For the 27th consecutive year, Hospice of San Luis Obispo County presents the California Festival of Beers at Madonna Meadows. During Memorial Day weekend, guests can taste over 200 beers from more than six dozen breweries from around the world. A special “Arts and Drafts” Connoisseur Tasting event on Friday, May 24 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. will precede the Grand Tasting event on Saturday May 25 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
As one of the largest and oldest regional beer festivals in California, the participation grows each year as a major fundraiser for Hospice SLO, a nonprofit organization serving the local community.
“This event has had amazing growth and support over the years and it is a major source of income for Hospice SLO that allows us to continue to provide free services to the community,” said Executive Director Kris Kington-Barker. “We could not manage this without the backing of the brewers, sponsors, vendors and hundreds of volunteers who make this happen every year.”
The California Festival of Beers brings together live music, local foods, art viewing and a wider selection of beers than ever before. At “Arts and Drafts,” attendees will learn from the beer pairing master Dr. Bill Sysak, beverage coordinator of Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens and a recognized figure of the craft beer community.
The Grand Tasting will be held on the lush Madonna Inn Meadows, newly refurbished and a prime location for a day of sunshine, beer and live entertainment. And for real beer lovers who want to enhance their Festival experience, VIP passes are available, offering exclusive brewers and food samples.
Tickets and more information are available at californiafestivalofbeers.com. Information about Hospice of San Luis Obispo County can be found at hospiceslo.org.