Approximately 460 attendees gathered on Saturday, April 13, to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Greencastle-Antrim Craft Beer, Wine, and Spirits Festival, marking a decade of celebration and community spirit.
Returning to its original downtown venue, the festival transformed the parking lot of B Street 104 and DSS Law into a vibrant hub of local vendors and statewide purveyors. Festival-goers basked in the sunshine, reveling in the convivial atmosphere while indulging in samples served in small commemorative tasting glasses. Many attendees adorned themselves with pretzel necklaces, providing a savory snack to complement their libations.
Reflecting on the festival’s evolution, Vernon McCauley, one of the event’s original organizers, reminisced about its humble beginnings. The festival’s inception stemmed from the Pub Run, an initiative benefiting Fix JB Sports and G-A MAAX, which commenced over a decade ago with a route from Flannery’s Tavern in Mercersburg to John Allison Public House in Greencastle.
Recalling the festival’s genesis, McCauley shared insights into its transition from a modest gathering on East Baltimore Street to a bustling celebration of craft beer, wine, and spirits. The festival expanded its offerings over the years, introducing wine to its repertoire in 2016 and spirits in 2022, following a hiatus prompted by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and brewery staffing issues.
Debby Cunningham, Executive Director of the Greencastle-Antrim Chamber of Commerce, lauded the festival as a platform to showcase the community’s vibrancy and hospitality. She emphasized the event’s role in fostering a sense of camaraderie among attendees while providing an opportunity for visitors to explore the town’s offerings and potentially return for future visits.
As the festival reached its milestone anniversary, attendees reveled in the festivities, underscoring the enduring appeal and significance of the Greencastle-Antrim Craft Beer, Wine, and Spirits Festival as a cherished tradition in the local community.
