About 600 people tasted wine and beer to help local children and to help Friend Inc. battle poverty and hunger in Northeast Berks County at FriendFest 2017 on Feb. 25.
“This was about 200 more than last year’s event,” said Angelo Corrado, a director of the Optimist Club of Kutztown. “This year’s event was a big success due to a big audience participation. So we want to thank all those who supported this event and look forward to seeing them next year.”
The 9th Annual FriendFest Beer and Wine Tasting event was held in Beltzner Hall on the Kutztown Fairgrounds. Featuring beer and wine tasting, live music, food and various vendors, all proceeds go to help the Optimist Club of Kutztown’s children’s programs in local communities, as well as assisting Friend, Inc. end poverty and hunger in rural Northeastern Berks County.
“We raised around $7,000,” said Corrado. “The event is used to fund some scholarships for local kids and also sponsor other youth programs for the development and betterment of kids. We also donate some of the proceeds to Friend inc. who started the event and has allowed The Optimist Club of Kutztown Foundation Inc. to take it over for one of our fundraisers.”
There were two sessions for the event, one from 3 to 6 p.m. and another from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
“Some of the highlights were the ability to have some new products out for sampling and purchasing. They were a big hit,” said Corrado.
Local wineries and breweries in Pennsylvania and along the east coast showcased their products. Some of the many vendors included Cottrell Brewery, Golden Avalanche Brewing Company, Neshaminy Creek Brewing Company, Saucony Creek Brewing, Stoudt’s Brewing Company, Yards Brewing Company, Deerfoot Vineyards & Winery, Kulpmont Winery, Paradox Vineyards, Sand Castle Winery, Stone & Key Cellars, and The Vineyard & Brewery At Hershey. Food vendors included Pretzel Revolution, K’Town Pub, and Yon-Yang Sweets and Treats.
“We also had some games of chance that were a big hit with the drinking crowd. One particular game was called the Ring Toss,” he said.
Ring Toss was new this year. “This is where you get a few chances to throw a ring around a bottle and win some six packs.”
Next year’s event is slated to take place a week earlier. Feb. 17, 2018.