Craft beer, Quincy’s German heritage to be celebrated during inaugural MayFest on May 13

QUINCY — Dick Brothers Brewery and Quincy Brewing Company are the hosts of the first MayFest on Saturday, May 13 at the historic Dick Brothers Brewery, 929 York. The event is free and open to the public.

MayFest is a celebration of Quincy’s German heritage and pays homage to the brewery’s history, which dates back to the mid-1800s. The event is a family-friendly sister event to Oktoberfest held in the fall with a focus on craft breweries and partnering with local organizations to offer fun family activities throughout the day.

A highlight of MayFest will be the homebrew competition, where home brewers can showcase their skills and compete for prizes.

“We’re looking forward to seeing the creativity and talent of our local home brewers on display” said Tieraney Craig, co-owner of Quincy Brewing Company. “As Quincy’s only craft brewery, we want to celebrate exceptional craft beer.”

People interested in participating in the homebrew competition can sign up on the Dick Brothers Brewery website. Local craft breweries are encouraged to sign up to represent their brand at the event.

The centerpiece of MayFest features a craft brewery showcase from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. and family activities from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Visitors can sample craft beers from local breweries, enjoy food and live music, and participate in activities provided by Quincy Axe Company, Quincy Public Library, Quincy Children’s Museum and the Quincy Art Center. Tunnel tours and a tie-dye station will be available.

“We’re thrilled to work with great community partners and have a fun and engaging day for families” said Eden Stephens, event manager at Dick Brothers Brewery. “MayFest is a great way to celebrate our community and bring people together.”

This year’s event will remember fellow craft beer enthusiast, Ed Simbol, who died in 2022. Simbol was a consultant for The Ratskeller bar in Quincy and was working to open his own concept inside the Dick Brothers Brewery complex. He was the owner of Bigby’s Pour House in Addison and Rolling Meadows and Ed’s Basement in St. Charles. Funds raised will go towards his foundation, which aims to lower financial barriers for starting and growing entrepreneurs.

“MayFest is something Ed wanted to help organize and bring to Quincy,” said Joi Cuartero Austin, co-owner of Dick Brothers Brewery. “We are all thankful to bring the event to fruition.”

For more information on MayFest, visit www.dickbrothersbrewery.com/mayfest or contact organizers at 217-242-9567 or hello@db2events.com.