The 11th annual Lincoln Lager Barleyfest will bring the world of craft beer to Merrill’s Smith Center Saturday, Oct. 6, from 2-6 p.m.
Approximately 50 vendors will bring their beverages for tasting at this year’s Barleyfest. That includes eight wineries, to give add some variety to the event.
“We heard from some of our patrons who wanted us to see if we could get a few more wineries,” said Dan Wendorf, Merrill Park & Recreation Director and Barleyfest organizer. “It adds a little more diversity into what we’re doing.”
Barleyfest has seen steady growth over the first 10 years, with attendance at about 600 last year. Show goers are split about evenly between local residents and those who come from out of town for Barleyfest. Last year, Barleyfesters came from 65 different cities in six states.
“We wanted this to become a destination attraction,” Wendorf said. “It gives people from all over the state and beyond, a reason to come to our beautiful city.”
Coming to Barleyfest has become a tradition for both locals and visitors alike.
“It’s great to see these people that have been coming since year one,” Wendorf said. “We call them our Barleyfest family.”
New this year will be a designated driver lounge, sponsored by Weinbrenner Shoe Co., for those who won’t be partaking in the beer tasting. The lounge will be stocked with snacks and soft drinks.
“We want to make sure the people responsible for getting our patrons home safe and sound feel welcome too,” Wendorf said.
Barleyfest is wholly support by its sponsors and patrons.
“We rely 100 percent on the wonderful sponsors and the wonderful people that come through the doors,” Wendorf said.
Many of Barleyfest’s sponsors have been supporting the event for years. The presenting sponsor, Dave’s County Market, has been with Barleyfest since the beginning.
Each year, proceeds from Barleyfest are donated to a local cause. So far, over $40,000 has been donated to Merrill charities, organizations and events. This year, Barleyfest will be supporting the Merrill Optimist Club’s efforts to construct a handicapped accessible playground at Normal Park.
“I can’t thank our Barleyfesters enough for coming out and supporting this event,” Wendorf said. “Without our sponsors and show goers, we wouldn’t be here talking about year 11.”
Tickets for Barleyfest can be purchased online at www.llbarleyfest.com or in person at Dave’s County Market, Merrill Chamber of Commerce, the Smith Center and Ballyhoo’s.