Rogers brewery raises money during inaugural Oktoberfest

Natural State Beer Co. of Rogers raised more than $20,000 for local charities during its inaugural Oktoberfest fundraiser on Sept. 18 at Village on the Creeks.

Mark Smith, one of the business’ co-owners with Dan Clous, said more than 250 people attended the beer festival fundraiser. The outdoor event featured 12 local and regional breweries serving more than 20 different beers, $4,000 in giveaways and a full day of live music and food.

“We owe a debt of gratitude to all the breweries and food donors and a huge thank you to the volunteers who helped host, serve, provide security and fundraise with us throughout the day,” Clous said.

Walmart merchandising executive Andrea Albright was the event’s honorary chairperson. She also co-hosted a beer-pairing dinner in the evening at Modoko Asian Kitchen. Smith said Albright will help brew a particular batch of beer at Natural State Beer Co. that the brewery will release in early 2022 as part of its kickoff for next year’s annual fundraising.

Proceeds from Oktoberfest support Northwest Arkansas charities:

Northwest Arkansas Food Bank, Children’s Advocacy Center of Benton Co. and Autism Involves Me.

“It’s an easy decision to make as our business would not be here if not for the support of the community, and this is just one of many ways we can give back to that same community supporting us,” Smith said.