Drunken pirates were abound on Saturday as around 2,000 people took part in the second annual SCV Brewmasters Pirate Beer Festival at Vista Valencia Golf Course.
At least 1,000 of them came dressed as pirates.
Twenty-two different brewers came out with over 50 different craft beers for attendees to try out, all for the flat price of $35 for regular access and $45 for VIP access. Designated drivers only had to pay $10. A percentage of those proceeds went to charities that support active military and local veterans.
“It gets the general public into the craft beer industry,” said Steve Carney, the co-event coordinator. “Craft beer is becoming a huge influence on the beer industry.”
Carney says the craft beer industry is growing at such a rapid rate that one craft brewer opens up approximately every week in Southern California.
One brewery that was enthusiastic to introduce their beer to the public was Widmer Brothers Brewing from Portland. According to Kristina Lauf, the vendor, the brand has been around for 30 years.
“It’s fun to introduce a new generation to the brand,” said Lauf.
JR Garduno was in attendance and took advantage of the opportunity to try out all the beers. He said he introduced himself to around fifteen of them.
“How often do you get to enjoy this many craft beers in one venue?” he said.
Beer was not the only attraction at the festival though. There were three live bands that played throughout the day, vendors selling pirate-themed merchandise in case someone forgot a costume and a large variety of food to eat.
Carney says the event was a success and is already looking forward to next years.
“We’ll definitely do it again next year,” he said.
