It is easy to take Founders Brewing Company for granted when you live here, but if you have ever traveled and said, "I live in Grand Rapids," there are only two responses at this point. Amway or Founders Brewery -- and the latter is only getting bigger.
So it is not surprising that this year, when Founders Fest opens on the brick streets of Grandville Ave where they live as the Mecca beer hall of all micro beers the world over, we have more than a few reasons to celebrate our very hoppy and local heroes.
And while I was quickly reminded when I inquired early this week if we were in for more of the same, Founders Brewing Company rarely coasts, acting more like a fixed gear company, always plodding on and on.
What's really great about this music-infused event is that for the very first time, a second stage has been added. Now there will not be any of that awkward canned music or lag time between bands as they set up. Instead, you'll be treated to tight, live and nonstop music entertainment programming with a smattering array of carnival-like tomfoolery performances designed to tickle your eyes and your pelvic region as the Daredevil Circus, Super Happy Fun Time Entertainment and the Audacious Hoop Troupe contort, buzz and whirl for your enjoyment.
Scheduled to appear this year on stage are Soulive, Toubab Krewe, FBC All Stars, That 1 Guy, Seth & May and Friends, Ultraviolet Hippopotamus, Four Finger Five, Crane Wives, Afro Zuma and The Soil and the Sun.
And if you worried about all the trash events produce, Founders is proud to announce they are teaming up with
High Five Green Team this year to make Founders Fest a zero waste event by way of recycling and composting.
Lest we forget what this event about, there will be plenty of their international award-winning beer with mainstays of the tap at the ready all night long, along with the debut of the Founders Fest Wheat, a nice crisp American Wheat Ale, brewed just for the party. Founders will also feature an area of their tent for a few different specialties and surprise brews for festival-goers as well as some firkins in rotation throughout the day.
And if you have too much, there is always a chance to soak up the suds with some local food from newcomer Mi Tierra (Mexican Fare) and returning food vendors The Cottage Bar (burgers, brats), The Pita House (gyros, hummus), and Rockford Corner Bar (world famous chili dogs). They will also have What The Truck? on site for a chance to sample the Winchester version of a food truck. (This is how you get their street meat in your mouth, as the city has yet to figure it out.)
Founders Fest happens only once a year, so what the Hell are you waiting for? The Rapid runs later now, so drink up and then bus your ass safely home. Bus fare is still cheaper than a D.U.I.
Admission: $20 in advance, $25 at the gate