Downtown Chambersburg Inc’s newest sensation, Sip and Stroll, was held on March 27, 2021. The second of the series, this event featured ten local breweries including our very own Roy Pitz and GearHouse Brewing Companies. To ensure ease of flow, patrons purchased tickets in one of two waves (1-4pm or 2-5pm) and were able to sample two tastings from each brewery, which were set up inside local downtown businesses.
Pictured: Kevin Barrick with 633 Brewing Co. of Waynesboro, PA.
Sip, Stroll, Shop: A perfect afternoon in Downtown Chambersburg
By: Stephanie Wilson, Symbiotic Marketing
Downtown Chambersburg Inc’s newest sensation, Sip and Stroll, was held on March 27, 2021. The second of the series, this event featured ten local breweries including our very own Roy Pitz and GearHouse Brewing Companies. To ensure ease of flow, patrons purchased tickets in one of two waves (1-4pm or 2-5pm) and were able to sample two tastings from each brewery, which were set up inside local downtown businesses.
Arriving shortly after our start time, my friend and I found the registration tent quickly and easily located at the square and were pleasantly surprised with the complimentary bottles of water and Sweet Roller’s pretzels, which were both appreciated and delicious. The check-in process was quick and easy, and we were off to enjoy our afternoon.
All the stops except for Sweet Rollers were along Main Street which made traveling between stops smooth with little need to cross Main. Even with this, the intersection of Main and Queen is a high foot traffic area, and we did not need to wait long to cross any of the streets. In addition to the map, each location was clearly marked by the stop number and brewery inside.
I was struck by how close many of these breweries are in proximity to Chambersburg, beyond our hometown favorites. Michaux, Rough Edges, and 633 Brewing are all located in Waynesboro, Maxie’s in Shippensburg, Thirsty Farmer in Biglerville, Fourscore in Gettysburg, ZeroDay in Harrisburg, and Juniata in Huntingdon, each are easily within driving distance for a visit and further exploration. Many of these breweries brought special seasonal flavors for sampling and purchase, including a banana beer that many seemed to really enjoy. I particularly enjoyed talking with the brewers themselves to learn more about their beer and style.
Each stop was a mix of new and historic shops and businesses in downtown Chambersburg. Exploring the new additions from the last year, with YP Jewelers, The Good Life by OneSkin, Sweet Rollers, Beam Graphix, and the Gonzalez Agency, it was nice to be able to see what has come to downtown while we’ve been in lockdown. It was equally delightful to see who is still thriving in our downtown, not only the Visitors Center and the Capitol, but also Lotus Moon, Nerdvana Outpost, and Merle Norman. Chatting with the owners and staff, gave a sense of normalcy and each location ensured a flow through the business, highlighting what makes them special.
Running with Sip and Stroll, the Council For The Arts had a final showing of the Jacket Project in the second floor of the Visitor’s Center. The Visitor’s Center, not only a Sip and Stroll stop, but also a rest area for those that needed. While waiting for a restroom to open, patrons were encouraged to see the jackets on display for both the live and silent auctions.
My friend and I had a full day of sipping, strolling, shopping, chatting and even had dinner downtown before attending the live auction for the Jacket Project. This event was just what two tired women needed and we are very much so looking forward to the next event coming up on May 8th event featuring local wine, cider, and liquor! Tickets are on sale now and go FAST, so don’t delay or you may have to wait until November!
Special note from DCI: We would like to express our gratitude to Stephanie for writing her event attendee perspective on our March 27th event. We hope you are able to join us for our future Sip & Stroll events. Our 2021 Sip & Stroll series is presented by the Stacy Mellott Group with Remax 1st Advantage.