Here’s a startling statistic: if you visited one brewery a day, it would take you over 11 years to visit all the beer makers in America.  With that number rising every day, Bridgeport will be launching the city’s first-ever festival themed around craft beers and music.  Sound Waves and IPA’s was officially announced last December, but, with June 25 fast approaching, the plans are not only firm, they promise an event perfect for ushering in summer.

 

“The interest in Sound Waves and IPAs has been phenomenal,” said Mary Kay Greer, Chairperson of the Bridgeport Arts Council, the organizational responsible for the festival.  “We have worked hard for the past several months to ensure a huge variety of beer and quality entertainment while providing a tourist attraction that will appeal to people around the state and beyond.”

 

For those wondering what an IPA is, it stands for India Pale Ale and is characterized by it’s distinctive flavor derived from several varieties of hops.  For beer aficionados, the details flavor, aroma, bitterness and smell can be a topic to discuss endlessly.  For those unfamiliar with the varieties offered in the thousands of craft breweries located in the United States, the vendors at the festival will be more than happy to fill you in on details. 

 

Not surprisingly, the entire Bridgeport community has come together to make sure the event is successful.  “Currently, nearly 20 sponsors are secured and eleven vendors will be onsite,” said Greer, who noted many of the vendors will have merchandise related to the theme. 

 

As for beers, over 50 varieties from all over America will be on hand to offer samples and recommendations for pairings.  They will not be limited to IPA’s, but will also include various stouts, lagers, ales, and hybrids. 

 

VIP ticket holders will have early admission beginning at 2:00p.m. and will receive a stainless steel commemorative stein from which to taste.  The general admission event will begin at 3:00p.m., with six ounce cups from which to sample.  Unlimited samples are available to both types of ticket holders.

 

“For the safety of guests, we will have options available for designated drivers and we will also have law enforcement on hand,” said Greer.  “Because of the nature of the event, only those who are 21 or older will be permitted and there will be no pets or strollers allowed.”

 

The Sound Waves part of the festival will include top-rated entertainment throughout the event.  Sister Sparrow and The Dirty Birds will bring their hard soul sound all the way from New York City.  Having opened for Santana, Three Dog Night and George Winston, Jazz great Karen Greene will jam with Seth Maynard as well as other musicians sure to pair well with the event. 

 

Bridgeport’s own Rus Reppert will be showcasing his guitar and vocal talent through a collection of Appalachian, blues, Celtic and new age sounds.  Local favorite Greg Harrison will blend genres including classic rock, country and soul during his set at the festival.  “It’s great to be able to include both local and national talent at the festival,” said Greer.    Rounding out the music for the evening will be local band, The Grey Agents, following their rave reviews from last summer’s concert in the park.  The band will be belting out rock and roll favorites as well as original tunes featured on their CD.

 

“We encourage attendees to bring a lawn chair and make a day of it in Bridgeport City Park,”said Greer.  “We anticipate the music and beer creating a perfect way to celebrate the beginning of summer.”

 

Tickets are $60 for VIP and $35 for General Admission.  They can be purchased  at www.bridgeportartscouncil.com.  No rain dates and no refunds are available.  Food and non-alcoholic drink vendors will be onsite as well. 

 

Editor's Note: Pictured is Bridgeport's, Scott Klimek, a craft beer enthusiast, who will be attending Soundwaves and IPAs enjoys a favorite beer.