We are abuzz in the office this week, preparing for ARToberfest, our beer-tasting fundraiser, scheduled for Friday, October 11 at Ruston’s Historic Fire Station. This year’s event will be a night of clean air, as it’s sponsored by the Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living. Marsala Beverage is back again this year as a sponsor as well, providing over 50 commercial beer varieties, including a handful that are brand new, such as Goose Island’s Sophie. ARToberfest is a celebration of the craft of beer-brewing, and will feature nine regional brewers, who will offer tastings and information about their unique beers. Devine Wines and Spirits is again offering Devine Brewer Awards, with cash prizes given to the winners.
There are two ticket options for the evening. A $35 VIP ticket will give you 5pm entry, a catered German-themed meal, and a commemorative pint glass. A $15 General Admission ticket will give you 6:30 entry and access to the Bar Snack table, generously provided by Super One Foods. Both tickets include tastings of all beers, as well as live entertainment.
Musical performances this year will be provided by Sara Sullivan, General Patterson, Bethany Raybourn and the Goodness Gracious, and the Swinging Richards. Our raffle items are always a hit, and this year’s raffle will be better than ever. Raffle packages will give winners the opportunity to “Drink Ruston,” “Shop Ruston,” and “Eat Ruston,” showcasing many of our wonderful merchants and makers from the area.
As usual, we will have a commemorative pint glass available for $10, designed this year by Christian Dunn. The logo on the glass looks fantastic! New this year is an exclusive ARToberfest t-shirt, in a limited quantity, for $15.
Tickets for ARToberfest are not sold at the door, and due to space constraints, there is a limited quantity available. You may purchase your ticket at the Dixie Center for the Arts, 212 N Vienna, and Fine Line Art Supply, 207 N Trenton. Once again, the options are $35 and $15.
This will be our 4th year to host this event which directly funds Holiday Arts Tour, set for November 21-24. Funds raised will be used to promote the Tour, bringing visitors and shoppers from around the state to experience the artistic talent of our region. Mark your calendars for this art-filled weekend that will feature visual arts, poetry readings, dance, theatrical performances, numerous musical acts, and art projects for children. This year’s Tour will be our 16th! NCLAC’s mission is to enrich the region by fostering opportunities for creative expression in the visual, performing and literary arts. By making an ARToberfest donation, you will directly impact our ability to offer this program for our community.
For more information about NCLAC, ARToberfest, Holiday Arts Tour, or any of our other programs, visit nclarts.org, or call our office at (318)255-1450.