Florida-local brewers support the cause at Science on Tap
It’s the Orlando Science Center’s first fundraiser in two years
You know what pairs well with Orlando-local craft beer? Science!
It’s what’s on tap at the Orlando Science Center’s first in-person fundraiser in two years, one that looks at the processes behind one of the world’s most popular adult beverages.
Science on Tap, taking place on Jan. 29, will feature more than 30 Central Florida breweries as attendees sip, sample and stroll around Loch Haven Park during this 21+ beer-stravaganza. Why beer?
“Why not?!” jokes Jeff Stanford, vice president of marketing for the Orlando Science Center, but the event’s actually been in development for a couple of years.
“We’ve always had success — not just in fundraising, but events and exhibits, too — when we can connect science to things that people are interested in and excited about.”
Indeed, OSC’s Science of Wine event has been a hit for more than a decade, bringing in folks who enjoy tasting but also casually learning about the science behind wine growing and making.
“And for some time, we’ve gotten feedback from guests who say, ‘You know, I like wine. But I really like beer!’ ”
Beer-related activities at OSC’s 21+ Science Night Live events tested those waters, bringing in local brewers for sampling and science programming.
“Those events sold out and gave us the confidence to move forward with a fundraiser focusing on dozens of breweries in a much larger scope,” says Stanford.
Participants will include Ivanhoe Park Brewing, Ten 10 Brewing, Sanford Brewing, Wops Hops and a host of other Central Florida brewers with sampling opportunities numbering more than 150 beers. Additional fun will come in the form of live music from the Brown Bag Brass Band, games, food trucks and more — plus interactive science demos.
Inside a spacious Science on Tap tent, pros from Orlando Home Brew Supplies will be talking with guests about the brewing process, doing demos and explaining how those interested can start brewing beer, mead and kombucha at home.
“There is a lot of science behind beer. Fermentation alone is a lesson in chemistry,” Stanford says, stressing the added importance of OSC’s ongoing partnerships.
“We’ve been here since 1955, and in addition to being a place to learn and grow and have fun exploring science, we want to support our community. We’re very proud of Orlando … and want to promote the things that are really special here — and that includes our craft beer scene.”
More info
This event is 21+ and outdoors with a limited capacity of 1,500. Beer samples are included with the price of admission. Proceeds will support STEM education programs in all sectors of the Orlando community.
Tickets for Science on Tap are available at osc.org/ visit/events/science-ontap/
General admission: $60, 5 p.m. entry
VIP: $90, 3 p.m. entry — includes two full pours and discounts at participating food trucks
OSC Members: $50, 4 p.m. entry
Designated drivers: $30
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