Carson City Rotary hosting Brewfest to raise money for scholarships

The Carson City Rotary is moving its annual fundraiser outside this year for the Capital City Brewfest.

“We used to have the Pizza and Beer in the Carson Mall,” explained Katie Leao, co-chairwoman of the Brewfest committee. “We have literally outgrown that space.”

The Capital City Brewfest will stretch along Curry Street from Fourth to Musser streets on June 4. It will feature more than 30 breweries, along with food trucks. Area restaurants will be open to customers. Waiter and waitress races will also be taking place.

“We have well-known breweries down to small microbreweries from Northern California, Oregon, all over the country,” Leao said. “It’s twice as many breweries as we’ve had at past events. It’s going to be really cool.”

Trippin’ King Snakes will be playing classic rock and country, with D.J. Red filling in on breaks.

VIP admission is $40. Those ticket-holders will get into the event an hour early at 2 p.m. to meet with brewers. They also will receive a collectable glass beer mug.

Regular admission s $25, running 3-8 p.m. It includes a plastic tasting mug.

“It’s going to be a great time,” said co-chairman Jim Gray. “If you like beer, this is going to be fun. And I’m sure it’s going to be a beautiful June afternoon.”

The Brewfest will coincide with the Farmers Market and the Wine Walk.

“Downtown is going to be hopping that day,” Leao. “We’re really fortunate to be working with the Firkin & Fox and the Carson City Visitors Bureau. They’ve been great partners.”

All proceeds from the Brewfest will go to a $12,000 scholarship awarded annually by the Carson City Rotary. The scholarship has gone to students ranging in ages from 18 to 43, Leao said.

She said the Brewfest also is a good way to generate interest in the Rotary organization, especially among the younger crowd.

“As young professionals, it’s a great way to connect,” she said. “Literally, the who’s who of Carson City is involved in Rotary. I like what it does for our community and our kids.”

For tickets or information, go to visitcarsoncity.com or call 775-687-7410.