Even the chance of rain for the weekend will not stop Tryon Beer Fest from pouring some great local and regional beers – more than 30 breweries will pour more than 100 different styles of beer throughout the day.

“Tryon Beer Fest is a rain or shine event, and we have planned for iffy weather – over 3,200 square feet of tented space with heaters will keep fest-goers dry and warm, as they sample a broad variety of beers, local food, and music,” says Joe Pullara, chair of the fourth annual Tryon Beer Fest, to be held this Saturday, Nov. 7 from 12-6 p.m. at the Depot Plaza in downtown Tryon.

The Mountain Top Polka Band will kick off the festival with traditional oompah music as smells of roasting oysters and Bavarian brats fill the air and as the first beer kegs are tapped and flowing. They perform with traditional instruments along with Christopher Laughter who will perform the traditional bell ringing. Suburban Angst, a rockin’ cover band from Atlanta will take over mid-fest and have the audience on their feet swaying and dancing under the big tent.

In addition to unlimited beer/wine sampling and music, an array of mouth watering food options are available. Roasted oysters will be sold as ‘bakers dozen’ buckets along with traditional German platters from McGourty’s Pub complete with imported German brats, German potato salad and locally made kraut. Mountain View BBQ will offer a variety of wings and delicious pulled pork barbeque and beans. Buck’s Pizza has even created a German pizza especially for the beer fest. Beer-infused snacks from Hops & Nuts, soft warm pretzels from Beulah’s Bavarian Pretzels and decadent desserts from All Good Things will round out the palate. Non-alcoholic beverages and coffee and complimentary water will be available as well.

“This Oktoberfest-style festival just keeps getting better every year, and what better way to enjoy fall weather in our beautiful foothills – even in the rain, we got you covered,” says Cindy Viehman, committee chair.

Tryon Beer Fest is a 21-year-old and up event and runs from noon until 6 p.m., rain (tents) or shine. Downtown parking is free and plentiful. The beer fest is sponsored by Tryon Downtown Development Association and proceeds go to fund downtown improvements.

All tickets are available online at www.tryonbeerfest.com and in-person (cash/check) at La Bouteille at 10 North Trade St. and the Tryon Coffeehouse Co-op at 90 Trade St. in downtown Tryon. A limited number of tasting tickets and non-drinker tickets will be available at the gate for cash only. For more information about Tryon Beer Fest and directions to the event, visit www.tryonbeerfest.com.

– Submitted by Shelly Block