Expanded BrewFest CK returns this summer

Beer enthusiasts will have something to raise a glass to this summer, with the return of a popular festival.

BrewFest CK, presented by Teksavvy Solutions Inc., will build on the success of last year’s inaugural events, while also adding Glasstown Brewing Co., Chatham-Kent’s newest brewery, organizers said.

The dates for this year’s BrewFest CK events are as follows:

BrewFest CK originated as FarmFest at Red Barn Brewing Co. in 2021, marking its official grand opening after being
unable to celebrate due to pandemic restrictions on public gatherings.

Denny Vervaet, Red Barn co-owner, expressed gratitude for last year’s provincial recognition of the festival.

“We were humbled and excited to receive two prestigious Ontario Tourism Awards for innovation and collaboration for FarmFest 2021,” he said. “Our close-knit relationship with the brewing companies in CK allows us to collaborate and create these unique fests, showcasing our special community.

“Teksavvy is back as our major sponsor for BrewFest CK 2023 and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have them on board, being their goals align perfectly with BrewFest and the community spirit these events offer.”

Besides celebrating local craft beer offerings, the events support various causes through designated charities at the gate.

There will also be live entertainment, food trucks, farmer markets and exclusive beer releases.

“We are really stoked to be part of BrewFest CK sponsored by TekSavvy,” Doug Hunter, co-owner of Sons of Kent said. “And this year will be bigger and better than last year, with one more event at our newest brewery, Glasstown. It’s always great to get to have these events for the folks in CK, who are our best supporters.”

David Draper, head brewer with Glasstown, said they are “tremendously excited” to be taking part with their own Riverfest.

“As a new brewery, it’s wonderful to be able to connect and collaborate with our more established friends in the craft brew community, like Sons of Kent, Bayside and Red Barn,” he said.

“Together, we can make that community even stronger and let the people of Chatham-Kent know what great things are brewing in their own backyard.”

Nancy Cowan, co-owner of Bayside Brewing, said they are eager to return to “summer mode” for the second year of BrewFest CK, as well as the return of Teksavvy as a major sponsor.

For more information and updates on BrewFest CK, visit each brewery’s website and social media platforms, as well as BrewFest’s social channel on Instagram and Facebook @brewfestck.