Larger Brew and Vine Convention Lives Up To Expectations

More than 2,000 people experienced Tinley Park at the Second Annual Brew and Vine Festival. The festival was such a success last year that it was brought back bigger and better for 2011.

“We’re using the new extension in the convention center this year,” Tinley Park Chamber of Commerce President Kim Scalise said. “We doubled the space and we doubled the vendors.”

The additional space allowed patrons to enjoy wider aisles as well as a separate bistro area that was added for patrons to sit while they enjoyed the food and beverages of their choice. 

“We were here last year and it’s bigger this year,” Harrison’s Brew Master Joachim Mekoum said. “We had a great experience. Tinley is like a second home to us so we’ll always support them.”

One noticeable thing that did not change this year was the price. For $20 in advance and $25 at the door patrons enjoyed products from 40 vendors and a commemorative wine or beer glass. Volunteers made sure every person was carded at the door and designated driver tickets were sold for $10.

“It’s events like this that show people what Tinley can do,” Scalise said. “The festival started as a way to draw people to our community and look at what it turned into ... I’ve met people from all over.”

Felicia Odom-Brown came from Dolton for a new experience. 

“I usually drink red wine only so I came here to try something new,” Odom-Brown said. 

She brought along Chicago resident Kathleen Wilson with whom she’s been friends for 20 years. 

“This was the perfect opportunity for us to hang out,” Wilson said.

Orland Park resident Kelly Smith shared her sentiments. She came along with Tracy Kremer from Chicago. 

“A lot of our friends still live in Tinley and this was a good way for us to reconnect with good food and good wine," Smith said.

After reading about the festival online, Indiana resident Angel Otero thought it was something his girlfriend would enjoy. And he was right, Dolton resident Laura Galindo said. 

“I’ve never been to a tasting before," she said. "It’s so much fun. So far I’ve tried six.” 

The success of last year’s festival drew people in as well. A co-worker of Tinley Park resident Gisele Boyd’s had so many good things to say about the festival that she “had no choice but to come.”  

“It was everything he said and more,” Boyd said.

Earl and Linda Wittmayer live right across the street from the convention center.

“We heard it was good last year so we came on over,” Linda said.  “After 37 years of marriage this makes for a good date.”