 | | | Photo Andy Scheck
| | | | | | Although for the last 17 years the name of Lafayette's biggest festival referred to wine, along, of course with art, this year there's something special for beer lovers - Craft Beer Land. Fear not winers, there will still be lots of choices from a chilled glass of Wente Riva Ranch Chardonnay to Robert Mondavi Pinot Noir to Ravenswood Zinfandel and beyond to wash down some tasty kettle korn or help digest grilled figs with goat cheese care of Whole Foods. Come hungry, there will be something for even the most finicky junior gourmand at the Art and Wine Festival Saturday, September 15 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, September 16 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. - lemonade and burgers, anyone? All of the music is free, check the schedule on www.lafayettefestival.com to see who is playing when; bands include the popular Spazmatics and Beatles tribute band The Sun Kings along with Lafayette's own Bob Athayde and friends.
"Organizing an event like this is a constant challenge to find ways to make it better," said charming organizer and Executive Director of the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, Jay Lifson. "So like Disneyland we keep on re-inventing ourselves. We present Craft Beer Land and Food Truck Land. Tucked away behind the Art Stage (on Lafayette Circle) you will find a fun new dining area. A place to enjoy a micro brew, a (hot) dog and a table with an umbrella. Sorry, you will have to walk there. The monorail is currently closed for servicing."
Look for over 250 arts, crafts and commercial vendors and a Kid's Zone with activities for little guests. Last year, the Art and Wine Festival was bathed in toasty sunshine, so organizers once again suggest those bringing their pooch to come before 1 p.m. when the sidewalks are cooler and less crowded - be sure to bring your own water for Fido.
A complimentary continuous shuttle will be available from the BART station for those parking there or if coming by bike take advantage of the free secured bike valet parking at La Fiesta Square, next to Sharp's Bikes. Mt. Diablo Boulevard will be closed to through traffic from Dewing Avenue to Oak Hill Road through Sunday evening, so drivers take note and plan accordingly.-
|
Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA