Brewgrass Festival in Felton: Craft Beer & Bluegrass Fun
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required beyond walking short distances and boarding the train.
Overview
Discover the Brewgrass Festival in Felton, CA, where craft beer meets bluegrass tunes on a scenic train. Join the VIP tasting experience and enjoy local brews, food trucks, and live music!
Details
The Brewgrass Festival in Felton, California, hosted by Roaring Camp Railroads, offers an exceptional private outdoor adventure for craft beer lovers and music fans alike. This unique event combines a scenic train ride through the redwoods with live bluegrass performances and a vibrant craft beer tasting experience featuring over 15 local breweries. Attendees can enjoy mouthwatering food from local food trucks while soaking in the festive atmosphere surrounded by towering trees and charming historic railcars. The highlight is the VIP Beer Tasting Train, an exclusive onboard experience that includes beer samples and live music performances, making it a memorable day of good vibes, great brews, and beautiful nature. Whether you’re a brewery enthusiast, a music lover, or someone seeking a lively yet relaxed outdoor event, the Brewgrass Festival delivers a perfect mix of entertainment and wilderness beauty. Felton’s charming small-town vibe combined with the spectacular natural setting of the Santa Cruz Mountains makes this festival an ideal destination for California adventurers looking to savor local flavors and sounds.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Best Seating
VIP train seating and event spots fill quickly, so plan to arrive early to secure your preferred spot.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You’ll be walking around the festival area and boarding trains, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must.
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Hydration is important during beer tastings; bring a refillable water bottle to stay refreshed throughout the day.
Check Weather Forecast
Felton’s weather can be variable; layers are recommended to stay comfortable from warm sunshine to cooler evening air.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park nearby offers serene walking trails under ancient redwoods.
- Felton Covered Bridge, a historic wooden bridge just minutes from the festival, perfect for photos.
Wildlife
- Black-tailed deer
- California scrub jay
History
Roaring Camp Railroads dates back to the 1880s, celebrating the region’s logging heritage with historic steam locomotives.
Conservation
The festival promotes sustainable practices including waste reduction, recycling, and supporting local breweries with environmentally responsible production.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Onboard the train with forest views
- beside the historic Felton Covered Bridge
- festival grounds showcasing live performances
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
For navigating festival grounds and train boarding safely and comfortably.
Layered Clothing
Stay warm in cool mornings and evenings, and be prepared for changing temperatures.
spring specific
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses help protect against intense midday sun during outdoor activities.
summer specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the day, especially during alcohol tastings.