Things to do, places to eat, shows to see, places to stay in Madison County, NY      

ONEIDA – Every year, Norm Dann of Peterboro sells Hop Plants and donates the proceeds to the Madison County Historical Society. Did you know that Madison County’s own resident, James Coolidge, introduced commercial hop growing in New York State? If you would like to have a piece of Madison County’s hop heritage in your own backyard, then contact Norm Dann at 684-3262, so you can grow your own hops.  Hop Plants are $5 per plant. 
The Madison County Historical Society’s 15th Annual Hop Fest is September 17-18. This year’s event honors James Coolidge and hop culture in New York State. Hop Fest Weekend begins Friday, September 17 a paired beer dinner at the Blue Barbecue in Chittenango. On Saturday, September 18, at 11 am, at the Madison County Historical Society, there will be video presentations on a variety of hop related topics. From 12-2 pm will be the popular, Taste of Hops: a food and beer pairing. The following area restaurants have already signed–up– Blue Barbecue, Johnnie’s Pier 31, Someplace Else, The Colgate Inn, Ye Olde Landmark Tavern, and Zabroso.  From 2:30-5:30 pm, join us in the beer tent for samplings from some of your favorite craft breweries such as, Empire Brewing, Cooperstown Brewing, Ithaca Beer, Matt-Saranac- more are to be added! Throughout the afternoon purchase your raffle tickets to win the great beer related items. Don’t forget to visit the Hop shop to purchase your very own hop plant and event t-shirt. Advance sale tickets for all Hop Fest weekend activities will be available online at the society’s website and at participating locations on July 20th! There is no admission to attend the Hop Fest. Admission is charged only for beer sampling, Taste of Hops, and Paired Beer Dinner.
Tickets for the dinner on Friday, September 17 are $45. Admission to the Hop Fest on Saturday, September 18 is free. Admission for the beer sampling from 2:30 pm- 5:30 pm is $25 advance/ $30 door. Admission for the Taste of Hops: a food and beer pairing from 12 pm- 2 pm is $15 advance/ $20 door.
For more information on the Hop Fest, please contact MCHS at 315-363-4136, 315-361-9735, or www.mchs1900.org. If you are interested in sponsoring the event, or volunteering your time, please contact the society! To purchase hop plants that are ready now, please contact Norm Dann at 684-3262. Combine your love of history, beer and food at the 15th Annual Madison County Hop Fest.