Fresh Hop Ale Festival

When is the Fresh Hop Ale Fest held?

It is an annual event held on the first Saturday in October.

Where is the Fresh Hop Ale Fest held?

In the heart of downtown Yakima on South 3rd Street and Yakima Avenue, at the Millennium Arts Plaza. The federal building and the Capitol Theatre are the edges of the site.

Where is the entrance?

In the parking lot off 2nd street. There will be three lines: one for presale; another for "day of" ticket sales and another for VIPs. Those who are buying tickets at the festival will also have the opportunity to buy additional scrip at the gate. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted. All other ticketholders can purchase additional scrip once inside festival gates.

Where can I find parking?

If you come early, parking is on site and FREE! Pull into 2nd street off of Yakima Ave. There will be NO entry into the lot on site once it is full, however, there are several other parking lots within a two-block walk. If you are a late arrival, please look for street parking.

Will there be a line to get in?

Yes, but don't worry, our lines will move quickly! Each participant must be of legal drinking age (21 or older). This requires that we check everyone's ID. To help the line move quickly, please have your ID ready and make sure it is one of four types accepted.

What is appropriate identification to get in?

You've got the cutest little baby face! Please be prepared with one of the following: a Washington Identification card; any state driver's license or ID card with photo; a passport; or a United States military identification card with photo. We are unable to accept any foreign driver's license (with the exception of Canada). Note that the identification cannot be expired at the time of the festival.

What is the weather like?

We've had many beautiful fall evenings for this event. It does get cool, though! Many attendees wear jackets & hats to keep out the cool toward the end of the night. Average daytime temperatures range from 60 to 72 degrees and lows range from 30 to 46.

Can I bring my child or my pet?

No. The festival is 21 and over only. (No doggies (except service animals) either, sorry!)

What is scrip and how do I use it?

Once you get your commemorative glass, it will cost you scrip to get it filled! Scrip are small tickets that are used instead of cash to "purchase" tastes and full glasses of beer and wine. Scrip is sold at the front entrance, near the beer/wine tents and near the dancing area. It is non-refundable and non-transferable from year to year. Beer and wine servers will not accept cash.

Scrip comes in $1 increments.

• Beer: Tastes (4oz) are $2, Glasses (16 oz) are $5
• Wine: Tastes (1oz) and Glasses (8oz) are priced according to retail for each varietal and will be noted at the vendors' tables.

Does the FHAF accept credit cards or checks?

We accept Mastercard, Visa, American Express. No checks.

When do scrip sales cease?

Scrip sales will cease at "last call" which is 9:30 p.m.

When do taps close?

Taps close at 10:00pm. Last call is at 9:30pm.

What if I get hungry?

We can certainly help you in that department! Local food vendors will be providing delightful treats ranging from ribs to Thai, to traditional festival fare. Be prepared to pay cash for food. (The closest ATM is at Chase bank on the corner of 3rd Street and Yakima Avenue.) Some vendors will accept credit cards.

What if I prefer a less hoppy beer?

There are a wide variety of beers to sample, from the fresh hop creations to traditional ambers, lagers and stouts. You can also try some of our delightful Yakima Valley wines!

Is there anything to do besides taste beer?

Of course! Jam out to live music, visit with friends or sample some of the amazing food available from a variety of local vendors.

Is smoking allowed?

FHAF does not have the authority to require no-smoking on the festival grounds. We do request that smoking is kept outside of the main tents as required by the Fire Marshall. If you must smoke, please do not litter: use the trash cans located throughout the festival grounds.

How can I book a hotel room?

Click Here for a short list of local hotels & motels

Who does the FHAF benefit?

The festival benefits Allied Arts of Yakima Valley. AAYV is a non-profit organization that has been promoting and coordinating arts programs, classes and events since 1962. AAYV works hard to keep the costs of our arts programs low, if not free, in order to allow access from all socio-economic levels. We focus on developing artistic and academic skills in youth, community enhancement, and economic development. The Fresh Hop Ale Festival is becoming a major funding source for our arts programs, since each year traditional funding sources get harder to find.

Additionally, with attendance approaching 3,500 people, FHAF makes an economic impact in our Valley. Guests fill hotel rooms and restaurants, and have reason to explore our newly revitalized downtown. What a great introduction to Yakima to new visitors; we've had attendees from as far away as Maine, Michigan and Las Vegas!

How can I be a responsible drinker?

The Fresh Hop Ale Fest encourages everyone to drink responsibly. The fine, craft-brewed beverages available at this event are best consumed in moderation and savored for their unique flavors, aromas, and textures. Over-consumption of alcohol can affect our bodies, judgment, and perception. Drink responsibly as friends, family, and citizens and look out for others' well being. PLEASE DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE.

How can I become a sponsor for next year's event?

Click Here for sponsorship information.