The newly established Huddle Park Beer Fest is based on the same principles as the park itself, said organiser Sage Jarrow Young. The focus is on community development and providing residents of Johannesburg’s north-eastern suburbs with an event that is world-class in everything but size.
The festival, which will take place on 8 November, is the second of its kind held at Huddle Park, and follows the overwhelming success of the first Huddle Park Beer Fest in July. Young, who first approached Huddle Park’s David Bagg six months ago with the exciting, if risky, proposal, said he was overwhelmed when 2 200 people poured through the gates to participate in what was then the biggest event Huddle Park had seen in its 90-year history.
Knowing what to expect, Young is planning round two on double the scale, and hopes to provide something for everyone. The event will boast numerous local food and home industry vendors – many of them familiar to those who frequent Arts on Main and Neighbour Goods – and of course, plenty of liquid refreshment, ranging from old favourites to new craft beers. Two stages will cater for music tastes from the big-party sound to an intimate live atmosphere, and a children’s area will allow parents to relax while children are supervised and entertained.
Proceeds from the festival go towards maintenance of Huddle Park, which has undergone a revival following years of neglect and now, going from strength to strength, may boast a cycling track and even a zip line in the near future. Its importance in the community is cemented by Huddle Park’s environmental role as the largest green lung in Johannesburg, as well as the employment provided to upwards of 60 staff.
Now, the Huddle Park Beer Fest seems set to aid the recreation centre’s revival and its place as a centre of community activity in the north-eastern suburbs of Johannesburg.
Details: 8 November, 11am; Facebook: Huddle Park Beer Fest.
