Nominated for a MAMA award for best large event in 2015, the fourth annual Central Valley Brewfest is bringing more breweries, beers and entertainment to make the event grander than ever. The festival promises to be an amazing experience in taste, art, and music with over 125 brews to sample.

“The Brewfest is a great way for locals to kickoff spring and enjoy the finest hops around,” said Veronica Camp, founder of Central Valley Brewfest. “One of the goals in creating the event was to help put Turlock and the Central Valley on the craft beer map. Celebrating local homegrown talent is a top priority of ours.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to sample brews from hometown favorites and new local additions. Participating breweries include Dust Bowl Brewing, Tioga Sequoia Brewing, Sandude Brewing and Highwater Brewing. New to the CV Brewfest is Last Call Brewing from Oakdale and Blaker Brewing from Turlock. The Central Valley Brewfest will also feature live music from local band Flying Blind, along with food vendors including valley staple Lockeford Sausage.

A new addition to the 2016 event is an early VIP Admission ticket for $45. These ticket holders receive early access to the event at 12 p.m., unlimited beer tastings, the opportunity to sample at least 15 unique beers only available to VIP guests, and a pretzel bread baguette provided by Bella Luna Restaurant from Merced. General Admission tickets are $35 in advance and if available $40 at the gate.

“The Central Valley Brewfest is a one of a kind event in our region. We really want to make this beer festival more than a drinking event, we want it to be a pure Central Valley craft brew experience,” said Camp.

In an effort to encourage responsible drinking, a designated driver ticket will be available for $15. DD ticket holders are not permitted to sample alcohol, however there will be added non-alcoholic beverages especially for this group. Two options will come from Bobcat Brewing offering a craft root beer and cream soda.

Stockton charity, Art Expressions of San Joaquin will feature innovative, creative, and fresh art pieces for purchase. Proceeds will help promote and showcase talented artists who do not have a dedicated store front in the Central Valley.

The Central Valley Brewfest will be held on Saturday, May 14 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Stanislaus County Fairgrounds, 900 North Broadway, Turlock.

All guests must be over 21 years old to attend.