Hoist a glass, first Loyalhanna Brewfest on tap

Loyalhanna Watershed Association will host its inaugural Loyalhanna Brewfest at the Watershed Farm, 6 Old Lincoln Highway, Ligonier, from 5-8 p.m. June 22.

The outdoor festival will feature local craft breweries, food vendors and live entertainment from State College band Velveeta.

“As all nonprofits, we try to come up with new ideas for raising funds,” says Susan Huba, association executive director. “We also are trying to reach out to new audiences of people who might not be familiar with us and the work we do.”

Proceeds will go toward the association’s land conservation efforts and recreation projects, Huba says.

Huba credits Pamela Goodman, owner of Fat Daddy’s in Ligonier, for helping to coordinate the event and reaching out to her contacts, especially in the craft beer business.

Goodman has helped in the past with association education programs, she says.

“She and I got in touch last year. We have this awesome venue — the Watershed owns the (Ligonier Country Market) field. We wanted to to do a summer event and find a way to get new people involved,” Huba says. “We thought, ‘Lets try this and see what the response is.

“This is what we wanted to do — use the market field for another type of event,” Huba says.

The farm will host about 15 brewers with more than 30 beers to sample, including Southern Tier, Fat Heads and Helltown, along with a beer wagon.

Stateside Vodka will mix original cocktails.

Somerset Trust Co. is sponsoring the 5-ounce pilsner glasses participants will use for samples, Huba says.

After quenching your thirst — or maybe before — fill your belly from food trucks including Miss Meatball, Speals on Wheels and Fort Fries.

Those attending should bring a blanket or chair.

“Come have a fun evening,” Huba says.

Gates open at 4:30 p.m. for this 21-up event.

Tickets are $30.

Details: eventbrite.com