well as limited-release seasonal brews from local breweries.
Participating breweries will include Jamesport Farm Brewery, Greenport Harbor Brewing Co., North Fork Brewing Co., Montauk Brewing Co., Long Ireland, Blue Point Brewing Company, Samuel Adams, Angry Orchard Hard Cider, BrickHouse Brewing, Port Jeff Brewing Company, Lithology Brewing Co., Jack’s Abby, Springdale by Jack’s Abby, Brewmaster Jack, Mikkeller Brewing, and more. Additionally, ciders will be on tap from Bold Rock, Cobbler Mountain, Stromalong, Graft, and Urban Farm Fermentory.
Long Island Fresh Hop Festival offers the unique chance to taste brews created with fresh hops in addition to the traditional version of the same beer. Many of these fresh hop-infused beers are special limited-edition versions that will not be available to the general public. For those unfamiliar with the difference, brewers will be onsite to speak about their creations.
The Festival will also feature educational seminars, live music, bites from Jamesport-based caterer Christopher Michael Catering that will be available for purchase, and the return of the beloved giant pumpkin chucker (a ginormous sling shot that flings small pumpkins, testing balance, strength and skill to hit point-valued targets).
Admission is $45+tax/fees in advance and $55 on the day of the event. The entry fee includes beer sampling and a souvenir tasting cup. There is also a designated driver ticket available for $12 + tax/fee, which includes a bottle of water. Those that purchase the designated driver ticket will not receive a wristband or a tasting cup and are not permitted to try any of the beer. All attendees must be 21-years-old or older.
Jamesport Farm Brewery is located at 5873 Sound Avenue in Riverhead. For more information, visit lifreshhopfestival.com.