The winter rains caused local highway closures, which have now caused the Animal Rescue Friends of Idyllwild to cancel its annual Brewfest. The Brewfest is ARF’s largest fundraiser each year, but conditions were too difficult for success this year. Plans are already underway for the next Brewfest on June 6, 2020.
However, the homebrew contest was not canceled. Homebrewed beer submissions will be accepted from April 15 to May 17. Judging will still be by the La Quinta Brewing Company.
For details about the Homebrewer’s contest visit the website, www.arfbeerfest.com/homebrewers-competition.
Local businesses have traditionally donated money for the cost of ARF’s permits and sponsorships. Local inns and B&Bs have donated rooms for the brewery representatives. But all these businesses are suffering because of the highway closures, now expected to last four months.
Also, attendance would likely be lower than previous fests for the same reason, which might dampen the enthusiasm of the breweries that come and provide supplies.
The Brewfest was scheduled for June 1. Estimates for highway reopenings are mid-June.
For all of these reasons, Janice Murasko, ARF director, said the board felt it was in everyone’s best interest to cancel the 2019 Brewfest and resume in 2020.
“We couldn’t impose on local businesses this year,” she said.