Brewnost! Beer Festival
National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library — Friday, Oct. 16 at 6:30 p.m.
Much like in years past, BrewNost! 2015 at the National Czech & Slovak Museum matches beers of the same style from both the old-world, European tradition and those of North America’s new world craft beer revolution. For the selection of new world beers, Cole Swanson, the museum and library’s annual fund manager, says there is always a emphasis on offering Iowa-brewed beers when possible. Beers by Confluence, Millstream and Lion Bridge will be matched with beers from Belgium, Germany and the Czech Republic this year.
Complementing each beer style will be a food pairing prepared by a local chef. Swanson said nearly 20 different restaurants, mostly from the Cedar Rapids area, will be represented. Among those listed on a tentative pairing list are Lava Fusion, Maggie’s Farm Wood-Fired Pizza and New Pioneer Co-op.
BrewNost! 2015 takes place at the museum and library (1400 Inspiration Place SW, Cedar Rapids). Outside along the riverfront, a heated tent will host a band. Though most of the museum will be closed, an exhibit titled Beer, Please!, which tells the history of beer through beer-related games, quizzes and activities, will be open.
Wine and cider pairings will also be available. A silent auction will use mobile bidding software and all proceeds will benefit the museum. There will also be circus games, a beer slide and a raffle to give away a trip for two to Prague.
Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library at (319) 362-8500. Standard admission is $60 in advance and will cost $70 at the door. A $100 Patron ticket offers access to the VIPatron Happy Hour at 5:30 p.m., and includes a commemorative medallion. The $125 BrewMaster ticket offers all the same benefits of the Patron ticket, plus a commemorative beer stein and the opportunity to pour beer at the event.
