Sponsored by Rock Star Beer Festivals
What fits into the “Keep Austin Weird” theme more than a beer festival themed after a popular series of children’s books? That’s right, y’all! The aptly titled “Wizards and Witches Beer Festival” is coming to Austin!
The Harry Potter-themed beer fest is taking over Austin’s historic Fair Market venue, complete with magically fun activities for anyone 21 and up. Known for transforming local venues into a wizarding world of wonders complete with magic, debauchery, and mischief, the festival has received a ton of buzz ever since it began in San Diego back in November. This hot ticket event is so popular, in fact, that one of its two Austin dates is already sold out!
Located just off of I-35 in East Austin with more than 20,000 sq. ft. of event space, you’re going to need your very own Marauder’s Map to navigate your way around the Texas-sized venue, which will feature multiple recognizable Harry Potter locales like the Three Broomsticks, Diagon Alley, the Leaky Cauldron, and Hogwarts’ Great Hall. While you’re there, don’t miss out on hot spots like the Lair of Secret Cider Potions (grab a drink!), Wizards Alley, and the Adult Butterscotch Beer Tavern. Adult Butterscotch Beer, you say? Yes! This twist on Harry Potter’s Butterbeer is made with vanilla vodka, butterscotch liquor, butterscotch soda, whipped cream and vanilla bean.
If you’re not into sweets, never fear! You will also be able to sample over 20 winter, pumpkin and holiday ales. You’d have to visit at least two Austin breweries just to be able to sample that many varieties of beer. The “Wizards and Witches Beer Festival” simplifies things by having all of the beer in one handy location so you don’t have to worry about planning a route other than your journey through the venue (drink responsibly, of course).
Also on the docket? Mystical photo ops and food that’s been topped with edible glitter and sparkles (don’t worry, there’s plenty of non-sparkly food for those who are averse to glitter)! Savory treats will be provided by Mac Shack, but the sweets will be as unlimited as the Start-of-Term Feast with candy carts and pastries inspired by the Harry Potter series. The unique approach to the edibles ensures that you won’t be able to find anything like it at even the best of Austin’s restaurants.
Alcohol and food and photo ops are nice, but any true Austinite is probably focused on only one thing: the music. This once-in-a-lifetime event will feature live music from the Sorceress Sisters’ who offer a hybrid of indie, alternative, and folk music. If live music doesn’t fly your broom, a performance from DJ DumbleD will also be a part of the festivities. This event has your ears covered, but do you know what else should be covered? Your body. It just wouldn’t be a party without costumes! While not required, guests are welcome to dress in their finest robes and hats. Don’t have a wand? Not a problem! The event includes a wand shop for you to purchase your very own spell-casting instrument. Don’t have a costume? That’s okay, too! You are more than welcome to show up in muggle attire.
All in all, the “Wizards and Witches Beer Festival” is perfectly catered to our wonderful city. Sure, it’s based on a series of children’s books, but everyone who was a child when the books were released are now well into their 30s, and nostalgia has never been more in vogue. Who’s ready to feel like a kid again?
Tickets are sold out for the May 11 festival, but there are still tickets available for the festival on Friday, May 10, from 6:30-10pm. The event is 21+ and tickets are selling for $39 each.