Budbreak Wine & Craft Beer Festival May 4, 2024

A Day of Celebration in Mount Airy, NC

The Budbreak Wine and Craft Beer Festival is an annual celebration held in downtown Mount Airy. Slated for May 4, 2024, this festival is dedicated to showcasing local wineries and craft breweries, complete with live music, delicious food, and communal joy. Whether a connoisseur or curious about craft beverages, Budbreak offers a rich tapestry of tastes and melodies to savor from noon to 5 pm.

The Budbreak Festival is not just about enjoyment; it’s also a charity event. Proceeds from the festival will benefit numerous local and international charities through the efforts of the Mount Airy Rotary Club.

Location and Date

Date: Saturday, May 4, 2024
Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Downtown Mount Airy, NC, primarily along Main St. and Independence Blvd.
Tickets: Click here for ticket information

What to Expect at Budbreak Festival

Tasting Adventure

Festival attendees will have the opportunity to taste and explore products from several distinguished wineries and breweries. These vendors represent the best local producers from North Carolina, each bringing unique flavors and stories to the festival. The event serves as a platform for these artisans to share their passion for winemaking and brewing with the public.

The Wineries

  • Southern Charm Winery (Lincolnton, NC) – Known for its welcoming atmosphere and a selection of traditional and fruit-infused wines, ideal for those who enjoy sweet and approachable flavors.
  • Old North State Winery (Fish Hippie) (Mount Airy, NC) – Located in the heart of Mount Airy, this winery is renowned for its creative blends and the Fish Hippie label, which offers a casual take on traditional wine styles.
  • Waldensian Style Wines (Valdese, NC) – Reflecting the unique heritage of the Waldensian community in Valdese, this winery produces wines with traditional European techniques that have been passed down through generations.
  • Carolina Heritage Vineyard and Winery (Elkin, NC) – As North Carolina’s first organic vineyard and winery, they specialize in environmentally friendly wines crafted exclusively from locally grown grapes.
  • Round Peak Vineyards & Skull Camp Wines (Mount Airy, NC) – Known for their robust reds and inviting whites, this winery also shares space with Skull Camp Brewery, offering a unique hybrid of fine wines and craft beers.
  • Surry Cellars (Surry Community College) (Dobson, NC) – This educational winery offers a hands-on learning experience for students and produces a range of varietals that showcase the capabilities of up-and-coming winemakers.
  • Slightly Askew Winery (Elkin, NC) – A fun and quirky winery, they are known for their slightly unconventional approach to winemaking and offer a variety of offbeat blends.
  • Sanders Ridge (Booneville, NC) – Located on a 150-year-old farm, this winery prides itself on organic practices and traditional winemaking techniques, complemented by a rustic setting.
  • Native Vines (Lexington, NC) – The first Native American owned winery in the United States, it offers a range of wines made from indigenous grape varieties, with a focus on cultural heritage.
  • Shelton Vineyards (Dobson, NC) – One of the largest and most well-known wineries in North Carolina, Shelton Vineyards is celebrated for its estate-grown wines and picturesque grounds.
  • Rock of Ages (Hurdle Mills, NC) – A boutique winery that produces small batches of handcrafted wines, focusing on quality and complex flavor profiles.
  • Golden Vineyards (State Road, NC) – This family-owned winery is committed to producing fine wines from grapes grown on their picturesque estate in the Yadkin Valley region.

The Breweries

These breweries each bring their unique flair to the craft beer scene in North Carolina, offering festival-goers a rich sampling of local brews that highlight the state’s diversity in beer production and creativity. Whether you’re interested in traditional beers, innovative new brews, or the historical charm of mead, these breweries provide an intriguing glimpse into the craft beer and brewing traditions of the region.

  • Angry Troll Brewing & Skull Camp Brewing (Mount Airy, NC) – Located in the heart of Mount Airy, this joint operation brings together the robust and adventurous spirit of Skull Camp Brewing with the playful and community-focused approach of Angry Troll Brewing. The brewery is known for its diverse range of beers from traditional ales to experimental new-age brews, serving as a local favorite for both residents and visitors.
  • Williamson Mead and Brewing (Glade Valley, NC) – Unique in its offering, this establishment not only brews traditional craft beers but also produces mead, an ancient alcoholic beverage made by fermenting honey with water. Their products often feature local ingredients, showcasing the natural bounty of North Carolina and providing a distinct, rich flavor profile that’s both historical and innovative.
  • Midsummer Brewing (Mount Airy & Westfield, NC) – As a relatively newer addition to the craft beer scene, Midsummer Brewing focuses on seasonal and small-batch beers that reflect the changing landscapes of the year. Their brewing process is inspired by the solstices and equinoxes, creating beers that are perfect for celebrating both the everyday moments and the special occasions.
  • TwoBoros Brewery (Wilkesboro, NC) – This brewery is celebrated for its community-centric approach and commitment to crafting beers that reflect the character and culture of Wilkesboro. TwoBoros Brewery offers a range of styles from refreshing IPAs to rich stouts, each batch brewed with a focus on quality and regional flavor. Their taproom is a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, who come to enjoy the lively atmosphere and frequently hosted live music events.

Musical Lineup for Budbreak Festival on May 4, 2024

The musical performances are set up in the heart of Downtown Mount Airy, creating a vibrant atmosphere that resonates through the streets lined with local vendors and festival activities. The music acts as a soundtrack to the tasting experience, where the clinks of wine glasses and the murmur of happy festival-goers fill the air.

Live DJ Set by B-Dazzle Productions
  • Time: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM
  • Details: The festival kicks off with a live DJ set from B-Dazzle Productions, a local DJ known for their ability to set the perfect mood with a mix of upbeat and relaxing tracks. This early afternoon session is designed to welcome guests and provide a lively background as attendees begin their tastings and explore the festival offerings.
Live Band Performance Featuring Tim Elliott
  • Time: 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM
  • Details: As the day progresses, Tim Elliott will take the stage. Known for his energetic live performances, Tim brings a mix of original songs and popular covers to the festival. His music includes influences from country and rock, making his performance a hit with diverse audiences. His playlist, often featuring songs like “Old Barns & Farm Houses” and covers of classics such as “Family Tradition” and “Dixieland Delight,” ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

About Tim Elliott
Tim Elliott is a local musician celebrated for his dynamic vocal abilities and charismatic stage presence. He has a reputation for engaging with his audience, making his performances feel personal and lively. Elliott’s music often includes elements of traditional country, seasoned with a modern flair that appeals to both young listeners and traditionalists.

Participating Restaurants and Eateries

These vendors offer a range of dining options from local specialties and classic American dishes to international cuisine, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate. The festival promises a blend of great music and delicious food, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.

  • Old North State Winery – A local winery that also serves gourmet meals, known for its inventive dishes that pair beautifully with their wines.
  • Kate’s Cocktail Lounge – Offers a chic atmosphere where guests can enjoy a variety of crafted cocktails along with small, elegant bites.
  • Leon’s Burger Express – Known for serving some of the best burgers in town, made with fresh, local ingredients.
  • The Loaded Goat – A casual eatery with a fun vibe, serving hearty American classics like sandwiches and loaded fries.
  • Mi Casa on Main – This restaurant provides a warm, inviting atmosphere to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine.
  • Boo’s Kitchen – Specializes in Southern comfort food, serving up hearty dishes that are both delicious and filling.
  • Thirsty Souls Community Brewing – Not just a brewery, this place also offers a menu of tasty pub fare that complements their craft beers.
  • Barnery’s Café – A cozy café known for its delicious breakfast and brunch menu, featuring both sweet and savory options.
  • Walker’s Soda Shop – A nostalgic spot offering classic soda shop fare, including milkshakes, floats, and diner-style meals.
  • Snappy Lunch – An iconic eatery famous for its “Pork Chop Sandwich,” a must-try local delicacy.
  • Miss Angels – Renowned for its heavenly baked goods and desserts, especially the pies and ice cream.
  • Kazoku Sushi – Offers a fresh and tasty selection of sushi and Japanese dishes, known for its authentic flavors and artistic presentation.
  • So Ho Bar & Grill – A vibrant bar and grill offering a diverse menu that includes everything from grilled dishes to tapas, along with live music events.

Ticket Information

Tickets for the Budbreak Wine and Craft Beer Festival can be purchased on their official website. Here is the direct link for easy access: Budbreak Festival Tickets. On the website, you’ll find options for advanced ticket purchases, which are recommended as they are cheaper than buying them on the day of the event.