Dead Man’s Brewfest returns to Weidner Field

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- Weidner Field came alive on Friday night with all the enthusiasm of a good soccer game, but this time the energy was buzzing for people with a refined palate for beer, community, and a good time.

The stadium was transformed into a spooky October festival called "Dead Man's Brewfest."

Celebrating its seventh anniversary, the event supports local businesses while also using Weidner Field as a hub for the community.

It was all smiles as people lined up to try some of the unique flavors Colorado has to offer.

One veteran we spoke to, who opened his brewery just five weeks ago, says he's thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the community.

"It's a great opportunity to get all the local breweries involved. Colorado Springs has such great beer, so it's an opportunity to showcase all of that," says Gunslinger Brewing Company C.E.O., Dan Hays.

Dan retired from the Air Force in December of last year, and he says this new venture has been a 15-year-long journey.

"I think I'm working harder than I was in the Air Force, but it's great," says Hays.

Hays' statement is a testament to why the partnership between breweries and Weidner Field, which provides vendors with a $200 stipend to participate, is a huge support to local businesses.

"If those folks are making the effort to come out here, provide their product while we're selling the tickets, we're going to provide them with the stipend, and we'll do that again next year too," says Jeff VonHolle, the Weidner director of sales.

Organizers say that new activities, such as axe throwing, cornhole, and a costume competition, increased turnout this year, and they anticipate ticket sales will continue to grow.

Although no date has been set, Weidner Field says the event will take place again around the same time next year.

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