Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1233243
and wineries will offer samples. "We love the environment, the atmosphere and the folks who come out for the craft beer and glass blowing," said Yash Patel, CEO of Macon Beer Co. "It helps Macon Beer Co. serve our loyal fans and gives us more exposure to newer craft beer fans and to those who haven't had a chance to try our brews." Festival organizers take pride in the fact that it hosts only Georgia-based breweries. "This is important to us because Main Street is a huge supporter of the 'shop small' and Georgia Grown movements," Willis said. Since its inception nearly four years ago, the festival has become one of Americus' premier events. "The event has grown in several ways, one being the attendance, going from about 1,200 people in the first year to 2,000 in the third," Willis said, adding that the festival committee has worked each year to enhance the festival experience. "We've included more glass blowing demonstrations, additional cra beer selections and unique tasting glasses that change each year," Willis said. "We've also enhanced the Premium Tent area by offering food samples that have been created using some of the cra beer selections at the event." e Huss Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to "knowledge, the arts and the pursuit of happiness," is a presenting sponsor of the festival. Founder and President Derek Huss said he enjoys welcoming visitors to Americus for the event. "My favorite part of the whole weekend is seeing all the new faces in town," Huss said. "e HGCB fest is one of the only times each year that I feel like we are introducing people to our town en masse and in an organized way." For more information about the fourth annual Americus Hot Glass and Craft Beer Festival, including ticket pricing, visit hotglasscraftbeer.com. 8 8 M ACO N M AG A Z I N E.CO M | F E B R U A R Y / M A R C H 2 0 2 0