The Eden Prairie Community Foundation’s annual fundraising festival has a new name and a few new flavors.
What started more than a decade ago as Prairie Brewfest is now Prairie Wine & Brewfest, reflecting the event’s expanded wine offerings. The 11th annual celebration takes place from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at Purgatory Creek Park.
Organizers decided to rebrand after hearing from attendees who wanted more wine, said Greg Leeper, the foundation’s executive director. The nonprofit provides grants, scholarships and support for local nonprofits, civic projects and community initiatives.
“We’ve always had some wine offerings, but relatively minimal, so we decided to really lean into the expanded selection this year,” Leeper said. “There’s still plenty of beer, as always, but quite a bit more wine.”
The lineup features 18 vendors, including returning breweries like Fat Pants, Castle Danger and Bent Paddle, along with new additions such as Pádráiġ’s Brewing, an Irish-themed brewery in Minneapolis, and Broken Clock Cooperative Brewery, also in Minneapolis.
Eden Prairie’s Flying Dutchman Spirits will pour cocktails, spirits and mocktails. Wines will be sampled through a partnership with Eden Prairie Liquor, with bottles available for purchase later at the city’s liquor stores.
“The wines are from all over the country, so people can sample a wide variety. And many of the beers will be familiar, too,” Leeper said.
Beyond the drinks, the festival will again welcome food trucks, including Mi Pueblo Mexican Restaurant, Brick Oven Bus Pizza – which serves from a renovated school bus – and an ice cream truck.
“Last year, we expanded the event to be more family-friendly and even pup-friendly, much like local breweries, so people are welcome to bring their kids and well-behaved dogs,” Leeper said.
Nonalcoholic options also remain part of the mix, with discounted tickets available. “Last year’s nonalcoholic ticket proved very popular, so we’re bringing it back,” Leeper said.
More than 800 people attended last year, a record crowd. Organizers hope to match or exceed that turnout Saturday. Live music from Wondercure, bag toss games and door prizes round out the afternoon.
As with past years, proceeds will support local causes. Attendees can help direct some of the giving through the Choice Grant program, which lets ticket holders vote for one of three nonprofits: MoveFwd, PROP Food and Eden Prairie Local News. The first-place group will receive $3,000, second place $2,000 and third place $1,000.
“All funds raised will go toward charitable causes in the community,” Leeper said. “It’s a great opportunity to enjoy yourself while raising money for important community organizations.”
Tickets are $35 in advance online and $40 at the gate. A $20 alcohol-free ticket is also available. The event is held rain or shine.
For tickets and information, visit prairiewineandbrewfest.com.
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