Delaware Tailgating Games and Fireworks fest set Sept. 30 at 16 Mile

The Delaware Tailgating Games and Fireworks Festival, sponsored by Schagrin Gas, Schell Brothers and Insurance Market will start at 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 30, on the lawn at 16 Mile Brewery, 413 S. Bedford St., Georgetown.

The fireworks display starts at approximately 8 p.m. Proceeds will benefit Children & Families First, which helps children facing adversity on their journey to adulthood.

"Everything about this celebrates our proud history," said Brett McCrea, owner and founder of 16 Mile Brewery. McCrea's statement refers to his brewery's name, dating back to the early 1700s when Georgetown, 16 miles from anywhere in the county, was the gathering place for farmers, merchants, politicians and community members to meet. "An event that welcomes everyone and benefits our most vulnerable families and children honors and continues our legacy as a community gathering space," said McCrea.

Those interested in winning cash prizes are encouraged to preregister for discounted pricing as well as guaranteed space. The Tailgating Games Tournament is an elimination style team tournament, where teams of four compete in a series of fan favorite lawn games like cornhole, ladderball, can jam and more. "We've had a great response to this event and there is a limit to the number of teams we can accommodate," said McCrea.

Interested competitors are encouraged to register soon. Registration fees are $50 per team before Wednesday, Sept. 27. To register, go to deltg.com. Prices increase if on-site registration is still available. The tournament also offers a $10 discount per team for those teams that include first responders.

Food trucks that will be on site include Truck It, Zogg's, Mr. BBQ and Rita's. Mike Weyrauch will perform and DJ Wait a Minute will spin turntables. A variety of local vendors will have items for sale. Those aged 21 and older can partake of 16 Mile’s craft brews either a la carte or by pre-purchasing a $25 per person VIP festival pass that entitles the holder to 10 craft brews of their choice during the festival.

"We're really excited to showcase our Gnarly BARley Mobile Bar at the festival," said Angelina Idler, marketing director at 16 Mile Brewery. "It's a self-contained travelling bar with 5 taps that anyone can rent, complete with bartenders!"

There is even an entire area dedicated to keeping little ones entertained. Sponsored by Insurance Market, the Kid Zone features a bounce house, obstacle course, kiddie tailgating games, face painting and more.

The most spectacular feature will be the fireworks display courtesy of Schell Brothers. Beginning at approximately 8 p.m, attendees will be able to see the show from anywhere on the 16 Mile Brewery lawn. Guests are encouraged to bring their own blankets and chairs for viewing. Parking will be limited so all attendees are encouraged to arrive early and partake of all the festival offerings.

Laura Rimmer, Children & Families First development officer for Sussex County said, "We are so grateful to Brett, the 16 Mile Brewery team and the generous sponsors behind this event." Children & Families First, has served Delaware's families and children for over 130 years using evidence based programs that nurture families and children.

For more information, to register or to purchase tickets, go to deltg.com.