A Unique Celebration of Craft Beverages and Community
The fourth annual Great Lakes Beer Festival brought a vibrant mix of music, conversation, and camaraderie to Dow Diamond on Saturday. Thousands of attendees gathered at the home stadium of the Great Lakes Loons, transforming the venue into a lively hub for beer lovers and enthusiasts.
The festival featured more than 70 breweries, cideries, and distilleries, each offering a wide array of samples. Attendees wandered through shaded concourses, engaging with vendors who were eager to share their products and stories. For many, the event was not just about tasting drinks but also about building connections with local patrons.
Aaron Onweller, from Maple Grille in Hemlock, expressed his enthusiasm for the festival. “It’s in our backyard, and if you can’t serve your backyard, what fun is that?” he said. The event was supported by Hearst, which also owns the Midland Daily News, highlighting the community ties that make the festival possible.
Brewers and representatives from various brands took the opportunity to interact with attendees, sharing their passion for their craft. Stephen Mott, representing The Long Drink, emphasized the importance of grassroots efforts. “I think to be somewhere big is great, but to start a fire in a small spot and get liquid to lips is important,” he said. The festival provided a unique platform for people to try different beverages and connect with brands in an enjoyable setting.
One of the key factors that made the festival stand out was the venue itself—Dow Diamond. Organizers highlighted the convenience and comfort of the stadium, noting that it offered easy access to restrooms, covered seating, and ample space. Event director Ed Fritz praised the location, saying, “It’s different than other beer festivals because it’s not out in the field or in the park. People aren’t using porta-potties; they’re using real restrooms.”
Attendees appreciated the environment, which allowed them to enjoy the festival without the typical challenges of outdoor events. They could relax at shaded high-top tables or watch the preseason Detroit Lions game on the stadium’s big screen. Adam Cain, a festival goer, noted that the event was more about tasting than drinking. “Most people here are volunteers. It’s not really a drinking event. It’s a tasting event,” he said.
Beyond the drinks, the festival offered a variety of activities. Food trucks lined the stadium, while groups enjoyed lawn games like cornhole on the field. This added to the overall experience, making it a perfect summer afternoon for friends and families.
Jos Van Den Brink, a Dutch attendee, shared his appreciation for the event. “This is something I missed from the time that we lived here. There are so many good beers in Michigan, and being here and being able to sample a few is a great experience. I love it.”
Live music also played a significant role in the atmosphere of the festival. Local singer-songwriter Alex McMath, polka band Fröhliche Musiker Blasorchester, and Jimmy Buffett tribute group Air Margaritaville performed throughout the day, adding to the festive mood.
Sue Genau, a performer and attendee, emphasized the inclusive nature of the event. “There’s something here for everyone. We’ve got a variety of musical styles, there are so many people, old, young, middle-aged. It’s just really nice to see a broad spectrum of individuals here to have a good time.” She concluded with a simple yet powerful statement: “It’s fun. Community, music and beer. What more do you want?”
