Chestertown Tea Party Beerfest
Sunday, May 28 noon – 4pm
Beerfest! Sunday, May 28, 2023 on the waterfront at Wilmer Park.
The Festival commemorates Chestertown’s historical past. When the citizens of Chestertown learned that the British had closed the port of Boston in retaliation for Bostonians dumping tea into the harbor, they issued “The Chestertown Resolves” which stated that it was illegal to import, sell or consume tea. According to local lore, on May 23rd, 1774, the citizens’ of Chestertown gathered at the town center, marched down High Street to the brigantine Geddes, and tossed her cargo of tea into the Chester River.
In addition to witnessing the re-enactment of the “Tea Party” on Saturday, visitors can enjoy more than 100 craft vendors, local food, children’s activities, historical walking tours and a wide array of musical entertainment.
On Sunday, the festivity continues at Wilmer Park beginning at noon, with live music, food trucks, craft vendors, plenty of fun for families- a Punch & Judy show, instrument making and face painting – along with live music and great local beers. Don’t miss the infamous raft race at 2:30!
Beerfest tickets are non-refundable. The event happens rain or shine!
Buy Tickets
Live Music! Wilson Springs Hotel
The Wilson Springs Hotel are rooted in folk music and hail from all parts of Virginia; bringing country, folk and bluegrass together.
The music plays into the traditional roles within the genres, but is also taken to a unique sound that simply is The Wilson Springs Hotel. New Grass, Rockabilly, Country Rock, the list doesn’t really end. The Wilson Springs Hotel are Jacob Ritter (lead vocals, acoustic guitar), Victor McManus (electric guitar, banjo), Brendan Boylan (fiddle), Sebastien Richard (bass), and Pat Bowdring (drums).
Purchase Tickets Here Beginning March 1
FAQ
When is the event?
Sunday, May 28th from 12 pm – 4 pm.
When do tickets go on sale?
Tickets will go on sale March 1st. Tickets can be purchased online and at the door at a premium.
What comes with a ticket?
Entry, a souvenir event cup, beer tastings, live entertainment, food trucks, and more.
Is food included in the ticket price?
No, food is purchased separately from the food trucks.
Where is the event?
Wilmer Park, Historic Downtown Chestertown.
Do I need to bring my I.D.?
Yes, please have your government-issued I.D. out and ready to be checked at the entrance.
If it rains, can I get a refund?
The Chestertown Tea Party and Chestertown Tea Party Beer Festival will be held rain or shine. No refunds will be given.
I bought tickets for the original date, but I can’t make the new date. What should I do?
You can resell or give them to anyone who is 21 and up, just make sure they email teapartywineandbeerfestival@gmail.com.
Should I buy my ticket now or wait until the last minute and panic because I can’t find one?
We say buy your ticket now. We will sell out. Don’t get left out, end up sitting at home by yourself and be all sad, that’s no fun.
Do I have to be 21 to participate?
Only if you want to drink wine and beer!
Do I need to bring my ID?
Yes. Please bring your valid ID. You will need it to pick up your tickets and to enter.
Can I bring my underage kids?
Yes, yes and more yes! They can’t drink alcoholic beverages but we will sell gummy bears and juice for the little ones!
Can I bring my dog, cat, snake, parrot, hamster, etc.?
It’s best that you leave the pets at home on this day. The streets are crowded, many venues don’t allow animals and let’s be honest, nobody likes the “bring my exotic pet to a festival” guy.
What if all my friends like beer but I just want to drink wine or water or juice?
No problem. We won’t make you drink beer. Wine and juice will be available to purchase.
Does our designated driver need to buy a ticket?
Nope! We fully support designated drivers. To receive a designated driver wristband please visit the tent or email teapartywineandbeerfestival@gmail.com
