A weekend of cycling, local food, craft beverages and community events will return to Knox County this fall as organizers prepare for the second annual Knox County Biketoberfest, scheduled for October 2-4.
The event is a partnership between the Knox County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Outdoor Pursuits, and the Knox County Chamber of Commerce. Organizers say the goal is to combine Knox County’s scenic trail system with downtown Mount Vernon’s businesses and attractions to create a destination event for residents and visitors alike.
“We are incredibly proud to collaborate with Outdoor Pursuits and our community partners to deliver a weekend that highlights the very best of our county,” said Olivia Toth, executive director of the Knox County Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Bringing together regional outdoor recreation and our local business community creates an unforgettable weekend experience for residents and visitors alike.”
The weekend begins Friday, October 2, with a community bike ride through Mount Vernon and along local trails, followed by a welcome reception from 4 to 6 p.m. at Happy Street Brü Werks.
On Saturday, October 3, attention shifts to Ariel-Foundation Park, where the Knox County Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Kegs + Corks craft beer and wine tasting at the Schnormeier Event Center. The event, presented by Koorsen Fire & Security, runs from 5 to 8:30 p.m., with VIP admission beginning at 4 p.m.
Guests will have the opportunity to sample beverages from more than 20 local and regional breweries and wineries, while also enjoying food trucks and live entertainment.
The celebration concludes Sunday, October 4, with the Junction Moto Show and Food Truck Festival on Mount Vernon’s historic Public Square. The free event, scheduled from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., will feature custom, vintage and specialty motorcycles, live music, food trucks and local vendors.
Organizers say Biketoberfest is about more than outdoor recreation. The event is also intended to generate tourism and support Knox County’s local economy by encouraging visitors to stay, dine and shop throughout the weekend.
“By anchoring our event within Biketoberfest weekend at Ariel-Foundation Park, we generate more visitors staying in Knox County, which means more customers supporting our local shops, restaurants and establishments,” said Stephanie Blanchard of the Knox County Chamber of Commerce.
Participants can purchase a Full Weekend Cycling Pass, which includes supported rides throughout the weekend and admission to Saturday’s Kegs + Corks event. Individual tickets are also available for those who wish to attend only the beer and wine tasting.
Organizers encourage residents and visitors alike to mark their calendars for what they hope will become one of Knox County’s signature fall events, celebrating outdoor recreation, local businesses and the community’s vibrant downtown atmosphere.
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