The Hilo Brewfest is coming back with a plethora of beer, live music and fun next month.
The Rotary Club of Hilo and Ola Brew are presenting the ninth annual Hilo Brewfest at the Wainaku Executive Center on Saturday, June 25.
After two years of virtual brewfests, organizers are excited to get back to normal with an in-person event where nearly 80 different beers will be available.
“What’s great about this year is that we will be featuring new breweries in the state that were created during the pandemic,” said Bob Hanley, beer coordinator. “Since cancelling the Brewfest in 2020, people have been asking about coming back and we’re happy to be able to do this now.”
In 2021, Brewfest went virtual where participants could purchase a box containing an assortment of beers, hard ciders, snacks and other merchandise and then watch an online concert.
“At first planning was a little nerve-wracking, but now that we’ve been without restrictions for a while and I see how people are adjusting, I feel good about it,” said coordinator Anita Tatum. “Transitioning to a live event has been a huge undertaking, but I know everyone will enjoy it.”
Ola Brew recently purchased the Wainaku Center and is the presenting sponsor of the event.
“We’re so happy Ola Brew extended its property to us, so we can have a great space for the event,” Tatum said. “Everyone is excited and ready to be part of it.”
There will be food from local restaurants, and live music from Boni and Doug, Bending Elbows and Girl’s Nite Out will be featured throughout the day.
There will be no parking available at the center, but drivers can drop off attendees at the Wainaku top gate. Pick-up locations will be determined.
Masks are not required, but can be worn at the attendees’ discretion.
Beneficiaries of the event include Hilo Medical Center Foundation’s Residency Program, The Friends of the Children’s Justice Center of East Hawaii and The Boys and Girls Club of the Big Island.
Regular tickets are available for $75 and VIP tickets are available in pairs for $300 total. VIP tickets allow for an extra hour at the brewfest, two extra drink tabs, and access to seating and restrooms inside the Wainaku Center.
The Hilo Brewfest will begin at 1 p.m. for VIPs and 2 p.m. for regular ticket holders on Saturday, June 25, and will conclude at 5 p.m.
More information and ticket sales can be found at www.hilobrewfest.com
Email Kelsey Walling at kwalling@hawaiitribune-herald.com
