Along came a cider

Even the most steadfast craft beer fans need a break from hops, malt and barley occasionally. As an ode to harvest season, I’m a Beer Hound hosts the first-ever Cider Fest at the Red Salamander in Grand Ledge. Organizer Paul Starr said the indoor festival offers more than 40 different ciders from a number of Michigan cideries including Uncle John’s and Meckley’s.

“I really like cider,” Starr said. “There’s really not that many cider fests in the state right now.”

But it’s not just about apples. The wide selection of flavors includes pumpkin and pear ciders, ranging from sweet to dry. Starr recommends trying Cider Rosé from Uncle John’s. He is also interested in trying Northern Natural’s pumpkin cider.

“I’m pretty excited for the list,” he said. “Cider has really changed a lot in the last few years, and a lot of people are making some really great stuff.”

As guests sample different ciders they will hear live music from Joe Wright and Mark Warner. Food will be provided by Meat in Old Town, and a portion of the proceeds will go to The Homeless Veterans Project. Located at the Lansing Volunteers of America, the charity serves veterans in need.

“In this area, there hasn’t been this much cider in one place,” Starr said. “So far people seem pretty excited about it.”

Meanwhile, the Old Town Lansing Oktoberfest is back for its ninth annual outing hosted by the Old Town Commercial Association. There is a lot in store for guests, as the festival committee has carefully selected a variety of food vendors, entertainment and drinks.

The festival will feature seasonal selections from both national breweries, including Blue Moon and Samuel Adams, and Michigan breweries, such as Griffin Claw and North Peak.

Proceeds will go toward Lansing beautification projects.

Although Samuel Adams Oktoberfest is a traditional favorite, festival organizer Bridget Gonyeau recommends trying the specialty craft beers first. “We’ll only have a couple kegs of each, so they’ll be going fast,” she said.

Guests will hear from Michigan artists including Taylor Taylor and Happy Wanderers with the acts ranging from alternative rock to classic polka.

Each ticket includes three food and drink tickets and a custom glass beer stein. The festival also offers VIP tables for groups of up to eight people. The deal includes eight entrance tickets, 80 food and drink tickets, VIP seating, a private bathroom and eight Old Town swag bags. VIP tables are $400 for one night and $700 for two nights.

Gonyeau said those who are coming from campus have the option of catching a free shuttle that travels from the MSU Union to the festival and back every hour. And designated drivers are a good thing on weekends like this.

—BETH WALDON

Old Town Oktoberfest

6 -11 p.m. Friday, Oct.10; 2-11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11 Cesar Chavez Plaza, corner of Turner $20-$15 oldtownoktoberfest.com

Cider Fest

5-10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11 The Red Salamander 902 E. Saginaw Highway, Grand Ledge $50-$40 ciderfest.net