Great Beer & A Better Cause? That’s Worth Drinking to! 

The Tippecanoe Arts Federation celebrated their 5th Annual TAP for TAF Craft Beer Fest in Lafayette this past weekend in support of funding art programs in North Central Indiana. I am always on the lookout for events that combine craft beer and local arts because they are two great passions of mine. I was especially excited for this event because it is always well executed and attended, and this year did not disappoint. The Tippecanoe Arts Federation did a great job of organizing and advertising the event.

I arrived with friends to the main floor of the 2nd Street Parking Garage in downtown Lafayette and we were greeted by friendly staff ushering people to the top floor where the event was held. There was a small line to enter considering we arrived right at 3pm when the event began. I had never attended an event at a parking garage, but it was a perfect venue. It had plenty of space for all of the breweries and a great view of the city on what turned out to be a gorgeous day. We grabbed our sample glass and began making our way around the 15+ breweries. I sampled many of my favorites including Flat12, Triton, Sun King and Burn ‘Em Burning, whose Hop Parade was one of my favorite of the day. In addition to some of their regulars, Triton brought Axl Gose, which was perfect for a sunny day.

I also had the opportunity to try out some breweries that I was not as familiar with like Noble Order, Power House,  and Saint John Malt Brothers. The latter had a perfectly balanced coconut porter that I waited in line to sample a second time. Noble Order had a steady line thanks to an Apricot IPA that also complimented the beautiful weather.

Most of the breweries were tapped by about 5:30pm due to the impressive turnout. Even though I had plenty of time to make it around to all them more than once, I will definitely get the early entry next time. Can’t wait until next year!