Since Digfest began in 2011, the craft beer movement has exploded in central Ohio.
The festival has grown right along with the industry it celebrates.
More than 50 makers of craft beer, liquor, wines and spirits will participate in this year’s event.
The sixth annual Digfest is scheduled from 4 to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, June 11, in First Avenue Park at Grandview Yard.
It will be the first public event presented by the new Tri-Village Chamber Partnership. It’s also the first event to be held in the new park.
“Digfest keeps getting bigger and better,” chamber Director Michelle Wilson said.
The merger of the Grandview and Upper Arlington chambers has helped bring even more drink and food vendors to the event, she said.
“Our first year, in 2011, we had just a handful of brewers and about 1,500 people attending,” Wilson said. “In five years, we’ve seen the number of brewers and distillers participating skyrocket and the attendance has more than tripled.”
Admission to Digfest is free, although tickets are needed to purchase drink samples as well as food, she said.
Drink tickets cost $3 each and samples cost one ticket while two tickets bring a full pour, Wilson said.
Digfest is an event that appeals both to the craft beer connoisseur and to people whose interest in the movement is just beginning, said Jamie Gentry, co-founder of the Columbus Craft Beer Alliance.
“You can have a sample of a beer and decide whether it’s something you like and go for a full pour,” he said.
The CCBA will serve as host for three new brewers that have started in the last year, Gentry said.
“We’re calling them our freshman class,” he said. “What’s so amazing about the craft beer movement in the central Ohio region is the variety of beers and the creative ingredients brewers are coming up with.”
A VIP presale available at grandviewdigfest.com offers the chance to avoid the ticket and wristband lines and enjoy longer pours, Wilson said.
Two dollars from every VIP purchase will be donated to the Ronald McDonald House Charities, she said.
About 15 food vendors and several craft vendors will take part in Digfest.
An entertainment lineup will feature DJ Carlo, The High Definitions and Angela Perley and the Howlin’ Moons.
“Even if you’re not going to partake of any of the beer or liquor, you can stop by Digfest and enjoy some great music in a festive setting,” Wilson said.
Entrance and parking are free and parking will be available at the Grandview Yard parking garage behind L.A. Fitness, on the surface lot next to the garage and in the garage next to Hofbrauhaus.
More information, including a full list of drink, food and craft vendors, is available at the Digfest website.
