INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Summerfest is back with a new name, new flavors, and a fresh take on one of Indiana’s most anticipated seasonal celebrations.

Formerly known as the Indiana Microbrewers Fest, the event now goes by Summerfest, a change organizers say reflects a broader experience beyond just beer.

“We have expanded outside of beer for our festivals,” said Shanna Henry, director of events for the Indiana Brewers Guild. “So with our rebrand last year, we wanted to kind of follow suit and change the names of a few of our fests to align with the seasons.”

The reimagined event, set for Friday at Victory Field from 2 to 7 p.m., brings together breweries, distilleries, and some quirky traditions, including a crowd favorite.

“We’ve got our Snack Attack attire contest,” Henry said. “We have people that are going to be jazzing up all of their cheese, beef, pretzel ensembles.”

Guests will also get to vote on their favorite flavors. “We have a Best Beer contest, where you’ll go in and scan as you’re tasting your beers and vote for the best,” she added.

Joining the mix this year is Hard Truth Distilling Company, which plans to unveil a sneak peek at its newest whiskey.

“This is our special limited time offering that we’re going to debut at Summerfest,” said Ian McCabe, president of business development for Hard Truth. “It’ll be available for purchase at our distillery next weekend.”

Hard Truth’s roots go back to its sister brand Quaff ON! Brewing Company, which helped the team build a longstanding relationship with the Brewers Guild.

“It was incredible to be able to partner with them with both sides of our business for this summer event,” McCabe said.

For those looking for a cooler experience during the hot July afternoon, the new MVP Experience offers access to the air-conditioned Elements Financial Club Suites at Victory Field.

“We partner with Hard Truth and Quaff ON! to be up in the suites with appetizers and the ability to go back and forth throughout the event to partake in the whiskey and beer tastings,” Henry said.

Tickets, including early entry and MVP access, are on sale now. The event will go on rain or shine.

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