What is Hops in the Park?

A national award-winning hops & harvest festival in Chesterfield County, Virginia

Hosted by
Henricus Historical Park

What do you get when you combine a 17th century historic site on the bluffs of the James River, 20+ Virginia craft breweries, a marketplace, food vendors, and live music?

You get Hops in the Park! This event is a one-of-a-kind hops festival in Chesterfield County that celebrates the long and rich history of brewing in our Commonwealth and benefits The Henricus Foundation’s Children’s Education Fund.

Join us this year at Henricus Historical Park, Saturday, November 4, 2023 for a Fall day filled with brews, food trucks, music, and local artisans. We can’t wait to see everyone out on the site again!

Public parking is in the satellite parking lot at USA Iron & Metal.

 More details below!

Saturday,
November 4th, 2023
12 p.m to 6 p.m

On Saturday, November 4th, 2023, The Citie of Henricus opens its doors to the public for the ninth annual Hops in the Park, to benefit The Henricus Foundation’s Children’s Education Fund.

Visitors will have the opportunity to try beer, cider or mead that celebrate Virginia agriculture.

Check out this video with some scenes from previous years!

2023 Hops in the Park Sponsors

Kolsch Sponsors

Porter Sponsors

Stout Sponsors

Farmer’s Market and Food

Head to the back of the historic site and out onto the bluff and enjoy local artisans and local foods while taking in the breath taking views of the James River!

Marketplace

Baker’s Popped Delights

Midnight Thicket

Fox and Field

Aubrey Richards Boutique

Otaku International Express

Handmade by Annleigh

RVA Bakehouse

Whitley’s Peanut Factory

Crows Nest Cookies

Marmalade Grazing 

Food Vendors

BigWife’s Mac and Cheese

JiJi’s Frozen Custard

Fireside Pizza

Intergalactic Tacos

Virginia Craft Breweries and Cideries

Enjoy Music, History
and More!

At Hops in the Park, visitors can talk with historical interpreters about what it was like to live on the banks of the James River in the early 1600’s. Learn about Sir Thomas Dale, Pocahontas or just enjoy the views of the James River!

If that weren’t enough, you’ll be able to listen to live music while you explore the park! Sit by a fire with friends and enjoy a harvest ale in one of the thatched roof buildings and get to know the “residents” of the park.

Musical Acts at Hops in the Park

Blacksmith Stage

Mackenzie Roark , 12:30 – 2:30

Rocke Hall Stage

Rick Hollowell, 12:30 – 2:30

Ty Burkhardt, 3:00 – 5:00

Jaycie Cuprill, 3:00 – 5:00

Learn About Virginia Hops & Brewing!

Visit Proctor’s Plantation to learn about hops and historic brewing!

Free Admission to Hops in the Park!

There is no admission to attend Hops in the Park! All beverages and food are purchased separately.

Important to note: Henricus has gone cashless so please bring a credit or debit card for purchasing beer tickets!

Beer ticket cost: $7 for a full 12oz pour, $3 for a 4oz tasting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hops in the Park?
Hops in the Park is a national award-winning hops and harvest festival that celebrates Virginia agriculture and the long and rich history of brewing in our Commonwealth! Hops in the Park features over 40 Virginia craft beers, brewing demos, marketplace, food, and of course – Virginia history! Proceeds from money raised during this event goes directly to benefit The Henricus Foundation’s Children’s Education Fund.

When and where is Hops in the Park?
Saturday, November 4th, 2023 from 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. Henricus Historical Park is a living history museum located at 251 Henricus Park Road in Chester, Virginia.

What is the focus of this event and what can I expect?
This is a Virginia-focused festival that highlights Virginia hops, agriculture, and craft brew. You can expect a darn good time tasting some of the best beer in Virginia. Naturally, it would not be a party without delicious local fare, Virginia historians, and outstanding music. It’s perfectly reasonable to expect to create memories that last a lifetime at Henricus Historical Park – a living history museum located in the heart of Virginia.

How much does this festival cost?
The admission to Hops in the Park is FREE. Beer tickets and food are an additional cost. Beer tickets: $7 for a full 12 oz. and $3 for a 4oz. tasting.

Will there be anything for the designated driver?
YES! There will be plenty of non-alcoholic beverages to go along with tasty local food. Not to mention, interesting conversations with Henricus historians, music, and more!

Is there a special event parking lot?
Parking will be available at USA Iron & Metal ( 1800 Coxendale Rd, Chester, VA 23836) the parking lot will open at 11:45 a.m. and free shuttles will consistently run from 11:45 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The last shuttle back will be at 6:15pm. Handicapped parking is located at the Henricus main lot at 251 Henricus Park Rd.

Do I need an I.D.?
Absolutely. You must show a valid I.D. to purchase beer tickets and consume alcoholic beverages. It’s the law.

Can the entire family attend this event?

Of course! As a matter of fact, Henricus has many special events and education programs all year round geared towards our young friends. While this event is not geared towards kids, feel free to throw the stroller in the car and bring them out. They might even find a cat or goat to pet while here!

Can I bring my beloved fury friend?
While we love animals, there will be large crowds and live music at this event. Please leave your pets at home unless it is a designated service animal.

Will there be food and non-alcoholic beverages available?
Indeed. You will be able to purchase a variety of food and drinks from numerous Richmond area vendors and food trucks.

Can I bring lawn chairs and blankets?
Absolutely! The bluff at Henricus Historical Park overlooks the mighty James River and we have plenty of space to relax.

Is there a Smoking Policy?
Yes, we ask that no one smoke inside the historic site in an effort to ensure the safety and good health of all of our guests. Feel free to step outside the palisade walls to enjoy your tobacco products. We ask that you smoke responsibly. This is a historic site after all!

Notice to Intoxicated Patrons
All festival attendees are expected to drink responsibly. Any guest who is believed to be intoxicated when entering the festival will be denied entry and no refunds will be provided. Additionally, any attendee who is found intoxicated or causing general disturbances will be escorted out of the facility by security. Like any other festival or party, we kindly suggest that you elect a designated driver for this event.

Need More Info?

Want to be a vendor at Hops in the Park?

Have a beer with Virginia grown ingredients?

Want to be a sponsor of Hops in the Park?

Contact Us! henricushistoricalpark@gmail.com

Join us on Saturday, November 4th, 2023!

Henricus Historical Park
251 Henricus Park Road
Chester, Virginia 23836