Brews on Buckeye: Cheers to 10 Years

Jul 22

On Saturday, the city of Kokomo will be raising a glass to what organizers call a “decade of debauchery” as the annual craft beer festival Brews on Buckeye returns.

The Depot District, aka the 500 block of North Buckeye Street, will transform into a drink lover’s paradise, with tastings from more than 27 vendors featuring brews, meads, ciders and more. Besides the drinks, there will be food options, entertainment, and surprises! This 21+ event may arguably be THEE event Kokomo locals and tourists look forward to the most each and every year.

The creative minds behind this event belong to downtown local hotspot The Coterie. Known for its edgy branding and top-notch entertainment, The Coterie has become synonymous with nightlife and fun in Kokomo.

Owner Kyle Gibson, the mastermind behind Brews on Buckeye, said the event would not have been possible without the entire Coterie team, as well as the sponsors and the City of Kokomo.

“It’s a lot of fun,” Gibson said. “I enjoy throwing parties, and this is the biggest one of the year! We started doing this to help make money during the slow time of year and to fill the need for a fabulous outdoor party in Kokomo.”

This festival packs historic North Buckeye Street every year with people ready to enjoy good brews, good times, and live entertainment. With 25 breweries and bars set up, you’ll be able to taste a wide variety of beers, meads, ciders, and more.

“We’ve got a few new breweries, and we even invited a few out-of-state breweries that are making some amazing brews,” said Gibson. “We are also setting up a few more liquor bars for people who want a mixed drink.”

But drinks aren’t the only attraction. There will be multiple eateries serving up delicious food, and DJ Action Jackson and friends will be keeping the party going all night long. Action Jackson has been a staple in the Midwest DJ scene for over a decade and a half, playing more than 200 shows per year. His genre-bending mixes span hip-hop, EDM, indie rock, classics, and everything in between.

Behind the scenes, it’s all about “time and patience, emails and spreadsheets,” according to Gibson. He said he’s proud that Brews on Buckeye is entirely locally sponsored and run, with no outside marketing companies or businesses involved. Reflecting on 10 years of the event, Gibson said, “It’s been a wild ride, and I feel like it’s just getting started.”

While Gibson said he’s unsure of what the future holds, he hopes to expand the event space and welcome even more attendees.

“Well, all I'm saying is that I want to look back and say that I did the best I could while I was stuck in this place. Had as much fun as I could while I was stuck in this place. Played as hard as I could while I was stuck in this place,” he said.

For those eager to experience Brews on Buckeye for the first time or as returning guests, follow The Coterie here to stay updated on details regarding this event and other Coterie happenings. Cheers to 10 years of debauchery!