MACC Scene by Karee Carlucci

Maui Brewers Festival, a MACC Fundraiser & Educational Experience
   
    The MACC, Maui Brewing Co. and Paradise Beverages have combined forces to present the 2nd Annual Maui Brewers Festival on Saturday, May 15 from 3 to 7 pm.  This Maui Arts & Cultural Center fundraiser takes place under the swaying palms on the Events Lawn with net proceeds benefiting The Center’s arts and educational programs for students, seniors and the Maui community. 

    Showcasing the best in handcrafted beers made in Hawai‘i, California, Oregon and beyond, Maui Brewers Festival will feature 26 breweries, including Hawai‘i Nui Brewing (Hawai‘i Nui and Mehana), Kona Brewing Co, Maui Brewing Co. (presenting Smokestack Lager, Double Overhead IPA, Steamroller and Mana Wheat), Primo Brewing & Malting Co and Waimea Brewing, all from Hawai‘i. Brewery representatives will be on-hand to educate guests about the craft beer craze surging across the country.

    Festival-goers will enjoy a leisurely day of sampling a wide variety of craft beers and imports along with island food and desserts from local purveyors such as 808 Bistro, Flatbread Company, Maui Brewing Co. Brew Pub, Wow-Wee Maui’s Kava Bar & Grill, Maui Tacos, Monsoon India, Mulligan’s on the Blue, Three’s Bar & Grill, Whole Foods and Zia Maria’s Gelato. Guests receive a commemorative pilsner cup from which to sample eight 4-ounce tastings of beer. Food and beer booths are arranged around the arena for sampling and dining; there’s no limit to the amount of food each guest can partake; root beer and filtered water are available, too.

    On stage, the entertainment line-up includes some of Maui’s favorite bands like Louis & The Megas, Kanekoa and Off Tomorrow. Pacific Radio Group DJ Mackie Mac will serve as M.C. There will also be logo merchandise for sale from the festival and breweries as well as prize giveaways galore.

    The all-inclusive general admission price is $45 per adult, which includes beer sampling, a commemorative cup, ‘ono pupu and desserts, and event parking. The $75 “happy hour” package features a reserved parking pass, early entry at 2 pm for a private sampling with the brewmasters and brewery representatives, music by Kanoa and a logo gift in addition to general admission for the entire event.  Open to adults aged 21 years and over only; lawn chairs and mats are welcome.  For tickets, call the MACC Box Office at 242-SHOW or visit MauiArts.org.