There’s no better way to have fun in the sun than with a cold drink in hand, so says the Creston Valley Libation Producers Society.
On July 6, the society is hosting the second annual Hop to Vine Hustle. Whether participants walk or run, there will be eight tasting locations of beer and wine to enjoy along the 11-kilometre route of scenic vineyards, culminating in a vibrant after-party at Millennium Park.
The inaugural event was more successful than expected with 190 runners, said Lisa Wood, co-owner of Wild North Brewing and Hop to Vine Hustle director.
“We kind of were throwing a shot in the dark and thinking it could be really cool,” she said. “And it went off without a hitch.”
For 2024, there are already over 300 people who have purchased tickets and are looking forward to the day.
“It's super exciting. We're super proud, and we’ve worked hard on it,” said Wood. “We want to show people from out of town that Creston’s not just this little sleepy town. We have a lot to offer.”
Starting at 10 a.m. to beat the summer heat, the race will commence from Millennium Park with tasting stations of Columbia Brewery, Wild North Brewing, Sternwheeler Craft Distillery, as well as the Skimmerhorn, Baillie-Grohman, Red Bird, and William Tell estate wineries. And for the runners that brave the trek up the steepest part of the route, a sangria hydration station will be waiting as a reward.
Runners are encouraged to dress up and join the costume contest.
The event isn’t competitive or timed, and most participants walk it. Those who finish will be awarded a branded glass at the after-party, where meal trucks, tasting booths, massage therapists, and live music from Elevation Gain will celebrate the end of the day at Millennium Park.
While Hop to Vine Hustle is for adults only, kids can join at the park for a $5 ticket, which includes an ice cream sandwich.
“It’s just lighthearted fun,” said Wood. “It's an event to celebrate community, being outside, and staying active. Definitely something not to miss.”
Last year, approximately 25 per cent of participants were from out of town. This year that number has increased to 45 per cent.
“That’s the goal of this event and Creston Valley Libation Producers Society is to encourage people to visit,” said Wood “It means we're bringing people to the area to hopefully stay the night, enjoy local restaurants, and get outside.”
For more information or to register for the event, visit hoptovinehustle.ca. Tickets cost $85 for the full day, $45 for just the after-party, and $5 for kids.