Marianas Beer & BBQ Festival shows promise
Roberta Guerrero, left, and Kanoa Resort general manager Wendi Herring sample the offerings at the Marianas Beer & BBQ Festival on Nov. 4, 2017, at Garapan Fishing Base. (MVA)
The inaugural Marianas Beer & BBQ Festival on Nov. 4, 2017, shows promise for future growth as the newest signature event of the Marianas Visitors Authority.
Over 300 attendees bought into the full $25 package that included beer and wine servings, samples, and more during the event from 5pm to 11pm at Garapan Fishing Base, with many more in attendance.
“A resounding success!” said MVA managing director Christopher A. Concepcion. “Our first Marianas Beer & BBQ Festival shows that residents and visitors will patronize this type of event, as shown by the number of people who turned out.”
Frankie Hong and Kenny Shih of Taiwan’s famous Fourplay Bar debuted exclusive beer cocktails themed after each main island in the Mariana: Saipan Blue, Tinian Red and Rota Green. A highlight of the night were shots created by the bar owners based on personal inspiration provided by each consumer.
The festival featured Saipan Brewing Co, which the Marianas, as well as six companies distributing craft beers: Pacific Trading Co, MarPac, Franken Brau, Westco, I Love Saipan, and Samcorp Import. Live music by Marvin Guerrero, James Selepeo, Uprooted, Tom Basa and Mango Sessions added flavor to the festival, which paired Marianas brews with island-style barbecue and other appetizers from Holy Smoke, The Hut, I Love Saipan Mannge’ BBQ, and Aiko’s. Non-alcoholic drinks were also available.
Sponsors included Joeten Ent., Pacific Islands Club Saipan, Imperial Pacific International, and Skywalker Communications.
The Marianas Beer & BBQ Festival will likely return earlier next year. (MVA)
