Volunteers are needed to “redd up” New Kensington in advance of a wine and beer festival.
The Alle Kiski Strong Chamber is holding its second annual Wine & Beer Fest on Fifth Avenue, between Eighth and 10th streets, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20.
The chamber has organized a cleanup of the area in advance of the festival. It will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 14, according to chamber Executive Director Lynda Pozzuto.
Pozzuto said volunteers will pull weeds, spread mulch, paint and sweep.
Those interested in helping out should meet at the gazebo at Fifth Avenue and Eighth Street, across from Kafa Buna. Volunteers can bring their own tools such as brooms and hand shovels, Pozzuto said.
“Anything that they have to bring will probably help,” she said.
The festival will be free to attend, but tastings will cost $20 per person. Attendees can buy full glasses, but only after paying for a tasting ticket, Pozzuto said.
The festival was held for the first time last year with full support from the city, and Pozzuto said it was “fabulous.”
“We wanted to do a community event in the New Kensington area. There’s a lot of excitement in that area,” Pozzuto said. “We wanted to do something to bring the businesses in the community together.”
Between five and 10 wineries and breweries are expected, she said.
Entertainment will include music by Jimbo Jackson and a belly dancer, yard games will be set up across from Kafa Buna and food will be sold.
“A wide range of vendors are going to be there,” Pozzuto said.
Pozzuto said the festival will be family-friendly.
Although alcohol is being served, she said, “Don’t let that scare you off if you don’t have a babysitter. This event is a true community event. There will be something for the whole family to enjoy.”
Opportunities remain for vendors, performers and sponsors, Pozzuto said.
