Beer enthusiasts will have something to raise a glass to — and at — on Saturday with the return of Brew Fest. The Iron Mountain Downtown Development Authority, along with Signature Sponsor Bacco Construction, will host this first event of the summer season from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday in the parking lot in front of the downtown stage at the corner of Hughitt and Iron Mountain streets. From left are Ashley Smith, Bacco office manager; Katherine Mentel, DDA event coordinator; Tim McCauley, DDA program coordinator; and Emily Schoen, Bacco human resources. (Iron Mountain Daily News photo)

IRON MOUNTAIN — Craft beverage lovers can expect to taste some of the area’s finest at this year’s Brew Fest.

The Iron Mountain Downtown Development Authority hosts its first summer festival of the season from noon to 5 p.m. Saturday in front of the downtown stage parking lot, at the corner of Hughitt and Iron Mountain streets.

This year’s event is presented by Signature Sponsor Bacco Construction.

“Brew Fest promises an unforgettable afternoon filled with laid-back vibes, great music, delicious food and great craft beverages,” DDA Event Coordinator Katherine Mentel said.

Fifteen drink vendors have signed up to bring a large variety of their specialties.

“We have several local favorites and regional vendors returning, as well as several new breweries here,” she said.

“This comes out to 60-plus drink selections to try out,” Mentel said, adding this includes crisp beers, smooth wines, refreshing ciders, meads, handcrafted cocktails and premium spirits.

Taking part are 51st State Brewing of Kingsford; Alpha Michigan Brewing Company; Upper Peninsula Brewing Company of Negaunee; Ore Dock Brewing Company of Marquette; Upper Hand Brewery of Marquette; Drifa Brewing Company of Marquette; LaTulip Brewing Company of Cooks, Mich.; Short’s Brewing Company of Bellaire, Mich.; Starcut Ciders of Bellaire, Mich.; Bell’s Brewery of Kalamazoo, Mich.; Iron Fish Distillery of Thompsonville, Mich.; Tripelroot of Zeeland, Mich.; LoDuca Wine & Spirits with Michael LoDuca of New Berlin, Wis.; St. Ambrose Cellars of Beulah, Mich.; and Northern Latitudes Distillery of Suttons Bay, Mich.

“This event is not just a beer fest — it’s a brew fest, where you can try a wide array of beverages,” Mentel said. “There’s something for everyone,”

Local group Norton Chartier & Co. will perform a variety of classic rock music for the entire afternoon on the downtown stage. Tourism Association of the Dickinson County Area is the live music sponsor.

“They are a local favorite — they will be really fun,” Mentel said.

The DDA has teamed up with the Man Cave Hair & Beard Parlor of Iron Mountain to host a “Beards & Brews” competition. The beard and mustache competition begins at 2 p.m. and will feature six fun categories. Competition entry is free with admission.

“Great prizes from the Man Cave will be awarded,” she said. “You also get to walk away with bragging rights — it’s going to be a really fun addition to the event.”

The DDA will also have tabletop and yard games available to play.

Meat Sweats BBQ food truck will be on site to serve the crowd. “They will be offering a variety of options including their award-winning barbecue,” Mentel said.

Another local favorite, Bes.Teas, will provide a “Boba Bar” as a non-alcohol options.

The DDA will also sell water and pop, as well as merchandise.

Admission is $40, which includes a sample glass, along with 14 tasting tokens.

All pours cost between one to three tokens. Additional tokens will also be available for purchase.

“Everyone gets to keep their sample glass as a souvenir of Brew Fest,” Mentel said.

Designated driver tickets are only $10.

Everyone must be at least 21 years old to attend, including drivers, Mentel stressed.

The capacity is limited to 500 participants. Tickets are available online at downtownironmountain.com/brew-fest or at the gate.

Out-of-town travelers are encouraged to go to the DDA website, where they can find links to local places to stay.

The event will take place rain or shine, she said.

The DDA thanked the sponsors for supporting Brew Fest: Bacco Construction Company, Tourism Association of the Dickinson County Area, Northern Interstate Bank, Results Broadcasting, Radio Results Network, The Man Cave Hair & Beard Parlor, 51st State Brewing Company, Sandstone Terrace and 41 Lumber.

“We’re incredibly grateful to all of our sponsors, volunteers and vendors who help make Brew Fest such a fantastic event each year,” Mentel said.

All funds raised from major DDA events go toward the beautification efforts, redevelopment and other programs supporting the downtown.

The DDA still has a need for more volunteers for the event. Anyone 21 or older interested in volunteering can sign up on the website or call the DDA office at 906-774-8534.

“This festival is more than just a tasting event — it’s a celebration of community and the perfect way to kick off summer with family and friends,” she said. “Come and enjoy an afternoon of relaxing fun.”