22 Aug Pints in the Park a True ‘Region’ Treasure
By Kristina Traxler
The Region is a truly rare treasure in Indiana. Its got its own holiday (219 Day), time zone, and unique subset of Hoosiers. Pints in the Park is an annual event that brings together the best of the region including: great Indiana beer, tasty region grub, and quality entertainment.
Considering that I am a devoted Region Rat, it’s surprising that this was my first Pints in the Park even though it’s really year #3 for the event itself. Now, after attending this spectacular event this past Saturday, I feel like I’ve really missed out. A big thank you to the abundance of region sponsors and support that made this beautiful rainy day possible.
I arrived at 4PM with the general admission crowd. The entrance ran smoothly since there were several people checking ID and tickets. Upon entering you were handed a tasting glass, pencil, and a massive draft list of everything that was there. At first the foot long draft list seemed overwhelming, but this also thrilled my inner control freak. It was a nice touch for those people who wanted to make a game plan and really get the most out of the afternoon.
Proceeds from this event went to the Calumet Humane Society, a near and dear organization just blocks from my home. They capitalized on this event by accepting donations in exchange for pretzel necklaces, (bona fide marketing brilliance).
The tents were set up right outside the clubhouse and encompassed almost the entire back gazebo area. It was nice having the clubhouse open to us which included bathrooms with running water (a rare commodity at a brewfest). There were also blue rooms outside so no one would have to wander too far. Luckily Mother Nature only decided to sprinkle once, but if it did downpour you could hide in the clubhouse and wait it out. You don’t typically think that a country club vibe would be an ideal venue for a beer event, but I loved having the extra perks.
The wide variety of brews made it an optimal event for any type of craft beer fan. From pilsners to imperial stouts, there was a whole lot of everything. A couple of Indiana breweries that I’m so happy I was able to discover:
-Zorn Brew Works: Michigan City came out strong with the Thin Brew Line Stout a smooth dark mystery, Lawnmower Man a lemongrass IPA, and Blocka Blocka Blocka, an orange cocoa saison.
-Bulldog Brewing Company: Downtown Whiting’s classic stable came bringing their Hefeweizen, a blended balance of banana goodness and a Kiwi Gose (which I didn’t get to taste – am incredibly jealous of the VIP crowd that was able to try this).
-St. John Malt Brothers – As the name states, St John brought Mr. Coconuthead, which is one of my sweet favorite stouts, Hesperidium, which is one of their flagship IPA’s packed with citrus and floral roots, and Burnt Bottom Brown, an English ale with a bold chocolate flavor.
As much as I love the Hoosier beer scene, it was nice to see some Chicago favorites as well. Some of those included: Burnt City Brewing, Lagunitas, and Goose Island. The list of beers was over a foot long and double sided, there was really pretty much anything your frothy heart desired.
Pints in the Park adds to uniqueness of the Region events. For those that haven’t ventured up I-65 Northbound, the Region is home to over 20 breweries now. Pints in the Park is a much needed event that brings together these local pearls into 1 full afternoon. I’m grateful I was able to experience a wondrous Region staple such as this.
Region Rat 4 Lyfe,
Traxler
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