BREWS ON THE CHIPPEWA. Locals are no strangers to Blues on the Chippewa (pictured), the annual blues shindig over in Durand. The folks behind that longtime festival are debuting another event at the same spot: Brews on the Chippewa.

The hosts of the popular annual blues fest in Durand, Blues on the Chippewa, are hosting a brand new event combining some of the area’s favorites – and it's free to attend.

The inaugural Brews on the Chippewa, slated for Saturday, Oct. 19, at Veteran's Memorial Park in Durand, will showcase an array of regional bluegrass talent as well as beverages from regional breweries.

More breweries are soon to be announced, and the local breweries already on board include Durand Brewing Co., Zymurgy Brewing Co. (Menomonie), Bloomer Brewing Co., and Northwoods Brewery (Osseo). While entry is free to the event, the purchase of a $25 wristband gets you four 5-ounce flight pours, as well as a souvenir cup for the event to take home, but more pints and samples can be purchased throughout the day.

The event opens up at 1pm with the musical lineup featuring Sethel at 2pm; Sammie Jean Cohen at 3:15pm; Drew Peterson at 4:30pm; High & Rising at 6pm; and Feed the Dog at 8pm. The one-day event will bring a mix of bluegrass styles including high energy dance, groovy grass, roots, authentic heartfelt melodies, country grass, and more.

The inaugural Brews on the Chippewa event begins at 1pm on Saturday, Oct. 19 at Veteran’s Memorial Park, Durand • Learn more about the musical acts and event online • Keep up with the event on Facebook for updates