Market Street in Portsmouth saw a bustling crowd of locals and out-of-towners gathered to celebrate the third Craft Beerfest on Oct. 7. The event included live music, food trucks, bouncy houses for children and, of course, offerings from several breweries.

“It’s not just about beer,” said Bryan Smith, executive director of Friends of Portsmouth. “It’s just a fun-filled day.”

Although the day was centered around craft beer, there was plenty of entertainment for people of all ages to enjoy. The event attracted business and tourism dollars to the town as well. 

“If you don’t know if you like craft beer, here’s where you come,” said Brad Jeffers, the merchandiser from Heidelberg Distribution.

Webb Adelsperger and Zach Taylor from Fifty West Brewing Co. said that they specifically bring core and new craft beers to the event to offer potential customers the “best of both worlds.”

Craft Beerfest is an event hosted annually by Friends of Portsmouth, which is dedicated to the betterment of Portsmouth and Scioto County. Organizers encourage everyone to attend next year’s event to participate in beer tastings or to just enjoy a fun day in the community.

The next event planned by Friends of Portsmouth will be Winterfest, beginning Nov. 16. Follow their page on Facebook for more information and updates on upcoming events.