Historic Odessa Brewfest Celebrates 10th Anniversary with a Spectacular Lineup of Craft Brews and Entertainment

Get ready to raise your glasses, because on Saturday, September 9, the Historic Odessa Foundation (HOF) and Cantwell’s Tavern are teaming up to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Historic Odessa Brewfest. Craft beer enthusiasts from across the region are counting down the days to this extraordinary event where they can savor a diverse and innovative selection of brews. The celebration takes place on the scenic grounds of the 254-year-old Wilson-Warner House, Delaware’s very first house museum, established in 1923. Secure your tickets now for this must-attend affair, as the Platinum and VIP tickets have already sold out.

The 10th anniversary edition of the Odessa Brewfest is pulling out all the stops with a remarkable lineup of over 58 local, regional, and national breweries. Among the exciting additions to this year's event are Maine Beer Co. and Fiddlehead Brewing Co. Attendees can expect a full day of entertainment, including live musical performances on two stages, artisan vendors showcasing their wares, the thrilling Fusion Beer Mile, engaging lawn games, and delectable locally sourced cuisine courtesy of Cantwell’s Tavern. This beloved farm-to-table gastropub is located in the historic Brick Hotel (c. 1822), which is part of the HOF's historic complex. Additionally, the Ashby Hospitality Group from Newark, Delaware, will be contributing to the culinary delights.

Upon entrance to the 2023 Odessa Brewfest, guests will receive a complimentary 2 oz. tasting mug, granting them unlimited access to sample an array of craft beers throughout the day. The list of participating breweries is constantly being updated; check out the current lineup on the Odessa Brewfest’s homepage at www.odessabrewfest.com.

The music lineup for this year's celebration is set to dazzle with performances on two stages. The main stage will feature the Wilmington-based Beatles cover band Magical Mystery from 12 to 2:30 p.m., followed by the crowd-favorite reggae ensemble Spokey Speaky from 2:45 to 5:30 p.m. On the garden stage, catch the soulful sounds of acoustic jazz and blues artist Bruce Anthony from 12 to 2:30 p.m., and later, from 2:45 to 5:30 p.m., enjoy the eclectic musical stylings of The Sheehan Brothers, a Pennsylvania-based group known for their blend of traditional Irish, folk, pop, and country tunes.

Since its inception in 2014, the Odessa Brewfest has risen to prominence as one of the region's premier beer festivals, while also becoming an integral part of the community. This event not only celebrates the artistry and dedication of craft beer brewing but also supports the important work of the Historic Odessa Foundation. As one of Delaware's largest historic sites managed independently, all proceeds from the one-day brewfest contribute to the foundation's efforts in historical conservation and a wide range of educational programs.

Looking back to the early 17th century, beer has held a special place in the hearts of European settlers along the Delaware River. Just as vital as other domestic crafts of the time, brewing beer was essential in a world where drinking water was often unsafe. Beer became a staple in the colonies, consumed by individuals of all ages. Given this rich history, it's fitting that the Historic Odessa, once a bustling colonial grain shipping port and a vital Mid-Atlantic transportation hub in the 18th and early 19th centuries, now hosts a craft beer festival that allows modern beer enthusiasts to step back more than two and a half centuries into a pastoral setting, celebrating the art of brewing with grains, hops, fruits, herbs, and time-honored methods.

Event Details at a Glance

What: 10th Annual Historic Odessa Brewfest, presented by the Historic Odessa Foundation and Cantwell’s Tavern.

When: September 9, 2023, General Admission from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Where: Historic Odessa, 202 Main Street, Odessa, DE 19730

Why: The Odessa Brewfest is the Historic Odessa Foundation’s premier fundraising event of the year. All proceeds support historic conservation and educational programming.

Tickets: General Admission: $60 ($70 at the gate), Designated Driver: $15.

Secure your tickets in advance at www.odessabrewfest.com, or call 302-378-4119.

Connect with Historic Odessa Brewfest

• Official Website: www.odessabrewfest.com
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/odessabrewfest
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/odessabrewfest/
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/OdessaBrewfest
• Photo Gallery: www.odessabrewfest.com/photos