Uncorked! guests line up to get free samples of Blue Bell ice cream.
This month you can enjoy food and drinks on the Green in Ross Bridge — for free.
Uncorked! on the Green will hold its 7th annual free outdoor food and drink festival on Saturday, Oct. 12.
From noon-5 p.m., attendees will be given access to free samples of craft beer provided by Birmingham Budweiser, as well as wine and food samples from local restaurants. Several local eateries will participate, including Firebirds, Hoover Country Club, Full Moon, Chris Z’s, La Dolce Vita and The Whole Scoop.
Uncorked! on the Green isn’t just about food and drink, though. It also highlights local artists and regional bands.
“You might be selling art right next to a wine booth,” said Audrey Alverson-Stowe, president and owner of festival host Classic Events, Inc. “But you wouldn’t care because the wine booth is a crowd drawer.”
Last year more than 7,000 people were in attendance at the festival, and it has become a high priority for people in the area. One family even rescheduled their beach vacation because they could not tolerate the thought of missing the event, Stowe noted.
Each booth will feature experts who can discuss the products with guests.
Along with sponsors’ free goodies, attendees can register to win prize giveaways, including a one-night stay and breakfast for two at the Renaissance Ross Bridge Resort & Spa.
“[The festival is] a huge success for the community; that’s the goal,” Stowe said.
Stowe said they chose Ross Bridge for a location because of its prestige. In 2010, the National Association of Home Builders awarded the community with the “Best Community in American Living” award.
With a nationally recognized community venue booked, Stowe also wanted to make sure the event provided a family-friendly atmosphere. A children’s zone will feature activities such as arts and crafts, face painting and bounce houses.
With intent to keep everything local, Stowe chose to donate proceeds to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama (BCRFA), which directly donates to The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Attendees can register for a breast cancer car tag or purchase breast cancer products at the event.
“Every dollar [the BCRFA] raises stays right here in Alabama,” Stowe said.
For a list of the anticipated selection of wines and beers, visit uncorkedonthegreen.com. For more, call 951-0412.
Uncorked! on the Green
Saturday, Oct. 12
9 a.m.-5 p.m.
The Green at Ross Bridge
Arts & Music: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Wine Tasting: noon-2:30 p.m.
Local Flavor Food Tasting: 2-4 p.m.
Beer Tasting: 2:30-5 p.m.
