Kona Brewers Festival marks 25 years

The Kona Brewers Festival is celebrating a quarter-century of hosting some of the nations top breweries on March 14 on the shores of Kamakahonu Bay.

Kona Brewers Festival hosts Hawaii Island’s best chefs and the most innovative craft brewers from across the Hawaiian Islands and mainland U.S. in the spirit of collaboration through food, fun, art, and our vibrant island community. The festival will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. on the luau grounds of the King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel.

The fundraising beer festival, which sells out each year, is known for featuring the newest creations by 36 chefs and 36 brewers with live music and entertainment along the white sandy bay. Beyond your average brew fest experience, the festival is unique in featuring a culinary experience with craft beer styles that are often unavailable in Hawaii.

Beer lovers will find the best classic IPA’s, blondes, kolsch styles and even barley wines. The most-talked about features are the creative pours such as a Guava Sour Beer, Double and Triple IPA’s, and a special collaboration “Pink Boots” brew featuring all female brewers. Founding sponsor Kona Brewing Co. will feature its newly released Kona Light and a Hazy IPA.

Food is aplenty as well, with offerings like ahi poke, furikake calamari, Big Island beef with a Kona coffee crust, hand-churned gelato and more.

It is also a zero-waste event that’s been designated as a Green Event by Hawaii’s Green Business Program. Last year, just 23 bags of garbage was disposed. The signature Trash Fashion Show featuring island artists in their fashion creations constructed 100% from local waste is a must-see for attendees.

Presented by Ke Kai Ala Foundation, the Kona Brewers Festival raises funds for 28 Hawaii Island programs, working for the environment, culture and youth. In celebration of the festival’s 25th Anniversary, founding sponsor Kona Brewing Company will donate $75,000 to Ke Kai Ala Foundation.

Over the years, according to the company, the celebration has raised more than $1.3 million.

Tickets are on sale online only at www.konabrewersfestival.com. General admission from 3 to 7 p.m. is $85. Admission to the Connoisseurs Lounge from 2 to 4 p.m. is $185. The upgraded tickets include all general admission amenities plus admission to the festival and the Connoisseur’s Lounge.

For more information, including details about pre-party events such as the “Run for Hops” and Homebrew Competition, visit www.konabrewersfestival.com.