Kennett Winterfest-Beer Drinking for the Hearty

I feel like I dedicate a large proportion of my blog posts to waxing poetic about the spirited small town of Kennett Square.  How can I NOT feature this charming little borough with its vibrant downtown, home to the much acclaimed Talula’s Table.  A town whose international claim to fame is being the mushroom capital of the world AND, drum roll please… hosts not one, but two Brewfests.  That is right, February 2013 marks the inaugural run of the winter brew festival a.k.a. The First Annual Kennett Winterfest February 23rd from 12:30-4PM.   Modeled after the highly successful fall Brewfest, this beer drinking extravaganza for only the most passionate beer lovers, will be a much more intimate and potentially colder experience.  This outdoor beer festival with over 25 brewers and just 800 available tickets, is sure to sell out.  In fact there are only about 200 tickets left, so get them while you can—click here for ticket information.  For a complete list of participating breweries and the beers they are bringing along check out the Brewfest Blog-with all the latest festival information. 

Along with the alcohol content of many of the Winterfest beers (make sure you have a designated driver lined up), the Winterfest organizers have come up with several ways to keep you warm and happy.   The ticket price includes a delicious hearty meal from the aforementioned much acclaimed Talula's Table.  You can also groove your way to warmth with the fun and recognizable tunes of the Shady Groove Trio. 

Band member Matt Kresge sent me this bio regarding his band:

The Shady Groove Trio came about in 2009 when 3 musicians, tired of hearing the same hackneyed rock tunes played nightly by mediocre bands in various bars, went on a mission to bring good quality music back to the local bar and club scene. Bassist/Vocalist Bernie Gillespie, Guitarist/Vocalist Matt Kresge, and Drummer/Vocalist Mark Swartley strive to play the classic tunes we've all grown to love, yet have unfortunately been left behind by the repetitiveness and predictability of today's radio. The likes of Chuck Berry, Paul Simon, The Who, The Police, Beatles, Rolling Stones, Hall & Oates, Johnny Cash, and even classic surf instrumentals are all fair game at a Shady Groove Trio show. In addition to their vast repertoire, it is the trio's musicianship that sets them apart from other local acts.

Drummer Mark Swartley has played professionally for years and continues to be sought out by some of Philadelphia's finest live acts, including an extensive touring resume with rockabilly favorites, The Razorbacks. Guitarist Matt Kresge continues to impress audiences with his diverse and energetic playing that won him 'Best Guitarist' at the 2005 Emergenza Festival held in Philadelphia. Backed with Gillespie's impressive vocal range and driving bass, The Shady Groove Trio is guaranteed to get your feet moving!

Although the lighting and the background noise leaves a bit to be desired, you can get a sense of Shady Groove's talent in this youtube video cover of "She's So Cold".

So there you have it-great beer, music, food and people--what better way to spend a winter afternoon. Best of all the festival is a fundraiser for Historic Kennett Square and its programs like the Kennett Farmers Market. Hope to see you at Winterfest.